Separate Spaces

After the disastrous breakfast encounter, Elara had retreated to the privacy of her own chambers, shutting the heavy velvet curtains against the ever-present twilight. As she surveyed the room, however, she quickly realized that even this small sanctuary was not entirely her own.

The wardrobe doors stood open, revealing rows of gowns in shades of crimson, black, and midnight blue – all of them clearly tailored to vampire aesthetics rather than Elara's sensibilities. Her own simple dresses from Solaria were nowhere to be seen.

Scowling, she turned to the vanity, only to find that her modest collection of makeup and grooming supplies had been replaced by an array of powders, paints, and ornaments in shimmering hues that looked more suited to a royal masquerade than her morning routine.

"What is the meaning of this?" she demanded, whirling around as the door opened to admit Lydia.