Briony's ladies-in-waiting kept their distance, as though their mistress had some illness which might spread-and indeed she did, Briony thought, because unhappiness was ambitious.
In "Shadowmarch" by Tad Williams, Briony observes that her attendants maintain a physical distance from her, treating her as if she might be contagious. This behavior reflects their discomfort, stemming from Briony's emotional state. Her unhappiness seems to radiate, leading her to believe that it can affect others around her.
The quote captures the notion that unhappiness can be pervasive, spreading like an illness. Briony's insight suggests that emotional struggles not only impact the individual but also create a ripple effect on those nearby, eliciting avoidance instead of connection.
