Chapter 6

"Ugh," I groaned as I stared at the all too familiar house. I couldn't believe I was back here so soon. "Ellie!" a loud voice shouted and before I knew what was happening, I was knocked forward. I managed to catch myself and keep my balance as I looked down. Brooke was hugging my leg and flashing me a toothy smile. I couldn't even be mad at her. I missed her so much! All my anxiety about coming back melted away as she took my hand in hers. "How did you get hurt like that?" she asked, staring at my cast. "I wasn't being careful," I admitted. "I'm very careful," she pointed out with a laugh. "I'm doing ballet and my teacher says I'm graceful." I giggled at her proud grin, but my happiness was cut short when I realized that she was leading me into the house. What was I doing back at the palace? Well, it had been a little over a week since we had come back and Jun had been drafting up some plans with some of the king's best strategists. He was calling a meeting to discuss the adjustments t