Tiara's head felt heavy, and her vision was blurry as she struggled to open her eyes. Her surroundings were unfamiliar; the room was dimly lit, and it took her a moment to realise she was lying on a cold, hard surface.
Panic surged through her as her memory began to return in fragments. The last thing she remembered was waking up from her chambers, and then... darkness.
Her heart pounded in her chest as she pushed herself into a sitting position, her breathing shallow and rapid. As her vision cleared, she saw Arianna lying unconscious beside her. Relief washed over her at the sight of her cousin, but it was quickly replaced by the realization that they were in danger.
"Arianna," Tiara whispered urgently, shaking her gently. "Arianna, wake up."
Arianna's eyes fluttered open, and for a m
