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The royal harem of Rhodesia (DaveTheHuman x Poppy)

Poppy

Poppy

Star
Joined
Sep 5, 2017
The Kingdom of Rhodesia was well known on the continent for it’s beautiful, pastoral countryside. It didn’t quarrel with the neighbors, the Silvia and Trussaley empire, instead focusing the efforts on serving the people of the Kingdom instead of feeding a never ending war machine. While Silvia was for education and magic, Trussaley was all for war and increasing their territory. Rhodesia produced most of the food for the three countries, as it had the most suitable land.

Rhodesia had been blessed by a strong royal family that had ruled the land without interruption ever since the dawn of recorded history. The Rinali royal family was just and fair, never lacking in male heirs to take the throne. The leadership was lauded in songs and stories, but things had been changing for the last hundred years. The royal family had started to shift, becoming corrupt and greedy for money, raising the taxes to unthinkable levels in order to fund their lavish lifestyle.

The Kings of Rhodesia had ensured that their lineage survived by forming a harem. In the early days, the harem took a girl from every noble household that offered one, in hopes of securing an alliance with the throne. It was expected of the King to bed and breed these women, in order to ensure a successor to the blood line. After all, it wasn’t uncommon for children to take ill and pass. So having a spare for the heir was mandatory.

The harem was a place of wonder and beauty, no other place was as beautifully decorated in the lands. The harem palace was just as big as the King’s palace, but full of beautiful women in even lovelier clothing. The children were also allowed to stay with their mothers, and the rooms a woman was given depended on her status as the King’s favorite, or having many children. There were inside gardens beyond compare, a sizeable pond inside to swim in, and gorgeous murals. Not to mention the access to education, books, instruments, and other fine items.

In order to remain in the harem, all one had to do was please the King and remain loyal. All of the harem wives wore red, the color of royalty. It marked them as women that were bonded to the crown, and no one else could touch them. From time to time, a woman in the harem might fall in love with a guard or a servant. But, it was a dangerous game. For if they were caught, the man was put to death and the woman was shamed. Her beautiful hair would be shorn, and sent away to a brothel. Such was the fate of female prisoners in the kingdom, in order to work and earn money for the royal family.

But, for the last century, the Rinali family was causing friction among the noble houses for how they selected the ladies for the harem. Instead of taking in women who were offered, the royal family began to demand. The selfish Kings only desired the most beautiful, even if they were their family’s only child. If a family would dare to defy his wishes, the consequences could be extreme. With the current monarch, he had failed to produce any children with a single member of the harem. And as he was soon to reach his fiftieth winter, there was audible concern in the court. So he extended his search for young and beautiful noble women, requiring them no matter the cost.

Such was the fate for Circe Animus, the only beloved daughter of her family. The Animus family was one of the lowest ranked noble families, tasked with breeding and training the fine horses used by the King and the Generals in the military. In addition, the family was known for their trait of white blonde hair and eyes of varying purple shades. Their skin remained fair and white, no matter how much they worked outside. Her father had been the whipping boy for the current King, Georgio Rinali, so he considered him to be a friend. The King had his eye on Circe ever since she had her first bleed, but had to wait until her sixteenth birthday to send summons to inform her of her accomplishment of securing a spot in the harem.

Due to having considered himself close friends to the King, the patriarch of the Animus family asked for the King to reconsider. And when Georgio insisted, they tried to smuggle their daughter to another noble family, in order to try to keep her safe. Unfortunately, the guards that had been sent to escort her to the palace were able to stop the plan. Circe was forcibly taken to the harem, while the rest of the Animus family were publicly executed. They were to be a lesson to the other nobles, to teach them to stay in line.

In order to try to win her affections, the King allowed Circe access to the stable. She had grown up with the horses, and Georgio hoped that with some time and preferential treatment, her affections would shine upon him. Even if she didn’t care for him, in time, he would have his way with her. Only the highest ranking women in the harem were allowed out of the harem palace, so this was seen as quite the privilege.

For a decade, she spent any of her time allowed out of the harem palace in the stables, finding comfort with the horses. She had failed to bear the King a child, and he was beginning to turn abusive to his harem wives. But here, in the quiet stable, she could escape her current situation and instead help to take care of the horses that her family had helped to breed. The white haired girl was forbidden to ride, lest she be with child.

