The morning light broke over the palace of the Moonlight Pack, ushering in its usual crisp and orderly quiet. In the grand kitchens, the fires crackled, filling the air with the scent of fresh bread and boiling herbal teas. It was meant to be an ordinary morning—just the final day of waiting before the King returned from the High Council Summit.
Cara walked briskly down the eastern corridor, balancing a polished silver tray in her hands. On it rested Odesse's favorite morning tea and a small plate of honeyed pastries. A light, cheerful hum escaped her lips as she approached the heavy oak doors of the royal bedchamber.
She knocked softly with the back of her knuckles. "Your Highness? It is Cara. I've brought your morning tea."
Silence answered her.
