Following the order of you notified by a maid, Vaharin stands before the door of your room before the knocking. "Come in." you say, making a smile that looks cold, cruel, concealing cruel craving, however. She steps inside with making forced smile, following the gesture of you to sit across the desk. "What made you come me here, my lord?" she asks, controlling herself not to reveal her anger toward you.
Smiling slightly, I handed her a document about my wealth to her as she sat on chair. Have a look at it.
She took the paper and started reading through it, even if she already knew what it contained. The numbers and names meant nothing to her, but she understood the meaning behind them well enough. It was proof of his power, and the extent of his influence over the nobles. Her heart raced faster as she looked up at him again, trying to keep her expression neutral. He seemed so calm, almost indifferent to what he had done... no, what he had ordered to be done.
"You brought me here to show off your power, my lord?"
Just smirking, I handed another paper, including property rights of her. Am I so selfish man to you? It's for your right, beauty.
A bitter laugh escaped her lips. "My 'right'? To live as your prisoner, under your control? No, thank you." She crumpled the papers in her fist. "I won't accept this as my fate." Her voice was low and dangerous, a promise of retribution lingering beneath the surface.
My wicked grin grew bigger at her resistance, and I could sense her deep negative but determined something from her eyes. Playing hard to get, huh? And how? You're gonna cause revolution?
Her chest rose and fell rapidly as she fought to control her anger. "I won't let you have what you want," she whispered through clenched teeth. "Your power doesn't scare me, my lord." Her gaze locked with his, daring him to try and take more from her.
But he only chuckled darkly. "We'll see about that." Then, abruptly, his expression turned cold. "Now leave. I have no further use for you at the moment."
With fake gentle bowing, she raised up and got out my room. Once she disappeared, I snapped my fingers. Momentarily, one of my servants came from behind. So, you have researched and enrolled everything about her?
The servant bowed his head in confirmation. "Yes, my lord. I have been discreetly investigating her background and her movements since she arrived." He paused, looking up at Kai with a hint of worry. "However, I must admit that she has proven to be more cunning than expected. She is constantly alert and on guard, making it difficult to gather information without being detected."
Kai narrowed his eyes. "Then we shall have to find another way," he said softly, his voice almost a whisper. "
Sighing, I stood up and picked my coat.
Keep following her trace. Even if a small flaw can make her confused, and that means my victory.
With a curt nod, the servant disappeared once more to continue his surveillance on her. Vaharin walked back to her room, feeling increasingly trapped and alone. She knew that she had to find a way out of this situation, not just for herself but also to avenge her family's honor. The thought of killing Kai consumed her every waking moment, driving her forward even as the odds seemed stacked against her.
Only few days passed after that moment when one of highest general came to my mansion for political reasons. Vaharin had to perform her work as my trophy: to serve teas and keep sitting beside me all the time until my meeting was ended.
As the highest general spoke, his voice filled the room with the weight of politics and power struggles. Vaharin sat silently beside Kai, her expression carefully neutral as she listened to their words. Her mind was elsewhere, however, plotting and scheming, searching for a way to destroy him before he could destroy any more lives.
The meeting eventually came to an end, the general bowing deeply before leaving the room. As soon as they were alone, Kai leaned in close to her, his breath hot against her ear. "You see that?"
Her expression remained impassive as she nodded slightly. "I did see." It was obvious that Kai wanted her to respond in such way, but she wouldn't give him the satisfaction of seeing any fear or surprise on her face. Her heart raced with determination and anger, but also a hint of nervousness. She knew that if she didn't act soon, it would be too late.
"Good," he purred, running his hand down her arm before taking her hand in his. "You understand the importance of these alliances."
Giggling, I stood up and spread my legs directly. Anyway, what makes you have and seal revolver in your wardrobe?
Her grip tightened on his hand ever so slightly as she heard his question. She forced herself to remain calm, even though her mind was racing with the implications of what he'd just said. "It... it belonged to my father," she managed to say through clenched teeth. "He gave it to me before he died."
The lie came easily enough; she had practiced it many times in her head, rehearsing how to sound convincing when the moment finally arrived.
Smirking, I put my hand on her hair and softly stroked it. Why are you so intense? I was just curious about that? Why? You've planning something special?
Her heart raced with fear and anger as he touched her hair. "It's nothing," she lied through gritted teeth. "Just a reminder of my family." She forced herself to meet his gaze, trying to appear unafraid. "Why do you care?"
