The morning of the Declaration of Intent dawned bright, hot, and heavy with the promise of absolute disaster.
The Declaration was an ancient Arindale tradition held two days before a royal wedding. It was a formal, highly public ceremony where the betrothed couples stood before the Emperor, the High Priest, and the entire court to swear that their hearts were pure and their intentions were honorable.
Kaia stood in her bedchamber, staring at the ruined, torn white cotton nightgown resting at the bottom of her wardrobe. She kicked a stray boot over it just as the heavy brass lock on her door clicked open.
Victoria swept into the room, flanked by the two severe maids.
"Your exile is concluded," Victoria announced, her icy blue eyes scanning Kaia for signs of lingering rebellion. "You missed the Masquerade, but I am told you slept the entire night. Good. The bags under your eyes are gone. You look almost presentable."
