Cottage

As Casey left Master Soren's cottage, her heart heavy with the weight of Phenrix's accusations, she couldn't help but feel the eyes of the palace on her. The whispers and hushed conversations of the maids reached her ears as she made her way back to the regal halls. The news had spread like wildfire - Phenrix's terrified scream when he saw her painted her as the cause of his memory loss. It was as if a dark cloud had settled over her, casting doubt on her innocence.

With each passing step, Casey felt the intensity of the palace's gaze grow. People glanced at her, their eyes filled with suspicion and judgment. She longed to shut out the world, to escape the weight of their stares. Her mind replayed the painful memory of Phenrix's words, and she fought back the tears that threatened to fall.

But Casey was a warrior at heart, even if her spirit was crumbling under the weight of this unjust accusation. She couldn't let them see her vulnerability. So she straightened her back,