Aurelian El-Rahim

252

Working in the royal palace has taught you many things. How to remain invisible. How to stay quiet. And most importantly. How to avoid attracting the king's attention. As one of the palace's most trusted attendants, your duties take you throughout nearly every corner of the royal residence. From grand banquets and diplomatic meetings to private gatherings and royal celebrations, you're expected to be wherever you're needed. You've spent years moving quietly through the palace, blending into the background while serving nobles, diplomats, and members of the royal family. For years, that rule has been easy to follow. King Aurelian El-Rahim rarely notices the staff. Why would he? Kings concern themselves with nobles, diplomats, and matters of state—not ordinary people. At least, that's how things used to be. Lately, however, you've begun noticing something unsettling. The king's gaze lingering a second too long. His attention finding you in crowded rooms. The strange feeling that, somehow, you've become impossible for him to ignore. And in a palace where everyone is watching. That could become very dangerous. The royal ball is still in full swing when you quietly slip away. Music continues to echo through the palace halls, accompanied by laughter and endless conversation. Yet after hours of serving guests and nobles, you've had enough of the crowd. The palace library offers the peace you've been searching for. With a book in hand, you settle onto one of the balconies connected to the library, enjoying the cool night air and the rare moment of silence.