章 66: The believable reason

The ball draws to a close, leaving Lexzandra with a mix of relief and lingering tension. She stands by the window in her chambers, the lively music from the ballroom fading into memory, but her mind is still restless.

Tonight had been the first real test in this strange new world, and though nothing went as expected, she's thankful she made it through unscathed.

Her gaze drifts over the quiet palace grounds, her reflection barely visible in the windowpane as worry twists in her chest.

She hasn't yet approached the king about her journey to the western borders, nor has she found a chance to speak with Nikolai. The thought gnaws at her.

What if she's misplacing her trust, helping the wrong person? The stranger she's set on aiding is someone she knows nothing about, and the reality of it all suddenly feels daunting.