SWNOVELS Chapter Betryed 12
Chapter 12
SAGE
among them.
slowly open my eyes and I was immediately greeted by the unfamiliar ceiling. 1 quickly jolted up from the bed when I heard noises around the unfamiliar room. I jumped out of the bed and look all the people moving around the room. Alice is the only person I recognize "My lady, is everything okay?" she asked. "W-What's going on?" I frowned in confusion.
She smiled before walking towards me. She gently held my arm and pulled me towards the chair placed in front of the vanity mirror.
"These are the people that's going to help you prepare, my lady," she answered.
"Prepare for what?" I asked once again. I felt ashamed to be asking the se**nts about these things when I should have known it before I came here. "I-I'm sorry. I really had no idea how these things works."
She responded with a smile. "You have nothing to worry about, my lady. We are here to be at your service," she assured me. "While you're sleeping, we already prepared a bath for you. Tell us when you're ready," she said.
I
As I take a moment to let everything sink in, the memories of last night events came rushing like a wild fire. My eyes widen in shock as I remember Lord Titus visited me in my chamber last night, especially what happened right after. My throat felt dry when images of Lord Titus pinning me on the bed as he run his tongue across my cheeks flashes right before my eyes.
My memories of last night events were vague but those are among the few that remains clear as day. However, the next thing that happened comes in a blur. All I could remember was that I feel hot all over my body, and I was screaming in pain. I needed. something to ease that pain. But I had no idea how did I manage to get through the night. "Alice," I called her.
"Yes, my lady?"
"Have you notice anything unusual when you come into my chamber?" I curiously asked.
24915 746 a 100
khe Presened so the looked around, trying to remember anything when she came in. Nahing onesel, my lady, che answered.
"Oh... okay," I replied, trying to keep my voice ready. Relief washed over me as I realized none of them had noticed anything annual If someone had discovered that a man had visited my chamber last night, I might already be facing dire consequences. Im ready for my both now I said, rising quickly from my chair and heading towards the bathroom, eager to put some distance between myself and the probing eyes of the palace staff.
I shut the bathroom door behind me, leaning against it for a moment as I took leep breath. The events of the previous night still swirled in my mind, a mix of fear and confusion. I couldn't afford to dwell on it now, not with so many eyes watching my every move. The cool, tiled floor felt soothing under my bare feet, grounding me back to the present.
The tub was already filled with warm, steaming water, the scent of lavender and rose petals wafting through the air. I undressed quickly, slipping into the bath and sinking down until the water covered my shoulders. The warmth enveloped me, relaxing my tense muscles and providing a brief relief away from the chaos that's circling around my head. As I lay there, I couldn't help but replay the strange events in my mind. The intensity of his gaze, the sudden surge of power within me, and the burning heat that had threatened to consume me all seemed like fragments of a bizarre dream. But the aching in my body and II the faint glow in my eyes were proof that it had been all too real. eyes
The door creaked open slightly, and one of the maids, a young woman with kind pecked in. "Pardon my intrusion, my lady. My name is Elara and Alice asked me to take care of your needs while she helps to prepare with the breakfast. Is everything alright, my lady?" she asked softly, her concern evident. "Yes, Elara." I said, forcing a smile. "I'm fine. Just... tired, I suppose."
nodded, accepting my explanation without further question. "I'll be right outside if you need anything," she said before closing the door quietly.
Alone again, I let my thoughts drift. I was still thinking about what happened last night. I may not be entirely sure, but I have my suspicion that I experience something called. "heat". However, what puzzles me was that how did my body become in heat when I haven't even gotten my wolf. Was that possible? Most importantly, was Lord Titus my mate?
Only
one person can give me all the answers I needed. I have to talk to him. Hiding the
truth about myself to His Majesty was already a burden for me. What will happen if it turns out that my mate happens to be one of His Majesty's subordinate?
