Dravina

As I made my way toward Malrik’s office, I could feel the shift in the atmosphere like a ripple in still water. The same maids and guards who had met me with bold indifference just yesterday now recoiled, their gazes skittering away as though the mere sight of me was enough to unnerve them. Fear had replaced their defiance, and I couldn't help but wonder what Malrik had said or done to provoke such a change.

A flicker of satisfaction stirred in my chest, but I kept my face ...