Bab 264: Violet: In Dark Corners

Violet glided wordlessly back into Queen Celia's presence chamber and handed over the velvet jewel box.

The queen opened it and looked at the contents, nodding in silent approval. Setting the box aside as if it contained a mere trinket, she then gestured that Violet could take her usual spot on the floor and join the ladies with their embroidery.

Violet sat down on the plush carpet between Ilse and some insipid young girl with black braids and crooked teeth who'd only arrived at court the week before. She picked up her embroidery needle and continued her stitching.

She hated embroidery with a passion but she couldn't go against her mistress's wishes. She did her best to look cheerful as she punched the needle through over and over.

At her side, Ilse gently nudged her with her elbow and aimed a quick, concerned look at her. Violet gave a tiny shake of her head. She knew she'd have to answer her twin's questions at some stage.