The sun had risen gently over Zolotaria.
It was the kind of morning that looked as though it would be peaceful.
The sky was clear.
The sunlight spread softly across the palace roofs, making everything look warm and beautiful.
It was the type of day that seemed perfect.
But it was anything but peaceful.
The news had already spread throughout Zolotaria.
The Grand Duchess had pushed Lady Orlova down the stairs.
By morning, almost everyone had heard about it.
Some people whispered that Lydia Andreyevna had finally shown her true colors.
Others called her cruel.
Some even said that a Grand Duchess should never behave that way, no matter what had happened.
But there were also people who understood why she had lost her temper.
After all, Lady Orlova had been accused of trying to take her husband.
What woman would remain calm after something like that?
The nobles had their own opinions.
The servants had theirs.
And the people had theirs.
