"Are you alright, your Majesty?"

Kara startled at the sound of the voice; her thoughts abruptly interrupted. She swiftly shook her head, tearing her gaze away from the flickering candle and refocusing on the present. The lingering emotions from the festival still clung to her, and she had momentarily forgotten that Chione had yet to be dismissed.

Moving cautiously away from the bright flame, Kara settled on the edge of her bed. She turned towards Chione and managed ...