Down The New

Chapter 9: A New Dawn in the Palace

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Chapter 9: A New Dawn in the Palace

The morning sunlight spilled through the small window in Aurora's room, warming her face and rousing her from sleep. Her eyes fluttered open, and for a brief moment, she forgot where she was. The soft sheets and the faint scent of lavender made her feel safe-until reality came crashing back.

The palace. The portal. Lucas.

She bolted upright, her heart pounding. The memory of the previous day-the portal, the prince's chamber, her decision to stay as his personal maid-flooded her mind. It felt surreal, like a story unfolding in someone else's life, yet it was hers.

Aurora swung her legs off the bed and rubbed her temples. "This is real," she whispered.

A soft knock at the door startled her. Before she could respond, the door creaked open, and Hillary's familiar face peeked in.

"Good morning, Aurora," Hillary said, stepping inside with a tray of bread, cheese, and tea. Her warm smile was a stark contrast to the whirlwind of emotions Aurora was feeling.

"Good morning," Aurora replied, her voice still groggy.

Hillary placed the tray on the small wooden table by the window and motioned for Aurora to sit. "I thought you might be hungry. You'll need your strength for today."

Aurora raised an eyebrow as she reached for a piece of bread. "What's happening today?"

Hillary hesitated, her smile faltering slightly. "You're officially starting your role as Prince Lucas's personal maid."

Aurora nearly choked on her bread. "Today? Already?"

Hillary nodded, her expression sympathetic. "The prince has a schedule to keep, and you're part of it now. Don't worry-I'll help you get ready."

Aurora sighed, the weight of her decision settling heavily on her shoulders. She had no experience, no training, and no idea how to serve a prince. But she had made her choice, and there was no turning back.

"Thank you, Hillary," Aurora said, her voice soft but sincere.

Hillary smiled again. "Finish your breakfast. I'll help you get dressed."

Preparing for the Day

After eating, Aurora stood by the small mirror as Hillary helped her into her maid uniform-a crisp black dress with a white apron and a matching headband. The fabric felt strange against her skin, a constant reminder of her new reality.

Hillary fussed over her, adjusting the hem of the dress and tying the apron's bow. "You'll be fine," she said reassuringly. "Prince Lucas can be...intimidating, but he's fair. Just do as he asks, and you'll be alright."

Aurora nodded, though her stomach churned with nerves.

When she was finally ready, Hillary handed her a small notebook and a pencil. "For notes," she explained. "It helps to write down his preferences. The prince likes things a certain way."

Aurora took the notebook, her hands trembling slightly.

Hillary led her through the winding corridors of the palace, the grandeur of the place still overwhelming. Aurora tried to focus on the path they took, noting landmarks like a tall vase painted with golden patterns and a large tapestry depicting a fierce battle.

They stopped in front of a tall door carved with intricate designs. Hillary turned to Aurora and whispered, "Good luck," before stepping back.

Aurora took a deep breath and knocked.