The first time he’d hit me was when I’d decided to explore the vast palace. It had more rooms and layers than I could count. I’d found my way down, somewhere where the sunlight did not shine, to a curious set of double doors which vibrated. I’d walked up to them, admiring the intricate design—swirls of vines and flowers, and what looked like waves. My uncle had come out of nowhere, fingers digging into my arm as he dragged me away. “You’re not supposed to be down here,” he growled.
