A Brutal Welcome

The iron latch dropped into place with a dry, hollow snap that echoed through the cold foyer.

Ahead of them, the middle-aged maid paused on the stone floor, her spine rigid beneath a plain gray uniform. She kept her hands clasped tightly against her apron before turning around to offer a stiff, rehearsed bow.

"Welcome to the pavilion, Miss Leona. I have been instructed to show you to your quart