The morning unfolded with the familiar intimacy of routine, the soft rustle of silk and water mingling with the quiet conversation that danced between Saraphina and Addy. Amidst this closeness, a knock at the door sliced through the comforting hum of their communion, bristling the air with sudden formality.
As Saraphina disappeared into the privacy of her dressing room, Addy approached the door, her role as the princess's keeper never more clear. The Queen's messenger, a solemn figure bound by duty, awaited on the other side. His instructions were unyielding: the message he bore, sealed with the royal insignia, was for Saraphina's hands alone.
"He is waiting about in the passageway, My Lady," Addy relayed, her voice echoing a touch of urgency. "He has informed me that he is under strict rule to hand the parchment to you only, Sari!"
The carefree light in Saraphina's eyes was swiftly usurped by clouds of concern. "Help me into my dress, dear Addy, and then you may allow the messenger to deliver his missive. I fear this missive may carry the weight of the realm, and not just an invitation to the royal gala."
"Nor I, My Lady," Addy responded, her fingers deftly lacing the garment, binding her friend in preparation for whatever tidings awaited them.
Once Saraphina's attire was secured, the Queen's messenger was admitted. He entered with a solemn grace, delivered the parchment upon a silver salver, and waited as Saraphina accepted the envelope in her delicate grasp. With a final bow, the courier took his leave.
Addy observed her friend for a moment, then carefully broke the seal, unfurling the script to reveal the Queen's message. She cleared her throat gently before reading aloud, her tone infused with the proper measure of reverence and importance.
"Her Majesty, Queen Regina of Levonshire, requests the honor of your company, Princess Saraphina, for luncheon in her private quarters. She seeks discourse with you on matters close to heart and crown. Please attend her at midday."
A small, sincere smile found its way to Saraphina's lips, a bloom of relief vulnerable yet hopeful in the quiet of the chamber. "Mother's counsel is what I need now more than ever," she confided to Addy, her voice a murmur against the storm of intrigue brewing beyond the walls.
Addy folded the message with care, her eyes meeting Saraphina's with an understanding that spanned deeper than words. "The Queen's wisdom will guide us, My Lady. She is the compass by which the tides of court are navigated."
Saraphina inclined her head, reassured by the knowledge that her mother's insight would illuminate the shadowed paths that lay tangled before her. "Prepare me for the meeting, Addy. Today I will face not only my mother but the future of our court."
As the final touches to Saraphina's attire were set, the princess contemplated the intricate dance she was about to step into—an encounter that held the potential to reshape their realities, to shine light upon dark places, and to rebuke those who would threaten the sanctity of their lineage.
With careful poise and a newfound resolve, Saraphina looked upon her reflection—a mirrored testament to the bloodline of Levonshire—and readied herself for the conversation that awaited. It was a meeting that would, unbeknownst to Isabella, set the wheels of truth and justice in motion.
Comments