The palace gardens were supposed to be a place of peace. Fragrant blossoms swayed under the crimson glow of the Dragon Kingdom's sun, fountains bubbled with molten water, and jeweled birds sang from gilded cages.
But for Daya, it was a place of unease.
She carried a tray of tea through the winding paths, careful not to spill a drop. Her heart still carried the weight of yesterday's humiliation in the women's court, and she prayed she could keep her head down long enough to avoid notice.
Her prayer went unanswered.
"Well, if it isn't the little maid."
The voice was sweet, poisonous. From behind a rose-hedge stepped the tall noblewoman who had gripped her chin before. Three others flanked her, their silks rustling like serpent scales. Their eyes glittered with cruel amusement.
Daya bowed her head quickly. "My ladies."
"Still pretending to be humble?" one sneered. She plucked a fruit from the tray without asking and bit into it, letting the juice drip deliberately onto Daya's sleeve. "How obedient. No wonder the prince finds you… entertaining."
The others laughed.
Daya's hands tightened on the tray. "I mean no disrespect," she said softly.
"Disrespect?" the tall lady echoed. She stepped closer, circling Daya like a predator. "You've already shamed us all. A servant walking under the prince's protection? Do you think yourself worthy of such fire?"
Daya shook her head quickly. "No, I—"
But the lady shoved her shoulder. The tray rattled, nearly spilling. "Then remember your place. Because fire burns everything it touches… especially dry straw."
The insult sliced deep, but Daya held her ground. For once, she did not lower her gaze completely. She whispered, "Even straw can keep fire alive."
The lady's eyes narrowed dangerously. She raised her hand as if to strike—
"Stop!"
A smaller figure rushed between them. It was Lira, the young maid with gentle eyes who had guided Daya through the palace halls earlier. She stood trembling but firm.
"My lady, if you harm her, the prince will hear of it," Lira said, voice shaking but determined.
The noblewoman's hand hovered a moment longer, then lowered. She gave a thin smile, though her eyes were full of venom. "Very well. Enjoy your protection while it lasts, little maid. But know this—when fire dies, ash is trampled."
With that, she and her companions swept away in a flurry of silks and perfume.
Daya let out a trembling breath, her hands still clutching the tray.
Lira touched her arm gently. "You must be careful. They don't fear you, but they do fear him. If he isn't near…" Her voice faltered. "Promise me you'll stay away from them."
Daya nodded slowly, though in her heart she knew escape was impossible. This palace was full of serpents, and she was the easiest prey.
But as she looked at Lira's worried eyes, a small ember of courage flickered. She was tired of being prey.
And maybe, just maybe, she could learn how to endure.