The day began quietly. The palace halls were calm, the guards on duty, and Liora had just finished her morning duties with the healers. Silver had been restless the night before, and she was looking forward to resting for a while.

After lunch, she decided to return to her chamber early. She wanted to be alone for a few hours, maybe read or nap beside her son. The corridor leading to her rooms was empty, sunlight streaming faintly through the tall windows. Everything seemed peaceful — until ...