Chapter 141 Chapter 140
"She wouldn't survive the night with him," one mumbled, then snickered as they huddled together.
"One night? That's too much. What about a second in his presence? No doubt she would give up the ghost there and then. Do you know how terrifying His Majesty is?" another piped up, and everyone chuckled.
Rayena swallowed the lump in her throat, trying her best not to show how affected she was by their words.
"Silence, everyone!" another voice rang out, and everyone fell mute, looking around. Even Salt-and-Pepper paused.
Footsteps approached, and someone cut through the crowd of women that had gathered. It was another woman, several inches taller than the rest, with a mean scar across her left cheek that only served to make her look more terrifying. She was beautiful, no doubt, but her eyes held no warmth, and that chilled Rayena.
"We have a new guest in the harem, and this is how you welcome her?" she said, addressing the women. They lowered their heads in guilt, mumbling apologies.
The new woman turned to Rayena. "What is your name, dear?" she asked, cocking her head to the side.
Rayena opened her mouth to speak, but no words came out. Clearing her throat, she tried again.
"My name is Princess Rayena Stonebriar," she answered, her voice thankfully calm.
"Rayena..." the woman tasted the name on her tongue, then offered a small smile. "Welcome to the harem. My name is Lady Ysolde, and I am one of the members of this harem. As you may have already guessed, each one of us has been brought here to serve the king. Have you been shown your room?"
"I was about to take her there, Lady Ysolde," Salt-and-Pepper answered, giving the woman a respectful bow.
"I'll handle things from here, Ludovico. You can take your leave now," she said, nodding her head.
Rayena’s heart dropped to the bottom of her feet, her eyes flaring with panic. She didn't want to be left alone with this woman. Ysolde caught the expression and smiled.
"Don't worry, you're in safe hands," she muttered.
"Your things will be brought to your room, while Lady Ysolde helps you settle," Salt-and-Pepper told her, his expression stern. "Have a wonderful day, ladies," he said to the women and walked away.
"Come with me," Ysolde said, stepping forward, leaving Rayena to follow. The other women stayed behind, and her back prickled with their stares.
They finally reached the end of the hallway, and Ysolde turned to her right, reaching for the door by her side. Opening it, she gestured toward the grand room, and Rayena let out a gasp.
It was much bigger than the chambers she had back home, that was for sure. Everything was draped in silk and gold, screaming wealth and authority. The ground was polished marble, and when she glanced down, she could see her reflection staring back at her.
Carved wooden arches and heavy curtains framed sweeping views of pine trees and stunning mountains. A grand canopy bed sat at the center, surrounded by plush rugs, low couches, and greenery. A sturdy writing desk held scrolls, ink, and ornate chess pieces, adding quiet sophistication.
"Wow..." Rayena gasped, stepping into the room. Whoever she was promised to was a very powerful person, no doubt.
Wait, didn't they mention he was the king?
"I hope it is to your liking?" Ysolde asked as Rayena paced around, admiring the view.
"Yes, it is." Rayena answered, keeping her voice neutral even as excitement warred within her. She couldn't wait till explore the entire chambers.
"This is going to be your new room. Every lady who has been promised to His Majesty lives here."
Lady Ysolde informed her and she nodded, balling her hands into fists.
"Were..." Rayena started but stopped herself. "Were you promised too?"
"Betrothed, actually. Unfortunately, our union ran into complications, so I'm staying here instead."
Rayena brows furrowed at her response. Was there a difference? Rayena wanted to ask but kept her opinions to herself.
"I'm sure the journey here was long, so I shall ask the maids to serve you some food while you rest. Do make yourself at home," Ysolde said and started to take her leave.
"Um, excuse me. I just wanted to know... would I be meeting the king soon?"
"That I cannot answer, but I hope that for both our sakes, you don’t," Ysolde said and walked out of the chambers, closing the door behind her.
Rayena remained standing, stunned. Why did that sound like a threat?