Chapter XIV: Departure

Isabella entered Alicent's private chambers, her heart heavy with a mix of emotions. She watched as a seamstress delicately fitted a stunning dress onto Alicent, her friend exuding an air of elegance and grace. "Alicent, why did you summon me?" Isabella inquired softly, her voice tinged with curiosity.

Alicent turned to face her, a bittersweet smile gracing her lips. "The king has released me from the Harem," she revealed, her eyes reflecting a myriad of emotions.

Isabella's heart skipped a beat at the news. While she was happy for Alicent's newfound freedom, she couldn't shake the feeling of loss at the prospect of being separated from her only friend in the Harem. "Are you leaving to get married?" Isabella asked, her voice tinged with sadness.

Alicent shook her head gently, a solemn expression crossing her features. "No, my father is ill, and I must return home to care for him," she explained, her voice filled with concern for her family.

Isabella's heart went out to Alicent and her family in their time of need. "I'm so sorry to hear about your father," she murmured, offering her friend a sympathetic smile. "I wish him a good recovery."

As Alicent descended from the fitting stand, she reached for a small box wrapped in cloth from the nearby table. "Before I leave, I have something for you," she said, holding out the box to Isabella.

Curiosity piqued, Isabella carefully unwrapped the package, revealing a beautifully bound book filled with stories from Allendor. Tears welled in her eyes as she realized the significance of the gift. "Alicent, this is... it's wonderful," she whispered, her voice choking with emotion.

Alicent smiled warmly, her eyes shining with affection. "Keep it well hidden," she cautioned softly. "It's a piece of your homeland, a reminder of who you are."

Overwhelmed with gratitude, Isabella threw her arms around Alicent in a heartfelt embrace. "Thank you, my dear friend," she murmured, her voice filled with emotion. "I will treasure it always."

As Alicent bid her farewell and departed from the Harem, Isabella felt a pang of sadness pierce her heart. She watched her friend's retreating figure, a sense of emptiness settling in the space she left behind. With Alicent gone, Isabella realized she was not only losing a dear friend but also her main source of protection from the cruel antics of the other girls in the Harem.

In the days leading up to the Alduramend festivities, the Harem was a whirlwind of activity as Lady Theda meticulously orchestrated the preparations. The festival was celebrated in most of the realm and it was considered sacred, to ensure the prosperous harvests the following year. Every corner of the Harem echoed with the sound of bustling maids and fluttering fabrics as costumes were tailored and dance routines perfected. The air was alive with the scent of fresh flowers, brought in to adorn the girls' hair and add a touch of natural elegance to their attire.

As the festival drew nearer, the excitement within the Harem reached a fever pitch. Isabella found herself swept up in the whirlwind of activity, her heart pounding with anticipation at the prospect of joining the festivities. The opportunity to step beyond the confines of the Harem and partake in the grandeur of the royal court was a rare privilege, one she eagerly embraced despite the twinge of nostalgia it stirred for her distant homeland.

Lady Theda orchestrated the preparations for the upcoming festivities with meticulous precision. She directed the concubines through vigorous dance rehearsals, ensuring each movement was executed flawlessly. Amidst the flurry of activity, Lady Theda meticulously oversaw the creation of the girls' costumes, each one meticulously crafted to reflect the vibrant beauty of the king's gardens.

As Isabella eagerly anticipated her role in the celebration, her excitement turned to disappointment upon discovering her costume. With a furrowed brow, she approached Lady Theda, questioning the absence of her floral attire. "Where are my flowers?" she inquired, her voice tinged with confusion.

With a mischievous smile, Lady Theda replied, "Oh, Isabella, it seems I must have forgotten about your costume. But you’ve never been an extravagant lady, right? I bet that dress will suit you just fine." Her words carried a subtle edge and sarcasm, leaving Isabella feeling unsettled.

As the other concubines pranced about in their colorful dresses, Isabella couldn't shake the feeling of being left out. Lady Dara's laughter echoed through the halls as she cast a disdainful glance in Isabella's direction. "Look at her," she sneered at her companions, "she’s going to the ball dressed like a poor slave… Seems fitting."

Isabella's cheeks flushed with embarrassment as she averted her gaze, her heart sinking with each passing moment. Despite her efforts to conceal her disappointment, the sting of Lady Dara's mockery lingered, casting a shadow over her anticipation for the festival ahead.
The Dragon King’s Concubine
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