His smile widened, and she could feel the tension in the air between them grow even stronger. She knew that her time was running out; soon, he would catch on to her plans, and then there would be nowhere left for her to run.
I suddenly released her from my touch and turned toward door. It's so fascinating to see your face whenever I suppress you like this.
As he turned away, she felt a surge of relief wash over her. But it was short-lived; her mind was still racing with the knowledge that he had discovered her secret. She knew now that she would have to act quickly and decisively if she were to succeed in her plan. The thought of killing him, of restoring honor to her family's name, burned hotter than ever before.
Going back to her room, she closed the door hard and opened wardrobe. As just she thought, revolver was not there, already taken by me.
Her breath caught in her throat as she stared at the empty space where the revolver should have been. "Damn him..." she whispered, fists clenching in fury. He'd outplayed her—again. But this wasn't over. Not yet.
More days passed, and during those days, Vaharin wrote letter to weapon dealer to buy new revolver in secret place.
Days turned into weeks, each passing hour filled with dread and anticipation. The new revolver arrived, hidden within a crate of other supplies, delivered to her by one of the servants who sympathized with her plight. She waited until the house was quiet, sneaking out of her room under the cover of darkness to retrieve it.
Finally, the night she had been waiting for arrived. Kai hosted a grand ball, inviting dignitaries from across the kingdom.
While I danced with other lady, Vaharin stood at corner and kept looking around to find perfect moment for her revolt.
As revelers danced and clinked their wine glasses together, Vaharin remained still in her solitary corner. Her eyes darted about, searching frantically for an opening, a chance to slip away before the masquerade ended. A particularly close call came when one of the men reached out to brush her hair back - just fast enough to catch a glimpse of her face and realize that he was seeing someone else entirely. Quickly averting his gaze, she made herself invisible amidst the crowd once more.
Her hands trembled slightly as she clutched the revolver in her coat pocket;
Taking deep breath, she approached to me and tapped my shoulder, asking me to discuss something in quiet place.
She smiled sweetly, her eyes holding a glint of malice. "Your Highness," she murmured, dipping into a low curtsy. "May I request a word with you privately?" Her voice held an edge of desperation, but she refused to show weakness. Now was her chance; she couldn't falter now.
Inside, she felt a flood of conflicting emotions: terror at what she was about to do, anger at the man before her, and fierce determination to protect her family's legacy.
Aware of that she was concealing something, I smirked turned around. Later we can, my dear Vaharin.
"Thank you, Your Highness," Vaharin said with a forced smile. She glanced around, making sure no one was watching, and then pulled him aside into a darkened alcove. Her hands shook violently as she lifted the revolver from its hiding spot and pointed it straight at Kai's chest. Her finger twitched, ready to pull the trigger.
"This is for my family," she spat, venom lacing her words. "For everything you've taken from us."
In that moment, she though I would be shocked and beg her mercy. Instead, however, I gripped the gun firmly with smirk. Shoot, if you can. But I bet nothing would happen.
"Wh-what?!" Panic seized her as the metal failed to ignite. She tried again, but the result was the same. Kai's smug grin widened, revealing he'd substituted the bullets with blanks. Humiliation and rage surged through her veins. "You...you bastard! How did you know?" Tears of frustration pricked at the corners of her eyes, but she refused to let them fall. This wasn't over yet. Not by a long shot.
Giggling, I snatched the revolver from her and put it into my pocket. Well, I can judge and punish you right now. But, I won't, because I want to keep watching you try and struggle again and again.
Her breath hitched in her throat, anger boiling over as she glared up at him defiantly. "I will find a way," she vowed fiercely, voice trembling with determination. "No matter how many times you thwart me."
Laughing with low voice, I grabbed her hand. That's the worthy thing of you I love. Now forget about everything and let's dance, my dear.
She hesitated for a moment before forcing herself to nod. With a tight grip on his hand, she allowed him to lead her back onto the dance floor. As they moved together in time with the music, rage and determination flickered behind her eyes like embers in a dying fire. Vaharin would find a way to destroy Kai, no matter what it took. The honor of her family demanded nothing less.
In the night, Vaharin was sitting on her bed in her room, discussing new plan to kill me perfectly when someone knocked the door. Even before she responded, I opened the door and stepped inside.
Her head snapped up as she heard the door open, her hand flying to her chest in surprise. "My lord!" she exclaimed, struggling to control her breathing as she sat on the edge of the bed. "What are you doing here?" Her eyes darted around the room, searching for anything out of place or any threat that might be lurking nearby.
