Angelina returned to the palace just as the morning sun began to brighten the sky. Her heart was still racing from the long walk, but she kept her steps steady and her face calm.
The guards at the gate barely noticed her. She looked like any other palace maid going about her duties. No one suspected that just moments ago, she had left behind two children whose lives had once been marked for death.
She slipped through the servants' passage and moved quietly, making sure no one paid her too much attention. As she neared the courtyard, she stopped behind one of the pillars and peered out.
There, in the open space, princess Katrina was seated on a cushioned bench, surrounded by a few concubines. She looked well-rested and calm, while Marissa took notes.
The other concubines, as usual were gossiping. The queen mother's death affected everyone so they weren't noisy today.
