"My Queen," the maid greeted in a low voice.
Selene had been walking down the corridor near Leila’s study when a slight movement caught her eye—Leila’s maid quietly stepping out of the room.
The woman bowed with practiced grace, her hands folded neatly in front of her.
Selene smiled, her heart still warm from the wedding celebrations. "Carry on," she said gently; continuing down the hall, barely registering the way the maid's eyes lingered on the door behind her.
The council gathered at the courtyard for a small feast, held beneath swaying lanterns and flowering vines. It was a night to welcome Selene, not just as the king's bride, but as a member of the throne, as Queen of Duskfall.
They raised their cups high.
"To the Queen of Duskfall!"
"To peace and unity!"
Selene lifted her go
