The Royal Consorts

The royal banquet was held outside in the garden, surrounded by beautiful, eye-pleasing flowers. Since the season had just started to change from summer to spring, the days were longer.

As Carmine and Alor made their way there, every fresh breath of air carried the faint fragrance of Gardenia, Roses, and Jasmine. The fragrance felt like a fresh bouquet of flowers, comforting the mind.

The atmosphere was perfect. The hot, blazing sun was no longer blazing. It was getting ready to go down the hill and retire for the day. Meanwhile, the cool moon was ascending on the other side of the sky. This created a perfect picture of tranquillity as the sky changed colour, a beautiful mix of blue, orange, red, and white, giving a serene hue.

All the seats were prearranged for the attendees, who were dressed in their finest silks and satins. Some of the court officials had already arrived and were seated.

A luxurious rectangular carpet adorned with intricate floral motifs stretched from the banquet's entrance. As Carmine walked toward her seat, she could feel the softness of the rug beneath her feet. The intricate details of the motifs were so exquisitely crafted that she almost felt guilty stepping on them. It was a stunning masterpiece, deserving to be hung on display to fully appreciate its beauty rather than serve as a mere carpet to walk upon.

As her gaze followed the intricate patterns of the motifs, her eyes stopped at an elevated performance stage in the centre of the venue. Moving forward, she noticed that the carpet and its elaborate design ended at the pedestal of the Emperor's seat.

The Emperor's seat, a symbol of unrivalled authority, was positioned at the most elevated place. Crafted from the finest wood, it exhibited a rich, dark brown colour with a lustrous shine. The intricate carvings and velvet pillows added to its grandeur, reflecting the Emperor's highest position in the nation and at the event.

As she reached the end of the carpet, Carmine was directed to the left side, where her seat had been assigned. Alor, meanwhile, was guided to the right side to sit with the other court officials.

On either side of the carpet, a row of designated seats and tables was placed. Each piece was adorned with intricate carvings—remarkable in craftsmanship, though not as commanding or grand as the Emperor's seat. The level of detail was just right, striking a perfect balance.

As Carmine observed the meticulous arrangement, she couldn't help but marvel at the grand opulence of the Norand kingdom. Every item, from the seats to the tables, had been meticulously designed, crafted, and placed to fit together seamlessly. The banquet, though seemingly simple at first glance, was a testament to the Kingdom's immense wealth, craftsmanship, and manpower, all presented in perfect harmony.

When she was directed to her seat, she noticed a beautiful lady sitting beside her. She did not know who the woman was. Around her, she also observed other female relatives of high-ranking officials—some appeared to be the wives of these officials, while others seemed to be their daughters.

However, the woman sitting next to her stood out as the most important of them all. Her attire, made from the most luxurious fabrics with intricate designs and adorned with gold and precious gems, subtly but unmistakably proclaimed her elevated status.

Having no knowledge of the ranks or roles of these women, she bowed to everyone with respect. She couldn't help but wonder if the woman beside her was one of the Emperor's consort.

Carmine had not yet fully embraced her identity as a Consort; it still felt distant and unfamiliar to her.

The beautiful, innocent-looking lady turned to her and offered a bright, angelic smile. Her warm expression gave Carmine hope that they might one day become friends. But before she could exchange any words, a hush fell over the crowd as the arrival of the Emperor was announced.

Emperor Cyanx made his way to his seat, and the festivities began.

Delicious food and drinks were served on bronze plates and in ornate cups. Carmine could see the Kingdom's prosperity and opulence on full display. The banquet was accompanied by enchanting music and graceful dancers, creating a lively atmosphere.

The Emperor raised his cup in a toast to Carmine and Alor, honouring them for saving his life. The officials followed suit, coming forward one by one to toast the pair and express their gratitude for their heroic actions.

Amid the festivities, Carmine noticed the elegant lady rise and step forward beside her. She bowed respectfully to the Emperor before speaking.

"Your Imperial Majesty," she began, her voice carrying grace and hesitation, "I had prepared a gift for General Carmine and Alor after hearing tales of their bravery on the battlefield. But now that General Carmine is no longer a General and has become a Consort in the inner palace, I fear my gift may no longer be appropriate."

The lively atmosphere of the banquet shifted at her words. A sudden stillness seemed to envelop the room as the joyous energy faded.

All eyes turned to Carmine, and murmurs began to ripple through the crowd. The guests seemed to be imagining the stark contrast between the ferocious war General she had been on the battlefield and the kind, delicate, and beautiful woman seated before them now.

Cyanx could sense the shift in the atmosphere.

"Consort Taupe," he said, his voice calm yet commanding, "You have shown great kindness in preparing a gift for them. Although Carmine's identity has changed and now holds different roles and duties, she will still be pleased to receive it. Please, present your gift."

