Restless Nights, Restless Minds

AZALEA

I can't sleep.

I've been trying for an hour now since I took the tablets and snuggled myself into bed, but no matter what position I'm in or how I lie, it's not enough to help me close my eyes.

It's like some invisible force is tugging at me, keeping me upright, and I let out a painful hiss. As if to worsen the situation, my stomach growls in a low-threatening tone.

The cravings. The ones I’d been trying to avoid tonight suddenly sprang up, and I let out another hiss.

"Fuck!" When my stomach makes another hungry sound, I leap out of bed and curse.

I sigh loudly as I gaze up at the wall clock, which shows it's a few minutes before midnight. I won't be able to sleep now unless I satisfy this hunger, so I take a deep breath and stand on wobbling legs, heading towards the kitchen.

I stroll through the dimly lit hallway, and an unsettling calm envelopes me, causing me to shudder slightly. The castle feels vacant, and this area is much emptier. What do I expect from the servants' q