Chapter 115: Amends

Sage

The morning sun streamed in through the narrow window, stirring me reluctantly from a deep but dreamless sleep. I stifled a groan, every muscle in my body protesting the countless trips up and down the fortress steps the past week. Who knew fruit deliveries could be so grueling? But I was grateful for the work and Madam Pearl's trust. Her faith had granted me a chance, however slim, at slowly regaining my place here.

With a sigh, I forced myself upright. The small chamber I'd been granted resembled a cell more than living quarters. But given the circumstances, any shelter within Valorhold's walls felt like sanctuary. As long as I continued proving myself useful, perhaps tolerance would gradually thaw into forgiveness.

Donning a plain grey dress and sturdy boots, I plaited back my hair neatly before venturing out towards the sprawling kitchens. The rich aroma of baking bread and bubbling porridge set my empty stomach rumbling. While the cooks were always too busy to chat during me