RAVENNA's POV
The morning felt deceptively bright, as if mocking me, though I forced myself to believe I could feel better despite everything that had happened.
That morning, I smoothed the silk of my simple navy dress as I descended the wide staircase. The soft click of my heels was the only sound echoing in the cave-like hall.
I had woken before dawn, the unfamiliar vastness of the room refusing to let me sleep peacefully, every shadow watching like an eye.
I tossed and turned until the sun rose, dragging me up with it. I felt like a mess—my head aching, my eyes blurred—but at least I looked composed. The only thing I could do was carry myself through the day. At least I looked the part.
Just as I reached the last step, my sight fell on a maid approaching with downcast e
