ALL the participants for the Empress selection were now gathered in front of the second palace dwelling. Thalia lifted her chin as her feet touched the ground, scanning the group. She counted only eight ladies in total — five of whom clustered closely around Lady Eliza, laughing together as though they had long been friends.
Her gaze, however, was drawn to a timid figure standing apart from the rest. Unlike the others, this woman did not appear to be of noble birth. Her dress and shoes were plain and worn, though still neat, and the suitcase she clutched was clearly old and frayed. Yet, despite her modest appearance, there was an undeniable beauty about her — simple, understated, and quietly radiant.
"Welcome again, Ladies of the Empress Selection."
Thalia’s gaze shifted to the herald