"Your Imperial Highness, thank you for your grace and understanding," Consort Taupe replied, bowing deeply.

The gifts were presented: exquisite body armour crafted from the finest materials.

Once again, the atmosphere in the banquet hall stirred with murmurs and whispers. The guests began to comment among themselves:

"How can someone who once led armies now settle into the life of a household woman?"

"I was almost deceived by her appearance today, thinking she was kind and gentle. But imagining her in that battle armour—it gives me goosebumps."

Carmine heard their remarks clearly, but she chose not to respond. Instead, she smiled gracefully and said, "Thank you, Consort Taupe, for your thoughtful gift."

Inwardly, Carmine reflected that the armour was of exceptional quality and a fitting gift for the person she used to be. She harboured no ill feelings toward Consort Taupe, understanding that the gesture had been made with genuine kindness.

Carmine thought to herself, Consort Taupe is simply a sheltered woman, unaware of the repercussions of her actions.

"Rise, Consort Taupe," Emperor Cyanx commanded gently.

"Your Imperial Highness, I…" Consort Taupe hesitated, lowering her gaze.

"Is there something else?" the Emperor asked.

Consort Taupe took a deep breath, her voice trembling as if fearing punishment. "Your Imperial Highness, though I am of low status within the royal family, I am the only female relative in the imperial household. I believe it is my duty to uphold our traditions. As per custom, all new Consorts must present a gift to the Emperor during their first public appearance after their appointment."

Her words stirred another wave of whispers among the guests, loud enough for Carmine to hear.

"She's the Emperor's first appointed Consort, yet she's so arrogant! She didn't even bother to learn our traditions."

"She must have asked the Emperor for the title based on merit. Why else would he make her a Consort?"

Cyanx's expression remained calm, but his voice carried authority as he addressed the room. "It's fine. Carmine is not from here and is unaware of these rules."

Before he could say more, the wife of the Prime Minister interjected, her tone firm and deliberate. "Your Imperial Highness, when Consort Taupe was appointed to the Second Prince, she was not from here too. Yet, she made every effort to learn and follow our traditions dutifully. She even presented the most exquisite gift to him at her first public appearance.

"We must not set a precedent for partiality in matters of tradition."

Carmine could hear the harsh discussions swirling around her, their words cutting deeper as they questioned her family's upbringing and moral values. The bitterness of their judgment made her feel both sad and sour.

Carmine knew she had to end this matter once and for all. If she didn't, these accusations would linger like an irremovable stain, resurfacing repeatedly in the future.

Rising to her feet, she stepped forward and knelt before the Emperor.

"Your Imperial Highness," she began, her voice steady yet respectful, "please forgive me for my ignorance in not familiarizing myself with the traditions beforehand. I sincerely apologize for my oversight." She paused, then continued, her gaze unwavering.

"Since everything I have, all my riches, belonged to the Emperor, and since you already possess the world's most beautiful and valuable treasures in your treasury, I have nothing of equal worth to offer to the Emperor. Therefore, as your humble subject, I can only present something from my heart—a dance that tells the story of a wise king and his prosperous Kingdom. May I offer this as my gift to the Emperor?"

Cyanx nodded in approval.

As Carmine took her place on the stage, a transformation seemed to overtake her. Her demeanour, body language, and facial expressions radiated an ethereal grace, like a fairy who had descended into the mortal realm. Her movements were fluid as water, her steps as light as feathers. The room fell silent, every eye glued to her as she danced.

Her performance was mesmerizing. She exuded a feminine energy so captivating that it swept away all previous notions of her as a fierce, battle-hardened general. No one could associate this graceful, enchanting dancer with the dominating war leader they once knew.

Even Alor, her closest ally, was astonished. He had never known that Carmine possessed such remarkable talent. Every other dancer who had performed before her seemed to pale in comparison.

Emperor Cyanx watched her intently, a flicker of admiration in his eyes. This woman never ceases to amaze me, he thought. I had worried that the title of Consort would overshadow her, but now I see she is more than worthy. She is perfect for this role.

As Carmine danced, she noticed the audience's attention. The silence in the banquet hall was profound, and momentarily, it made her anxious. It had been years since she had last performed, but she had diligently honed her skills throughout her life as a princess, mastering the art to its highest level. She reminded herself to trust her abilities, and her body and mind did not fail her. She danced flawlessly, embodying the story and captivating everyone in the room.

When her performance concluded, Emperor Cyanx applauded, and said, "I am deeply honoured to receive such a magnificent and heartfelt gift," he said, his voice resonating with pride. "I hereby bestow upon Consort Carmine the title of 'The Ethereal Dancer' of Norand."

The hall erupted in applause, the whispers of judgment replaced with admiration and respect for her unmatched talent and grace.