Lion Head Mesa The almond and the apple

“I hope to manage- though you will be the judge.” That Tuna does not doubt nor discourage her, in a similar way the Queen has kept a mind open to potential she may have within these walls, nurtures her optimism. She will know the same cannot be said in other kingdoms and so will not take for granted the impartiality of the Queen’s chief fellahin.

Tuna remarks on the simple nature of their tasks. She understands, and to a large extent will agree. It is one reason why many view servants as expendable. Anyone can pour a drink and serve it. But not everyone is paying attention to its drinker like Eset is.

She heeds Tuna’s words as she explains how she has come to navigate the winding palace halls with confidence. A clever method for memorizing which sandstone corner leads to the banquet hall and which to the waterways. The shadowed girl will nod along, eyes already finding their mark in the room they stand in.

“If you feel you can spare the time, Tuna. I think it would be most instructive to hear your associations,” an upswing of grateful ear.