A Royal Intermission

My boots came to a halt beside an antique morocco-leather spectacle case resting open upon the dressing table, its crimson velvet interior resembling a private royal loge. After the afternoon's rigorous sword drills, courtly decorum called for a composed intermission. Refraining from unbuckling my scabbard, I climbed over the gilded brass clasp and settled into the contoured plush cushion. I gathered the folds of my dark cloak over my boots, letting the velvet soften the chill of the late hour. With my gloved hands resting lightly upon my hilt, I reclined against the padded curve, granting the great hall leave to descend into peaceful slumber.