During the beginning of her stay in the harem palace, there had been a stable boy that she enjoyed conversing with. Of course, if anyone else was around, she would be basically mute around the boy. Dressed in red, she was the property of the King. And Circe didn’t wish to have him punished for speaking to her. Some servants, as of late, had been executed for simply meeting the gaze of the King. The women could only be touched or gazed upon by the King and no one else. But, in time, the boy had disappeared. A part of her was afraid that someone had caught them talking, and reported it for their own financial gain. For a time, she was sick with worry, having thought the boy to be her only friend left in the world. And for the past seven years, she felt truly and utterly alone.

However, for the last few years, there was a revolt. The peasant and noble classes were tired of the high taxes and barely any food, as their crops had been sold to the surrounding kingdoms versus enough being kept to feed the citizens properly. The King’s head was now on a pike, and there was unrest and uncertainty in the royal harem. The harem was seen by most as an excessive expense, a drain on the coffers. With the Rinali royal family now dead, the very lives of the women were in jeopardy. Were they to remain, and be faithful to the new King? Or, were they to be executed, in order for the peasants to feel some small amount of victory. Some noble families had already came for their daughters that were taken forcibly, the harem slightly emptier than normal.

But on this date, after weeks of uncertainty, the women were informed that the new King would be coming to let them know of their fates. They were to gather in the common area and wait, no matter how long it took, for the man to show. Circe was dressed in red, the color she loathed the most, as that was all any woman in the harem had to wear. Her long white hair hanging loose around her face. In order to pass the time, she had selected a book to read, curled up onto one of the ornate and gilded chairs in the area.

Some of the women, hoping to attract the attentions of the new King, wore every piece of finery they had and painted their faces accordingly. Circe simply wore the necklace her mother had, a red velvet band with the Animus family coat of arms in green and silver. A small tiara was placed upon her crown, another item that had been her mother’s. While some women panicked and gossiped, Circe was the epitome of calm, waiting for her new King to arrive.
 
David

Circe

Map


Atop his horse, the newly crowned David rode slowly toward the harem. His eyes looked up at the multi-story stone structure and noticed it had not changed the slightest since he had departed over a decade ago.

The man had started his life with only his mother. She was a seamstress and money was always scarce. However, she had just enough to bribe the stablemaster of the harem to get her son an apprenticeship. It was a high position for someone of his birth, but unfortunately it wouldn't last long.

David had brushed the horses, mucked the stables, and did all manner of chores for nearly a year until the king demanded his removal. The stablemaster had come to trust his apprentice, so he confided in his what he thought the reason for his dismissal was. "My best guess is his Grace don't want a young buck around all his does. It would be wise to leave quietly, lad."

From there, David did the only thing he could do. He kissed his mother goodbye and joined the Rhodesian army. He was just a young teen, but they signed him on nonetheless. His skill with horses funneled him into cavalry, but when they found he could shoot a bow, he was immediately sent into the mounted archers unit. The training was grueling and it never ended, even when he had been accepted by the unit. However, he excelled in the ability to steady a bow while a horse galloped full speed.

Despite Rhodesia being a peaceful country, the youth learned a great deal about leading and fighting. But he also learned of the discontent toward the recent Rinali line. Proud soldiers could not stand the thought of serving a king who had no love or respect for his people. At first it was just talk and speculation, but then it became true. During a time of drought, the king ordered the army to secure the delivery routes for food to be sold to the Silvian Empire. With so many suffering the famine that drought brought, it was a shaking moment for David and the men.

The grievances then escalated to the point where if only a fraction were true, the king was not worthy of the crown. It had been hard, cunning work, but in the end the rebellion was organized. There were no ranks of ragged farmers fighting in the war. It was between the two halves of the army. The devastation was immeasurable and the hatred burned like a fire over oil. But when the final battle came to the city of Calais, just miles away, the reckoning had come. David led his men against the loyalist in the open field as one people united under a single cause. It had been bloody and costly, but when the sun set over the field, the tyranny was over.

For the first week, the uncertainty hung heavy in the air. With no leader, they were vulnerable to the two neighboring empires. Court was held among the rebels as to who would lead, and how it would be done. Lords threw their own names into the mix, but it was not the will of the people. They did not trust noble blood. Then the nomination came out, David could be king. A young, baseborn, strong man who was a natural soldier and leader. He could unite Rhodesia and stand firm in the eyes of Silvia and Trussaley.

The idea seemed ludicrous to the mounted archer, but the support soon burned hotter. On the second week after the decisive battle, David was crowned King of Rhodesia.

As he stepped into the harem, servants, guards, and the women bowed. There was silence. David looked around at the place and the faces of all who stood before him. He had guessed lords would remove their daughters the first chance they got, and he could not blame them for it. He had thought long on what the fate of the harem would be. The subject was sensitive.

