Jayne grew up in the shadow of her two older brothers, William and Richard. The brothers were stronger and better at everything, especially their mastery of various weapons. She tried to compete by acting and dressing like them. She distained anything feminine, believing it to be a sign of weakness. Prudence, a friend of the family, had arranged for Jayne to apply for a position as a handmaid for the princess.

Jayne was escorted to the princess’s chambers. When Tundra appeared wearing a white gown, Jayne’s breath was taken away. She could not believe anyone could look so beautiful. She imagined this was what an angel would look like. Jayne found herself alone with the princess, which greatly added to her stress. Tundra beheld a diminutive, mousey girl who appeared to be slightly older than her. She looked so uncomfortable, in an old dress that poorly fit, and shoes that showed her poverty. Tundra noticed such things, including the shaking of Jayne’s hands and feet. There was no question, this poor girl was suffering, but what could Tundra do to ease the tension.

“You do understand Jayne, if you should fail to answer even one of my questions correctly,” Tundra was trying her best to sound as stern as she could, “you will be immediately taken to the dungeon and tortured.” That caused Jayne to turn her face toward the princess to give her a steely look of acceptance. Tundra burst into hysterical laughter, holding her belly to keep it from shaking, and continued until Jayne realized the princess had made a jest. Slowly the maiden, started laughing herself and soon they were carrying on like schoolgirls.

At the end of the tea, Tundra said, “I will announce my selections tomorrow afternoon, so please be my guest until then.” Tundra said, “I enjoyed our tea. Regardless of the outcome I wish the best for you and your family.” Jayne looked up into her eyes, for she was at least a foot taller. She went to curtsey, having never had to do so before, losing her balance, knocking over the tea service sending cups and plates into the air, then falling flat on her...derrière. She did her best to get back on her feet gracefully, but was unaccustomed to wearing a gown which made her flop around like a newborn fawn. When she finally became steady, she smiled weakly at Tundra who just stood staring. The attendant led Jayne out of the room. When she entered her chambers, Prudence was there waiting for her.

“How did it go.” Surprisingly, Jayne was only feeling an immense sense of relief knowing that whatever might have happen, due to her disastrous clumsy exit, she no longer had to worry about being selected.

“All I can say is I am positive…I made a lasting impression.”"