Helena instantly relaxed under her mother’s comforting gaze.

“It’s quite early.” Her mother raised a brow. “Whoever had the idea to start the games at such an hour deserves an arrow right between the eyes.” She tapped her forehead.

“Mother!” Helena gasped, trying to muffle a laugh as Sophia shot them both disapproving looks.

The queen only shrugged. “I have yet to have my morning tea. I’m allowed to be a bit grumpy.”

“Your Majesty.” Sophia crossed her arms, staring at the queen as if she were naught but a child. “A better example must be set around children.”

“Oh yes.” Helena’s mother met the older woman’s gaze. “I like teaching my daughter—who is no child—to have humor in her life.” She gestured to the door. “Helena and I would appreciate some tea.”

Sophia shook her head and scuffled from the room.

Helena grinned. “You really should be nicer to her, mother.”

“My dear, that woman has been with us a long time and I don’t remember a single smile gracing her lips.” She crossed the room, stopping directly in front of Helena. “Happy name day, my sweet.” Putting a hand on each of Helena’s cheeks, her mother kissed the top of her head.

When she pulled back, there were tears in her hazel eyes.

“Mother, what is it?”

The queen shook her head, tight black curls bouncing with each movement. “I’m just a silly old woman. You’re my girl. It’s difficult to think of giving you to anyone else, even if you will still be in the palace.”

Helena took her mother’s hand. “Would you help me prepare today?”

She wiped her face. “That would be lovely.”

Sophia returned with a tea tray laden with fresh mugs, mint leaves, and hot water along with grapes and biscuits.

Once Helena had eaten and bathed, her mother helped her into the gown she’s chosen for her. Thankfully, there was no corset, but the wide yellow skirt still made it difficult to move. As her mother and Sophia pinned her hair in an intricate design of curls and loops, she ran her hands over the white lace of the bodice.

When they finished, it was time for the royal family to make their journey to the arena.

Sophia handed Helena an ivory mask with wide ribbons. Beautiful didn’t begin to describe it, but as she set it against her olive-tone skin, all magnificence faded, leaving only the heavy weight of confinement behind.

The boys were waiting at the carriage when they arrived. Quinn and Cole wore the red blazers of their officer’s uniforms with fitted linen pants. They would exchange those for their boxing gear when they joined in the games.

Kassander looked like a mini version of Stev who stood rigidly by the rear of the carriage. His black coat was emblazoned with the triangular family crest. He shifted his stance and Kass imitated him.