Something Lost - Book 1

Chapter 8: The Ritual

The remaining days before the ritual were beginning to feel like an eternity to Alanis as she worried about what Alexander would uncover. There was little she could do, but hope her story would be proven true, that she wasn't a spy set out to harm the people of Berthold.

At first, when she found herself worrying, she would find other things to keep her mind occupied. After awhile, those pleasant thoughts were no match for the rumors that spread throughout Berthold regarding her intentions.

It seemed Cassandra wasn't the only one wary of her presence. Nearly half the people she came in contact with didn't want a thing to do with her, or were downright cold towards her.

Luckily, for the time being, King Alexander relieved James of duty while they waited for new moon. Though, as kind as the king's gesture was, she understood the reasoning behind his generosity. It was clear James' company was merely ruse to keep tabs on her.

Regardless of the reason, she was thankful to have someone to spend time with besides herself. Whenever she was feeling down, James was there to pick her up with an uplifting remark, or an exciting excursion to calm her nerves.

The young knight was certain that everyone would calm down once the ritual was performed. But to be safe, Alanis made herself scarce, spending most of her time at his place in hopes her lack of presence would ease the rumors.

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Berthold Castle
Guest Wing
Evening

   When the day of the ritual dawned, Alanis was escorted to the castle by a group of palace handmaidens. There were three of them, each dressed in matching grays gowns that drew little attention towards them. And unfortunately for her, their personalities were just as lacking, as they offered no conversation on their carriage ride to the castle.

   After they arrived, Alanis was directed to the guest's wing of the castle, to a large elegant room with an incredible bathroom. It was enormous and decorated quite beautifully with a mixture of marble and stone carvings.

   Of course her eyes were instantly drawn to the bath ahead of her. She explored it, noticing the expert craftsmanship of the exquisite cream marble tub, and the silver fixtures that sparkled with the reflection of the water that filled within it.

   Soon after, one of the older handmaidens explained that she needed to bathe in this specially drawn bath, that it was required for the ritual. With strong argument, she talked them out of helping her undress, explaining that in her culture, people were uneasy with being nude in front strangers.

   Alanis quickly undressed while they gave her privacy, then slipped into the tub on her own. Though the water was hot, she found comfort while her skin soaked in the soothing oils that swirled within it.

   Just as she was getting comfortable, the maids reappeared pushing a cart that was filled with lovely scented soaps and shampoos. As pleased as she was with the enticing scents, she understood the they were there to do more than help her choose a soap.

   In retrospect, she should have known to ask about the preparations the ritual entailed.

   Knowing she couldn't keep the handmaidens waiting long, she sat back and let them bathe her. Once the awkwardness of the situation faded, the bath progressed more quickly, and wasn't as bad as she thought it would be.

   When the time came to get out Alanis stood stiffly in silence. This time her nudity wasn't concealed by the bubbly bath water. The servants took no notice of her modest demeanor and without hesitation led her to a tall free-standing mirror where they began to dress her in ceremonial garments made of silk.