"...and I'm sure, your Majesty, that we will be able to reach an agreement that pleases both Your Majesty and my Lord Henry."
I stifle a yawn. The dignitary has been droning on for almost an hour, and I have long since stopped trying to follow his ramblings. It's been a fairly slow day of audiences, and I've been feeling uncharacteristically lazy. I'm curled up on my pile of pillows, naked limbs full of a drowsy warmth.
From half-lidded eyes, I look up at the gilded throne next to me. Wrought in stone and inlaid with gems, it is quite a sight to behold. Imposing and immovable, perfect and strong. But I have seen it from this position every day for years, and the carvings are a source of comfort for me. A knowledge of home, a place at your side. One of my hands drifts up to my heavy collar, toying with the jewels there as I gaze up at you.
Magnificently clad in leather and silks, you're reclined on your throne, the picture of relaxation and attentiveness. The golden crown rests upon your head, your long brown hair drawn back to the nape of your neck. Your impeccable dress makes me feel only more obscene in my nakedness. But where that used to embarass me, now I can't help but revel in it. I know how much it pleases you, to have me naked at your feet.
With a generous wave of your hand, you speak. "Of course, Ser Andrew. We look forward to Lord Henry's next visit."
I can't help but shiver at the sound of your voice. It's like a gentle growl, resonating through me. Oh, but I want the official audiences to finish. I want that delicious and sweet voice all to myself. I can't help but squirm a bit in anticipation, but you don't look down.
"How many more?" You call out, sounding as tired as I feel. My heart goes out to you. I want to kiss your exhaustion away, to nibble and lick you until-
The footman interrupts my fantasies. "Just one, Your Majesty."
I stretch languidly. The chain leading from my collar to your throne jingles.
"The ambassador of Valencia, Your Majesty."
At that name, I sit up. You told me about this. "A young country posturing for war," you said, irritated. "A pathetic grab for power." I glance up at you to see your reaction. You keep your gaze forward, but I see tension gather in your shoulders.
"Show him in." Your voice is steel, the annoyance barely hidden.
I settle myself into a kneeling position, all laziness gone. This should be interesting.
The great doors open, and the ambassador enters, bowing extravagantly. I gaze at him cooly, taking in his frumpy shirt and vest, and his chest and cheeks inflated with self-importance. A general-turned-politician, if I had to place him. When he straightens and sees me, kneeling next to the throne, naked but for a collar of beaten gold, his eyes bulge out in shock. No doubt he had heard tales of your court, but hadn't bothered to confirm their truth.
I carefully avert my gaze. I'm not allowed to make eye contact with anyone but you, and I know this rule well. His eyes are lingering on my breasts, and I stick out my chest, showing off your treasures.
You know exactly what he's distracted by, and it always amuses you. It's one of the reasons you have me accompany you in your throne room. You speak first, voice light with amusement. "Greetings, Ambassador. Welcome to our court."
He manages to tear his gaze away from me and back to you. "Thank you, your Majesty." He bows again. "I have come to discuss the growing power of Valencia, and how you might begin showing my magnificent country proper respect."
"I see." This time, your voice is tinged with annoyance.