MEETING THE IN-LAWS

The commotion settled as quickly as it arose. Jasmine and a few maids helped carry the Queen inside her chamber.

"Mother, please stay with us," Jasmine ran inside, her two sons running behind her.

The youngest princess, Adelaide, stayed behind, looking at Oriana with no expression on her face. After some time, she turned and joined others inside the palace.

Oriana, who stood beside Adric amidst the throng, her face etched with worry, didn't notice anything else; she just wanted to be sure the woman was going to be fine.

"Are you alright?" Adric asked, his voice softer than Oriana expected.

She chewed on her bottom lip, her eyes flitting nervously. "Your mother… is she going to be alright?"

Adric shrugged, a hint of amusement lingering in his eyes. "She has a tendency for dramatics. Rest assured, she'll be back soon, fuming but very much alive."