The door opened and a figure stepped inside. It was the same maid who had served Daphne that day, the one with the stern, quiet demeanor.
"Her name is Alice," Alaric announced, turning back to face Daphne. "She will be your maid and your knight. You will give her the box when you have a message for me, and anytime you need me, I'll appear."
Lady Alice moved to stand by the bed, her hands clasped respectfully.
"The Gen"
"Madam," she said, her voice a crisp, professional greeting. She offered a quick, deferential bow to Daphne.
Daphne's eyes widened slightly at the title, a formal term of respect used for a married or high-ranking lady. It was a title she certainly had no claim to.
Alaric, however, was completely unbothered. He simply nodded at Alice. "You can go now."
Alice turned on her heel and was gone in a moment, as silent as a shadow. The room was once again empty, save for Alaric and Daphne.
