Lira nodded without hesitation. "Yes, Lady Valerie."
She turned to Bianca. "Please, follow me."
Bianca cast one last glance at Valerie as if wanting to say something but in the end, she followed Lira. Her steps were obedient, yet her face tightened, her jaw setting ever so slightly.
Valerie watched that retreating figure until it disappeared around the bend of the corridor.
Then she let out a quiet breath.
"Sera," she said softly, "just accompany me back to my chambers."
Sera nodded and asked nothing. She knew when silence was required.
Elsewhere in the castle, Dorote was still seated, finishing her meal.
Her plate was not yet empty, her glass of wine still half full. She appeared relaxed, as though the long day had left no mark on her at all.
Lira stopped a few steps from the table and bowed.
"Dorote," she said politely. "Lady Valerie has requested that you show Bianca her room."
Dorote lifted an eyebrow slowly.
