The first carriages were arriving. Vara watched them from one of the upstairs windows. She was curious about the women.
Eudemas stood beside her, quietly. She worried about Vara. It was evident that she had feelings for the young prince, and prince Cyrus himself was not indifferent towards her either.
But they were not meant to be.
One of these women that were invited to the palace would be the prince’s wife.
“They look real aristocratic, don’t you think?”
Vara’s voice startled her, but the girl was not looking at her. Her eyes were still on the arriving guests.
Eudemas cleared her throat. “They’re none of them as pretty as you.”
Vara laughed surprised. “Thank you, but I doubt that’s true. Besides, I don’t think the new queen to be will be picked because of how she looks.”
“Of curse,” Eudemas said quietly, “Forgive me.”
Vara smiled at her. “Come,” she said, “we should prepare for the welcoming dinner tonight. The king will expect me to be there.”
Eudemas nodded and followed her back to her quarters. “Which dress would you like to wear tonight?” she asked while walking towards the large wardrobe.
“I don’t know,” Vara sighed. She sat down in front of the large mirror and waved her hand. “You can choose something.” She stared at her reflection. She had never considered herself very pretty, but others had.
She sighed. It didn’t matter. Her marriage would be arranged for her, just like Cyrus’.
“How about this one?”
Vara looked over her shoulder at the servant girl she considered a friend. Eudemas was holding up a deep blue gown that left one shoulder bare. She loved that dress. It would compliment her figure.
She nodded at Eudemas and smiled at the girls’ cleverness.
If she couldn’t have Cyrus, at least she would catch his eye. And the eye of other guests.
“It’s perfect. Thank you.”
“You shouldn’t be thanking me, my lady. I am here to serve you.”
“Eudemas,” Vara said sadly “I consider you a friend. I thought you saw me as one too.”
“I do, but it’s not proper.”
“Forget conventions,” Vara said, “if you are so set on obeying my every wish, then I order you to call me by first name.”
A small smile broke through on Eudemas’ face. “Alright.” She laughed quietly, “I will address you thusly, Vara.” She made a deep and theatrical bow.
Vara laughed.”That is more like it.” She stood up and hugged the girl. “Thank you for being my friend. I am in dire need of one in this flock of peacocks that will be residing at the palace.”
YOU ARE READING
Duty
Historical FictionIf you had to choose between love and duty, what would you do? Vara is a lucky girl. Adopted into the king's household and companion to the prince, people have almost forgotten she came of low birth. However, when her childhood friend declares his l...
