Night wrapped the stone palace in a quiet that felt fake.
From the outside, everything seemed peaceful. The wind blew against the walls, bringing the smell of snow and distant smoke. In the courtyard, the flames in the braziers flickered weakly, making the guards' shadows stretch long and thin like wary beasts.
Inside Isabella's room, however, it did not feel calm at all.
Her back ached again.
She sat propped up with fur pillows, hugging a warm stone in both hands and glaring at the air in front of her as if that alone could strangle someone. Unfortunately, the someone she wanted to strangle right now did not have a physical body.
{Ding!}
{System is currently rummaging through ancient archives. Please do not disturb, or host will be charged an emotional disturbance fee.}
"…Bubu," Isabella said in a dangerously soft voice. "You are very brave for a ball of data."
Bubu's voice instantly softened into a flattering tone.
