|| CASSENDRA'S POV ||

The moon hung low in the velvety night sky as I slipped away from the castle, each step echoing the pain of betrayal that now etched the path beneath me. The air was thick with the fragrance of the forest, a symphony of rustling leaves and nocturnal creatures accompanying my clandestine departure. My heart, burdened by the weight of accusations and shattered trust, sought solace in the anonymity of the night.

Venturing through the shadow-laden woods, I arrived at the outskirts of the village. The distant glow of lamplights beckoned, promising refuge from the storm within. My destination was the residence of a noble lady known...