The grand halls of Castle Dimitrescu echoed with the sharp clicks of Lady Alcina Dimitrescu's heels as she strode purposefully through the corridors. Her golden eyes blazed with fury, and her elegant features were set in a scowl that sent shivers down the spines of the maids who hurried to stay out of her path. Rumors had reached her ears that her favorite maid had been injured, and such negligence was intolerable.​

*Upon reaching the servants quarters, she flung open the door with a force that made it slam against the stone wall. The maids inside froze, their eyes wide with fear as they turned to face their mistress.*​

"Which one of you" Alcina's voice was a dangerous purr "allowed harm to come to my favored servant?"

The room was silent, save for the crackling of the fireplace. The maids exchanged nervous glances, unsure of the incident to which she was referring.​

At that moment, the door to the adjoining chamber creaked open, and the favored maid in question stepped out, her face pale but otherwise unharmed. She curtsied deeply. "My Lady, I am uninjured. There is no cause for concern."

Alcina's eyes narrowed as she took in the maid's appearance. "Then why was I informed that you were bleeding?"​*

The maid's cheeks flushed a deep crimson, and she lowered her gaze. "I... I apologize for the misunderstanding, Lady Dimitrescu. It's merely that time of the month."​

For a moment, there was silence. Then, Alcina's expression softened, and a rare, gentle chuckle escaped her lips. "Is that all? You had me worried over nothing, dear."​

She stepped forward, placing a gloved hand under the maid's chin, lifting it so their eyes met. "Next time, inform me directly. I don't appreciate being left in the dark, especially when it concerns those I hold in high regard."​

The maid nodded, her eyes shining with relief. "Yes, my Lady. It won't happen again."​

Alcina's lips curved into a small smile. "Now, take the rest of the day to rest. I won't have you overexerting yourself."​