The chamber doors opened slowly. Seraphielle in the guise of Lady Selene Arkwright, stepped inside with the measured grace of someone well accustomed to courtly entrances. The soft sweep of her gown whispered across the polished floor as she approached.
Sunlight streamed through the tall windows, bathing the chamber in warm morning light. Servants moved quietly in the background, carrying ribbons, trays of flowers, and bundles of parchment.
Preparations for Prince Vaelric's birthday had begun in earnest.
At the center of the room, Queen Aurelia sat near the window, a scroll resting loosely in her hands, reviewing a list of arrangements placed neatly upon a small table. Her posture was calm, her movements deliberate
Gwen stood beside her, adjusting the folds of the queen's sleeve while keeping a careful eye on everything around them.
Selene studied Aurelia carefully.
