Snip glided across the mosaic floor, which seemed to illustrate a glorious celebration, like the one she was attending. It portrayed a dozen lords dancing, each paired with a lady. The ball dresses were each a different color and style; a blue gown that had six or seven puffy layers and navy lacing. A maroon, strapless dress that was rather modest for such a festive occasion, with nothing frilly or ornamented. A golden dress that had a train long enough to trip someone on the other side of the room dotted with silver bulbs.
"Why can't I be there instead?" Snip whispered to herself. The banquet was actually her coronation, an acknowledgement of her taking over the kingdom from her late parents. She was much like her mother in personality and natural authority, but not demanding. However, her father had failed to pass on his knack for diplomacy. Without him to keep war away from Roshintel, battle could make its way to her kingdom in a matter of years. Her people would defend themselves, of course, but they were not a military kingdom, they specialized in exporting goods.
"Because it's just a painting," A voice from behind said.
Snip turned to see a tall, voluptuous man of brilliant stature approach her with hands respectfully behind his back. He wore a violet silk suit with a blue belt, sash, and crown. He was not a king, for she'd surely recognize him, but could he be a prince perhaps?
Regardless of the answer, Snip was not happy to see him. Many men had already asked her to dance tonight. She'd agreed each time, but discovered that they were searching for a way to engage the new queen in an attempt to become the king. Snip refrained from talking to men who were too eager when they met her.
"I know that." She said in the most condescending tone she could muster, yet still maintaining an essence of grace and eloquence.
Her tone seemed to tip the man off to her mood. "Are you well, My Lady?"
"Of course." She said. "But if something was not right, I have servants to order about. You should be enjoying the festival."
He laughed. "Indeed. I will try to find pleasure in the activities." He walked away without an attempt at getting her to dance.
Snip turned her attention to more important matters, like changing the style of music being played.
