Morwenna's POV.
The morning in the breeding chambers was harsh acasting every fault, every worry line on my skin into sharp relief.
I traced my fingers over the silver ring Leofric had left at my cot, as if its cold metal could prevent the storm that was coming.
Liora is here, they whispered in the corridors.
She is here, and she does not come alone.
I didn’t know whether to dread the day or greet it with anger.
In either case, I felt empty.
The other breeders kept their distance now, their eyes moving over to me in fear and pity.
I knew they blamed me for the King’s change, even if they couldn’t say it aloud.
By midmorning, Lira appeared at my door.
Her face was softer than usual, but her eyes still firm.
“You should rest,” she said. “Or at least eat.”
I shook my head.
