Why were soldiers coming down here?
I remained in my kneeling position and tensed when the horses stopped in front of my cottage. “Is this the home of Minerva and Lena Daelyra?” asked a familiar voice. I quickly glanced up to see Silas grinning, sitting atop a shiny black horse.
I gaped at him, then bit back my grin as best I could. “It is,” I replied as I stood. A soldier to my left then waltzed over, placing two large packages on our doorstep.
“Gifts from the royal family. You are invited to the celebration tonight in honor of your family’s successful business.”
My eyes felt like they would bulge out of my head, and I met eyes with Torrin, who was behind Silas on an equally magnificent white horse.
“Looks like you’ll be coming to the ball after all.”
My eyes darted back to Silas. “Thank you, Your Highness.” I breathed, bowing low.
When I raised my head, I was met with his extended arm. My eyes shot to his in confusion, but he just continued smiling. Hesitantly, I slid my hand into his, and he raised it while leaning down, giving it a soft kiss. I could hear gasps from my neighbors, who were all outside, witnessing something completely unheard of.
It was wild enough that the Queen would sometimes grace us with her presence, but the Prince, let alone on his first day of freedom? And to kiss the hand of a lower-class peasant…
I suppose Silas also did this to show he meant what he said—that the Outer Ring was a priority to him.
I felt my face light up, my cheeks burning simultaneously, and Silas gave me that damn lazy smile as he pulled his lips away. I was used to his lips on my body…but in front of all these people …
I couldn’t help but grin wider.
“We shall see you tonight, then,” he purred, and he and his men turned and headed back up to the Center.
I gazed ahead until they were out of view, multiple neighbors rushing over and asking me what had happened.
Market day was nearing its end—its start time having been delayed due to the Prince’s introduction. Mother wasn’t going to believe this when she heard it!
I decided to place the boxes inside on our dining table. I took a peek and was grinning so hard at the sight of two gorgeous gowns that my cheeks hurt. I went to take a shower to get any dirt from gardening off of me. With only hours until the ball, I would need every moment to get ready.
Chapter Twenty-Five
“Ican’tstopshaking,”Iwhispered.
“Neither can I.”
Mother and I walked up the steps to the Inner Ring, flashing our invitations to the guards. They gave them a glance, then nodded before letting us in. I had never been in the Inner Ring past curfew. We were met with gasps and glares by the residents, who were in disbelief that Outer Ring women were being escorted to the castle. Outer Ring women over them.
In our package, Silas had gifted Mother and me two glorious gowns. Mother’s was a deep burgundy, and while its long sleeves and tight midsection fit her beautifully, the bottom of the gown that puffed out stole the show. It was far fancier than anything we had ever worn, and we both felt slightly silly despite how gorgeous they were. We knew, however, that we would fit in with those at the ball once we arrived.
My dress—Gods. It was a deep emerald, sleeveless piece. Its skirt puffed out like Mother’s, but the top was corseted. My breasts thankfully fit perfectly, as Silas had learned my size the past year, considering he’s spoiled me so.
Along the corset and spilling down the skirt were intricate designs made of silver thread. I don’t know what caused the whole gown to sparkle, but the entirety of it twinkled even in the dimmest light.
It was a dress fit for…a princess.
Mother wore her hair entirely down for once, and I opted for a half-up style with a crown braid, pieces of my orange hair loosely framing my face. We spent the afternoon perfecting our makeup—shadows, mascara, blush, and lipstick—and we both had never looked so good. The deep brown shade I used around my lids made my green eyes even brighter.
Coming to escort us up to the Center was a guard I had never seen, so Mother and I kept quiet on our way up, with the occasional amused side glances we gave each other as those around us gaped at our appearances.
This entry into the castle was indeed different than my first experience. We were led up the tall black stairsteps that led to the entrance of the towering building. The doors were opened wide, and couples and families dressed in jewels and the finest clothes stepped up and presented their invitations.
It was noticeable how many families had young girls my age. I didn’t have time to dwell on it before we were led inside, greeted by a giant marble statue depicting a phoenix, its large wingspan and tail spread and carved with intricate detail.
We were led to the left, and as we entered through another set of double doors, my eyes broadened as they traveled across the enchanting golden ballroom. The ceiling was a mural of cherubs, angels, and, to my surprise, beings with pointed ears. Castle La’Rune was built over one hundred years ago, so I suppose this mural was done before the deep hatred for my kind began. Still, it was surprising it hadn’t been painted over. In its center was the family crest again.
The floor was light brown, checkered wood, so shiny you would think it was covered in oil. Golden sconces lined the walls, casting a warm light throughout the entire ballroom. Mother and I continued onward and were met by the gawking eyes of some of the people attending. Those of the Center, gawking at us!
