CHAPTER 5: Royal hospitality

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As the carriage rolled through the castle gates , Hestia's anxiety mingled with awe. Towering spires and grand architecture surrounded her, the blue and silver banners flapping in the breeze.

Daniel guided them to a secluded wing where a dignified woman awaited.

"Welcome, Hestia, Rylynn and Raymond" she said her voice warm. "I'm lady Aurelia, the king's advisor. Mrs. Marcus has informed us of your situation."

Lady Aurelia led them to lavish chamber filled with opulent furnishings and soothing scents.

"Rest and refresh yourselves " she said. "The king will receive you shortly."

Lady Aurelia departed Hestia pondered the royal treatment.

"Why such hospitality?" She whispered to Raymond.

He shrugged. "Perhaps Mrs. Marcus's Influence runs deeper than we thought."

Rylynn exhausted settled on the plush bed with a sigh.

Will they find the help Rylynn needs?

*****

Hestia stood outside the grand throne room, her heart racing. Daniel's reassuring smile calm her nerves.

"Remember, Mrs. Marcus's Influence has prepared the king" he whispered.

She breath before she entered the throne room. The high ceiling and ornate chandeliers overwhelmed her but she focused on the figure seated on the throne.  The king's piercing gaze and strong jawline commanded respect. His dark hair was flecked with gray.

"Greetings your majesty" she said.

"Could it be a problem if I ask the lady's name" he voiced husked.

"I am Hestia" she replied.

"And what brings you to Thalnaraen, Hestia?" He said eyeing her unreadable.

"My sister suffers from grave illness"she explained. "I seek the expertise of your royal healers."

His expression softened but his eyes still held a hint of something unspoken. " Oh sent by Emma? Right. I see. Tell me Hestia about yourself. Who are your parents?."

"My parents....." Her throat constricted memories flooding back. "They passed away. My father was a skilled hunter."

"Hunter's daughter? Did you learn any...... particular skills from your father?"

"Yes your majesty. I am proficient in sword fighting, archery and running."

"Fascinating." He titled his head back "true huntress , born and bred "

Born and bred!?

She felt a shiver run down her spine, as if king's words mean something different from what he mean.

"I must confess, Hestia" he purred,"your.... Particular set of skills has piqued my interest. Tell me how might I utilize your talents to further the interests of our kingdom?"

Hestia's instinct prickled at his words , her mind racing with implications. She sensed agenda behind his polished facade.

"I'm not sure I understand, your majesty" Hestia replied choosing caution.

"Oh , I think you do" his smile hinted at amusement. "you see our kingdom faces certain threats. Threats that require unique skills, such as yours."

"I'm willing to help, your majesty " she said carefully "but I must ensure my sister's well-being first."

"Ah , yes. Your sister? She will receive the best care." His eyes locked onto hers. "But, Hestia I must warn you" he smiled. "Our kingdom's needs may require.... sacrifices. Are you prepared to make difficult choices?"

Hestia Stormed out  of the  throne room her mind Reeled with the the weight of King's words. Sacrifices? What kind of sacrifices?  Her thoughts Swirled with dread.

Just as she turned a corner lost in thought, her feet faltered. Large armored figure loomed before her and she stumbled.

"What the hell?" She shouted regaining her balance.

Her eyes met the man's. His brown hair was styled in half ponytail.

"Can't you focus on where you are heading?" She snapped her anger and frustration boiling over.

"Perhaps you are the one who needs to watch her step."he narrowed his gaze.

Hestia's temper flared. She tried to push past him but his hand wrapped around her wrist pulling her back.

"How dare you?" She tried to wiggle but his hold was unyielding.

"Ah! Captain I think you will find your restraint unnecessary."

Another man sauntered into view, his piercing blue eyes locked onto Hestia's. He seemed majestic yet beautiful.

"Release her Orion" he said his voice dripping with authority.

Hestia could see him clenching his jaw but he obeyed before leaving.

Who are you!?

He smiled "forgive captain Orion's enthusiasm, my lady. He is merely eager to serve."

She only nodded feeling awkward to say something.

He chuckled, the sound low and husky. "My lady what happened?".

My lady!? Anyway, she groaned inside.

"What do you want" she asked her tone wary.

"I want to understand what drives you, my lady. What fuels that fire in your eyes."

She narrowed her eyes, why does he keep calling her 'lady'? She was no lady. Her worn dress or her scarred face makes a lady? She was just a Hunter's daughter, a survivor not some delicate noblewoman.

"Call me Hestia please."

"As you wish, Hestia." He smiled acknowledged her request. "I am prince Ezekiel and I must admit I have never seen you around the castle before."

"I'm new here."her expression softened slightly. "Mrs. Marcus sent us. My sister and I seeking the castle's healers. She is ill."n

"I hope our healers can help. What is her condition?" His concern seemed genuine.

Hestia hesitated, unsure how much to reveal but something in his eyes put her at ease.

"She has a fever that won't break. Mrs. Marcus thought the castle's physicians might know a cure."

He nodded thoughtfully. "I'll ensure our best healers attend to her. If you need anything at all... come to me directly. Not king or his advisors just me."

His words made her heart skipped a beat. "Why?" She asked.

"Because I want to ensure your sister receives the care she needs and that you are protected during your stay."

Protected? From what?

"what do you mean?" Her voice laced with skepticism.

"Let's just say that our kingdom holds many secrets. Not everyone may have your best interest at heart." He paused. "but with me , you will have an ally. Trust me and I'll ensure your sister receives the care she needs."

Hestia's mind raced. What does he mean by ' not everyone may have your best interest at heart? Is he implying that someone in the castle wants to harm Rylynn or her or even Raymond. she thought back to the king's words ' sacrifices ' what kind of sacrifices?. The prince Ezekiel seems sincere but can she trust him? He is a prince after all. What is his motive for helping them? .

Hestia recalled Mrs. Marcus words. ' Thalnaraen holds secrets and solutions' can she accept his offer? Having an ally in the castle could be crucial but what If he's manipulating her?.

Secrets and solutions?

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