Silent Suffering

A maid approached the door of Oberon's chambers, her steps echoing down the dimly lit corridor. She felt a shiver run down her spine as she drew closer to the heavily guarded door, not used to seeing so many intimidating guards whose gazes immediately landed and pierced into her.

As she reached the door, their faces masked in stoic expressions, standing at attention. They watched her intently as she held out the tray of medicinal drink and the bowl of essence sticks, her hands trembling slightly. However, the pleasant aroma from the essence sticks was helping her relax her nerves a bit.

One of the guards, a tall and imposing figure, stepped forward and barred her way with his spear.

"The drink must be tested first," he said, his voice deep and commanding, "It is the order of the princess consort."

The maid nodded nervously, her heart racing as she handed over the tray to the guard. She watched as he summoned the poison tester and made him drink it.