The empress shook her head; knowing it was too far to walk. It'd take three days if she sprinted. Unless the dragon returned in the next couple of hours, she'd have to miss the party in the fairy kingdom. Lily would be angry or at least dissapointed with her. 

  However it was out of her control, entirely. Lily would just have to understand, that's all. 

    "Would you like a pot of brew while you wait for the dragon?" Amberosia offered her.

"Yes, I'd love that, please." 

                           Amberosia darted off to get the brew. Knowing this would be her last week of being a servant, she really didn't mind grabbing coffee. Ten minutes later walking into the office, she set the tray down. Pouring the first cup then slowly handing the hot beverage to the mistress of the castle, she bowed and left. She had things to do around the castle.

           The empress nodded as the girl left the office. Ralvania sat there for a long time, sipping the contents of the mug and staring out of her small window, thoughts in a daze. Wondering if she stared out of it long enough would it will the dragon's return? After a few hours she finally gave up. 

       Pulling out her raven feather pen and paper, she began to write out a formal apology to Lily and little three year old Willow. She truly hated to dissapoint anyone, especially those that were like family. It was just the kind of soul she was, thinking of others.  Once it was finished, the empress conjured a signal to the gargoyle. 

       "Yes?" He asked the moment he landed on the window-sill. 

       "Please take this message to the fairy queen immediatley." She had asked, bending over and kissing his cheek. 

"Anything for you." He replied, then turned around and flew off.