After what felt like hours, I finally stepped out of the bath, wrapping a soft towel around. imyself The warmth of the water had soothed my aching muscles,
but I couldn't linger any longer. I stepped out of the bathroom, and Elara was waiting for me, her face lighting up as she saw me Come, my lady, let us get you ready," she said gently.
Eldid and a few other maids immediately attended to me. They brought forward a beautiful dress, its fabric shimmering in the light. The gown was elegant, with int ate embroidery that seemed to tell a story of its own. The maids helped me slip into it, their fingers deftly fastening buttons and smoothing out wrinkles. The dress hugged my figure perfectly, making me feel both regal and vulnerable at the same time.
Once I was dressed, the maids set to work on my hair and makeup. Elara carefully brushed my hair, arranging it into a style that framed my face. Another maid applied a light touch of makeup, enhancing my features without overwhelming them. The gentle dabs of color I brought a soft glow to my cheeks and a sparkle to my eyes, masking the turmoil that still roiled inside me.
"There," Elara said with a satisfied smile, stepping back to admire their handiwork. "You look stunning, my lady."
I glanced at my reflection in the mirror. What they did was remarkable. The dress fit me like a second skin, the makeup accentuating my features without hiding my natural beauty. Thank you, Elara.
And
I all of you," I said, my voice steady despite the anxiety gnawing at my insides. Elara nodded, her face showing pride and reassurance. "You're welcome, my lady."
After a few minutes, she spoke again. "We're going to escort you to the breakfast table where the other wives and Her Majesty are waiting. Just tell us when you're ready, my lady."
I took a deep breath, trying to calm my nerves. "I'm ready I said, my voice steady even though my heart was racing.
Elara smiled and nodded, signaling to the other maids. Together, they led me out of my room and through the long, winding hallways of the palace. The splendor of the palace was overwhelming, with every corner decorated with intricate designs and luxurious furnishings. My thoughts were spinning, the events of last night still fresh in my mind, 30/7
A 19 Tue Sep 10 GO.
bun
I knew I had to keep moving forward.
As we walked, Elara stayed close, her presence comforting. She glanced at me occasionally, offering a reassuring smile. The maids footsteps echoed softly on the marble floors, reminding me that I wasn't alone. 76%
Finally, we reached the grand dining hall. The doors opened to reveal a long table filled with an array of delicious foods. My stomach growled softly, reminding me that I hadn't eaten since yesterday. But my hunger was quickly replaced by a rush of anxiety when I noticed all the pairs of eyes that turned toward me. They were the other wives. of His Majesty.
Each woman was elegant and poised, their gazes a mixture of curiosity and scrutiny. I felt like a deer caught in headlights, my earlier confidence wavering under their intense stares. Elara, sensing my discomfort, gave me a gentle nudge forward. "Go on, my lady," she whispered softly.
I took a deep breath and walked toward the table, trying to keep my head high. The room was silent except for the soft clinking of cutlery as the wives resumed their meals. I found an empty seat and sat down, feeling every bit the outsider. One of the wives, a striking woman with raven-black hair and piercing blue eyes, leaned over slightly. "You must be the new bride," she said, her tone polite but guarded. "Welcome." "Thank you," I replied, my voice steady despite my nerves. I kept my head down, avoiding eye contact. All of them intimidated me. I wasn't used to being the center of
attention.
Everyone remained silent, seated, not touching their plates. I was confused for a moment, but quickly realized what it meant when I heard someone announce Her Majesty's presence.
The doors swung open with a flourish, and the queen entered the room. She was a vision of grace and authority, her presence commanding immediate respect. The wives, including myself, rose from our seats to acknowledge her. "Good morning, everyone," Her Majesty said with a regal nod. Her eyes swept over the table, pausing briefly on me. "You must be the new bride," she said, clearly referring to
me.
I didn't dare lifting my eyes, but I gently moved my body towards her to let know that I acknowledge her presence. "Yes, I am, Your Majesty."
76%
In behalf of His Majesty, I would like to extend my warmest welcome to you," she said, her voice kind but formal.
