#hashutsei

'I was conflicted, however. Though I served my lady dutifully as attendant and informant and she in turn shielded me from the prejudice of her people, I reminded myself that I was only useful. That she was the same queen who executed innocents of the fens, many of them my kin. But she never spoke to me as if I were a lesser being, and when we talked she would often ask questions about Saxhleel culture.'

'Morilye made me her personal attendant. I was still a slave, but to her I felt I was more than what I was. Though irons still clad my wrists and ankles, she clothed me in Ayleidic garb adorned with coloured feathers and fine cloth. I followed her and waited on her needs and desires, but I also listened to the whispers of her court. Because only she and the court mage knew I could understand Ayleidoon, the rest of the Ayleids were brash in assuming I could not comprehend their tongue. My lady took care of me dutifully with clothing, food, and shelter. In turn, I informed her of gossip and plots before they even saw the light of day.'

'You won't remember my words, but I promise you will be free once this is done, Hashutsei...'