Remi trudged wearily down the hallway, her steps heavy with the weight of her burden. Her arms were laden with a colourful array of garments, crafted from the finest wools, softest furs, and toughest animal hides. As she reached the large, human-sized basket that stood like a sentinel against the wall, she let out a soft sigh and unceremoniously dumped her cargo into its depths.
The basket creaked softly under the added weight, its wicker slats straining to contain the overflowing mound of clothing. Remi stood back, her chest heaving slightly with exertion, and gazed down at the scattered garments that had escaped the confines of her grip and stained the hallway. It was a familiar ritual, one that played out every time she attempted to deposit the laundry into its designated receptacle, and now, with a resigned air, Remi bent down, her back creaking softly in protest, and began to gather up the stray items. Her fingers moved deftly, scooping up the discarded clothing and depositing it back into the basket. It was a never-ending task, one that seemed to repeat itself ad infinitum, but Remi persevered, driven by a quiet determination to complete her chores.
As Remi continued on her way, the sound of soft, musical giggles drifted through the air, accompanied by the high-pitched chatter of little voices. Amidst the joyful cacophony, one voice stood out, unmistakable, and loathed in Remi's heart.
"I'm going to be the happiest wolvess in the entire world!" The declaration was made with conviction and enthusiasm and was immediately followed by a fresh burst of giggles.
Remi's eyes widened in surprise as she recognized the speaker - it was none other than Dantina, her voice bubbling over with excitement and mirth. The sound of Dantina's laughter was infectious, and Remi couldn't help but feel angry at her own eagerness to figure out what had sparked such unbridled joy in her monstrous, evil older sister.
So, Remi ambled lazily over to the door, which stood slightly ajar, and leaned in, pressing her ear against the narrow opening.
The maidens' conversation was filled with dreamy sighs and fluttering eyelashes as they discussed the object of their admiration.
"I've heard his eyes are as grey as the moon on a Mene-moon's night, when it smiles down on us with gentle light," one of them whispered, her voice full of wonder.
Dantina's eyes sparkled with excitement as she chimed in, her words tumbling out in a breathless rush. "And have you heard about his physique? His muscles, his stature... he's like a god among mortals! But it's not just his body that's captivating – his words are like honey, sweet and soothing, and his voice... oh, his voice is like music to my ears!"
"Lady Dantina, we're overjoyed for you, yet saddened by the thought of your impending departure. It's been an honour to serve you, and we'll deeply miss your presence among us."
They were her friends, whose families held high offices under the King and Alpha Wulfric. Remi frowned. She never had such friends. Nobles.
"Oh, The Moonsalem Prince, Semira. You should have seen him." Dantina dragged and more giggling ensued.
Just then, unexpectedly, the door pushed back from Remi's side, catching her off guard and causing her to catch herself before she stumbled on her curved back and by the time she looked up, she was staring at two of Dantina's most loyal, wolven friends, Semira and Janet and Dantina herself who stood frozen in the doorway. And behind them, a radiant Dantina smiled warmly, her eyes sparkling with wicked amusement.
Remi's heart faltered for a moment, and her breathing slowed to a crawl as a wave of guilt washed over her. She knew she had been caught red-handed, eavesdropping on a conversation that was not meant for her ears, and the weight of her mistake settled heavy in her chest.
Remi swiftly turned to make a hasty retreat, but her departure was punctuated by the mocking giggles of Semira and Janet, their teasing laughter echoing in her ears like a sting.
"Where do you think you're going, hunchback witch?" Dantina sneered. Remi closed her eyes again and turned.