Defying the King

Chapter Six

Ping barely slept, but when she did, it was uneasy. Even in her dreams, she felt trapped. When she finally woke, the room was bathed in soft morning light.

For a moment, she forgot where she was. Then, reality hit her—she was in Mora, in the Shadow King's palace.

A knock on the door pulled her from her thoughts.

The door opened, and a group of maids entered, carrying warm water, fine combs, and delicate robes. Ping sat up cautiously.

"We are here to prepare you, My Lady," one of them said with a bow.

Ping frowned. "I can bathe myself."

The maids exchanged glances before one, Mei, spoke up. "Forgive us, but it is our duty to assist you. His Majesty is expecting you to dine with him this morning."

Ping tensed.

She was expected to sit and eat with him? Like they were a normal husband and wife?

Her heart pounded, but then she clenched her fists. No. She wouldn't do it.

"Tell the king I'm not coming," she said firmly.

The room went silent.

Mei's eyes widened in shock. No one… no one had ever refused the king's summons.

Ping lifted her chin. She didn't care if it was reckless. She wouldn't play along with whatever game the Shadow King had planned for her.

Mei swallowed hard. This woman… she has guts.