Chapter 145: Demands.
The two women rose to their feet as the queen entered the garden, her presence as commanding as Jean had described.
Her gown flowed with an ethereal shimmer, and her expression, though calm, was unreadable. Salviana straightened instinctively, her heart quickening as she dipped into a respectful curtsy.
"Lady Salviana," the queen greeted, her tone warm but measured. "Welcome to my garden."
"Your Majesty," Salviana replied, her voice steady despite her nerves. "Thank you for having me."
The queen’s gaze flicked to Jean, who stood dutifully at Salviana’s side. A faint smile touched her lips. "Your lady-in-waiting is diligent, I see. But for now, I would like to speak with you alone, Lady Salviana."
Jean hesitated, her sharp eyes narrowing ever so slightly. She turned to Salviana, seeking silent confirmation. Salviana nodded subtly, though the weight of the queen’s request settled uneasily on her shoulders.
"As you wish, Your Majesty," Jean said, her voice neutral but polite. She bowed and stepped back, glancing one last time at Salviana before turning to leave.
Left alone with the queen, Salviana felt the silence stretch, taut and heavy. The queen gestured toward the bench. "Please, sit."
Salviana obeyed, lowering herself onto the seat. The queen remained standing for a moment, her eyes fixed on Salviana as if assessing her. Finally, she spoke, her voice carrying an undercurrent of authority.
"You’ve been in the palace for some time now," the queen began, her words deliberate. "I imagine you’ve had time to observe how things work here."
Salviana nodded, choosing her words carefully. "Yes, Your Majesty. It’s been a learning experience."