If she was so sure, why did she always act as if I might steal her husband?
As soon as I had enough strength, I knelt before her, proposing I mimic her more closely.
"Sister, my brother's life is in your mother's hands. How could I betray you? But if I continue to ignore His Majesty, he might grow suspicious," I argued.
She kicked me squarely in the chest. "How long do you plan to play this game? You better conceive soon, you harlot," she snapped.
I pressed my lips tightly together—conceiving wasn't something I could simply will to happen.
Nanny Adams intervened swiftly, pulling her aside and whispering urgently in her ear, after which my sister calmed down and reluctantly agreed to let me practice her voice.
With the Dowager Queen's birthday fast approaching, my sister was busier than ever, seldom in her chambers.
Seizing a moment of rare freedom, I decided to explore the Phoenix Wing grounds.
Although I wasn't allowed outside the Phoenix Wing, my sister had a maid shadow me whenever she was away.
I wandered to the front courtyard, drawn to a towering apple tree near the palace gates.
I smiled and asked the maid, "May I climb the tree?"
The maid bowed slightly, remaining silent, which I took as consent.
I climbed eagerly, gripping the thick trunk until I reached a sturdy branch.
My forehead was slick with sweat.
What a view from up here!
I dabbed at the sweat on my brow, plucked a few apple blossoms, and stashed them in my pouch.
The blossoms were in full fiery bloom, a sight to behold.
I leaned back against the trunk, letting the dappled sunlight warm my face, and squinted in contentment.
Could this be what they call a stolen moment of serenity?
Utter bliss!
I closed my eyes, feigning sleep, reveling in the brief respite.
"Who goes there?"
A sharp call jolted me, and I lost my balance, tumbling from the tree.
"Someone help her!"
A commanding voice came from beyond the walls, and the gates of Phoenix Wing swung open at once.
Sitting on the ground, cradling my throbbing leg, I found myself face-to-face with King Samuel for the first time.
His presence was magnified by his golden royal robes, adding to his already formidable stature.
He rushed over, his brow furrowed in concern, and immediately called for his physician.
As I tried to kneel, he gently held me down, "You're hurt—no need to move."
Head bowed, I rushed out an apology, "Your Majesty, I've alarmed you. I deserve punishment."