Her stomach sank.
That could only mean one thing. Zyren had arrived already. Not just arrived—been there long enough for the doors to be shut behind him.
Rymora's expression didn't change, but the way she stepped back—just two quick paces—made everything clear.
'I'm just a maid!' aware that although Aria could stomach Zyren's gaze she couldn't.3
As much as Rymora might have wanted to help Aria, there was nothing she could do now.
Aria frowned deeply, her brows furrowing as she stepped forward and gestured to the guards. Recognition flickered in their eyes. Without hesitation, they opened the door for her.
But Aria's courage only lasted one step.
As soon as she crossed the threshold, she froze.
It was like plunging into ice water.
Something was different. Unfamiliar.
