A knock came on Rowena's door. She was seated by the window, her hands resting on her lap, her thoughts elsewhere. The knock came again, softer this time.
"Come in," she said.
The door opened carefully, and Elowen stepped inside. She held a scroll in her hand, tied with a simple piece of string.
"What took you so long, Elowen?" Rowena demanded.
"My Queen, I am sorry," Elowen said, bowing her head slightly. "And the artist sends his apologies for the delay." She held the scroll out with both hands.
Rowena took the scroll. Then her eyebrows creased. "Did anyone see you?" she asked, looking at the maid.
Elowen shook her head. "No, my Queen. I was careful. I took the secret passage to make sure no one followed me."
Rowena nodded. "Good. You can go."
Elowen curtsied and left the room, closing the door softly behind her.
