The grand celebration was held in the Queen's Hall.
Golden lamps lit the room, and soft music flowed through the air. Noblewomen filled the hall in bright gowns, their laughter rising and falling like waves. Tables were set with wine, fruit, and sweet cakes. For the first time in many weeks, the palace felt alive.
Anastasia arrived quietly.
She wore a loose gown of deep blue, the fabric flowing gently from her shoulders. The high waist and wide sleeves hid her body well. To anyone who did not look closely, she appeared no different than before.
At her side stood the female physician Ernest had arranged. She looked like a maid, calm and alert, her eyes never resting for long.
Anastasia kept her movements slow and careful. She smiled when spoken to, bowed when needed, and avoided crowded places.
She walked over to pay her respect to Elizabeth, her posture was humble not wanting to draw attention to herself.
