Oh my gosh, Alli — I am so sorry for this wait.
Even though she pushed and shoved with all her might, Rio had no hope of opening the door without Mati's help. She was a scrawny, ungainly creature compared to the curvaceous woman standing next to her. As Mati joined her in the fight for entry through the stubborn oaken door, its hinges loosed and it swept open before them. Rio was sure that none of her weak effort had rendered them through. Without Mati, she would never have seen what lay before them in the slowly ebbing darkness of the smaller room.
Steadily, the light from the windowed chamber to their backs illuminated their view, a watercolor palette of hanging headdresses, gowns, scarves, and all manner of woman's dress. Rio gasped, entranced by swirl of colorful fabrics. She touched her sister's arm excitedly and proceeded within, her hands moving of their own accord to brush against the rows of soft and silky clothing. This is treasure, she spoke, her voice toned down and gentle with awe. She looked back to her companion, eager to see her reaction to the wonders they had found. She could think of no more satisfying a discovery, none imaginable even in the rooms of the castle that remained closed.
The sisters spent the rest of the day fooling girlishly with the dresses, imagining always the life of the princesses who had worn them. When the hour was late, they left the castle and returned to their separate homes. Rio left with a smile on her face, feeling remarkably relaxed after the afternoon of fun.
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