Chapter 7: His Majesty, The King
Isabel's POV As we kept our heads down, suddenly, there was a deep, resonant sound of drums that echoed across the courtyard. The steady beat signaled the beginning of the Winter Welcoming Feast, a grand celebration marking the end of the harvest and the onset of the colder months. The drums finally ceased and a hush fell over the crowd. “His Majesty, the King!” announced the master of the banquet, his voice carrying across the courtyard. We immediately curtsied deeply and held our positions as the grand doors of the throne hall creaked open. All eyes turned toward the entrance where King Lucian Devereux emerged. His figure exuded regal majesty, commanding attention. His tall and powerful frame was draped in luxurious robes that shimmered in the twilight. The crown atop his head glinted with precious gems, but it was his face that drew a quiet gasp from my lips. King Lucian possessed a manly beauty that was both striking and captivating. His chiseled features, sharp jawline, and silvery gray eyes spoke of authority and grace. I couldn't help but marvel at his royalness. The king was a perfect blend of strength and refinement. As he walked forward, his every step was measured and regal. Each of his movement was an evidence of his noble lineage. The guests stood and bowed deeply as he passed, raising their respects to the monarch. The king took his place at the head of the banquet table. His presence alone was enough to transform the atmosphere into one of solemn grandeur. Only after he sat did the guests and staff rise from their bows to settle into their places. Once everyone was settled, King Lucian raised a goblet high in the air. His voice was strong and clear as he addressed the assembly. “People of Montebello,” he began, “we gather tonight to celebrate the end of the harvest season and the onset of winter. Let us give thanks for the bounty of the earth and pray for warmth and sustenance through the cold months ahead. Together, we stand strong, united in our kingdom and in our hopes for the future.” The moment the king ended his speech, a cheer immediately rose from the crowd and I felt a swell of pride. This celebration was not just about food and drink. It was about the resilience and unity of our people. Yet, I couldn't help but think about the people in the slums. Did they also find cause for celebration, or will they struggle through another harsh winter? The other palace maids and I moved gracefully between the tables to ensure that every guest was attended to. While placing a tray of delicate pastries on the table and minding my own work, another maid approached me. She had a friendly smile and warm demeanor. “How are you holding up?” she asked kindly. "It's been overwhelming, but in a good way," I replied, a little uncomfortable since I did not know her name. "This is my first day here." She nodded while her eyes were filled with understanding. “It can be a lot to take in. I remember my first day well. But you’re doing great. Just take it one step at a time.” "Thank you. Your words mean a lot," I said, now feeling a bit more at ease. She smiled and gave me a comforting tap on my shoulder before proceeding with her own tasks. So I continued with mine. While I was busy with my work and some performers began their part in the center of the banquet, I couldn't shake the feeling that someone was staring at me. It was an unsettling sensation, making the hairs on the back of my neck stand up. I tried to focus on my duties, but the feeling persisted. I was unable to ignore it any longer so I glanced around, searching for the source. My eyes scanned the crowd and unintentionally landed on the king. My breath caught in my throat as I realized he was staring at me. His silvery gray eyes were fixed on me with an intensity that made me flinch. My heart pounded as I quickly bowed my head and turned away, trying to escape his gaze. I walked briskly to another part of the courtyard while my mind raced. Although I felt nervous and overwhelmed after seeing the king eye to eye, I was also confused by his intent stare. Did he recognize me from somewhere? Or was it something else entirely? The questions swirled in my mind, but I had no answers. Then suddenly, the king gestured towards one of his attendants. It was a subtle yet decisive motion that did not go unnoticed. Moments later, I heard the heavy, deliberate footsteps of a royal guard stomping toward the kitchen. My heart skipped a beat, and I felt a cold shiver run down my spine. The guard's approach was unmistakable, each of his step echoed ominously against the stone floor. I glanced up from my work as my pulse quickened. The guard's stern expression and purposeful stride made it clear that he was on a mission. I couldn't help but wonder if I had done something wrong. Had I made a mistake in my duties? My mind