Destroy Him

Chapter Nine

made the final adjustments to her gown.

The exquisite blue creation was fashioned from luxurious silk, its delicate fabric falling gracefully over her curvaceous figure.

"I wonder how many people have travelled to Dxrego for this evening."

"Quite a number, I imagine. Herbert mentioned that several royal families have accepted the invitation. There will also be representatives from various noble houses."

"Then I suppose we shall have an entire

"You mustn't be so cynical."

"I am not cynical. I am observant."

Giselle

"Indeed. I hope they are all prepared to receive you."

Giselle smiled, though a trace of nervousness lingered in her expression.

"I confess I am a little anxious. It is one thing to know that a marriage has been arranged, but quite another to stand before an entire assembly of people who will regard me as their future queen."

"You will manage perfectly well. You have always been better at these formal occasions than I am."

Giselle laughed softly, but the sound soon faded as she shifted slightly in her chair.

For a moment, she seemed unusually weary. She rested one hand against the dressing table, closing her eyes briefly.

"Giselle?"

Her sister looked up.

"Yes?"

"Are you quite all right? You look rather tired."

"I am perfectly well. I suppose the preparations have been rather exhausting."

She attempted a reassuring smile, but when she rose from her chair, a brief wave of dizziness came over her. She reached instinctively for the dressing table to steady herself.

Jasvella immediately turned towards her.

"Giselle!"

"It is nothing. I simply stood up too quickly."

"You do not look particularly well."

"I assure you, I am fine. Perhaps I have not rested as much as I should have."

Jasvella studied her for a moment, unconvinced.

"You ought to sit down for a little while before we leave."

"I shall. There is no need to worry."

She returned to her chair, and Rue quietly resumed adjusting her gown.

Jasvella remained watchful for another moment before returning her attention to the mirror.

"Very well. But if you begin feeling unwell again, we shall not pretend otherwise."

Giselle gave her a small smile.

"Agreed."

Beyond their chambers, the palace continued its preparations, and the evening's festivities awaited their arrival.