Arriving at the Hopewell dukedom, Alora watched the show where the mages used their magical power to perform a special dance and entertainment with the coordination of nearly fifty mages.
Then she retired for the day to the guest wing of the Hopewell mansion. Alora wanted nothing but sleep when she heard faint knocks on the door. Grabbing her royal coat, she was putting it on when Helena opened the door, a hesitant faint frown on her forehead.
"Your Highness, Archmage Sebastian is insisting on meeting you right now and claims he will mention this visit to you." Helena's voice was steady, but Alora caught the slight waver.
An Archmage. There were only a few in the kingdom, each highly esteemed for their prowess. Alora understood Helena's predicament. A refusal could spark offense, yet his timing was utterly inappropriate.
