~IN LIGHT OF LUST~

TAP! A SINGLE LOUD KNOCK sounded on the looming door to the Prince's bedchamber. The graywood was burnished as a smelt of iron and rose well above the normal lintel height.

It had to be, to accommodate such a one of Marsil's great stature.

"My Lord!" Sirathe's voice sounded, calling against the door, a second after she had knocked.

As was the custom of all stewards of the Castle, those of high-ranking positions—such as the Governess, the King's own valet, the Queen's Lady-in-waiting, and the Commanding Knight of the Kingsguard, Ser Thrace Draco—had specific methods of approaching the Royals.

For Sirathe, it was a unique single knock. For the lower-ranking castle servants like handmaidens, chefs, and horse-masters, their presence had to be first announced to the Kingsguards on duty before they could approach any rooms of the Royal family.