A Scope of Treasure

Chapter 6

"Well, preparations for the kingdom's anniversary ball are underway," Sienna announced, rolling up a piece of paper. "You two will need to pick up some supplies, make sure that the right imports will be sent in, and that all the decorations have been sent out and invitations are in place before the date." She jabbed the rolled-up list in our direction.

I took it, but Millie narrowed her eyes. "And these orders are coming from Her Majesty?"

"Of course."

Millie frowned. "Well, maybe I should ask her myself."

"There's no need for that." Sienna stuck her nose in the air. "I already did. Anything you have to say can go through me."

"I don't mind doing some of this," I mentioned, before Millia could get out a retort. "As long as it's helpful."

Despite my agreement, Sienna scowled at me before hurrying out of the room, heading towards the direction of the queen's quarters.

"Don't let her push you around like that," Millie admonished, as I unrolled the list, neatly ripped it in half, and handed one part to her. "Just because she's delusional over the queen and has a noble background, she thinks we'll actually do whatever she says."

"Well, I'm not going to let her push me around," I replied. My intention was still to lay low, and I didn't want to cause drama amongst my coworkers and gossip for the queen's staff. "But I don't really want to start a fight, either."

Millie sighed, then patted my arm. "I guess I'll defend your honor, then." She puffed out her chest and tilted her chin up.

"That is much appreciated."

She beamed at me before heading out of the room as well.

I smiled as the doors closed behind her. A would-be knight protecting a dragon. It was a pleasant irony to consider.

Although she didn't know exactly who she was defending. My smile faded, and I turned my attention back to the paper in my hand as I walked.

The menial manner of the first task gave me an excuse to head into town, anyways. I needed to find some more lavenfever tonic for my headaches, especially since it had been a while since I'd last shifted. Maybe I ought to find work in places other than palaces, where I'm not surrounded by lavish, glittering beauty every turn I take.

Though I did find a secret, conflicting joy in being surrounded by so much wealth. I knew it was a dragonish feeling, but sometimes I wondered if maybe—

Someone cleared their throat behind me.

I jumped, turned, and almost slipped with both motions. And the unlikely clumsiness continues...

Regaining my bearings, I stared at Prince Aurelius, who was assessing me with that menacing gaze, arms crossed over his chest. Oh no. Dread prickled at the base of my neck. I hadn't encountered him alone since he'd stumbled upon me in the mountains and I'd implored him to keep my secret.

"What exactly is it you find so captivating on that piece of paper that you failed to notice my presence until I made myself known?" He took a step towards me.

He was right. My instincts had failed me; I should've noticed him the moment he stepped into the halls behind me. "Your Highness." I dipped into a small curtsy, keeping my gaze glued onto the list as I held it up. Despite his question posed, I didn't want to look up and have him remark on my eyes again. "It's only my task list for the day."

The prince stepped closer once more, and his shadow fell upon the paper as he inspected it as well. "These don't seem to be particularly riveting in any way."