Chapter 165. The Second Test

Princess Elena’s POV

The moment I stirred awake, a sharp, commanding voice pierced the quiet cabin. “Finally! Some of us were beginning to think you’d sleep through the day! Not even Queen Gloria takes this long to rise. If you don’t want to be here, just go back to the Silver Crest Pack!”

I blinked, disoriented, and looked up. A tall, stern woman stood over me, arms crossed, radiating authority. I didn’t recognize her at all.

“Um… excuse me...who are you?” I asked cautiously, sitting up.

Evelyn leaned closer, her voice low. “That’s Mrs. Kent, the Queen’s housekeeper. Don’t be intimidated…she’s testing you.”

Mrs. Kent’s eyes swept over me, sharp and assessing. “Move. You have fifteen minutes to be ready before the Queen sees you.”

I ignored her and turned to Evelyn, my guard and closest ally. “When did we land?” I asked calmly.

“About fifteen minutes ago,” she replied, eyes flicking to Mrs. Kent.

“And why wasn’t I woken immediat