Morning light spilled into her chambers at the Blake Estate.
Alice stood near the door, her hands clasped tightly in front of her, while the three other maids moved briskly about the room, laying out her cloak and fastening small clasps to her satchel for the day's visit to the Rose Home.
"Madam," Alice said softly, the title carrying both respect and concern, "you look troubled. What weighs on your mind?"
Daphne rose from her chair, the faintest sigh escaping her lips.
"Alice," she began, her voice low but resolute, "I need you to confirm the rumors about Lady Beatrice and Lady Helena. Not what the court repeats in polished phrases, but the raw truth whispered in the kitchens, in guardrooms, and in the streets. Can you do that for me?"
Alice's eyes widened. "Madam, you wish me to leave your side? The General wouldn't like that."
Daphne closed the space between them and rested a hand gently on her maid-knight's sleeve.
