With a weary shake of her head, Helen drew herself from her thoughts, focusing on the simple act of preparing for the day. She dressed herself slowly, as though putting on armor, readying herself for yet another day of condemnation, another day of bearing the hatred she had no power to soothe.
Once ready, she emerged from her chambers, her steps soft but purposeful. Immediately, she encountered the attendants assigned to her, moving in with practiced bows and murmured greetings. To others, they might seem loyal retainers, faithful to her needs and comfort. But Helen knew better; their duties lay far beyond servitude. Each was a pair of watchful eyes, a reminder that she, the "outsider" from Sparta, was considered a potential threat, forever under suspicion within the formidable walls of Troy.