After a long while, he spoke. "My name is King David. By rights, this harem is mine..." He paused looking again at the faces of the many. "Those of you who wish to leave the harem need only speak with my treasurer." David motioned to an older man who stood off to the side. "He will arrange your travel wherever you call home."

No one moved, but David suspected it was not because of their desire for him, but for the respect of waiting until he was finished.

"I understand the need for the harem, so it will not be dissolved. However, things will be changing once I understand it more fully. But the thing that will not change is if anyone wishes to leave, they will not be stopped."

David expected the women to line up in front of the treasurer right there. He had finished speaking and the choice was theirs.

The man had never imagined owning a harem. A month ago, the thought of having a wife had touched his thoughts. He had known a woman who was close to the mounted archer's unit. She had designed and made the arrows unique to their short bows, and at times she would send volleys with the infantry archers. Her name was Ella and they had been close.

Being in a rebellion changed the way a person thought. Turning one's back on a long line of kings was no different than forfeiting one's life. Because of this, the two had become intimate, relieving the stress of imminent mortality. David did not know if he loved her, or if she loved him. However, they were close nonetheless and got along well. But it was during the battled of Calais when he lost her. Her loss tore at him, bittering the victory they had wanted for so long. Had she been alive, the harem would have been dissolved.

As David stood there in front of the many beautiful women, awaiting their choice, his eyes caught hers. She had light hair and purple iris'. Was this the same woman he had spoken with often in the stables? It couldn't be. That was so long ago.
 
Circe’s eyes took in the sight of the strapping blonde man who entered the harem. Compared to the former King, who was balding and overweight, this man was a sight to behold. He wasn’t dressed in the finery that a typical king would insist on wearing, instead wearing simple clothes. But it was easy to tell, even from her seated position, that he would tower over any woman in the harem. But there was something undeniably familiar about him, but she couldn’t place her finger on it.

She had taken a break from reading the book she had chosen, putting it down in her lap. It would be for the best to give her new liege her entire attention. It was obvious from the reactions of the assembled women that his attractiveness was admired. But, when he offered that any woman was free to leave the harem, they exchanged looks.

Of course, the highest ranking women who still had their family alive were already gone. This left the lower noble girls, whose family couldn’t afford to care for them, would receive them with shame, or simply were deceased. But, with news that their travels home would be funded, this changed some of the women’s minds towards entertaining the thought of leaving.

Once the new King was done speaking, one of the oldest women in the harem got to her feet and approached the treasurer. This was a woman who many in the harem looked up to. She was past her prime years for child bearing, having been brought into the harem the year that the last Rinali King was crowned. She walked with a silent grace, the first one to begin to inform the Treasurer that she wished to return home.

This gave the majority of the girls the bravery to come forward as well and stand in the line in order to be allowed to leave and have the money to do so. After all, funding their travels and providing a small stipend for their service was certainly cheaper than having to feed and outfit them and possible children they could now birth in the harem. Circe went back to her book, opening it and silently returning to the task of reading. There was no point in leaving the harem. Every blood relative of hers had been executed long ago. She had no family, her home given away to more loyal nobles.

By the time the women lined up, there were less than ten left in the large room. The harem was designed to house 100 women, in addition to the servants and guards they required. And then, there was even more space for any children that could be bone. The women were spread out in the room, obviously not a part of the same social circles that existed in the harem. They were of varying ages and appearances.

One of the girls who remained was young and beautiful, the last harem wife the former King had taken. She wore the most vibrant clothing and the best jewelry. The dark haired beauty had been well loved, and her family were nobles who served the King by acting as advisors. They had chosen to have her stay versus bringing her home, as she could serve the new King and perhaps even become Queen if she performed up to the task. If she were to birth his first son, that would be even better. Her name was Aurelia.

“Then we will be the ones to stay, and serve the new monarch. I am Sorrell, the eldest of the harem.” The woman who spoke was the eldest out of the assembled, in her early thirties. From what she could surmise, she was now the oldest and in the hierarchy of the harem, expected to be the mother figure to the girls. At least, until the King might choose a wife from their numbers. Then, the wife would rule over the harem as her personal court, the women her handmaidens in a way.

The former King had not chosen a wife, so the oldest member of the harem took the job. She was in an unfortunate situation, her family having been in the Holy Church, the personal priests for the former King. There was no way they would allow her back into the family, seeing her as nothing more than a whore who was an embarrassment to them. She had long, thick and curly rust colored hair and emerald green eyes.

