I woke up to the gentle sound of knocking at my door. My eyes fluttered open, and I found myself reaching out instinctively for Seraphina, but her side of the bed was empty. The warmth of her presence from the night before had vanished, replaced by a lingering sense of loss.
"Queen Elara," Anara's voice came softly through the door. "May I come in?"
I sighed, sitting up and wrapping the blankets around me. "Yes, Anara, come in."
She entered, her face etched with concern. "I'm sorry to disturb you, Your Majesty, but Seraphina is not here."
"Not here?" I repeated, my heart sinking. "Did she leave a message?"
Anara shook her head. "No, Your Majesty. There's no word from her. She must have left early this morning."
I frowned, feeling a pang of worry. "Very well. Thank you, Anara. I'll get ready for the day."