raced with possibilities, each one more alarming than the last. The guard entered the kitchen, his eyes scanning the room before they settled on me. He marched directly toward me, and I felt every pair of eyes in the kitchen turn in my direction. The other maids and kitchen staff paused in their tasks, their curiosity and concern evident. "You there," the guard said with an authoritative voice. "Come with me." I swallowed hard as my mouth suddenly became dry. "Is there a problem, sir?" I asked, trying to keep my voice steady. "The king has requested your presence," he replied, offering no further explanation. My heart pounded in my chest. The king requested my presence? The idea seemed absurd and terrifying in equal measure. I nodded, not trusting myself to speak and followed the guard out of the kitchen. As we walked, I could feel the eyes of the staff following us, their whispers a hushed backdrop to my growing anxiety. The guard led me through the winding corridors of the palace. I thought the king was at his table? What could the king possibly want with me that he would go his way to have a private conversation with me? My mind raced with possibilities but none of them were reassuring. Finally, we arrived at a small antechamber. A separated hall just behind the king's throne hall. The guard gestured for me to wait, then disappeared through a door to announce my arrival. I stood there with my hands trembling slightly, trying to compose myself. After what felt like an eternity, the door opened again, and the guard motioned for me to enter. I stepped inside with my heart in my throat. The room was dimly lit. The flickering candlelight casted long shadows on the walls and in the center of the room stood King Lucian, his eyes fixed on me with that same intense gaze I had felt earlier.Chapter 8: Her Blue Eyes Isabel's POV "Your Majesty," I said, dropping into a deep curtsy, my voice barely above a whisper. "Rise," he commanded in a firm yet not unkind tone. I obeyed and stood before him with my head bowed, waiting for him to speak. "What is your name?" he asked, his voice carrying a note of curiosity. "Isabel, Your Majesty," I replied, surprised that he wanted to know. He studied me for a moment, his expression unreadable. "Isabel," he repeated, as if testing the sound of it. "You are new to the palace, are you not?" "Yes, Your Majesty. This is my first day," I answered, my mind still reeling from the surrealness of the situation. He nodded thoughtfully. "I have heard good things about your diligence and demeanor. You have made an impression." I blinked, taken aback by his words. How could he hear good things about me when I have barely done anything yet? But still, I answered politely. "Thank you, Your Majesty," I managed to say, not entirely sure how to
Chapter 9: The King's Demand Isabel's POV The banquet had finally ended, and while some maids were busy cleaning up after the festivities, I found myself in the kitchen, helping the royal chef prepare the king's breakfast. The aroma of freshly baked bread and sizzling bacon had me almost hungry as Chef Henri worked his magic at the stove. I watched intently, absorbing every detail as he showed me how to plate the food with precision and care. "Remember, presentation is just as important as taste," Chef Henri said, his eyes twinkling with a hint of mischief. "The king deserves nothing less than perfection." I nodded and carefully arranged the delicate pastries on the golden tray, making sure each item was placed just so. The thought of serving the king, even in this way, made my heart race, but I was determined to do my best. As I was finishing the final touches, Chef Henri turned to me with a thoughtful expression. "Isabel, I have a special task for you today." I looked up, sur
Chapter 10: Growing Desire The king watched as Isabel's eyes widened in shock at his decree. He had to stifle a smile as she stumbled over her words while her face paled with worry. In truth, King Lucian had no doubt about her loyalty. He was merely teasing her. There was something about her that roused a sense of delight within him, something he couldn't quite put into words. Lucian knew Isabel wasn't a spy. He had already had her background checked thoroughly after last night's encounter. Her story checked out—she was a simple young woman from the kingdom's slums, seeking work to support her ailing mother. But her presence intrigued him in a way he hadn't felt in a long time. The way her icy blue eyes sparkled under the moonlight at the banquet had left an indelible mark on him. She was different, and that difference was what drew him to her. As he continued to observe her, he noticed the slight tremble in her hands and the way she bit her lower lip, trying to maintain her compos
