"Now, don't be anxious, Azaria," Watson said. He, Azaria and Holmes were in a hansom on the way to the hotel the Princess was staying at. "Holmes and I will look after you." He glanced at Holmes. "Well, as much as Holmes will do anything while he's on a case."
Azaria giggled softly, but soon looked away, her stomach churning with nerves. "Are we almost there?" she asked softly.
"This is it," Holmes said, as the hansom drew to a stop. He paid the driver as Azaria got out of the carriage, taking Watson's hand for support. The trio quickly made their way to the Princess of Rygosia's suite. Holmes knocked on the door. It opened, and a young woman peered out.
"This is the Princess's double for the night," Holmes said. "Her name is Azaria Bankers. May she come in?"
"I shall check with the Princess," the young woman said, looking suspicious.
As soon as the door closed, Azaria turned to Holmes. "Won't you be coming in with me?"
"I'm afraid, my dear lady, that we cannot," Holmes answered her. "Watson and I have preparations to make."
Before he could say anything else, the door opened. The young woman from before had returned, a smile replacing the previous suspicion. "Come in, miss. We must get you ready for the ball!"
