Vaeloria's words died. Her eyes widened.
For a fraction of a second, the air around them seemed to draw tight, as though the corridor itself had been caught in the grip of an unseen hand.
The torches flickered at once, every flame within reach of the passage bending sharply in the same direction; towards Lucrezia.
Vaeloria went utterly still.
She felt it.
Whatever had moved through the space between them, it didn't feel like a mere collision. Something cold and immense brushed against her senses, leaving a strange, lingering vibration beneath her skin.
Her fingers tightened around the folds of her gown. "What—"
Lucrezia's stomach sank.
Before she could say another word, she'd already moved past her. She did not apologise or turn back.
She scarcely seemed aware that the princess was still standing behind her. "Lady Anastasia!"
Vaeloria's voice rang through the corridor.
Lucrezia flinched, bringing one hand to her ear. "Stop this instant!"
But Lucrezia kept walking.
