The Dragon Palace was a place of wonder… but also of cruelty.
Daya discovered this quickly.
Her first morning within the inner chambers, she carried a basket of fruit through the women's court, where the noble daughters of high-ranking families gathered. Their laughter rang like bells, but it was edged with knives.
"Look at her dress," one whispered. "Plain as ash."
"Is this the 'pet' the prince defended?" another giggled, her jeweled fingers brushing Daya's shoulder as if she were dirt.
"A maid in the palace of dragons—how amusing."
Daya kept her head lowered, her hands trembling. She had endured humiliation before in Arven… but this was sharper. Here, every look reminded her she did not belong.
As she turned to leave, one of the women—a tall lady with eyes like embers—deliberately stepped into her path.
"You think you're special," the lady said softly, her smile cruel. "But remember this, little maid. Men tire of their toys."
Daya froze.
The lady reached forward, gripping her chin between long, painted nails. "When he casts you aside, don't expect mercy from us."
Before Daya could respond, a sharp voice cut through the court.
"Enough."
The women stiffened. All turned as Vanda strode into the courtyard, his cloak trailing like fire. His eyes locked on the lady holding Daya's chin.
Slowly, she released her, bowing with a shaky smile. "We were only… welcoming her, Your Highness."
"Then welcome her with silence," Vanda growled. His gaze swept over them all, daring them to disobey. The women quickly dispersed, their whispers swallowed by fear.
When they were gone, Daya stood frozen, clutching the basket. She dared to glance up at him.
"You don't have to—" she began softly.
But his eyes silenced her. They burned, not with anger at her… but at those who had touched her.
"You will not walk these halls alone again," he said finally. "This palace is full of serpents. And I have no patience for vipers."
Before she could speak, he turned away, his presence like a shield she could not understand.
And for the first time, Daya wondered if the fire around him was not only meant to destroy… but also to protect.