LYRA

Elda and Maren arrived at my chamber before dawn, their arms filled with fabric and supplies that suggested today's preparations would take hours rather than minutes. I was already awake, having given up on sleep around the time the first grey light touched my window, my mind too full of anxieties about the evening ahead to find rest.

"Good morning, my lady," Elda said, setting down her bundles carefully. "We've brought your gown for tonight."

She unwrapped the package with the patience ...