Iris felt her blood run cold at William's words. The weight of his revelation settled heavily upon her, filling her with a sense of dread and disbelief. The village was attacked. What were the possibilities of it happening the exact same night strangers intruded the castle?
A cold air embraced her trembling body, and the silence of the hallway engulfed her whole, making her feel smaller and smaller. She hugged herself as a way of protection against the unknown, her mind racing with fear and uncertainty.
Four pairs of eyes were looking at her, waiting for their mistress to decide on the next steps. Without hesitating longer, Iris gathered her composure, pushing aside her own fears to address the urgent matter at hand. She turned to William, her voice steady but laced with concern. "William, we must act swiftly. Gather the guards, send word to the nearby towns, and bring any available help. We cannot let the village suffer in silence."
