1 Chapter One

I opened the curtains and looked at the sky. The sun wasn't up yet, but life below in the palace was already busy. The workers were doing their tasks on the palace grounds, getting ready for the day. I smiled, taking in the cold morning air before getting ready for my day.

Walking through the palace corridors felt like moving through a fancy, historical picture. The walls had golden frames and majestic portraits, telling stories of the past. I walked with purpose, the sound of my steps almost silent on the marble floor. I passed by familiar sights and sounds that had become a part of my daily routine.

In the early morning, I noticed the busy servants in the grand hallways. Maids hurried with fresh linens, and footmen rushed to complete their tasks. The palace felt alive as the staff carried out their daily routines, like actors in a well-rehearsed play.

As dawn approached, a warm light filled the palace, casting long shadows and bringing the elegant architecture to life. I made my way to the busy kitchen, filled with comforting smells. Mrs. Anna, the head cook, was in charge, directing the servants in preparing the royal breakfast.

Mrs. Anna seemed stern to most, but I knew her differently. Behind her tough exterior, she had been a mentor and a motherly figure to me. In private moments, she offered advice and encouragement, recognizing my growth and abilities.

Entering the bustling kitchen, Mrs. Abernathy and I shared a glance, a silent understanding passing between us. I continued my tasks with a young apprentice, exchanging a nod of encouragement.

Lilian, another servant, called for my help in the kitchen. We discussed our tasks for the day, including setting the dining table and preparing the chambers. I smiled, assisting her with the dough and pans.

We transformed the chambers with fresh linens and opened the windows to let in the morning air. Moving to the grand dining table, we arranged porcelain plates and gleaming silverware with precision. Breakfast began, and I served the royal family attentively, anticipating their needs.

After serving the royal family, Lilian and I stood quietly, waiting until breakfast was finished. We then followed a planned routine, clearing the dining table and restoring the dining hall to its formal state.

Returning to the kitchens, we worked quickly to clean up, preparing for the next grand banquet. I felt a sense of fulfillment as the grand chamber returned to its pristine state.

Our duties took us to the heart of the palace, where the kitchen buzzed with activity. The head cook supervised the preparation of mid-morning snacks and lunch. I observed the eager kitchen apprentices, surrounded by the usual busy atmosphere of the kitchen.