Chapter 116 - The Queen's Guard

Ella awoke to her window displaying the gentle glow of dawn. She blinked, last night's events replaying in her head like bits and pieces of a dream. It all seemed surreal, the ceremony, the power surge, the shouts of the rogues as they swore allegiance. She took a deep breath, remembering Luna Katherine's words on she must learn to ease into her duties The burden of her new responsibilities enveloped her like a shroud as she stretched and sat up in bed. Realizing this, she forced herself out of bed and hastily put on her clothes while her mind continued to race with ideas of what was ahead. She was shocked to see Masque standing there, his look as unreadable and calm as usual, when she opened the door to go outside. She was reminded by his appearance of the world in which she now existed, queens had guards. “Good morning, Masque," she said and smiled slightly. “Good morning, mistress," he said, bowing slightly and speaking in a respectful tone. She left her quarters and he