[Lavinia's POV — Everheart Estate—Afternoon]
I threw open the massive doors of Everheart Estate with all the subtlety of a cannon. SLAM! The sound ricocheted off the marble floors and gilded walls like a drum of doom.
"OSRIC VALERIOUS EVERHEART…!!!" I bellowed, my voice shattering glass somewhere—or at least it felt like it did. "COME OUT!!!!!!"
Marshi let out a ROAARRRRRRR!!!that could have frightened a dragon into retirement. The sound sent the servants scattering into corners, the butler nearly toppling over, and the cook's hat went flying. Everyone froze, wide-eyed, trying to process the chaos that had just landed in their hall.
"Your Highness… the… Crown Princess?!" one of the younger servants stammered, eyes the size of teacups.
The butler, face pale as parchment, hurried forward on trembling legs. "G-greetings… greetings, Your Highness…" His bow almost became a full-body tumble. "M-may I… may I know the reason for your… honorable visit?"
