The morning light filtered through the grand windows of the Queen's drawing room, casting a golden glow upon the polished wooden floors. Ruby sat at her table, sipping delicately from her teacup, her thoughts distant as she awaited the servants to finish arranging her breakfast. The soft clinking of silverware against porcelain was the only sound in the otherwise quiet room.
A knock at the door broke the stillness.
"Her Majesty's physician, Lady Selene," the guard announced, his voice firm.
Ruby set her cup down, glancing toward the door as Selene stepped inside. The physician's smile was polite, almost warm, but there was something in her eyes that unsettled Ruby. A silent plea, a quiet desperation.
Ruby flicked her fingers, dismissing the guard without a word. The heavy doors shut be
