The sky was still dark when the car passed through the palace gates. The silence of dawn cloaked the gardens like a dark blue velvet mantle, and the soft lights of the main hall cast golden glimmers guiding their way inside.
The mansion slept. No footsteps, no laughter, no doors. Only the faint echo of their steps on the marble as Helena and Leofrik walked together through the empty halls.
“Everyone’s asleep,” he murmured, breaking the silence with his low, deep voice. “Which gives us a little peace… even if it won’t last.”
Helena nodded with a tired smile. Her body craved rest, but her mind remained wide awake, thoughts pulsing like distant war drums.
Leofrik led her down a side corridor in the east wing, where the walls were adorned with ancient tapestries and dimly lit lamps. He sto
