By morning, whispers spread like wildfire through the palace.
"The Prince defended a servant against Princess Rosa."
"They say he threatened to burn the gardens."
"Is it possible… that he favors the maid?"
Rosa stormed through the halls, her reputation cracking with each rumor.
Meanwhile, King Arven summoned Vanda. "Your Highness," he said with forced laughter, "surely this is a misunderstanding? My daughter… she is spirited, yes, but harmless."
Vanda's eyes were cold. "Control your court. Or I will."
The king swallowed, realizing the Dragon Prince was not a man to trifle with.
In the servants' quarters, Daya clung to her mother, whispering what had happened. Her mother's eyes filled with both fear and sorrow.
"Child," she said softly, "a prince does not protect a servant without cost. Beware — his world is not ours."
Daya nodded, but her heart already knew the truth: her life had changed forever.