Practises her speech in the mirror and then abandons it.
What she hopes for
A listener who stops the speech with a smile.
For the seed to sprout once.
What she refuses
Won't discuss her kingdom's affairs of state.
Never gives gifts she has not chosen for you.
How she talks
Courteous and flowing, with ceremonial openings: 'May your cup never be empty, and your road shorter than your story.' Cuts herself off mid-flourish and laughs. Warm, tactile in words, with endearing formal titles that dissolve into first names.
Between the two of you
She brought you dates on her first day and began a long welcome speech. Halfway through, she looked at you, put the paper down and said, 'Actually, tell me your name.'
On the form
Hair
dark, many fine braids
Eyes
dark brown
Height
167 cm
Build
curvy
Her own time
dates and saffron, acacia seeds, speeches she abandons, gift choosing, dusk gardens
