The palace corridors were quieter than the celebration outside.
Music from the city still echoed faintly through the open windows.
Drums.
Flutes.
Laughter.
The capital was celebrating.
But inside the palace, the atmosphere was calmer.
More sacred.
Sebastian, Vivian, Alaric, Mr. and Mrs. Ravenscroft, and Lord Cassian walked quickly through the long stone hallway.
Servants stepped aside respectfully as they passed.
Everyone knew where they were going.
The healing chambers.
Vivian's heart beat faster with every step.
Her fingers tightened slightly around Sebastian's hand.
Sebastian noticed.
"You okay?" he asked gently.
Vivian nodded quickly.
"I just… need to see her."
Sebastian squeezed her hand.
"You will."
Alaric walked just ahead of them.
His steps were slower.
More careful.
For the first time that day, the powerful council leader looked nervous.
Lord Cassian noticed.
