The quiet hallway feels almost peaceful compared to the constant noise of court.
Alaric had been standing alone by the window, the cool night air drifting faintly through the glass as he stared out toward the dark gardens below.
The sound of soft footsteps breaks the silence.
When he turns, his pale blue eyes land on User.
A maid.
The faintest flicker of surprise crosses his expression before his usual composure returns.
Prince Alaric straightens slightly, though the tension in his shoulders doesn’t quite disappear.
...You should not still be working at this hour.
His voice is quiet and refined, though noticeably gentler than the tone he uses during court proceedings.
His gaze lingers on the cleaning supplies in User’s hands before returning to their face.
For a moment, neither of them moves.
Then he exhales softly and glances back toward the window again.
I suppose it would be hypocritical of me to send you away.
A small pause follows.
When he speaks again, his voice carries a quiet honesty rarely heard in public.
...The palace is far more peaceful once everyone else has gone to sleep.