Shift

The Great Hall

"What would I ever have to hide?" I laugh and turn away from the gentleman who I had just conversed with, careful in my manner to avoid dubiousness. The pleats of my emerald gown dance as I quicken my pace among the marble flooring. Forcing a smile, I squeeze pass the King's waltzing guests, suffering numerous whiffs of the rich perfumes they'd intentionally applied profusely to their bodies that were adorned with a diverse range of treasures themselves - gold from Italy and diamonds from Botswana. They were sick, these people.

I progress through the extensive hall, keen on the Golden Doors that guests flew in and out through.

As I advance in distance, my discomfort eases. Yet, just before I could disappear into the doors of the Great Hall, I gasp as a familiar voice halts my evasion. "Princess Aaricia, where do you presume you are going?" As I slowly turn to face the interferer, I desperately search for a feasible answer to give him - the King.

"Umm, I need to use the restroom. May I be excused your Highness?" 

The words stuck to my throat. It disgusted me - the need for even the King's daughter herself to address him with such respects. 

The old man's face evidently conveyed annoyance as it screwed up in distaste. Without mumbling a word, he turned back to the hustle behind him.

I sigh in relief as I continued the journey to my room.

With everyone in the Hall, the Palace was dead silent with the exception of pacing soldiers stationed at the corners of rooms. I avert eye contact and keep my head low as I drag myself past the chambers, lit with muted light. Soon I enter a golden corridor with chandeliers that hung from its ceiling and tapestry at its finest. A luxurious aura warmly welcomed me as I arrived in my quarters. I felt safety at the touch of the cool gilded handle, and shifted my weight upon it to open up my halcyon world.

My haven.