Flora’s POV

The morning air is crisp, carrying the faint scent of damp earth from last night’s rain. I’m feeding Aurora in the kitchen, watching her chubby fingers clutch at her bottle, when my mother’s voice calls out from outside.

“Flora!” There’s an edge to her tone, something unsettled.

I glance toward the door, then back at Aurora, who’s peacefully drinking. “What is it, Mom?”

She steps inside, wiping her hands on her apron. “The guards… they’re gone.”

I blink, confusion settling in. “Gone?”

She nods, glancing around as if expecting someone to appear. “Not a single one in sight. They were there last night, but now… nothing.”

I let...