chapter fifty-nine (continued)

[ IN WHICH SHE PREPARES TO BE QUEEN ]

The mirror in front of me reflects a clear image of my true self.

A Queen.

My gaze settles on the shiny, glass surface that has been coated with a metal amalgam. The view from behind is reflected upon it, and I see the maids gathering around me with several clothing accessories in their hands. A surcoat designed with colors has been laid to the side, waiting to be worn by me. The surcoat carries the various colors of Alkhemi's flag, which is green and ivory white, with little smudges of black. The surcoat will be worn when I get introduced as Queen to the soldiers. RIght now, the maids get busy, dressing me in a beautiful, long, lilac dress— almost white, but not quite. Its fabric is soft against my olive skin, and the color of the dress compliments the melanin in my skin. The maids have been working hard since the crack of dawn to prepare me, their future Queen of Alkhemi for the Coronation.

They are all excited for today's activities.

And it