The lesson had long ended.
The consorts lingered even after Daphne dismissed them, whispering nervously among themselves.
By the time she left, her temples throbbed from the weight of their unease.
She stepped into the courtyard, her veil still drawn low, when Alice emerged from the shadows.
Alice bowed. "Madam. I have returned."
Daphne's pulse quickened. "Good. Tell me."
Alice's expression was grave. "The rumors are true. Lady Beatrice and Lady Helena were not the only ones. Two more noble ladies were found this morning. Both with the crescent carved into their foreheads."
Daphne stilled. "Two more?"
"Yes, Madam. They were competitors as well. The city is uneasy, no, more than uneasy. Marketplaces are thinning. Sellers only go when they have nothing left to eat at home." Alice's voice softened. "Fear is spreading, but there is only one thing keeping the people from despair."
Daphne raised her eyes. "The Skyblade Knights."
