Silver Threads of Destiny

Rachel Porter ascended to the throne that day, and a group of people were expelled from the palace.
There were restless maids and aged servants.
I looked at the Steward, feeling a bit naive:
'Mr. Chapman, do I have to leave too?'
Mr. Chapman and I were old acquaintances, and he seemed somewhat troubled:
'Her Majesty said others don't matter, but Auntie Sarah, you must go.'
I nodded in understanding and packed my belongings.
Looking back at the palace walls in the light snow, I suddenly remembered nine-year-old Rachel, who once clung tightly to my sleeve:
'Sister, never, ever leave Rachel.'