The next morning, Tauriel woke from a long and much-needed sleep. Her body felt lighter, her mind clearer, as if the burden of the previous day's exhaustion had been washed away. She stretched, arching her back, feeling the slight pop of her stiff muscles as she rose from the bed.
She went through her daily routine, methodically tidying her chamber, tucking in the sheets, and ensuring the room remained spotless before making her way to the wash basin. The cold water sent an immediate shock through her system, jolting her fully awake. She welcomed it, as if cleansing herself of the unpleasant thoughts that had been plaguing her mind.
Finally dressed and prepared for the day, Tauriel stepped out of her chamber—only to stop short.
Standing directly outside her door was the well-endowed maid, a hollow yet unnervingly pleasant smile etched onto her face.