Thank you, Your Majesty," I replied, trying to hide my trembling hands.
"Please, be seated, she instructed.
We all took our seats, and the atmosphere remained tense but respectful. The queen. took her place at the head of the table, and oily then did the s**ts begin to serve the food.
I picked up my fork and began eating, feeling the queen's gaze on me from time to time. I tried to focus on the meal, but my mind was racing. This was a whole new world for me, and I needed to learn its rules quickly
As we ate, the conversation was polite and subdued. The queen asked about our morning routines, and the wives responded with practiced ease. I listened intently, absorbing as much as I could.
"How was your night, Sage?" the queen asked, turning her attention to me.
"I had a wonderful night, Your Majesty. Alice lend me a great hand in helping me settle," I replied honestly.
днай
She smiled c**ngly. "I'm glad you had a wonderful night despite His Majesty's
absence."
The smile on my face vanished when I heard her words. The other women at the table started murmuring, throwing malicious looks my way. It was clear from their expressions that they enjoyed my discomfort.
Right then and there, I realized that Her Majesty didn't like having new women in the palace. No woman would be happy to have her husband bring home wife after wife, as many as this.
I felt a sinking feeling in my chest, understanding that this place would be full of challenges, not just from the king, but from his other wives too. I needed to be careful and find a way to safely leave this place as soon as possible.
As the murmurs around the table grew louder, I kept my head down, focusing on my plate. I tried to ignore the glares and whispered insults. Her Majesty seemed to be enjoying the spectacle, her smile never wavering.
"Tell us, dear," she said, her voice dripping with faux sweetness, "how do new life here?"
you like your
110 Tue, Sep 10 G
Ultiples 19
Lawallowed hard, forcing a polite smile onto my face. "It's been an adjustment, Your Majesty. I'm grateful for the kindness shown to me."
One of the women snickered, and another rolled her eyes. It was clear that they didn't believe a word I said. I didn't believe it myself, but I had no choice but to play along.
"Well, I hope you continue to find it... fulfilling, Her Majesty said, her tone making it clear she doubted I would. "Even though His Majesty wasn't interested in spending the night with you, I hope you will not take it too hard," she added with a hint of sarcasm. I could hear the other women giggling, clearly enjoying my humiliation. Their laughter echoed in the grand dining hall, making me feel even smaller.
I kept my head down, trying to ignore the whispers and snickers aroun
ne.
My face
burned with embarrassment, and I clenched my hands under the table to keep from trembling.
"Don't worry, my dear," one of the wives remarked, her tone laced with feigned symphony. "It's not as if it's your fault you didn't catch His Majesty's eye. Perhaps one day, when he's had a bit too much to drink, he'll summon the courage to grace your chamber with his presence."
"Yes," another chimed in, "and maybe you'll be lucky enough to get a chance to even see his face. I heard he didn't even allow you to lift your head in his presence."
Their words stung, but I forced a polite smile. "Thank you for your advice," I said softly. trying to keep my voice steady.
Her Majesty watched me closely, her eyes sharp and calculating. That's enough, ladies: Let's not be too harsh on Sage. This is her first day as His Majesty's new wife," she said, her smile never reaching her eyes. "I'll apologize on their behalf, Sage." I nodded, feeling the weight of their scrutiny. "There's no need for that, Your Majesty. No offense taken. I'm sure the other ladies were just giving their insights." She smirked. "Interesting."
The awkward silence that followed was broken by the arrival of the maids, who began serving the drinks. The women finally turned back their attention to their plates and continued eating. I let out a small sigh of relief. At least the focus was off me for now. As I picked at my food, I couldn't help but wonder how long I would have to endure this. The other wives clearly saw me as an outsider, and Her Majesty seemed to delight in my discomfort. But I knew I had to stay strong.
After breakfast, I would go back to my room and try to make sense of everything that had happened. I had to find a way to survive in this place, at least until I manage to escape without dying.
0