| The Thing That Was Camden The sun fell below the horizon in a fiery blaze, covering the Vysanthian countryside with darkness. Selindria watched the spectacle, sighing with relief that the day was done. She bid farewell to her employer, Sir Joseph, who promptly slapped her for looking “too happy to leave.” She didn’t mind it much, this being only a small incident compared to what she was used to. As long as she had the few silver pieces she made to bring home to her family. Selindria merely took the punishment and walked home. Nearing the door to her house, she could make out laughter coming from inside and smiled. Opening the door, she saw her father sitting by a small fire with her older brother, Dram. Her mother was at the stove, making dinner and listening to the conversation. At the sight of Selindria, they looked up. “Darling, you’re back! Sit down, sweetie, you look haggard.” Her mother rushed over and made a fuss. “Leave her alone. She’s tired enough without you hovering over her.” Her father said sternly. “Hush, you. Now, sweetie, you have a bruise on your face! Did that terrible man do that to you?” She examined the bruise. “Mother, I’m fine. I can barely feel it.” Sel smiled, wincing slightly. “No excuses. Sit down by the fire and warm up.” Selindria sighed and sat down next to Dram. Reaching into the folds of her dress, she pulled out the coins. She held them out to her father who waved them away. “No, you keep it.” “Nonsense. That’s why I work.” She smiled. He shook his head, but took it. “This is absurd! Selindria is only thirteen and far too young to work this hard and suffer that much abuse.” Dram spoke vehemently. “These are hard times, brother.” Selindria said gently. “It’s for the best.” “Is our welfare worth the scars on your legs? We can do other things to eat.” Dram cried. “You ask if it’s worth it and I say yes. Going to bed with full stomachs is worth any pain I suffer.” Sel looked at him determinedly. “Foolish child. You know nothing.” He waved her away. “I am foolish? At least I would do anything for my family.” “Are you saying I wouldn’t?” Dram’s voice grew angrier. “Enough! Both of you stop it!” Their father’s voice boomed. Selindria and Dram suddenly froze. They looked at each other and then to the floor. “I’m sorry, sister. I am only concerned for you.” Dram muttered. “It is fine, brother. I shouldn’t have said those things. I just hate it that just because you are three years my senior, that you know better.” Selindria continued to stare at the floor. He lifted her chin. They smiled and hugged. “Much better, children.” Their mother smiled. “Now, here, eat something.” She passed them their dinner. |