Imperial Consort Jones considered my words.
"Very well, go make it. If you fail, you can kiss your nose and hands goodbye."
"As you wish, Your Highness." I hurried to obey.
Three hours later, the newly blended incense was delivered to the inner palace.
Imperial Consort Jones bent to inspect it, her delicate brows relaxing into a satisfied expression.
I knelt anxiously in the center of the room as she approached.
"What's your name?" she asked.
I prostrated myself in a deep bow. "I am called Yuna, your humble servant, paying respects to the Imperial Consort."
"Not bad, you have some brains." She nodded approvingly.
"From now on, you will be in charge of making my incense."
"I am honored by your trust, Your Highness." I bowed again, heart pounding.
In a good mood, Imperial Consort Jones swept out to the Imperial Garden.
The other maids let out relieved sighs; some rushed to flatter me, while others gossiped behind my back.
But I didn't care.
I only had eyes for the spot where Imperial Consort Jones had stood.
She had no idea that a maid who had barely been in the palace five months was there to make her pay.
My name is Luna, and my sister's name is Yuna.