The weeks passed quickly into a month.
Daphne's health had bloomed again; the morning weakness was gone, replaced by a steady energy.
Though her dresses were tailored loosely, her growing figure remained hidden beneath them.
One afternoon, Katherine summoned her to the small council chamber reserved for women of the court.
The room was modest compared to the Emperor's hall.
Around them sat several noblewomen; duchesses, baronesses, and young ladies brought as apprentices to courtly life.
"Ah, here she is," Katherine said warmly, rising to greet Daphne. She brushed a kiss to her cheek. "The Rose of Eldoria graces us again."
The ladies murmured their greetings, bowing respectfully.
A few smiled with genuine warmth, but others lowered their lashes with envy.
Daphne took her seat beside Katherine, curious. "What is all this?"
