Legacy of Fire and Sand

Chapter 55: The King's Summons

Ashara's heart was still racing from her heated encounter with Quentyn and Nymeria, their unresolved emotions leaving her in a state of turmoil. As she walked through the castle, trying to calm herself, she was abruptly intercepted by one of the King's guards, his face expressionless as he blocked her path.

"The King demands your presence in his chambers," he stated, his tone carrying an unmistakable command.

A cold wave of dread washed over Ashara. The King's summons always carried a sinister undertone, and she knew there was no choice but to comply. Nodding silently, she followed the guard, her steps heavy with foreboding as she made her way to the King's private chambers.

As they approached the imposing double doors, the guards stationed outside gave her a brief, pitying glance before pushing the doors open. The opulent room beyond was filled with an oppressive silence, broken only by the distant murmur of the gardens outside. The King stood with his back to her, his figure framed by the open window, a dark silhouette against the bright light.

Ashara swallowed, her pulse quickening as she stepped into the room. "You summoned me, Your Grace," she said, trying to keep her voice steady.

The King turned slowly, his eyes glinting with something dark and twisted. He took his time studying her, his gaze lingering on the faint marks left by Quentyn and Nymeria's earlier touches. His lips curled into a knowing, predatory smile.

"You've been busy, haven't you, Ashara?" His voice was low and smooth, dripping with menace. "Entertaining yourself with my son and niece, I hear."

Ashara forced herself to remain calm, her face a mask of neutrality. "I serve the court as I am required, Your Grace."

The King chuckled, a sound devoid of humor, as he slowly approached her. "Serve the court? Is that what you call it?" His hand shot out, gripping her chin with surprising force, tilting her face up so that she was forced to meet his gaze. "You think you can play your little games, spreading your legs for Quentyn and Nymeria, and that there won't be consequences?"

Her heart pounded in her chest, but she refused to flinch. "I do what is expected of me, Your Grace," she replied, her voice steady.

The King's eyes narrowed, his grip on her chin tightening painfully. "Expected? Let me tell you what's expected of you, Ashara." He released her abruptly, turning away to pace the room with restless energy. "My son is a disappointment, a weak-willed fool who has allowed his heart to be led astray by sentiments and softness. He will never be the ruler I need him to be."

He paused, turning to face her again, his expression dark and determined. "But you, Ashara, you will carry my seed. You will bear me a child, and that child will be raised to be strong, ruthless, everything that Quentyn is not."

Ashara's blood ran cold at his words. The King's intentions were laid bare before her, his desire to use her as a vessel to produce an heir that would fulfill his twisted vision of power. She knew she needed to tread carefully, to keep her true thoughts hidden.

"You cannot force this upon me," she whispered, though her voice wavered with fear.

The King's smile was cruel as he took a step closer, his presence overwhelming. "Oh, but I can. You are mine, Ashara. Your body, your womb—it all belongs to me. And you will bear my child, whether you wish it or not."

Ashara's mind raced, desperately searching for a way to escape. She had to get out of this room, out of the King's reach, before it was too late. She took a step back, her heart hammering in her chest, but the King was quicker. He reached out, seizing her arm with brutal force.

"Do not think you can run from me," he growled, pulling her closer. "You will do as I command, or you will suffer the consequences."

Before she could react, the doors to the chamber swung open, and two guards entered. They moved swiftly, grabbing Ashara and forcing her toward the massive bed that dominated the room. She struggled against them, her fear turning to panic as she realized what was about to happen.