Downfall

"Alexa Zöe, is that your name?" the Empress of Constantinople's voice made her tremble.

 Alexa looked at the floor, confused and scared, although she tried to hide her feelings. In addition, she struggled to balance about ten kilos of clothing and accessories over her shoulders and head. It made the maiden feel very small inside her clothes, and at the same time, it was difficult to maneuver that excessive size around her. It was hot, even though it was almost winter.

On top of the dress. Alexa wore a stole embroidered with silver threads and gems. Her brocade silk cape had so much cloth that it could serve as a tent for four people. And then there were her earrings, several rings, a hat that was the latest fashion at court ... And the wig, of course, falling in beautiful blond braids behind her back. Alexa didn't have long or lush hair of her own. It itched.

At this moment she was looking at the feet of the empress, in shoes as beautiful as her own.