Kai chuckled darkly and closed the door behind him before walking over to stand in front of her. He reached out a hand, cupping her cheek gently. "
"My lord?" she whispered, her heart pounding in her chest as his touch sent shivers down her spine. Her fingers trembled where they rested on the bed, unsure whether to push him away or embrace him closer. "What do you want from me?" She met his gaze with a mixture of fear and confusion, unable to read the expression in his eyes.
The air between them thickened, electric with tension and desire.
Giggling, I lowered my hand and gripped her chin between my fingers. What I want from you! I don't want nothing, but just want to know...Are you going to kill me again?
Vaharin blinked, confusion flashing across her features before anger began to rise once more. "You mock me," she hissed, trying to pull away from him. "I will find a way, I swear it." Her voice trembled with determination and vengeance, but there was something else in her eyes now: fear. Fear of losing this power struggle, fear of never being able to exact revenge upon Kai for what he had done to her family.
Enjoying sight of vulnerable parts in her expression, I leaned forward to whisper. You don't know why I haven't undress you and kept your virginity safe. Little do you know.
Her breath caught in her throat as he whispered those words, and she felt a wave of shame wash over her. She hadn't thought about the possibility that he might have kept her virginity intact for some twisted reason of his own. "Why?" she managed to choke out, her voice barely audible above the sound of her racing heart.
His lips curled into a predatory smile, and he leaned in even closer, his warm breath caressing her ear. "Because I wanted you all for myself,"
Pulling my head back, I put my finger on her neckline and made circle. I want woman having strong, noble, and solid soul, not who beg mercy so early like whore begging money with her vulgar body.
Her cheeks flushed crimson as his words sank in, and she struggled to hold back the emotions that threatened to overwhelm her. She had never considered herself weak before; the thought of being labeled as such by him cut deeper than any physical wound. "I am not some object for you to own," she spat through gritted teeth, regaining a measure of her composure. "You will pay for what you've done."
With low laugh, I walked to the door. I love your that mentality, even after failing to kill me.
"You may enjoy my defiance now," she growled, "but you'll regret ever crossing our path. I swear it." As the door closed behind him, determination flared anew in her eyes. She would find a way to destroy Kai and free herself from his grip; even if it took every ounce of strength and cunning she possessed.
And when he finally fell, she vowed to make sure that his own power was the very thing that brought him down. The irony would be delicious.
Since that day, only few days had passed when I went to one of noble man's mansion for enconomical reason, making her accompany me.
She followed him silently, her eyes narrowed in anger and determination. This was her chance to strike again, to regain some control over the situation. But she knew that she had to be careful; if he suspected anything, he would have her killed without a second thought.
As they walked through the mansion's lavish halls, Vaharin struggled to maintain her composure.
Entering into his room, I bowed to elder noble with gentle smile. Greeting, sir. It honor to see you so early than I thought. This is Vaharin, the only survivor of Winston's family who I have taken care of.
"A pleasure to meet you," the elder noble said, his gaze flickering between them. "It seems that Lord Kai here has quite the eye for those in need." He motioned for them to sit down on a plush couch nearby. "Now then, what business do we have?"
Vaharin forced herself to remain calm, even as her heart raced with anticipation. She glanced at Kai out of the corner of her eye, wondering what plan he could possibly be concocting this time.
While I suggested and explained my strategy to noble man, Vaharin listened silently, truly recognizing why her family had to be destroyed: my words of money were sweeter than honey to negotiator, and that was why her father lost all money.
As Kai spoke, Vaharin struggled to keep her expression neutral. She knew that this man was dangerous; he played games with people's lives like they were pieces on a chessboard. But she also couldn't help but feel a strange sense of respect for his cunning. Perhaps, if she could learn from him...
She glanced up at the elder noble, her eyes burning with determination. If she was going to survive this and one day destroy Kai, she would have to become as ruthless and calculating as he was.
While the noble thought about my suggestion, to invest in my steel industry, I leaned to Vaharin to whisper. How do you think about my deal? Is it fascinating?
Vaharin bit her lip as she listened to his whispered words. On the surface, it might have seemed fascinating to align herself with someone so powerful and cunning...but deep down, she knew that this was simply another game he played. A trap designed to ensnare those who were weak or desperate enough to fall for it.
