The Bees

by Laline Paull

THE QUEEN PARTED HER GOLDEN AURA when Flora entered and bade her sit close by. Then she drew it close again, so that Flora was wrapped in it with her. “I have not left the hive since my marriage flight. Now I only taste the world through food and drink and the stories of my library.” The Queen gazed through her golden veil, as if out upon the open sky. “Did they frighten you?” “Yes, Holy Mother, at first. Then I wanted to know more.” “They tell of our religion, and must be fed with attention. After my labors I have not strength to scent them myself, though my ladies do their best. The priestesses read them when they can, but in these strange times they are so busy with matters of governance that it is not their priority.” The Queen smiled. “Tales of the world, my daughter, of beauty and terror.” “Holy Mother, I will read them gladly—after the wasp I fear nothing.”