Chapter 45 Who Took the Seating Chart
Chapter 45 Who Took the Seating Chart
The night came eventually as she heard the door open and close. Patricia. She could tell by the steps they were slightly louder than Sapphira's. She did not greet her as she did not wish to move yet.
She ate her breakfast in bed as she did not wish to leave its confines just yet.
Patricia helped her bathe and dress. They took extra care in choosing what she would wear that day since there would be many curious glances her way.
She chose a more elaborate day dress with beautiful patterns. Sapphira escorted her to the library, where Bethias was waiting for her.
They did their usual history and lessons together, then took a break for lunch.
Upon her arrival, the Duke was thrilled to see her. “Lady Lucinda, you gave me a fright.” He said, looking her over as if to make sure his goods were still intact.
“My apologies for worrying you. Please forgive me.” Lucy said politely, hoping she did not offend the duke.
“There is nothing to forgive; the king has already explained the matter. I was unaware you were such an accomplished rider.” He waved her off as if it were all in the past. She guessed the king’s word was good enough for the duke.
Her mind began to wander as to what the king had told him, since she would not consider herself an accomplished rider, especially since she rode Dulcie, who required no experience.
“I did enjoy seeing the stables; the horses are magnificent.” She praised the horses, trying to steer clear of the topic of riding so she wouldn't make a mistake.
“Aren’t they? I admired them myself. A stallion is going back with me to present the king.” It pained Lucy a little bit, always feeling like livestock to be traded, but she could not let it show even the slightest.
“I am sure he will be pleased with such fine stock,” Lucy said politely as they made their way deeper into the room. She had barely come through the doors when the Duke sought her out.
The king walked in with purpose; not too long afterward, he seemed slightly surprised to see Lucy, but said nothing. He took his seat, and the rest promptly followed.
Lucy sat next to the Duke, as he seemed interested in continuing their conversation. The vampires present seemed interested in Lucy but refrained from asking too many questions. However, they asked how she was doing, to which she smiled and answered politely.
After the mid-meal, Lucy stayed with Bethias as they walked around the palace. They toured the laundry, where she was shown how it operated. Several vats of hot water simmered as the laundry maids scrubbed at the washboard.
They paused their work to look at the visitors. The head housekeeper, Sylvia, walked them through the entire process of collecting laundry and dividing it into the correct category.
The washing process reminded Lucy of the manor when the maids would sing songs on bright sunny days. Like the kitchen, this was on a grander scale than the manor.
Once the clothes were washed, they were rolled out and hung to dry.
After they left the laundry, Bethias wanted to stop by the kitchen to see the final preparations for the meal.
Regisus fussed over both of them after hearing gossip from the servants. He had them taste various dishes he was preparing before sending them on their way with a little treat.
Bethias straightened as she walked down the hall to Jetsun’s study. Her footsteps echoed off the stone floor.
At their entrance, the Butler stood to attention. “My ladies,” he said with a bow. “What can I do for you?”
“I need the seating chart for tonight’s dinner,” Bethias demanded.
“I’m sorry, I cannot do that.” He said apologetically but made no move to retrieve the chart.
Bethias was taken aback. She stared at him, making sure she had heard him correctly. “And why not?”
“It has already been arranged and approved.” The butler showed no sign of disrespect and shifted his weight as if he was uneasy telling her no.
“Who could have approved the seating chart when Lady Lucinda had not yet seen it?” Bethias demanded, solidifying Lucy’s thought that no other lady outranked her or at least none that were at court.
“The king, my lady,” The butler said softly.
Bethias was surprised that her mouth even opened in shock. “Very well, we will not disturb you any longer.” She said, turning out of the room.
After they had walked for a while, Lucy felt brave enough to ask, “What does that mean?”
“I have no idea,” Bethias said in complete bewilderment.
They separated to prepare dinner. Lucy switched into a gown made of silk with long gloves and diamonds that had been given to her by the king.
When she arrived, there were more voices than at the earlier meal.
Many sought her out to ask about her. Feeling as if they were mocking her, Lucy made sure not to let any fear show.
The King arrived, and seats were immediately taken. Lucy looked for her seat, assuming it was near the Duke, but could not find it. She checked next to Bethias, still no luck.
A footman interrupted her thoughts. “My lady, this way,” he said, ushering her down the table.
He led her to the seat next to the king. After he pulled it out for her, she sat down.
“I hope this seat will do?” Caen looked at her with a tease.
“It is acceptable,” She whispered behind her wine before adding, “Your Majesty.”
She was relieved to be seated next to the Caen as the other vampires would not be bold enough to ask her any prying questions or question whatever narrative he had constructed.
Lucy asked about the horses and said she would enjoy seeing them again. The king assured her that they had made it back to the stables safe and sound and that Dulcie had not a single worry.
He said she could visit if she liked, but he would prefer she be accompanied by a guard rather than wander the grounds on her own.
Lucy thanked him, but he waved her off as if it was trivial.
At the end of the meal, he escorted her out of the dining hall and to her chambers.
“Goodnight, kitty,” He said before disappearing down the hall.
Lucy walked into her chambers and just stood there, unsure of what to do with herself. What was happening to her? Could she be falling for the vampire king?