Rhynera sat before her mirror, brushing through her long hair with slow, distracted strokes.
Her reflection seemed almost lifeless, her lips pressed into a thin line. e Mia, hovered at her side, adjusting the folds of her gown and humming softly. But the quiet was broken by a sudden knock at the door.
Mia went to answer me the moment she opened it, but the smile on her face disappeared. Standing there was Lady Serena.
Mia's hands tightened against the doorframe, but she did not dare to stop the woman.
She knew better than to show the kind of boldness that would land her in trouble. To disrespect Serena would mean disaster, and her lady would not be able to protect her.
"Good morning, Lady Serena…" Mia murmured, bowing slightly.
Serena only snorted and pushed her aside, sweeping into the chamber like someone who believed the palace itself belonged to her.
Rhynera's eyes lifted to the mirror, and in its glass she saw Serena's reflection draw near.