“It will be our honor to help propagate your lineage.” A woman with whispy blonde hair and a soft voice added, a little older than Circe. She was the most skilled at hand crafts, excelling in sewing and any other similar task. Her work was treasured in the harem, seen for the works of art that they were. She was busy setting to the task at hand, working on decorating a handkerchief that would be a gift to the new King. She honestly was thin enough to appear unhealthy, lithe in form. Her name was Germaine.

The white haired girl said nothing, instead choosing to stay silent and watch everything. The other girls in the harem that remained did the same, in order to figure out the new King.
 
The treasurer, an older man named Heran Weathers, watched as the first harem women walked toward him. He asked her how long she had been in the harem, where she would like to be taken, and how many things she'd be taking with her. He was surprised to hear how long she had served the former king, but said nothing of it. Heran calculated how much her earnings should be based off of the years of service and said "A carriage will take you to the port whenever you are ready. I know of a ship called The Crest which will be leaving in two days time. Extra has been included for you to stay at an inn."

The woman thanked him and left to pack her things. That was when the flood of women lined up. Heran's eyes widened and he glanced and the new king. But his eyes did not linger, it was too soon to know the affect of the King, and this moment could be seen as embarrassing.

So Heran pulled up a chair and got to work compensating the women and making arrangements for their departure.

David watched as the line grew. He had expected many would take his offer, however he did not imagine it would leave so few remaining. But it did not concern him. He had learned as a military leader that you could only truly rely on those who wished to be in their station. So even though only a fraction of the women remained, he was content.

The King was pleased when one of the women stepped forward and introduced herself. Her name was Sorrell, and as one would expect, was very attractive with her red hair. She was the eldest remaining, but it seemed age was gentle on her.

David was happy that she introduced herself. He was finding that people were hesitant around him now, gauging his personality or expecting him to do all of the talking. So for this small gesture, he thought highly of her.

He smiled and said "It is a pleasure to meet you, Sorrell."

Then a thin woman with blonde hair who was working on sewing something said “It will be our honor to help propagate your lineage.” David thanked her, still finding it strange to have so many women for the purpose of bearing him children. But it was a necessary thing. He then asked her name and learned it was Germaine.

From then, no one else introduced themselves and David did not wish to force it out of them. Two out of the eight women had come forward, and he was pleased.

His thoughts lingered on the woman with light hair and purple eyes. David thought to speak with her, but she remained seated and appeared to be busy with her book. It seemed she did not wish to be here, but then why had she not taken up his offer? David decided to let it wait. The six unnamed women would warm up to him in time or leave of their own accord.

While Germaine busied herself with sewing, Sorrell's eyes stayed on David. So he stepped toward her and said "I used to be a stable apprentice here a decade ago. However, I have never set foot in the harem except for the cook to sneak food away for me. Would you mind giving me a tour?"

Sorrell accepted and the pair walked together. She led him deeper into the ground floor. They passed through the main hall where they had been standing and then into a large room with massive windows facing the mountains beyond. The view was amazing, but David's eyes were on the room. It seemed to be designed to capture nature in an indoor form. There was a pond inside with healthy green trees and plant life around. All of the greenery appeared meticulously trimmed and the water didn't have a singe spot of algae.

Sorrell said "These are the gardens. It is said that it contains every species of plant found in Rhodesia. The pond is fed from the hot springs of the mountain, however for the health of the plants the water is cooled slightly, yet still warm."

David was mesmerized by the room. He had heard of glass gardens in the winters to grow crops, but this was on such a bigger scale. It seemed impossible to him.

He turned to Sorrell and asked "Is the pond fit for swimming?" He did not see why it would not be, but then again this was very new to him.

She nodded and said "Yes, the temperature makes it a very popular spot in the harem. Although..." She stopped her words, not wanting to mention the decreased size of the harem.

David knew what she was getting at, so for her comfort he moved on with the conversation. "I can see myself really enjoying this room."

She smiled at the recovery and said "You can't see it from here, but when you reach the low rise of the grass field outside, there is a larger pond beneath. There are even some trees to provide areas of shade."

The pair walked through the indoor gardens before going to the second story. This floor seemed to be a lounge. In the great openness of it were many couches, beds, pillows, and cushioned seats. Even the floor beneath him felt like it was cushioned.

Sorrell said "This is the living room. The curtains facing the mountain can always be drawn to allow more privacy."

