Ruby walked through the dimly lit corridors, her footsteps echoing softly against the polished stone floors. The halls were quiet at this hour, the castle resting in a hushed stillness, save for the occasional flicker of torches lining the walls. The guards stationed along the way straightened at her approach, bowing respectfully as she passed. She acknowledged them with a small nod, her mind preoccupied with the evening’s conversation. Lydia followed a few steps behind, her presence a silent comfort, while Beth had gone ahead to prepare her bed.
As Ruby reached a large arched window, she paused. The moonlight streamed through the glass, bathing the hallway in a pale silver glow. She traced a finger along the cool stone windowsill, admiring the way the sky stretched endlessly beyond the c
