The old maid had no other choice but to shrink back from the threat. She knew the Princess well, and if one were to get on her nerves enough, they would suffer the consequences.
Ember kept pacing the length of her room and hurtling things at anyone who dared to speak. If it were up to the maids who stood around her room, they would have left her to her nasty tantrums.
But orders from the Empress was what kept them rooted there despite the dangers it posed. They were instructed never to leave Princess Ember alone whenever she was in this state, lest she hurt herself.
Ember stopped midway in her pacing, making everyone in the large room tense. Their fears were quickly confirmed when she sharply scanned every one of them with utter irritation.
"What are all of you doing here?" She demanded. "Leave!"
What followed her command was absolute silence and countless exchange of nervous glances.
