"Miss Arlington," a maid entered Yohana's chamber after knocking twice. "His Majesty has sent you yet another gift."
Yohana smiled, looking up from the heavy books she had buried herself in for the past three months. She had been studying tirelessly, learning everything she could about the curse and her own heritage.
"Really?" She put the book aside and rose to her feet. "What is it this time?" Her eyes sparkled with genuine excitement as she walked over to open the present.
"Wow," the maid gasped, her hands flying to her mouth as the lid of the velvet box was lifted.
There was a breathtaking blood-red ruby necklace inside that caught the morning light beautifully. It was resting on top of a lush bouquet of fresh lavender. The bright red gems looked stunning against the soft purple flowers, and the sweet scent instantly filled the whole room.
