Elysia woke to laughter echoing down the marble halls and the faint, rhythmic thump of Kaelith's boots against the stone. At first, she thought it was just another morning's commotion.
But as she blinked the last threads of sleep from her eyes, she saw Veylira already impeccably dressed in deep indigo silks and silver bangles standing in the doorway, a conspiratorial smile on her lips.
"Today, darling, is for gentle souls only. Spa day." Veylira announced as though she were declaring a holiday.
"That means you, Sarisa, Raveth… and Kaelith. The rest of you—" her eyes slid to Malvoria, who was emerging from her study in crisp uniform, still half-asleep, "—may stay here and manage the realm."
Malvoria scowled, folding her arms with imperial dignity. "I am not 'the rest of you.' I am the Queen."
