CHAPTER FIVE: THE SELECTION
441 Words
A procession of young women entered, each adorned in distinct attire, and from their gait and demeanor, it was evident that they hailed from diverse neighborhoods across the city.
"Ladies, you will showcase your talents for these fine gentlemen, I mean lords and highnesses; perhaps you might even catch the eye of a prince, a lord, or even a Duke himself," the host remarked with a playful tone.
"Your highnesses and my lords, are you prepared?" he inquired.
They all nodded in unison as a response. There were 10 women in total participating in this event.
The ceremony commenced, with various women presenting different styles of dances, diverse fighting techniques, and even distinct intimate positions, their faces concealed.
"We have reached the final participant, please enter and display your offerings," the host beckoned.
The last woman danced with exceptional grace, performing a Western-style dance for the audience's enjoyment.
Thunderous applause erupted for the final contestant.
"So ladies, line up and allow our lords and princes to make their selections."
"I choose the 9th woman," Darrick proclaimed.
"Very well my lord, Number 9, remove your veil," the host commanded.
"I am here to serve you, my lord," she replied with a smile.
"I think I'll take the 2nd woman," Denmark ordered.
The same directive was given for the removal of the veil.
"I am here to serve you, my lord," she curtsied.
"I'll take number 11," both princes simultaneously chose the same number.
"Your highnesses, one of you must select a different number," the host stated.
Darrick nudged Liam to allow Caspian to choose the number while he picked another.
"I'll take number 12," Liam chose, visibly irritated.
"Alright, numbers 11 and 12, you may unveil yourselves."
"It is an honor to serve you, your highness," Number 11 responded with a solemn voice.
"Number 12, please remove your veil," the host ordered.
"Does she not hear or is she dead?" the host inquired.
Liam looked at Darrick with a puzzled expression.
"What is this defiance towards the prince? Remove your veil!" the crowd began shouting and insulting the woman.
"Enough!" Darrick commanded.
"By the authority of the king, I order you to remove that veil immediately," Darrick stated with a stern voice.
The woman still refused to remove the veil.
"Guards, remove this veil from this woman at once," Darrick ordered.
The guards approached to remove the veil as the woman resisted.
Until the scarf came off, she continued to conceal her face.
"Remove your hands this instant, woman," Liam commanded.
Once her hands were removed, everyone was stunned to see the face of the individual.
"It's a man," the host exclaimed.
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