Illyria was exhausted. She felt as if she had spent the entire night making useless small talk with nobles and high ranking courtesans, something she didn't have the stomach for on the best of days. To top it off, the other 4 girls had been so dazzled by the entire affair that they had barely performed their duties.

On their way back to Maleea's lavish quarters, the handsome man who had winked at her earlier tapped her on the arm and introduced himself. 

"My name is Luka, I have been instructed to inform you that Prince Polkos requires your presence in an hour. He wishes to discuss his betrothed, and for you to be a kind of messenger between them" he said after he took a small bow. He had long black lashes and tan skin, much like Illyria. She could have sworn there was some Dasvrochian in him.

"Oh. Yes, certainly. Thank you." she said with a small curtsy back. She resumed her place ahead in the procession and followed Maleea and the girls back to her quarters. Once inside, the task of undressing and bathing Maleea, and sorting out all of her garments and jewels took a lot longer than she had expected. She would be late to the summoning if she didn't hurry.

"Princess, I have been summoned by one of the prince's men to serve as a messenger between the two of you. He would like me to meet him tonight. Am I allowed to go?" she asked, fearing the answer.

Maleea's head snapped and the mention of the sprint, causing the golden hairbrush to fall from Marta's hand. 

"What does he want with you? Send one of the others" she said with a dismissive wave of the hand. Illyria sighed and prepared herself for what was to come. Many years ago, when they were both in their teens, Maleea had taken a fancy to the son of a very powerful merchant who attended the riding academy with them. His name was Marten, and he had been somewhat of an idol to Illy. He was a brilliant rider, wealthy, intelligent and kind. When Illy turned 18, and much to Maleea's dismay, Marten asked for her hand in marriage. Illy declined, but Maleea's already sour disposition grew even more resentful.

"Princess, he has asked for me because I am the eldest, I assume. It would be unwise to send and unseasoned girl to see him. You can trust me" she said as she adjusted her bodice.

"Yes we all know what happens when I trust you" Maleea said as she rubbed rose serum on her face. "Fine. You may go. But be quick about it, and don't give him any looks" she added.

Illy half sprinted out of the quarters, knowing she was well late for her meeting. She stopped in front of Polkos' door and adjusted her bodice while she tried to catch her breath.

The door open and she curtsied and looked down politely.

"Prince Polkos, Luka advised me that you sent for me. I will be happy to take your message for Maleea" she said politely.