[Sleep, despite how desperate he had been for it's serenity and peace, hadn't come easy, and by the time dawn arrived, he'd barely seen enough to feel it's calming affects. Unused to the luxury of servants, he'd had his clothing half chosen before the first one had entered, all hurried apologies for not having arrived on time, before easily taking over the task.
Dressing was yet another ritual in which he wasn't accustom, each piece carefully handled, crisp, clean lines of cotton, each piece carefully tied into place before he could even begin to do it himself. Perhaps it was something he would grow accustom to in time, but for the moment it felt strange, foreign and awkward, as if he were incapable of doing even the simplest of task for himself.
More than once, the thought crossed his mind to send them away, to send the entire household away.
But he endured, quietly, insisting on at least being allowed to brush his own hair, blond spikes responding better to a few quick passes of splayed fingers, working out any tangles before allowing it to simply do what it would.
Somehow, he hadn't quite been expecting his orders to be followed, for all of them to be awaiting his arrival, knees pressed against gleaming wood, backs bent so low it was a wonder their foreheads didn't also rest upon it. A flutter of activity behind him signaled those who had previously aided him hurrying into position, until there were twelve perfectly bowed forms in front of him. Each one dressed perfectly in dark, inky black and stunning white.
Suddenly, he didn't know hoe to address them. Did he treat them has he had his men, giving orders and words to raise moral? Did he treat them as one would the dirt beneath their feet? Did he show them kindness?
Taking a deep breath he found the middle section, ensuring his voice was low enough for them all to hear.]
Please, face me. [Slowly, each form rose, resting back onto their leg's, eyes intently finding his face and remaining there, keen and earnest.]
While you are in my employ, I expect all of you to conduct yourself with dignity and respect. You are each an extension of my house, and therefore of me and my name. [Another pause, filled with a deep breath.] So long as you are here, you will be treated well. I do not wish for you to fear me. All that I ask is for your loyalty in return.
Each of your expenses will be taken care of, with a small allowance given once a week. For two hours each afternoon, should your chores be completed and nothing more be required, your time will be your own, to do with what you wish.
Black and white clothing will be provided for each of you, and should be worn during the daylight hours. Meals will be taken in the early morning, at mid day, and after night fall.
[Another pause, thoughts rapidly filling his mind.]
I do not require aid in the mornings, but would instead like for my clothing to be left for me, both for the day as well as at night. [Another deep breath, along with a short nod of his head, satisfied with what had been spoken.] All of you may now return to your duties.
[Turning, intent on moving into the proper room for dining and stopping short, attention turning backwards for only a moment.]
no subject
Dressing was yet another ritual in which he wasn't accustom, each piece carefully handled, crisp, clean lines of cotton, each piece carefully tied into place before he could even begin to do it himself. Perhaps it was something he would grow accustom to in time, but for the moment it felt strange, foreign and awkward, as if he were incapable of doing even the simplest of task for himself.
More than once, the thought crossed his mind to send them away, to send the entire household away.
But he endured, quietly, insisting on at least being allowed to brush his own hair, blond spikes responding better to a few quick passes of splayed fingers, working out any tangles before allowing it to simply do what it would.
Somehow, he hadn't quite been expecting his orders to be followed, for all of them to be awaiting his arrival, knees pressed against gleaming wood, backs bent so low it was a wonder their foreheads didn't also rest upon it. A flutter of activity behind him signaled those who had previously aided him hurrying into position, until there were twelve perfectly bowed forms in front of him. Each one dressed perfectly in dark, inky black and stunning white.
Suddenly, he didn't know hoe to address them. Did he treat them has he had his men, giving orders and words to raise moral? Did he treat them as one would the dirt beneath their feet? Did he show them kindness?
Taking a deep breath he found the middle section, ensuring his voice was low enough for them all to hear.]
Please, face me. [Slowly, each form rose, resting back onto their leg's, eyes intently finding his face and remaining there, keen and earnest.]
While you are in my employ, I expect all of you to conduct yourself with dignity and respect. You are each an extension of my house, and therefore of me and my name. [Another pause, filled with a deep breath.] So long as you are here, you will be treated well. I do not wish for you to fear me. All that I ask is for your loyalty in return.
Each of your expenses will be taken care of, with a small allowance given once a week. For two hours each afternoon, should your chores be completed and nothing more be required, your time will be your own, to do with what you wish.
Black and white clothing will be provided for each of you, and should be worn during the daylight hours. Meals will be taken in the early morning, at mid day, and after night fall.
[Another pause, thoughts rapidly filling his mind.]
I do not require aid in the mornings, but would instead like for my clothing to be left for me, both for the day as well as at night. [Another deep breath, along with a short nod of his head, satisfied with what had been spoken.] All of you may now return to your duties.
[Turning, intent on moving into the proper room for dining and stopping short, attention turning backwards for only a moment.]
Willow, if I may speak to you.