David nodded looking all around. He then asked "One of the women who stayed. She had light hair and purple eyes. What is her name?" He remembered the harem girl who visited the stables to be named Circe, but this couldn't be her. It had been so long and she had grown so much into her womanly form.
 
Aurelia would have stepped forward and thrown herself at the King, but she knew better than to speak or act before the oldest in the harem. It was simply how things worked. And besides, it would be easy enough in time to seduce the new King. She kept her eyes trained on him, watching and waiting. If she had been the former monarch’s favorite, then she wanted to be David’s preferred harem wife as well.

Circe remained invested in her book, but that didn’t mean that she stopped paying attention to what was said for the time being. She did mentally note that King David had a pleasant voice. With any luck, he wouldn’t be as cruel to the harem women. Circe had never, not even once, given herself willingly to King Georgio. After all, he had no way to punish her for fighting back. He had already taken everything she loved. Underneath her dress, her pale skin was littered with burns and cuts from the various injuries the sadist King would gift her with. She had been the King’s favorite for some time, but in the past year that Aurelia had arrived, she finally found some peace.

When David made mention of formerly being a stable boy, her violet eyes flicked up for a moment. Could he have been the sweet boy who spoke to her, the only kindness from so long ago? ‘That can’t be.’ Circe resolutely told herself mentally, not allowing her hopes to get up. ‘There were as many stable boys as there are birds in the sky.’ She resumed reading her book. One of the reasons why she hadn’t bothered to get up was as her foot had last been broken by the Rinali King. Due to her past physical traumas, she already walked with a limp.

When the man realized that he was losing, he went to the harem. A real leader would have been on the battlefield, helping to guide the war. But instead, he sought comfort. But he instead opted to be as cruel to the women as he had ever been. He preferred to be the worst to Circe, but Germaine was a close second. After all, she was so thin and weak, it would be easy to strangle her to death just for his enjoyment.

When the soldiers had finally arrived at the castle, this was where they found him, in bed with as many women that could fit on the oversized mattress in the royal chambers of the harem. The men dragged him away, naked, even if he fought and screamed the entire time. The Rinali King was quite the sight, having to parade around the peasants outside the Castle, in the nude. Only after that was the man publicly executed without trial. After all, his life’s choices set the tone for the punishment he was to receive.

Sorrell was honored to have the chance to lead the King around and give him the grand tour. If she would have been Aurelia, it would have been a leg up. Honestly, she didn’t care what the King would think of her. The redheaded woman was willing to serve him, and that was enough for her.

In the privacy of the upper areas, Sorrell was not surprised to have the King speak to her directly concerning members of the harem. If they would have continued through the large gilt doors to the right, the royal bed chambers would have been discovered. At the opposite end, there was the empty rooms that the Queen would one day live in. On the side without the windows facing the mountains, there the final large set of double doors. This would lead to the banquet and entertainment hall, where the meals were taken. The kitchens were on the first floor, for ease of everyday access. This room was only used when the King was in the harem to take his meals. All of the harem members stayed on the first floor.

“Please do not think less of her for not doing so.” Sorrell apologize for the silent girl. She found Circe to be likeable on a personal level. Never once had the pale haired girl engaged in the typical harem gossip, instead doing her best to keep to herself or spend time with the older ladies. But, if you wanted a bk to be recommended to her, there was no better girl. Not to mention, that when she was convinced to join in on their singing, she had the loveliest voice of all.

“Her name is Circe, of the former Animus House.” It was how to speak of one who had lost their family. “The last of her noble branch...and even if she looks as cold as snow, I promise, there’s a sweet girl there. She’s in the prime of her childbearing years. Germaine, however….I would exercise extreme caution with her.” The woman paused, pressing her lips together to think of how to continue without worrying her new liege too much.

“She has always been a sickly girl, and I would be afraid that if she carries a child, it could be the death of her. But, she will be an amazing mother to any of the children you have with the other harem girls. I am not completely familiar with all of the girls, but enough to be able to tell you some basic things about the harem wives you have left.”

Sorrell hesitated to tell him more of harem life, not wanting to overwhelm him with information. It was common, in earlier generations, for the children to be raised by all of women and address them all as mother. It was only their birth mothers that were referred to as Lady Mother, in order to differentiate them. It was a unique, mini village inside of the harem.
 
David was surprised to hear Sorrell apologize on Circe's behalf. The man had only asked for her name. However, he noticed when he had entered the harem, Sorrel was standing while the others sat. Also, she was the first to break the silence when he finished talking. Perhaps Sorrel did both of those things out of respect. David did not yet understand the hierarchy of the harem was based on age until he chose a favorite.

