The Benefactor

Lorelai entered her bedroom and headed straight for her bed, dragging her feet behind her. Perhaps it was the lingering effect of the herbal tea Althea had given her, but her body felt unusually relaxed and heavy, making it rather difficult to stay alert any longer.

As she walked past her dressing table, the princess couldn't help but notice a white note placed under the golden frame of her round vanity mirror.

Curious, she retrieved the note from inside the frame, carefully looking around her room to make sure she hadn't missed anything else of importance. Then, she unfolded it and smiled as she recognized the penmanship.

"Your Highness,

I successfully managed to procure the funds needed for the entrance fee. I will submit them first thing tomorrow.

Unfortunately, I won't be the one escorting you to the gambling station. The person who lent me the money will. I hope you don't mind.

Forever at your service, Count Elion Draven."