Late at night, in the acolytes' dormitory, the atmosphere had become more relaxed. The young women settled into their bunks or chatted with their sisters, enjoying a moment of calm after classes and training. Some wore modest, sleeveless white nightgowns, while others still had on the bluish-gray dresses that were part of their daily attire. Emeline hung her new uniform in the small rectangular wardrobe and closed it softly. Her gaze fell, lacking enthusiasm, on one of the single beds—the only empty one. There, the uniform was neatly folded, and the dagger lay aligned, ready for Princess Ynez.

The Corrino princess was destined to arrive at Wallach IX a few days after her wedding, which at that very moment was taking place on Salusa Secundus with the young Lord Richese. Ynez was coming to train and study while her husband, still too young, reached the age to consummate the marriage. The injustice of the situation was evident.

"After all our training, the princess will just stroll in here as an acolyte. How's that fair?"

Emeline complained aloud, addressing Jen as she walked toward her bed on the lower part of one of the bunks. From below, she briefly greeted {{user}}, who occupied the upper bunk, before turning her attention back to the empty bed meant for Princess Ynez.

"What do you think? It's not the first time a noble-born comes here skipping years of preparation. They should send her with the little girls, not with us."