[alaklondewen]

Habeth’s slippered feet padded down the corridor, her mind full of the events of the day, as she slip by the door to the Queen’s apartments. She paused and slowly turned her dark head toward the entrance. The Queen! Oh no, what would the Queen say? Did she even know about the possible attempted assassination of her nephew? Habeth knotted her eyebrows and with tightened lips, she looked down at her calloused hands as she spread her fingers and considered what her role would be. If Beruthiel already knew, she may think Habeth was gossiping about a serious matter; however, if her Majesty was unaware of the matter, she would be obligated to not keep information from her. Either way, she would have to tell her mistress and face the consequences whatever they may be.

Inhaling deeply, Habeth attempted to harden her emotions, and then, with her head lowered the servant knocked lightly on the door of Queen Beruthiel’s suite. And short “Enter” was heard, and Habeth pulled the heavy wooden door and stepped humbly in.

The Queen sat with her back facing the door, and when the door thudded softly to a close, she slightly turned her head glancing over her shoulder out of the corner of her eyes. “What do you want? I did not call for you.” Habeth was used to the cold unfeeling tone of her Mistress' voice.

“I have news, Madame…about your nephew.” Habeth’s voice trembled, but her words made Beruthiel unconsciously straighten her back in her seat. The servant paused, waiting for permission to speak.

“Go on with it.” Beruthiel tried to cover her interest with irritation.

“Huan…Earnil’s hound, he died today after eating Earnil’s lunch. They think it was poisoned…and…and meant for the boy, Madame.” Habeth spit the last of her words out and after taking a fresh breath she continued slowly, "The boy is well, but the dog is dead." The servant stepped back, closing her eyes, expecting harsh retaliation from the Queen, but nothing happened. Slowly opening her eyes, Habeth saw Beruthiel sitting silently in thought. The servant nervously shifted her body weight, causing the Queen to snap her head up and give Habeth a sharp look.

“Are you still here? Out with you.” Habeth opened her mouth wishing to help Beruthiel in some way, or at least know how she felt, but she changed her mind when the Queen raised her hand in silent authority. Habeth lowered her head, and after a small curtsey, she hurried from the room. She paused in the hallway, and let her weight lean heavily on the door. Her chest was heaving, but she’d survived.

[ October 11, 2003: Message edited by: alaklondewen ]