The palace halls were quieter than Lumina expected. For the first time, she was to enter his private chamber. Stella walked at her side, guiding her gently.
At last, the guards before the chamber door bowed and pushed it open. The air within was cool, heavy with the faint scent of ink and parchment.
She could feel the presence of the king even before she stepped inside.
King Aden sat with a heavy scroll in his hand, his frame broad even in repose.
His crown was set upon the table beside him. His eyes lifted the moment the door opened, his gaze boring into the little girl who was beginning to shake the wall of his son.
Lumina did not hesitate. The moment her slippered foot touched the threshold, she sank gracefully to her knees and bowed her head low.
"Good morning, Your Highness," she greeted.
"It is an honor to be in your presence as one of your royal physicians."
