Narrow escape.

Daniel ran from the room as fast as his legs could possible carry him, not daring to stop until he reached the servants' quarters. He sat upon his poor excuse for a bed, which was identical to everyone elses'. The servants' quarters were not grand by any means, but all the same, it was home. There were many raised wooden frames throughout the room with extremely thin "mattresses", but even then there were those who slept on the floor. Though they had blankets, they were not of the best quality, but it was enough to keep the servants warm, and that was all they needed. There were three barrels of water in these particular quarters with plain cups stacked next to them that were shared by all. Meals were given in a separate room to all who worked in the castle.

Life for the servants under Larkin was very routine, and few things ever changed. What always was to be remembered, was that one must not upset the Shrike of Galesing.

But he sure had done it this time.

Why didn't I just lie? Tell him the girl loved her room? Anything!

The boy sighed and closed his eyes. The girl was very intriguing. Where had she come from? And why in the name of the moons was she so keen on speaking with him?

He shook his head and tried to clear his thoughts.

I must not speak with her. It will only bring about more trouble for me, and for her as well. Larkin was so angry...

The Shrike's orange eyes flashed in Daniel's mind and he shuddered. It would be a long time before he could be sure he would go unpunished. Larkin was known to keep grudges, and he did not forget when any individual crossed him. Daniel breathed slowly and crossed the room for water, returning to his space right after. He was fortunate enough to have one of the platforms in the room, and even more fortunate it was a corner. People rarely ventured into the corners of the room, because they had no need or reason to. Grateful for this, Daniel slid under his blanket and did his best to nap.