When Joana awoke the next morning with sunlight streaming through her window, Elijah was already gone. Yawning, she sat up, tossed off the covers, swung her legs over the edge of the bed, and stood.
Michaela was already wide awake as Joana left her room. It seemed the other servants were also up, all gathered in the living room with wide-eyed focus on the television. Confused by the unusual behavior, especially Lina nervously clutching her apron, Joana furrowed her brow as she approached.
"What's happening?" she inquired upon joining the group. Annie gestured for silence by pressing a finger to her lips and then directed Joana's attention to the television screen. Following Annie's indication, Joana's eyes widened as she observed the broadcast.
On the screen, a reporter stood in front o
