My name is Setka. I am ten years old. I have two little sisters, Kiya and Raia. They are five-year-old twins. They are sort of nice (for little girls that is). Kind of a pain, but they just look up to me I suppose. Our mom, Ahset, is in our home looking after them. She said I could leave the house for a bit. Father is on a rampage and I don't wanna be hurt. I definitely would be if I stay home right now.
Currently, I'm wandering around outside the palace wall, looking for shiny stones that my sisters might like. I know they like pretty things like that. I hear footsteps coming from somewhere nearby. I look up and freeze. In front of me, adorned in a simple cloth garment and gold jewelry, is the Prince. I swallow nervously. "H…hello… m…my p…prince" I stutter a greeting.
"Hello. No need to be so nervous. I won't hurt you. What is your name?" The Prince asks me.
"My name is Setka," I reply with more confidence than before.
"What are you doing here?" The Prince asks.
"I'm looking for shiny stones to give to my little sisters. They like pretty things," I answer.
"Well, here. I found a couple over there," the Prince responds, handing me a couple of shiny blue and pink stones while gesturing behind him.
"Thank you. Um… why are you here if I may ask?" I ask.
"I'm trying to avoid my lessons. I'd rather have fun than sit still reading dusty old books," The Prince replies.
I let out a chuckle. "I can imagine. Books are important, though. Just be glad you can read. I can't. I wish I could, but my father won't teach me. He's afraid book learning will make me too smart to be controlled," I sigh sadly.
"Your father doesn't seem too nice," the Prince says.
"He isn't, but enough about him," I look away, signaling the end of that conversation topic.
"Ok, well, if you want, I can teach you to read," The Prince offers.
My eyes widen and look up. "R…really? I'd like that, but would you be allowed? I mean, I don't want to take you away from your lessons," I scuff my feet on the ground, nervousness crossing my features.
"I'm sure it'll be fine. I can ask permission if you'd like. Come back after midday tomorrow. The guard will bring you inside the palace to me," the Prince assures me.
I nod my head, a smile on my face. "Thank you. I'll see you tomorrow." I turn around and head back home, good thoughts about tomorrow clear in my mind.