Chapter 140: Nyra’s POV The palace looked different when I returned, not quieter, if anything, it was louder and the air felt lighter. Men and women moved across the courtyard in coordinated clusters, hauling lumber, stacking crates, in general just handling their assigned tasks. Their faces no longer grim.

They made small talk as they worked some even exchanging greetings as they passed by each other and there was laughter.

That was what made me slow my steps.

Near the far side of the ...