Zahra rushed back to the audience hall to ask the queen dowager for her permission to host a party in honour of Lord and Lady Iceveil.
Although Emera didn't mention their family name, Zahra had heard it when young ladies gossiped about the dashing and elusive Lord Cassius.
Despite her sudden idea, Zahra wanted to host a small party in order to prepare herself for the future parties she would need to host as the crown princess of Averlyon for quite some time.
A servant was guarding the front of the audience hall's door.
Upon seeing the crown princess heading his way, he bowed deeply and greeted her with the utmost respect.
"I will announce your arrival," the servant said, his voice formal and courteous.
Zahra shook her head, stopping him from doing so.
"But..." the servant hesitated.
"I will talk to her if she says anything to you. Don't worry," Zahra reassured him with a bright smile that masked her urgency.