The gentle glow of the morning sun filtered through the tall, arched windows of Empress Illena's chambers.
The light landed on the beautiful patterns of the embroidered curtains and the soft sheen of the marbled floor.
Illena stood before a gilded mirror, her hands loosely clasped behind her as two elven maids adjusted the fabric of her dress, ensuring every fold and detail was immaculate.
Her reflection beamed back at her with a playful smile, and she couldn't help but twirl a lock of her silver and green hair between her fingers.
"Careful, Your Majesty," came the voice of her head maid, Selvia, standing behind her with a comb in hand.
Selvia's golden brown hair was tied back neatly, and her sharp green eyes watched Illena with a warm smile.
"If you keep fiddling with your hair, I'll have to start all over again."
Illena pouted, her lips forming an exaggerated frown.
