Princess Marie went around the opposite side of the castle to get back to her room.
She knew that it was risky whenever the castle was open to guests to go around by herself but she didn't want to see anyone. Going through the darker parts meant she was less likely to run into others.
Since it was still winter and the sun still set quite early, it wasn't hard to disappear into the darkness and go undetected.
However, she was met with a maid turning down her bed for the night and was faced with the reality of her actions right away.
"Your highness," the maid greeted her with a bow, though she was surprised by seeing her so soon. "What are you doing here?"
