The Third Prince Of Darkness

Marsiel's words carried a profound meaning, implying that loyalty could not truly be believed in until it was tested. Her demeanor made it clear that she was no ordinary concubine. Lady Elbuanur slightly furrowed her brows at her daughter's statement but refrained from saying anything.

"I'll note that as an interesting perspective," I said to Marsiel.

Then, I began walking toward the concubine quarters. Guided by Lady Elbuanur, we proceeded into the grand halls of the concubine palace. The hall, with its high ceilings and intricate decorations, was a reflection of elegance and grandeur. Rows of concubines stood silently between marble columns, their heads bowed and hands clasped respectfully in front of them. The curiosity and tension in their eyes intensified the atmosphere of the place.

As my footsteps echoed, a few of them cautiously directed their gazes toward me. However, these glances were fleeting, and they quickly lowered their heads again. Lady Elbuanur stepped forward slightly, as if she were about to introduce each one to me.

"Your Majesty," she said in a calm yet authoritative tone, "these are the concubines chosen for you. Each has pledged unconditional loyalty to your commands and service."

I observed them in silence for a while. Each one possessed unique beauty and charm. Among them was a woman with dark skin—a rarity. She likely came from one of the farthest in Islands federation. The presence of people with this complexion was extremely rare, making them more valuable and exotic. For a ruler to have a dark-skinned concubine was a form of power display.

Unlike in my previous world, dark-skinned individuals were not treated as slaves here. Instead, they were viewed as exotic individuals because of their scarcity. Beside the dark-skinned woman stood another with similar curves and allure, casting me furtive glances.

My gaze continued to move among the concubines. I hadn't realized Richard was something of a collector. There was a woman with slanted eyes, a beast woman with long rabbit ears, and another with a dusky complexion. Although I had visited this place before, I hadn't noticed these women. The rest of the dozens of women here were generally seductive and beautiful.

Honestly, I didn't feel much desire for them. I already had women who loved me and were incredibly beautiful. Still... a little greed isn't always a bad thing.

My eyes lingered on the diversity among the women before me. Each represented a different interpretation of beauty and allure. I realized Richard's collection wasn't solely a political or strategic power move; it also reflected his personal tastes. Yet, I wasn't sure if I could sense genuine loyalty or form meaningful bonds among them.

Lady Elbuanur, bowing slightly, spoke again:

"Your Majesty, each of these women has been specially chosen. They have been trained to care for and serve men. If you wish, you may select anyone."

"I'm not particularly interested at the moment," I said, emphasizing the word moment in my tone, which caught the attention of the women.

"I'm here to say a few words to each of you before leaving. You and your daughters will remain here. Your sons will work for the crown. In other words, everything will continue as it has. You're likely aware that we're in the midst of a sort of civil war. Whether you trust my words is up to you, but I will absolutely win this war." I stepped closer to the women as I spoke.

"However, should any of you attempt to assist my step-siblings in any way... I assure you, you'll regret it. Continue living as you have. When the war is over, you can be certain that each of you will be rewarded." Stay updated through empire

One might question why I would issue such threats to the royal concubines. After all, I'm a king, and these women are merely concubines. But in my view, the most dangerous individuals are often those like them. Even a small leak of information from them could cause significant harm to me.

The women exchanged brief but careful glances in silence after my words. Some had fear in their eyes, others had suspicion. They clearly grasped the weight of my words but chose to remain silent, knowing it was the safest course of action for their survival.

Noticing the tension I had created among the royal concubines, Lady Elbuanur softened her tone as she spoke.

"Your Majesty, you needn't doubt the loyalty of these women. They are here solely to care for and serve you. They have understood the seriousness of your words."

"I hope so," I said, turning around. "Marsiel, would you accompany me back to the palace?"

Marsiel's expression changed. Not because she was rebellious, but because she was shy and rarely spoke much.

I noticed the brief surprise on her face, but she quickly composed herself, bowing her head slightly. "Of course, Your Majesty," she said, her voice soft yet carrying a distinct humility. I felt that spending more time with her would be intriguing because Marsiel was vastly different from the others. Her words and demeanor suggested a personality that went beyond the concept of being a concubine.

Lady Elbuanur took a step back as she bid us farewell. I couldn't decipher the fleeting expression in her eyes, but I chose not to dwell on it. Marsiel and I began walking through the palace's stone-paved garden, which was bathed in the golden light of the late afternoon sun. The scene exuded a tranquility that felt almost surreal.

"So, is there anything you desire? I still haven't properly rewarded you for saving my mother and me."

Marsiel tilted her head slightly at my question, falling silent for a moment. Her expression held a mix of gratitude and hesitation. When her eyes met mine, I sensed the depth hidden within them.

"Your Majesty, saving my mother and me was already the greatest reward," she said. Her voice was calm and gentle, yet there was a subtle undertone of modesty and shyness. "Being by your side, serving you, is more than enough for us."

Her response was deeply humble but carried a kind of sincerity that couldn't be ignored. Still, I was certain there were unspoken emotions and thoughts behind her words. Marsiel didn't strike me as someone who would settle for a simple thank you. I wanted to give her the chance to express herself.

"You don't need to be so modest," I said. "Everyone has a desire in their heart. Perhaps there's something you've never had the courage to express before now?"

As I spoke, I watched a faint look of surprise appear on Marsiel's face. Her eyes drifted briefly into the distance before returning to me. It was as if she wanted to say something, but hesitated.

"Your Majesty…" she began, her voice low but resolute. "Throughout my life, my mother and I have lived like shadows. In the eyes of others, I was nothing more than a potential concubine. But sometimes… I've thought that I could be something more."

Her words caught me off guard. The courage with which she revealed her feelings deepened my interest in her.

"What do you mean by 'something more'?" I asked.

"If you would allow it, I would like to use my skills for you and your family," she said. "I've heard that the palace's head healer fled after the war. If you permit, I would like to take on that role."

When I heard Marsiel's request, I couldn't hide my surprise. I hadn't expected her to make such an ambitious proposal. Yet her words intrigued me as much as they gave me pause. Healing magic was a rare and valuable skill, and Marsiel's ability was proof that she was far more than just a concubine candidate.

"Healing magic is a rare and precious gift," I said. "It would indeed be a shame to let such a talent go to waste in the concubines' quarters. From now on, I appoint you as the head healer of my palace. Visit me later to finalize the formalities."

The surprise on Marsiel's face quickly transformed into a radiant smile. Bowing her head humbly, she said, "This is a great honor, Your Majesty. I am deeply grateful." The sincerity and excitement in her voice made it clear how much this decision meant to her.

It would have been unjust to ignore the potential and determination within this young woman. Throughout my life, I had learned the importance of recognizing and placing talented people where they belonged. Allowing someone like Marsiel to remain only a concubine would have been a disservice both to her talents and to my family's needs.Nôv(el)B\\jnn

I wasn't sure if Marsiel realized this, but if she went to Alpshar right now and demonstrated her abilities, he'd likely appoint her as his own head healer. In fact, her coming to me with this request showed that she already understood the value of her skills.

"Well then, I'll see you later, Miss Marsiel."

"It was an honor to speak with you, Your Majesty. Once again, I offer my heartfelt thanks for the opportunity you've given me."