The employes of Fayheaven are woken up by a beautiful sweet voice coming from the ballroom. The sound of piano vibrating through the walls lighting the dark corners of the once lonely establishment.
They walk to the ballroom, Esmeray still in her nightgown is singing her heart to the piano. Some take a seat on the floor admiring her voice, others fetch the rest of the staff to show off her talent. Esmeray lost in her world is unaware of the audience behind her.
Her voice at the perfect pitch. Her hands sliding smoothly through the keys, of the once forgotten piano. Her vocals soothing the pain of the heartbroken. Esmeray's voice fills the ballroom, her soulful melody captivating the audience.
Tears stream down some of the staff's faces as they listen to her heartfelt performance.The music swells, reaching a powerful crescendo as Esmeray pours her heart and soul into the final notes. As the last chord fades away, there's a moment of stunned silence before the room erupts into applause.
Esmeray's hands linger on the piano keys for a moment before she slowly turns to face the applauding crowd. She blinks, surprised to see so many people gathered in the ballroom.She stands up and bows, thanking her small audience "Okay back to work" the head maid calls out, as the crowd becomes smaller.
"Princess, lets get you dressed for the day"Esmeray nods, smiling softly at the head maid. "Thank you for listening," she says quietly as she follows her out of the ballroom.
As they walk back to Esmeray's chambers, the head maid can't help but comment on her performance. "Princess, that was truly beautiful. I had no idea you could sing like that."
"I was taught at a young age, I have to admit the piano was a little durty"The head maid nods, a knowing smile on her face. "I'll make sure to have someone clean and maintain the piano regularly, Princess. It's a shame such a beautiful instrument was neglected."
As they enter Esmeray's chambers, the maid begins to lay out her gown for the day. "Is there anything specific you'd like to do today, Princess?" she asks as she helps Esmeray change."....actually yes, do any of the maids know how to read or do they have any talents?" Esmeray asked.
The head maid pauses, considering Esmeray's question. "Actually, Princess, several of the maids have various talents and skills," she says thoughtfully. "For example, Maria in the laundry room is quite skilled with a needle and can sew intricate designs. And Anna from the kitchen has a lovely singing voice"
She hesitates for a moment before continuing. "There's also a new maid, Eliza, who recently joined us. She's wellread and has a talent for languages. I believe she might be able to assist you if you're interested in learning or discussing literature."
The head maid looks at Esmeray curiously. "Why do you ask, Princess?"
"I know usually maids aren't allowed to write, or have any other tasks besides work. I am glad my staff is filled with talent. That way I can be entertained.." she takes her words and sees if came across rudely, as if to say say she has puppets to entertain her.
"Don't take offense to my words..What I mean is, from now on I want all the staff members to be able to express themselves. Starting by changing the clothes they wear."
The head maid's eyes widen in surprise at Esmeray's words, but she quickly composes herself. "Of course, Princess. I understand what you mean," she says with a small smile. "It's wonderful that you appreciate the talents of your staff and want to encourage their expression."
She nods thoughtfully at Esmeray's suggestion about changing the maids' attire. "That's a lovely idea, Princess. It would certainly boost morale and make the staff feel more valued. I'll discuss it with the other maids and see what they think."
The head maid hesitates for a moment before speaking again. "Princess, if I may be so bold, it's refreshing to see such a kind and considerate ruler in you. Your father chose well when he married you to Prince Xerxes"
Her last words echoed in her mind, she never expected to be seen as a breath of fresh air. She has been so caught up in making sure not to interact with the prince that she failed to see the bigger picture.
"Thank you" she said a small smile across her face.The head maid returns Esmeray's smile, her eyes warm with admiration. "You're welcome, Princess. I'm sure Prince Xerxes will come to appreciate your qualities as well, in time."
She finishes helping Esmeray into her gown and steps back to admire the fit. "There you are, Princess. You look lovely as always." The head maid pauses for a moment before speaking again. "Princess, if you don't mind me asking, is there anything else you'd like to do today? Perhaps visit the royal library or take a stroll through the gardens?"