In the vast chambers of the palace, Saravannah's face reflected the dim glow of the lit candelabras. Her heart raced as she took in the sight before her. It was the sorcerer from Cassiana, the very one who'd provided her with that potent vial. The unexpectedness of the situation rendered her momentarily speechless, but she quickly masked her surprise with a gracious smile.
"My dear sorcerer," she said, her voice dripping with honeyed sweetness, "I wasn't expecting to see you here. What brings you to the palace?"
The sorcerer, a tall figure cloaked in deep blues and silver linings, stepped forward. Her hooded eyes met Saravannah's (or rather, Luciana's), revealing a glint of mischief. "Your Majesty, Queen Luciana," she began, emphasizing the name for clarity, "I had a feeling you'd need m
