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The speech

Author: Author Calypso
last update Last Updated: 2025-06-08 23:36:46

ALTHEA

I smooth down the front of my dress with shaky hands. My fingers are cold, and I try not to show how nervous I am. The room is quiet, too quiet, and I can feel the weight of everyone’s eyes on me. The lights are bright. I blink a few times, willing myself to be brave. Just like Mum would’ve wanted. Just like I practiced.

I take a small breath and step up to the podium. My cards tremble in my hand, but I grip them tighter.

“Good evening, everyone,” I begin, trying to keep my voice steady. “Tonight I come to you not as one of the selected, not as an omega, but as a citizen. An equal.”

I glance around the room. People are watching, some with blank faces, some curious, a few already frowning. I press on.

“Based on your ranking, your experience of our kingdom is shaded a very specific way. I can say that for certain myself. But it wasn’t until recently that I understood how deep my love for this kingdom went.”

My throat feels tight. I swallow it down.

“Despite growing up sometimes w
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  • The Mate Games   The speech

    ALTHEAI smooth down the front of my dress with shaky hands. My fingers are cold, and I try not to show how nervous I am. The room is quiet, too quiet, and I can feel the weight of everyone’s eyes on me. The lights are bright. I blink a few times, willing myself to be brave. Just like Mum would’ve wanted. Just like I practiced.I take a small breath and step up to the podium. My cards tremble in my hand, but I grip them tighter.“Good evening, everyone,” I begin, trying to keep my voice steady. “Tonight I come to you not as one of the selected, not as an omega, but as a citizen. An equal.”I glance around the room. People are watching, some with blank faces, some curious, a few already frowning. I press on.“Based on your ranking, your experience of our kingdom is shaded a very specific way. I can say that for certain myself. But it wasn’t until recently that I understood how deep my love for this kingdom went.”My throat feels tight. I swallow it down.“Despite growing up sometimes w

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