The Royal Orphan

Every spring in the kingdom of Olandia, representatives from the palace visit all the kingdom's orphanages to round up those orphans who have turned eighteen without ever being adopted. The royal family then employs them as servants, giving them clothing, food, and shelter-a practice that provides for the kingdom's citizens and helps prevent homelessness.

This year, Ellena is one of the orphans who has aged out. She's excited to be leaving Madame Greer's dreary, unpleasant orphanage, and sh...