She glanced at him out of the corner of her eye, studying his expression as she considered her answer. "It's...interesting,"
She paused, pursing her lips before continuing. "But I cannot help but feel that there is more to it than meets the eye." Her gaze remained fixed on him, unblinking. "I want to know what your true intentions are, Lord Kai." There was a challenge in her voice, a dare for him to reveal his true colors.
Kai chuckled softly, leaning back against the couch. "Ah, Vaharin," he purred. "You're starting to see things clearly now. But then again,"
Grinning, I glanced at noble before turning attention to her again.
You tried to kill me, and why do I have to tell you my ability? You're gonna lure me out and destroy just like I did to your family?
Her face flushed with anger as his words sliced deep. "You mistake my intentions," she spat through clenched teeth. "I am not here to seek revenge; I came to protect myself and ensure that those like me never fall prey to your games again." She paused, gathering her composure before continuing in a cold, emotionless voice, "And if you truly mean what you say about wanting me alive...perhaps there is something we could discuss."
She held his gaze steadily, daring him to reply.
Smirking, I gazed back to noble man. Well, my dear sir, it's time to make your decision.
The elder noble considered their words carefully before finally speaking. "Very well," he said with a thoughtful nod. "I see no reason not to trust your word, Lord Kai. And as for you, Vaharin... I appreciate your honesty and cunning. It would seem that we have much to discuss." He extended his hand to her, a gesture of truce and alliance.
Vaharin hesitated for a moment before finally reaching out to take the noble's hand.
We soon got out of noble's mansion and boarded our carriage. Instead of returning to my mansion, however, I ordered horse man to go to city.
As the carriage rocked along the road, Vaharin eyed Kai warily from across the compartment. He seemed confident and unbothered by their recent exchange, but she couldn't shake the feeling that he was still manipulating them both. She clenched her fists tightly in her lap, unsure what to expect as they drew closer to the city.
Her thoughts were interrupted when Kai leaned forward, addressing her. "You know, Vaharin, there are other ways to gain power besides seeking vengeance."
Grinning slightly, I put my hand on her lap. Do you want to know?
Vaharin looked at his hand resting on her lap, considering it for a moment before slowly placing hers over his. "Perhaps I do," she said softly, curiosity and wariness warring within her. "But first...tell me the truth. Why didn't you kill me when you had the chance?" Her gaze remained fixed on him as they rode through the city.
Kai chuckled darkly, his grip tightening around her hand slightly before he let it go. "Oh, Vaharin,"
With low chuckle, I gazed up at window of carriage. You don't know why I have planned and desired to do, and I won't let you die until you experience them all.
Her heart raced with fear and anticipation as she listened to his words. Was he truly going to tell her everything? Or was this just another game to him? She licked her lips nervously before asking, "Then what do you propose we do?" Her voice trembled slightly, betraying the mixture of trepidation and excitement coursing through her veins.
Kai smiled enigmatically and leaned back against the cushions once more. "Ah, Vaharin," he purred. "You'll find out soon enough."
Her breath hitched as they continued through the city streets. Part of her wanted to know what he meant; part of her was terrified by the thought. "And if I don't want to find out?" she asked, trying to maintain a steady voice despite the racing beat of her heart. "If I choose not to play your game?"
Kai chuckled darkly and reached over to cup her cheek gently. His touch sent shivers down her spine. "Then you'll spend the rest of your life trying to outrun me,"
At that moment, carriage stopped at right destination. I reached my hand at door and opened it. Come here. Let's have a good look.
She hesitated for a moment before slowly rising to her feet and following him out of the carriage. The city bustled around them as they made their way down a narrow alleyway, the smell of smoke and cooking meat filling the air. Her heart raced with fear and anticipation, but she refused to let it show on her face. Whatever Kai had planned, she would survive. She had to.
I led her to most popular, fancy, and expensive restaurant for our dinner. When we sat on table, I crossed my leg on other one and leaned backwards to meet her gaze. Isn't it fascinating place?
"It is indeed," she replied, her voice calm despite the racing of her heart. She glanced around, taking in the opulent surroundings and the attentive staff. This was clearly a place where important deals were struck and alliances formed. As Kai continued to speak about various aspects of the restaurant and the city's politics, she listened intently, trying to glean any information that might help her in the future.
But beneath the surface, Vaharin couldn't help but wonder what Kai had truly brought her here for.
