RIGHTFUL VENGEANCE

A BIT UPTIGHT

Morning arrived far too swiftly for Selene's liking. Her restless night was plagued by troubling thoughts and unanswered questions. As the sun's light filtered through the sheer curtains of her chamber, it did little to comfort her, only casting long shadows that mirrored her uneasy state.

Almost immediately, her three maidens entered the room with their customary quiet reverence, heads bowed in respect. Selene, barely awake, waved them on with a tired gesture, her mind still tangled in thoughts of the previous night. The soft rustling of their garments and the subtle scent of lavender perfumed oils from the bath they prepared filled the air, momentarily grounding her in the present.

As the maidens worked, Selene stood before her large, ornate mirror. The reflection that met her eyes was one of meticulous preparation: a white flared skirt made from luxurious thick cotton that brushed softly against her legs, complemented by a brown leather armless bodice hugging her torso with the tight embrace of a corset, cinched at the back with a slim rope. Soft, brown leather sandals adorned her legs, offering both comfort and grace.

More scented oils were applied to her skin, their warm fragrance mingling with the morning air, creating a soothing, almost hypnotic effect. Her golden hair was pulled back into a high ponytail, the hairpins tugging at her scalp with a familiar but unwelcome discomfort. Lost in her reflection, Selene admired how the outfit flattered her form. Just as she was about to turn away, Iris burst into the room, her presence a whirlwind of energy and excitement.

"Selene, Selene! We're going to be late for practice!" Iris's voice was a bright, urgent call that cut through the quiet of the morning.

"Goodness! Girl, where do you get this energy from? It's too early for this," Selene replied, stifling a yawn and shaking her head with a playful scowl.

"Oh, never mind that. Come on, you won't be here for long," Iris said, practically bouncing on her toes. "I was hoping we'd spend some more time together."

Selene wordlessly adjusted her belt and followed Iris, who had already started toward the door. As they made their way to the training grounds, Selene noticed that Iris had chosen to wear an identical outfit. Her surprise was tinged with exasperation and slight annoyance.

"You have got to be joking! Iris, why are you dressed like me? No, scratch that, how did you know this is what I would wear?" Selene asked, her tone a mix of incredulity and disbelief.

Iris met her gaze with a look that seemed to say the answer was obvious. "Because I know you, Selene." She flashed a bright smile, her large, striking blue eyes twinkling with mischief. "I knew you'd wear this, so I had my maids dress me the same way."

Selene stopped abruptly, her heart skipping a beat. Iris's words struck a chord. The ease with which Iris had anticipated her choice highlighted just how deep their bond was. Despite the four-year age difference between them, their connection felt seamless and unbreakable.

"Selene! What are you waiting for? Come on!" Iris called out, her voice filled with eager impatience.

A genuine smile spread across Selene's face as she resumed her pace, quickening her steps to catch up with Iris. The open field of the reserved training ground lay ahead.

Selene and Iris laughed together as they shared gossip about the events from yesterday, their cheerful voices echoing across the open training field. The morning sun cast a warm glow over the expanse of green, and the gentle breeze carried the faint scent of blooming flowers nearby. The spacious training grounds were surrounded by towering oak trees, separating them from the forest reserved for their hunting games, their leaves rustling softly, adding a soothing backdrop to their lively practice.