I joined Margret and her fellow diligent servants in preparing a magnificent banquet hall, in the second palace building, for tomorrow's extravagant party. Since leaving Silverthorn my mind has been so occupied that I almost forgot about tomorrow being the first day of the full moon.
Apparently the angel kings sets a banquet for all the governors of their massive kingdom to come feast and get entertained on the first day of the full moon.
The atmosphere is filled with anticipation and excitement as everyone works together to create a truly mesmerizing experience for the esteemed guests.
As we finish wiping the smooth floor, another team of servants meticulously arranges long wooden tables in precise rows, each adorned with crisp, white linen tablecloths that cascade all the way to the floor. Delicate, fragrant flower arrangements fill the air with their sweet aroma, carefully placed as centerpieces along the tables.
A group of talented chefs can be seen scurrying around the massive stone fireplace, tending to roaring fires as they prepare mouth-watering delicacies. The tantalizing scent of roasting meats, freshly baked bread, and aromatic herbs wafts through the air, teasing oir senses and making our mouths water.
The walls of the hall are adorned with ornate tapestries depicting heroic tales of knights and mythical creatures. Three servants gently dust the tapestries making the intricate artwork more clearer.
In an isolated corner, musicians practicing their performances tune their instruments, creating melodious tunes that fill the air with joyous melodies. Their harmonies blend perfectly, setting the festive mood and ensuring that the celebration will be filled with laughter and merriment.
"During the days of the full moon is the only time humans like us sense our mates. Don't you feel excited?" Margret asks with a teasing smile. "Not that we could be mated to the governors, of course, but any of our fellow servants may be mated to us." She adds.
"What about the angel kings, do you think they look forward to finding their fated mate?" I ask.
"They have been waiting for her for a long time. I am sure they would be delighted if one of the beautiful princesses turns out to be their mate." She answers.
"Even if she isn't the one that gets selected by their council?" I question.
She is quiet for a long moment before answering. "I don't know, they are looking for the best of virtuous women."
I am sure their mate will be a beautiful royal woman. Probably one that didn't apply to take part in the contest.
All I should be concerned about is Princess Lyna being the one to win the contest. It's the only thing that may help my miserable life.
"Do they all dislike human servants?" I question.
Margret raises an eyebrow. "Everyone else may look down on us, but not the angel kings. They are just despite their wealth and might." She answers.
I do not believe her, because I saw the hate and disgust in angel Conrad's eyes when I revealed that I am a servant. But it's better not to judge a person's character based on a brief meeting.
"Stand and bow your head." Margret suddenly whispers urgently.
"What?" I ask in confusion.
"One of the angel kings is here, stand and lower your head." She explains, grabbing me by the collar of my dress and pulling me up.
I finally notice the tall, stunning figure of angel Conrad standing at the doorway. He looks even more dashing under the glare of the rays of the sun than he did in darkness.
All the servants and entertainers stand still with their heads bowed as he strides forward.
"Lower your head." Margaret reminds and I quickly lower my gaze to the floor.
My body stiffens with apprehension as my ears track the sounds of his footsteps around the hall.
"There is no need to get nervous, King Fenris is too kind to mind your lack of our uniform. He is probably checking if all is ready for tomorrow's banquet." Margret tells, her head still lowered.
Did she say king Fenris? I thought it's Conrad. Apparently they look alike a copy of each other.
"How do you tell them apart?" I question.
"Only Fenris wears white outfits on a regular day. Conrad and Garren are fans of darker colours. Garren wears silver while Conrad wears gold." Margret explains.
I nod in understanding. The angel in the room is dressed in an exquisite white outfit, so it's king Febris.
I start to relax but feel an intense gaze on me that makes my body tense.
Footsteps get closer and closer and I see Margret getting anxious as well.
"He is coming to us." She whispers the obvious. "But keep calm, he is just as kind as his brothers." She adds and I relax once again.
His enchanting scent invades my nostrils and it's sweeter than the delicious odours of the banked foods from the kitchen.
He halts way too close to us and I fight the urge to raise my head and look at his face.
"Who are you?" His frigid voice asks and it's obvious who he is speaking to. I am the only one not dressed in their servant uniform.
"Umm . . .my name is Keira. I am a-" I start but he cuts me off.
"You're the human servant?" He questions looking even more repulsed than his brother angel Conrad was.
"Yes your Majesty, her highness Princess Lyna of Silverthorn is my mistress." I answer respectfully. "She doesn't mind that I am human." I lie.
"Your mistress must be very kind, but this is not Silverthorn. Just because we hired Margret it doesn't mean we want you too. A better servant will be appointed for your mistress if she gets selected to become our queen." He states coldly.
My heart shatters.
How can an angel be so cruel? Becoming a servant of this palace is the only good thing I was looking forward to after Princess Lyna qualifies to become their chosen queen. Now there is no point of helping her pass the tests unless I wish to be fired.
His gaze travels down my body. "If you must leave your room again make sure to wash and brush your tangled hair. Personal hygiene is a mandatory requirement for guests and residents of this palace. Stay hidden if you can't comply." He commands and most of the servants around us stifle their laughs.
I hang my head in embarassment. The angel turns to leave and Magret pats my shoulder in a comforting gesture.
"He has never spoken that rude to anyone before, I don't understand why he just seems to dislike you." Margret says after he is gone. "I am so sorry, I will help you style your hair tomorrow, even though I doubt it has anything to do with his rudeness."
I simply nod my head, shame and anger making it difficult to think.
"I will return to our guest quarters, I need a moment alone." I say and make my way out of the hall. Tears flow freely from my eyes as I stride down the path towards the first building. Luckily I find no one in the tiny servants' room we were given. Hopefully no one will return soon because I need a few ours to cry a river.