Chapter 11: Love knows no bounds Now, Isabel had been moved to a small, yet elegant chamber adjacent to the king’s own quarters. The room was modest, yet far more luxurious than anything she had ever known. It was adorned with soft linens, rich tapestries, and a window that overlooked the palace gardens. Though initially overwhelmed, Isabel quickly found comfort in her new surroundings, especially as her interactions with the king grew more frequent and intimate. Night after night, King Lucian would visit her chamber, often under the guise of seeking counsel or simply sharing the day's events. Their conversations were filled with laughter and shared secrets, gradually dissolving the barriers between monarch and maid. Lucian’s nightly visits became a sanctuary for both of them—a place where titles and formalities were set aside, replaced by genuine companionship. One evening, when Lucian entered Isabel’s chamber, his expression was softer than usual. "Isabel," he said with a voice t
Chapter 12: The King's lover Isabel stirred from her sleep as the first light of dawn filtered through the curtains and touched her skin. She found herself wrapped in the warmth of the king's embrace. With a soft sigh, she shifted slightly as the memories of the night before flooded back with a rush of warmth and desire. She carefully pulled the blanket upward and covered her unclothed body as she prepared to leave the king's bed. Her movements were slow and deliberate. Her every breath was quiet and gentle to avoid disturbing his rest. But just as she reached the edge of the bed, she felt a stir beside her. "Isabel?" Lucian's voice cut through the silence of the room. "Where are you going?" Isabel's heart skipped a beat, but she quickly composed herself, "I need to attend to some tasks," she replied softly as her voice was barely above a whisper. "There are tasks I must attend to." The king's brow furrowed in confusion as he reached out to gently grasp her hand. "But you've been
Chapter 13: The Kingdom's Guest "How did your day fare, my love?" Lucian asked earnestly, causing Isabel to flinch. It was the very first time she had ever heard the king call her that way, and it made her heart flutter with happiness. "It was good. I received my wage today, and I felt overjoyed knowing I can finally help my mother." Isabel smiled genuinely as Lucian brushed his thumb against her lips. "And you, my king?" she asked. "Hm... I felt lonely. Court affairs are such a burden for me, and all I could think about was you." "Me? It is such an honor to have been in your thoughts, my king," Isabel responded, a warm blush spreading across her cheeks. Lucian's eyes softened as he looked at her. "You are more than just a fleeting thought, Isabel. You are my comfort amidst the chaos." She leaned into his touch, savoring the closeness. "I never imagined my life would lead me here, to you." He chuckled softly and the sound sent shivers down her spine. "Fate has a way of bringin
Chapter 14: Keep Isabel Away Time seemed to fly by as the kitchen staff worked in harmony. Each person was contributing to the preparation. Isabel felt a sense of pride in being part of such an important event, knowing that her work would be enjoyed by the palace's esteemed guest. "Isabel, pass me that bowl of berries," one of the assistant chefs called out. Isabel quickly grabbed the bowl and handed it over, exchanging a brief smile with her colleague. "Thank you. You really have a knack for this," he said with a hint of admiration in his voice as he looked at Isabel's work. "Thank you... as well?" she replied, feeling a blush rise to her cheeks. "I've learned from the best." Chef Henri overheared their exchange and gave a satisfied nod. "Indeed, she has. You've come a long way since you first joined us, Isabel." Isabel's smile widened. "I'm just grateful for the opportunity, Chef Henri. I never imagined I'd be here, working alongside all of you." "It's well-deserved," Chef H
Chapter 15: Threat to the Ruler "Why did I not know about this?!" Lucian roared, throwing across the room the sealed paper informing him of the West Kingdom princess's impending visit. His face was flushed with fury, his eyes blazing. His minister, Lord Cedric Marlowe, stood calmly before him, secretly snickering in a sinister way before composing himself and speaking in a measured tone. "Your Majesty, as your head minister, I have the authority to give permission to such visits. After all, a visit directly initiated by the West Kingdom's princess? It could mean an alliance." Lucian glared at Lord Marlowe with his jaw clenched. "An alliance? Without consulting me? This is unacceptable! Our kingdom is strong by itself and it does not need another kingdom's service!" "Your Majesty," Marlowe continued smoothly, "consider the potential benefits. A marriage alliance with the West Kingdom could strengthen our position significantly. It was in the kingdom's best interest to expedite the