She smiled politely and took another sip of wine, pretending to be interested in his words while her mind raced with possibilities. Perhaps he was simply trying to impress her, make her see that he had power and influence beyond what she'd first assumed. Or perhaps there was more to it than that...
As they continued to dine and discuss, Vaharin kept a careful watch on Kai, studying his expressions and body language for any signs of duplicity or hidden intentions.
When we finished the meal, I led her out of restaurant and let her follow me as I stepped into city street.
Her curiosity piqued, Vaharin followed Kai out of the restaurant and onto the bustling city street. As they walked through the crowded marketplace, she continued to study his profile, trying to discern any hidden motives for bringing her here. His expression remained enigmatic, his movements confident and in control.
"Where are we going?" she finally asked, breaking the silence that had fallen between them. She kept a respectful distance behind him as they walked, allowing Kai to set the pace of their interaction.
Not stopping or turning back, I just laughed lowly. I'm just making you know about the world more, since you have been belonged to me and couldn't have enough chances to explore further.
Her eyes narrowed at his words as they continued walking through the market. She had never considered herself trapped by him before, but now that he'd put it into those terms...it made her feel restless and caged in a way she hadn't expected. "And what if I don't want to be owned by you anymore?" she asked quietly, her voice barely above the din of vendors hawking their wares.
Kai chuckled darkly and stopped abruptly, spinning around to face her. "
Grinning, I put my hand on her shoulder before leaning forward. You have nothing, and can't do anything without me as your family is gone. You might hate me, and want to have revenge, but after that? Who will accept you? Reporters will make you betrayer with newspapers and judges will punish you for killing me.
"I see," she said softly, looking down at her feet. He was right - even if she did manage to take her vengeance against him, there would be nowhere left for her to go afterward. Her family was dead, her old life forever tainted by their alliance. In many ways, she really was trapped here with Kai, whether she liked it or not.
Turning aside, I gestured her to come closer. Stand and walked beside me sinde you are dangerous woman.
With a sigh, Vaharin stepped forward to stand beside Kai once more. As they continued walking through the marketplace, she couldn't help but feel a strange sense of resignation settling over her. No matter how much she hated him or wished things were different, the fact remained that for now, at least, she was stuck with Lord Kai. All she could do was try to survive in this new world he'd created for her...and hope that one day, somehow, she would find a way out.
As sun got more lower, we sat on bench in park. When she sat beside me uncomfortably, I wrapped one my arm around her waist and pulled closer to me. Don't be toxic, my dear...
Vaharin sighed, leaning into his touch despite herself. "Fine," she muttered, looking away as he drew her closer. She knew that resisting him would be pointless; for now, at least, she had to play along if she wanted to stay alive and have any chance of eventually escaping from his grasp.
The evening sky began to darken overhead as they sat together on the park bench, the sounds of laughter and children playing filling the air around them.
With mockingly soft motion, I grabbed her hand. Do you love kids?
She hesitated before answering, her expression uncertain. "I... suppose I do." Her gaze drifted back to the children playing on the nearby swing set, their laughter filling the air like music. It was a small hint of normalcy in this strange new world she'd been thrust into, and she couldn't help but feel a twinge of nostalgia for her old life.
"Then you should have one with me," Kai said casually, as if it were the most natural thing in the world.
Her jaw dropped in shock, and she yanked her hand away from him. "What do you mean by that?" she demanded, her voice shaking with anger and fear. "You can't just decide that for me!"
Kai chuckled darkly, his expression unreadable. "Oh, Vaharin," he drawled, sounding almost amused. "Don't you understand how things work here? I could have you killed if I wanted to; I could force you to do anything I pleased."
Grinning wickedly, I snatched her hand again and pushed myself to her closer. But only with my mercy, you are still alive. Besides, I think you are proper woman to pass on my gene to my descendants through...
"Let me go!" she hissed, struggling against his grip as her cheeks flushed with anger. "I will never bear your child," she spat out between clenched teeth, hating the way his words made her stomach churn and her heart race with fear.
Kai laughed, releasing her hand but keeping it close beside him on the bench. "Oh, Vaharin," he said mockingly. "You think you have a choice?" He leaned in closer, his breath hot against her ear. "
I slowly put my hand on her lap and squeezed teasingly. It is rather honer to have my child, since you can get new high status in public. From only survivor in fallen Winston Family, to mother of child whose father is the most powerful noble in the kingdom.
Her heart raced with fear and anger as she struggled to control her emotions. She couldn't deny the power he held over her life, but the thought of carrying his child within her...it was unbearable. "You don't understand," she whispered hoarsely. "I will never submit to you like that."
