Three nights later the empress summoned for the hob-goblin. Ten minutes slipped by her when he'd knocked on the door and entered.

"You rang, miss?" He asked.

"I'd like a pot of brew set out in the courtyard, please." She instructed him.

"Yes miss, do you require anything else?" He asked.

"No, but thank you."  She replied and he nodded in slow motion then left to fill in the request.

                   The empress tinkered around her office, then grabbed her spellbook, and headed out to the courtyard for a little night air. When she reached the back door of the castle she stepped out to see her coffee was there waiting for her. 

Placed next to the mug, a chocolate cupcake with lavender frosting. How thoughtful, Sage must have brought it to her. Sitting down and pouring a fresh cup, waiting for it to cool. Then sipping it slowly, she enjoyed the tranquil moment outside, feeling the spirit of nature all around her. 

                       Once she'd had a cup depleated, she began writing a little before pouring a cup. Then she looked over at the cupcake and grabbed it. She wasn't hungry but didn't want to hurt the new servant's feelings. Quickly she devoured it almost whole. Sipping at her coffee she relaxed and  wrote a little. 

        After another fifteen minutes, the empress stood up to stretch as a wave of dizziness fell across her. Two seconds later she passed out, hitting the ground with a hard thump.