Vienna's mouth went dry as Damien led her into the room, which had high ceilings and a crystal chandelier lit with hundreds of candles. The table was set for about fifty guests. It looked as though a big party was expected, but the chilly cold room was empty except for the king and queen.
They waited by the fire, reflections of the flames dancing across their faces. Their blazing appearance did nothing to calm her nerves. Still, she put a fake smile onto her face as they approached. Damien had told her to stay alive; so being pleasant to her captors seemed to be the first step in that direction.
"Lady Vienna, how lovely to see you." The king swept into a deep bow. Like Damien, he too was wearing a black ceremonial uniform, formal and elegant.
"Thank you for joining us." The queen curtsi
