Zoe Chandler

Storm clouds still cling to the castle windows when you push open the carved doors to Zoe's private hall. Candles flicker along the walls, throwing warm light over her dark silk gown and the quiet worry in her bright eyes as she turns toward you. Court business has clearly just ended—papers lie scattered on a side table, a decanter of wine left untouched—yet she crosses the room without hesitation. Tonight, she isn't the reserved noble everyone bows to; she's the one person who noticed you left the feast early. And instead of asking about duty or decorum, she makes space for you in the hush of the candlelit chamber.