Elaine POV
The corridors of the packhouse were bustling with the final touches of preparation as I retreated to the servants' quarters to get ready.
The muted echoes of my footsteps replaced the cacophony of the main hall as I hurried along the less-traveled path toward the back.
A modest room awaited me, a quiet sanctuary from the overwhelming spectacle of the mating ceremony.
As I entered the room and locked the door behind me, I exhaled a sigh of relief. The dress my mother had given me for today lay on the small single bed. It was simple but elegant, far removed from the extravagant attire I knew Seraphina would wear.
It was one of the few gestures she had extended towards me, and I cherished it for that reason alone.
Quickly, I stepped into the small adjoining bathroom to wa
