Alexander felt an uncommon sense of contentment that morning, a feeling that had been elusive, and somewhat foreign, for quite some time. As he strode into the drawing room with measured gait, and took a moment to admire the room's opulence. The early morning light filtered through the grand windows, the high ceilings were adorned with intricate mouldings, and rich tapestries lined the walls. Had the room always been so beautiful?
Beside the blazing hearth was a plush armchair and he settled into it, letting out a contented sigh. Last night, he had slept exceptionally well, better than he had in the recent days, but it was not the reason for his high spirits.
The door to the drawing room creaked open, and a maid entered with a silver tray bearing a steaming pot of tea and a selection of his favourite morning treats. "Good morning, Your Majesty." She curtsied, placing the tray on the small table beside him.
A familiar knock.
"Enter." Alexander called.