Kai chuckled darkly and leaned back against the bench once more. "Oh, Vaharin," he said mockingly, shaking his head. "
Smiling, I pointed at women talking together on other bench who seemed like mothers of children playing nearby. I'm suggesting you last warm and moral chance to be normal mother like those women.
"I don't want that life," she snapped, her voice shaking with anger and determination. "Not if it means serving you." She paused, taking a deep breath to steady herself before continuing in a quieter tone, "There must be another way." Her gaze drifted back to the women on the other bench, their faces soft with love and contentment as they watched their children play. It was a life she could never have now; not if she stayed with Kai. But perhaps...
Sighing dramatically, I stood up and gave her my hand. I see. Let's go back, and continue our talk in my mansion.
"Very well," she said stiffly, taking his hand and allowing him to help her up. As they walked back toward his mansion, Vaharin wrestled with the thoughts racing through her mind. There had to be a way out of this situation; there simply had to be. She just needed to find it before Kai made any permanent decisions about her future...and that of his child.
After returning to my mansion, I called her to my room in dinner time. Once she came in, I pointed at the chair across table. Come in. Dinner will be served soon.
With a sigh, Vaharin sat down at the indicated chair across from Kai. She couldn't shake the feeling that whatever he had planned for this evening was going to be unpleasant. Perhaps it would be best if she simply played along and tried to gather more information about his intentions...for now, at least.
As servants brought in dishes of exquisitely prepared food, Vaharin picked at her meal, unable to truly enjoy the flavors as her mind raced with trepidation.
When all foods were settled and my servants left the room, I held a fork and forked a piece of meat. So, what do you think about my offer?
"I'm not sure yet," Vaharin replied cautiously, eyeing him warily across the table. "It seems like an interesting proposal...but I want to know more about your plans for me and this child." Her voice was steady, but there was a note of defiance in it that Kai couldn't help but notice.
He chuckled darkly, pushing his plate aside. "Ah, Vaharin," he said with a sigh, leaning back in his chair. "
"I want you to understand," she began, her voice firm and unyielding, "that I will not be your puppet. I won't bear your child simply because you command it." Her eyes flashed with defiance, daring him to challenge her. "If this is truly about finding someone who can help you rule this empire," she continued, "then perhaps there are other options available to both of us."
Kai smiled thinly, his expression unreadable. "And what do you propose?"
Giggling, I took a bite of meat again.
You should tell me two clear things: what woman instead of can bear my child? And whose child you are willing to have? Say it right now, or you will have no any chances.
"I can't just choose someone else like that," she snapped, her temper rising. "It has to be someone I trust, and who wants the same things I do." Her gaze drifted away from him, focusing on a point beyond his shoulder as she considered her options.
There was silence between them for several long moments before Vaharin finally met Kai's eyes again. "I will only bear your child if it is under one condition," she said firmly. "You must give me power equal to that of your heir."
Laughing, I unconsciously clapped my hands. Oh, what a brave asking you are offering! But that's why I think you are perfect woman to have my child. Sure, I'll accept your require.
She narrowed her eyes, suspicious of his sudden acquiescence but unwilling to let this opportunity slip through her fingers. "Very well," she replied cooly. "We shall see how our arrangement plays out."
Nodding eagerly, I sipped at a jar of water. I'm glad you accepted your fate...I'll say it will be much better not to resist.
"Yes, well," she said dismissively, her heart racing with fear and determination. "Let's just get this over with." She couldn't shake the feeling that no matter what she did, Kai would always hold all the power in their relationship; but perhaps by playing along, she could gather enough information to find a way out later.
After dinner was ended, Vaharin left my room to take bath and get herself ready for tonight. She felt pang of anger, but knew she had no choice. Besides, she thought, it could be less lonely if she was with child than now.
As Vaharin prepared for the night ahead, her mind raced with conflicting emotions. On one hand, she was terrified of what the future held under Kai's control. But on the other, there was a small spark of hope that this arrangement might give her some measure of power and influence within his empire. She couldn't deny that he was charismatic and intelligent, despite his brutal tendencies. Perhaps if she played her cards right...
In the night, one of my maids knocked the door and told Vaharin that I called her to my bedroom.
"I suppose it is time," she murmured grimly, steeling herself for whatever lay ahead as she slowly opened the door and stepped into the dimly lit chamber beyond.