Chapter 375: A Request for Loyalty
Lyria's POV
I slept longer than usual.
The exhaustion from the previous night had settled deep into my bones. When I finally stirred, it was not because I had woken naturally, but because I heard the soft murmur of voices somewhere nearby.
I blinked my eyes open slowly.
My maids were moving about the chamber, their footsteps light against the polished floor. Margery was arranging fresh linens near the wardrobe. Debbie was adjusting the curtains, letting in slivers of pale morning light. Pippa was setting a tray upon the small table near the window. Bridget was tidying the writing desk, her movements quiet.
And there was Elara.
She was standing near the door, her face still bearing the marks from the previous night. The bruises had darkened, turning from red to deep purple along her cheek. She caught my gaze and offered me a small smile.
I returned it as best I could.
But it was Kathryn who drew my attention.
