About an hour had passed since dinner.
The palace had become quiet.
Most of the servants had already returned to their rooms, and the halls were almost empty. Only a few lamps remained lit, casting a soft golden glow across the walls.
Inside Lydia's room, Xena stood behind her, gently brushing her long blonde hair.
Lydia sat silently in front of the mirror.
She wore a simple nightdress, and her face looked tired.
Very tired.
Xena had noticed it the moment she entered the room.
Xena wanted to ask if she was all right, but she knew better than to push Lydia when she was in such a mood.
So she remained quiet and continued brushing her hair.
The soft sound of the brush moving through Lydia's hair was the only sound in the room.
After a while, Xena finished.
She placed the brush down and stepped back.
"Your Highness, you should get some rest."
Lydia gave a small nod.
"Thank you, Xena."
Xena bowed.
"Good night, Your Highness."
"Good night."
Xena quietly left the room.
