The fifteen minute novel writing experiment is a attempt to write a complete (and very rough) draft of a novel by writing for fifteen minutes each day. I have taken a timed writing from one of the daily prompts done in 2021, cleaned it up a little and used it as my jumping off point into a story. Each day I will take the last line of the story written the day before and use it as my sentence starter and write for fifteen minutes, growing the story as the year progresses.
Day 23: “Within reason,” the woman said.
“Within reason,” the woman said. “Most of the items are wool and linen but there are some fine silks and velvets. These are usually used by the most skilled dressmakers and instead of going to outfit those who come here, they tend to be sold off, the money helping to support the Star’s House.” She waved a hand around to indicate that they were in the Star’s house. Anya felt relieved that she at least knew where she was. She had to admit though, if only to herself that she had never heard of the Star or the House or of women traveling to seek guidance.
“And you imagine,” the young girl said, interrupting Anya’s thoughts. “Some high born lady or even a princess wearing a dress you made here?” She shook her head in wonder and disbelief.
“I can hardly imagine,” Anya said meekly.
“Imagine is all you’ll do too,” the older woman said to her. “Given how poorly your stitching was last year.”
“I’ve gotten better,” she protested. The two bickered back and forth sounding a lot like her and her sisters as they debated the younger woman’s skill with a needle. Anya concentrated on finishing her breakfast.
“Well you have plenty of time to show me then,” the older woman concluded as Anya finished her meal.
“Well I will,” the younger one said. “It’s not like we have anything else to do while we wait for the Star. We have another two weeks,” she reminded Anya.
“I’m sure she knows how long it is,” the older woman said. As they finished their breakfast Anya realized that others were finishing and leaving the dining area.
“So what’s your skill?” the younger woman asked.
“I can sew and embroider,” Anya said. “I’m pretty good with everyday things, but nothing a princess would wear. I couldn’t even imagine sewing a garment from silk. I can make lace though.”
“The everyday garments are always appreciated,” she was told. “Shall we go see what is needed and then we’ll find out if this one has actually improved.”
Anya nodded and all three of them rose from their seats. Anya followed their lead and took her platter and mug over to the stack of used items. In the back Anya could see other women rinsing them out and setting them out to dry so they could be put to use again.
She followed the others away from the dining hall and Anya thought they were moving deeper into the mountain. “Is the entire mountain carved into buildings?” she couldn’t help but ask.
Ten til Midnight 