In Elowen's room...
She hadn't heard the whispers at the party—not that she would have cared. Elowen was far too distracted by her rumbling stomach. The celebration felt never-ending, but she had quietly slipped away, leaving Lady Seraphine mid-sentence, her mind consumed with one thought: food.
Not long after, a knock sounded on her door.
"Please, come in..." she said, already half-curled on the bed.
A maid entered, pushing a silver trolley adorned with carved lilies. The top layer revealed an assortment of warm cakes, buttered peas, roasted meat, sweet fruits, and a delicate jug of honey wine. Below, a smaller covered tray held a steaming basin of water.
"My lady," the maid curtsied. "This was sent by Lady Seraphine—for your comfort, she said."
Elowen's face lit up with gratitude. "Thank you."
The maid carefully placed the tray on a nearby table and moved to lift the steaming basin, but Elowen, always polite, stepped forward.
"Let me help you."
