The Gratitude
Lexzandra is in her room, surrounded by the warm light of the afternoon sun filtering through the lace curtains. Elara is helping her dress, carefully adjusting the intricate details of her gown. Two other maids are bustling around, ensuring every piece of fabric and accessory is in its proper place.
Lexzandra is trying to focus on the tasks at hand, still sorting through her thoughts from the night before. The argument with Nikolai and the unsettling dream have left her feeling drained.
Just as Elara is smoothing out the last wrinkle in her gown, the door to her room bursts open, and another maid comes running in, her face etched with concern.
She's panting slightly, clearly having rushed to deliver her message.
"Your Highness," the maid says breathlessly, "there is someone outside making quite a commotion. She demands to see you."