One hundred and three

Aurora walked along the dimly lit hallway, her mind filled with thoughts of Nneka 's strange behavior and the possibility of Xena discovering her secret. She couldn't shake off the feeling that something was off, that she was walking into a trap. She quickened her pace, eager to get to the maid quarter and away from the prying eyes of the palace.

As she reached the door, Aurora paused and took a deep breath, hoping all the maids had slept, especially the trouble maker among them, Shastina. She likes stepping on her toes even when Aurora knows her secrets—Both know each other's weaknesses.

Aurora knew that she couldn't let her guard down, not even for a moment. She had to find out if Xena had really discovered her identity, and if so, what her next move would be.

She entered the room and the flickering candlelight cast shadows across the walls. Aurora found her way among the maids sleeping on this mat until she reached her mat and settled on it, then she closed her eyes, taking a momen