[I've skipped a few parts since the last blog I posted of my story]
Much of the castle staff was bustling about, obviously preparing for my arrival, and most likely, under very explicit command from the King. Many eyes settled on me as I was escorted inside the castle and their constant gaze unnerved me greatly.
Over-stimulation continued to trouble me as I was greeted by immensely high ceilings and vast, never ending hallways and rooms. Great tapestries were hung on the walls, and each was more colorful and elaborate than the last. People of all different rank and occupation scurried around, discussing many things that I knew nothing about, and the clothing they all wore was of beautiful fabrics, with the finest stitching and detail. The smells of a delicious meal wafted into the great room and instantly made my stomach eager to try whatever was being served at the moment.
I was taken to two large, polished wooden doors and told to wait quietly. The Secretary walked into the other room, leaving me outside with a bundle of nerves. I became blatantly aware of how silly I looked, compared to all the other souls in the room. My dress was the finest I owned, but it was a simple, solid blue color, with no embellishments or fancy trim. My hair was half tied back in a plain braided bun that I had done to the best of my ability. The only jewel that adorned my body was a small locket that had once been my grandmothers and that had escaped the greedy claws of my family.
How on Earth was I supposed to greet a King like this? He would take one look at me and sent me straight back to where I came from. Going home was my greatest desire, but I did not wish to suffer the humility of being so profoundly judged by the supreme ruler of my country.
Finally, after what seemed like hours, but in reality was only a minute, the doors opened and I was steered towards the throne room. Instinctively, I curtseyed gracefully at the King’s feet until he gently grabbed my hand and led me up.
I had seen the King a few times before in my life, but it was always from a distance, in the crowd of the poor. Never before had I seen him up close, let along have him touching me.
His face was serious, almost brooding, but surprising, his piercing blue eyes showed kindness and youth His curly brown hair was perfectly combed and shone in the morning sun.
He kissed the back of my hand and gave me a genuine smile that gave me no hint of alarm.
“Miss Elizabeth Hawkins, it gives me great pleasure to welcome you to Court and my castle. I trust that Jonathon took good care of you and your family?”
I nodded.
Wrongly assuming that my muteness was attributed to shyness, he tried to assure me that there was nothing to fear from him.
“You needn’t be afraid to speak, Elizabeth, I guarantee you can say nothing wrong here.”
