Dinner with guests
1209 Words
The gardens were nothing short of enchanting, resplendent with vibrant blooms that painted the landscape in a symphony of colors. Topiary bushes sculpted into fantastical animals danced in the gentle breeze, while serene ponds, home to ducks and geese, added a melodic quack to the atmosphere. Randomly scattered fruit trees offered not only the promise of a sweet snack but also refreshing shade beneath the mid-day sun.
Lacy had guided me down the winding staircases and out through a side entry, revealing the vast expanse of the garden. I was struck by the vividness around me, a stark contrast to the dull grays and concrete walls that defined my life back home. The oppressive skyline of towering buildings and skyscrapers felt lifeless compared to this natural oasis.
As I wandered along the pathways, I noticed that Lacy had fallen behind, allowing me to explore freely. With no particular destination in mind, I allowed my feet to lead me down winding paths, curiosity as my sole compass.
“Princess,” a familiar voice called, sharp and shrill. The older maid from earlier approached, her gaze filled with agitation. “What are you doing? We must prepare you for dinner!”
I sheepishly glanced back at her. “I’m sorry,” I replied, a tinge of sincerity in my voice. “I lost track of time.” Although I could sense her skepticism, I knew it was the truth.
“Come along then,” she insisted, frustration evident in her tone. “The Queen will be in a tizzy if we don’t have you ready.”
Reluctantly, I followed, recalling my first encounter with Drissel. It hadn’t been particularly warm, and from what I gathered in conversations our short conversation, it was clear that I wasn’t Drissel’s favorite person, especially in regards to the upcoming dinner.
Upon entering my bedroom, I found the women waiting for me, already prepared to expedite the dressing process. They ushered me into the dressing room, helping me into a gown of cream and gold, its shorter hem a relief; at least my feet remained free from entanglement.
They skillfully twisted and pinned my hair, attaching a veil that matched my gown’s green accents, though it barely skimmed my lips. At least I could eat with this one, I thought. The women finally assisted me into a delicate pair of slippers just as a knock echoed through the room.
Lacy rushed to open the door, revealing Drissel, who stood there, her expression regal yet uninviting—a true embodiment of a queen I had seen in a film just last month.
“Oh, you’re actually ready,” she sneered, skepticism lacing her voice, betraying her annoyance even though I had met all her expectations.
“Yes,” I responded, extending a foot to emphasize my point. “The dress shouldn’t cause any issues this time.”
“Well, that’s a relief,” Drissel replied, her tone sharp. “Come.”
Understanding there was no option but to comply, I trailed behind her, the weight of her expectations palpable.
“Your father, against my suggestion, has decided to seat you beside King Ryker. I won’t have you embarrassing us or the kingdom. Proper manners, polite conversation—a simple task if you’re addressed at all. Do you understand?”
“Yes, ma’am,” I replied, aware of the authoritative tone in her voice. It seemed wiser to acquiesce than to challenge her—what could I possibly say?
“Good. And remember, should he choose not to marry, you’ll lose viable prospects. If you offend him, he could unleash his army upon us, and that would spell doom for us all. He is not the prince we wanted; you are left with this barbarian king seeking to expand his empire.” Drissel’s words dripped with anger as we walked, her resentment directed at me as though I had orchestrated my own doomed fate.
I found myself pondering Aloura’s circumstances; perhaps she had once been spoiled, but she also seemed profoundly lonely, a realization that tugged at my heart despite my own limited friendships and supportive parents.
Upon entering the grand dining hall, I beheld a remarkable table stretching twenty feet long, a blazing fireplace occupying one end, and grand double doors leading away into the rest of the castle. The room's lack of windows was accompanied by ornate tapestries depicting knights in battle, a peculiar choice for a dining space.
As we entered, the seated men rose in unison, Drissel maneuvering me into position a few chairs away from my father. King Ryker’s gaze met mine, piercing and formidable, as he stood to pull out my chair despite the presence of a servant.
“Princess,” he said, his voice like smoke, laced with an accent that sent a warmth through my veins. He was tall and muscular, exuding an undeniable magnetism that left me momentarily breathless.
Suppressing an irrational urge to giggle like a schoolgirl, I managed a polite, “Thank you,” as I slid into the chair he had graciously offered.
Drissel took her place beside the king, and as the men seated themselves, a parade of servants began distributing a lavish spread of bread, cheeses, meats, seafood, and desserts. I found my gaze lingering on the king rather than the culinary offerings, captivated by the way he commanded the room.
In the dim light, he appeared almost otherworldly, radiating a blend of strength and allure that drew me in. His warm bronze complexion complemented his sharp features, and his piercing gaze reflected a depth of experience that invited trust. The way he moved with purposeful grace suggested a man fully at ease in his power, with an enigmatic charm that ignited both desire and curiosity.
In that moment, he transcended mere mortals; he stood as an enigma, igniting a spark of intrigue deep within me, amidst a backdrop of grandeur and impending fate.
As I sat still watching this man from under my veil he turned meeting my eyes. The intensity of his stare had me ready to bow my head, but I also lacked the desire to look away.
"You have a healthy appetite," He commented.
"Me?" I said stupidly, then looked at my plate. It was heaped, I hadn’t been paying attention to it as I randomly said yes and no to whatever the servants had brought by.
"Oh," I said, surprised momentarily.
Rykers chuckle was quiet but deep and something about it had me aching to hear it again.
"Were you distracted by something princess," he asked low so only I could hear.
Feeling heat flood my cheeks, I was thankful for the ridiculous veil.
"I, well," I stammered, feeling enterly out of place, I had only dated threr boys in my life, socially I wasn't really good at these kinds of things, and this man was undeniably attractive, "I was admiring the company." I finished lamely.
"I must admit, I'm enjoying mine as well," he continued, keeping our conversation hushed. I could see the hint of a smile tugging at his lips.
It dawned on me. I was his veiw. Oh my god. That school girl in me tried to resurface as I swallowed hard, reigning in a giggle.
- Writer
