He was right. The Sols were a different breed—welcoming where the Phares were cold.
“I hope our reception wasn’t too humble,” Gayle said. “We’ve been waiting for so long. Claydon saw a plait design in the city and couldn’t resist trying it. First on the goats, of course, but didn’t have enough time.”
Her words conjured a picture that made me stifle a laugh. “It’s a beautiful braid,” I managed, glancing at the intricate weave.
Her silver hair shimmered under the warm light of the lanterns lining the hall. The strands caught and twisted into an elaborate design that reminded me of quilted patterns.
“He’s always brimming with new ideas,” she said with a fond smile, steering us down another corridor.
Thick carpets muffled our steps, and the vibrant tapestries draped along the walls lent a surprising warmth to the otherwise cold stone. It felt familiar, welcoming.
“I’ve sent Poppy to fetch water for your bath. She’s one of the two maids we house here, though I can arrange for more if you require.”
“Only two?” I blinked, unable to hide my surprise. For a manor this size, the staff seemed small.
“Claydon values his privacy,” Gayle explained, patting my hand. “We keep the staff we need. We’re a close-knit household. Dinner is usually in the kitchen with the cook rather than in the dining hall.”
Their humility caught me off guard, stark against the grandeur of the manor. They didn’t wield their wealth like a weapon, as the Phares did. Instead, they shared their table with their people.
“Would the king normally dine in the hall proper?” I asked, curious.
“Oh, no,” she said, her laugh soft but genuine. “Kallias—KingKallias—has been a guest here for many years. He knows how Clay is. He often joins us in the kitchen.”
I hesitated, then tugged her to a stop. “I hope this isn’t too forward, but would it be possible to eat with you as you normally do? Formal dining halls and endless rows of servants… I’ve had my fill of them.”
Her brows arched before her expression softened, and a gleam of approval lit her eyes. “You’re just like Kallias.” She squeezed my hand. “Of course. You are welcome at our table. I’ll fetch you when dinner is ready, but until then, feel free to explore the manor. Guards are stationed near the entrances if you need directions.”
“Thank you.” I nodded, though uncertainty stirred beneath my calm. Would Kallias mind if I wandered alone?
We continued, passing halls that grew increasingly grand. The stone walls reflected the warm light of mirrored lanterns, creating a golden haze. Despite Claydon’s earlier protest about oil waste, the corridor glowed as though the sun itself dwelled within.
“And here we are,” Gayle said, pausing before a heavy wooden door. It swung open on silent hinges, and she peeked inside. “Poppy isn’t here yet, but I’m sure she’ll arrive soon.”
I stepped over the threshold, my breath catching. Tiny fragments of mirror adorned the ceiling, scattering the lantern light in a delicate dance across the walls. The room felt like a treasure trove of warmth and elegance. White and beige dominated, but muted green accents in tapestries and paintings provided a soothing contrast.
“It’s beautiful,” I murmured, venturing further.
The receiving area flowed into a dressing room, its chairs draped in furs, the decor plush and inviting. Beyond that, a massive canopy bed awaited, sheer curtains cascading around it like waterfalls of silk. A double door led to the bathing chamber, where more mirrored fragments turned the space into a sanctuary of light.
“How have I not heard of this place?” I asked, marveling.
Gayle’s soft chuckle drifted from the doorway. “As I said, Clay values his privacy, and Kallias respects it in gratitude for his service during the war.”
“The king told me he served as a healer.”
“One of the best.” Pride laced her tone. “He saved the king’s life more than once. But those are tales for another time. Rest now, Princess.”
She took her leave, her steps fading down the hall. I wandered into the bathing chamber, loosening the pins in my hair. The question of dinner lingered. How did one dress for an evening with friends? My wardrobe was tailored for courtly events, not intimate gatherings.
I sucked in a deep breath hoping Poppy had some ideas.
Chapter Twenty-Nine
Kallias
Clay had that look about him. The kind that said he was up to no good.
“I have bred moon-spotted Kuh’lir,” he announced, his tone as proud as if he’d discovered a treasure.
