Dusk
The maids arrived, but their movements were hasty. First, we went through the normal make-up routine, where I transformed into a clown. The dress was gorgeous but so diaphanous; I might as well have not worn it at all. The best thing about my wardrobe were the accoutrements, designed and made just for me. Every time the maids came to dress me, I got to witness the accouchement of another me. Looking back at me in the mirror was an elegant, regal clown queen. It made me shiver. Who knew a different look had so much power?
The grand triclinium, I have one word- impeccable. Every wall was under a tegument of murals and tapestries- each one telling a different story. My favourite was the one about Athena turning Arachne into a spider. The use of colour and textures were breathtaking. I wondered if Athena had spun it herself.
The Emperor called me and insisted I sit next to him. I took my seat by his side, and Cena began. On the Emperor's other side was the Prince. Claudius was right in front of me. The Emperor was obviously delighted with this arrangement.
"Claudius has told me so much about you. I remember last year when he came running to me, telling me about your beauty and how kind you are, and how he really wanted to meet you, we all did...."
"Father!" his face was scarlet from embarrassment. I turned and smirked at him.
"No, please, continue." I was going to tease Claudius so much. Thank you, your majesty!
"He was practically following you all year. Hiding behind pillars, watching you. He said you were generous, thoughtful, and everything he wanted in a queen..."
I turned to Claudius, who had turned a shade of vermilion. He was staring at the table in silence like he wanted to crawl out of the room — poor guy. I was basking in the glory of the moment.
That's when the trumpets blared, and there was my family. The emperor beamed at his favourite general. I even heard Claudius' sigh of relief. I had to act surprised. I stood up and gasped and soaked it all in. If I wasn't going to be queen, I could have been the first female actor- actress.
After my family took a seat, the Cena festivities began, and we all enjoyed ourselves. Wow, these entries are getting longer.
YOU ARE READING
The Long Task
Historical FictionA girl of the Roman empire must navigate her way through her world and manage the surprises that come along with it. With a general for a father, duty and tough love are what made her who she is. Her sister Claudia is to be married soon. All is well...
