Dawn came quietly.
The first light of morning spread across Svetlana, turning the sky a pale blue as the palace slowly came alive.
The carriages were already waiting outside.
Servants moved around the courtyard, checking the horses and making sure everything needed for the journey had been packed.
It was going to be a long journey to the capital.
And for Lydia, it felt even longer knowing what waited for her at the end of it.
Inside her room, Lydia sat quietly while Xena made the final arrangements.
She gently fixed Lydia's hair one more time, making sure every strand was in place.
Lydia sat still.
Her expression was calm.
There was no sign of the fear she felt inside.
She had barely slept.
But she did not want anyone to see how tired she was.
Xena stepped back and looked at her.
"Your Highness, I believe that is everything."
Lydia nodded.
"Thank you."
A knock came at the door.
Anna entered.
"The carriage is ready."
Lydia stood.
"Then we should go."
