After taking a stroll through the market, Henry passed through the barracks, crossed the drawbridge, and entered the castle.
His gaze landed on a corner of the courtyard, where Ailia was sitting on a long bench. She held a garment she was mending, but her eyes were downcast, and she seemed to be in a daze.
As Henry's head maid, Ailia had always been very competent, managing all the maids in the castle and Henry's daily household affairs.
She was always the first to wake up and the last to rest. Henry rarely saw her so relaxed.
Henry quietly walked over, sat in the empty spot beside Ailia, and said softly, "Ailia, you look exhausted. You should get some more rest."
At the sound of Henry's voice, Ailia's eyes shot open. Only then did she notice him sitting beside her.
A hint of surprise flickered in Ailia's eyes, but she quickly calmed down.
"My Lord, what are you doing here? I... I was just resting my eyes for a moment."
