Doomed

[ Back to present : Velor's castle. Autumn's room.]

The room was dim. 

Heavy drapes were drawn tight against the midday sun. Only a sliver of light slipped through, cutting a pale gold line across the floor, illuminating motes of dust that drifted lazily in the air. The scent of lavender and chamomile lingered.Probably left by the maids to soothe her. 

The door to the chamber creaked open with a subtle groan, as Velor stepped inside first.Behind him, Niva, Mara, and Serra followed, their footsteps muffled by the thick carpet.

It felt oddly cold inside, like the air had thickened since morning.The bedding was ruffled slightly, as if someone had tossed once in their sleep and then never moved again.

Autumn lay still on it. One arm curled beside her head, hair fanned across the pillow,the other hand resting over her lower abdomen.