The sun had barely risen when the innkeeper hurried into the room carrying a tray piled with steaming meat and a pot of freshly brewed tea. His hands shook a little as he set everything down.
"I cooked what I could," he said quietly. "You all look like you need something warm."
Lucas nodded gratefully. "Thank you… truly."
Ice Belle hopped from his shoulder to sit near the food, sniffing curiously. Selene helped hand out plates. Seraphina stared at hers without a single bite taken, eyes distant.
The innkeeper hesitated before clearing his throat. "Forgive me for asking but… I overheard a bit of your discussion last night. You are planning to rescue Her Majesty, aren't you?"
Nyx exchanged a look with Selene. They both turned back to him.
"We have not yet found a way into the palace," Selene admitted. "The entire capital has become a nest of enemies overnight."
