Queen Selthía;
I listen to the melody of the kingdom as my dress whispers against the stone behind me.
A small smile sits on my face as I listen to my kingdom breathe. It seems quiet at first. But it never really is, if you listen.
It's… breathing… hissing… humming… It's peaceful.
I watch the maids move between stone pillars and low bushes as they work. Their steps are sharp and practised. Efficient enough that even in their individuality, there's a rhythm.
They may all be on separate tasks, but their movements blend into one.
I frown.
That is why she stands out.
Asa.
She moves almost like the rest of them… Almost.
She keeps her eyes lowered when they should be, lifts them when protocol allows. There's no fumbling or nervousness… Everything… perfect. The kind of perfect that is unsettling.
She has always unsettled me.
People mostly assume that perfection is comforting. I have learned the opposite.