He listened as she spoke about Circe, it was the same girl he had known over a decade ago. However, he had not known about her family's fall at the time. Whenever he would see her in the stables, her thoughts were on the horses, or so it seemed. Being a stable apprentice made talking with her easy.

Sorrell continue and mentioned Circe's fertility followed by Germaine's frailness. David was beginning to see that there were a great deal of things he needed to learn about this place. It seemed to be the theme of his few weeks as ruler. There was so much to learn that he could understand any king going a bit crazy from it.

There were trials to attend on high-ranking loyalists, and there were always the games that lords played. Remembering which ones despised each other and their lengthy histories was tiring. However, it was all very necessary. David did not take his responsibilities as king lightly. However, he could not do it alone. He relied on advisors, but knew even their words had to be taken with caution. Everything was a learning experience and a balancing act at the same time. He would not shy away from it.

The pair walked through the second floor, seeing the living area, King's chambers, Queen's chambers, and entertainment hall. He found his chambers to be quite large and comfortable looking. The bed was massive. David smiled to himself thinking it could likely fit him and the eight women who remained.

On the ground floor, Heran continued with the line of former harem women. It took well over an hour to get through them all, but it had finally finished. Most of the women would be staying one more evening to pack and await carriages. The remainder just had to pack and take a carriage to the port. Bags of gold coins were given to each, based on their time in the harem, and it was all settled.

Heran found David with Sorrell on the second floor. The man bowed and said "Your highness, it is finished. Sixty-two women will be staying for one more night while thirty will be leaving within a few hours."

David had grown to like Heran. The man was not noble born, but he had a knack for detail which lended him great accuracy in his duties. The King then said "Thank you. Could you please tell the kitchens to prepare dinner for everyone? May as well give everyone a nice goodbye."

Heran bowed and left to do so.

David then said to Sorrell "I noticed all of the women wear red. I assume that is a rule here? What other rules are there?" The man was curious to understand the workings of the harem. His predecessor was a harsh man, everyone knew, so perhaps David could change things to truly make them better.
 
Sorrell listened to the number of women that would be leaving. In a way, she was jealous. But she had long ago accepted that this was her place in life. There was nothing that could be done about it, so why not do her best to live her life the best way she could. She stayed silent and averted her eyes as Heran spoke to the new King. After all, old habits died hard. When they were done speaking, only then did she look back to David. His generous offering of dinner for all of the ladies was kind.

“Yes, you see, red is the color that marks the women of the harem as being claimed by the King.” Sorrell began to explain. “Upon arrival, should you choose to add to your harem, the girls wear white. After they lose their maiden head to the King, then they are to only wear the color red.” It would seem that she was the best versed in all of the knowledge regarding the harem. Some she had learned from experience, but most had been from her lessons when she was first brought to the harem.

Every girl had to go through the same education, having to memorize the history of the harem and all of the various rules and regulations. They were also given a thorough sexual education, typically taught by the oldest women in the harem. It was hands on, and the new girls were expected to know how to please the King thoroughly. From what he preferred in the bed to how she should move her body to best please the monarch.

“I am afraid that there are many rules that we have had to live by in the harem. Both written and unwritten.” Sorrell spoke, clasping her hands in front of her. “If you would like, I’m certain I can secure the various texts for you to read. Some are handwritten accounts of old, many generations back, that we learn from. Others are a more concise list to go from, like a handbook.”

Her green eyes flicked over to the plush and comfortable seats. But, she didn’t take a seat unless she was allowed. “The education was done by the eldest in the harem, the women who were past their childbearing years and needed a way to aid the harem. They were trained to do so, but perhaps if I can ask some of the elders before they leave tonight, they can locate the tomes.”

“Some of us find comfort in the rules...a way to live our daily lives. Others among us were rather rebellious in regard to the conditions.” Sorrell informed him, herself thinking that some of the rules were rather unfair. But, that was life in the harem under the former dynasty.
 
David listened to Sorrell explain the white and red garb worn by the women. Although all of the eight that remained wore red. He nodded and said "I don't see the need for a dress code in a harem. This isn't the military after all. We will let the women wear the colors they choose." David felt it was a small change to the rules, but maybe it would be seen as a good thing by the remaining eight.

Then Sorrell offered to gather the texts which dictated all of the rules. This was a delicate topic. Being born in the peasant class, David had never learned how to read. He was not ashamed of it, but his trusted advisors said that that fact should not be put on open display. He understood the reasoning behind it, so he replied to Sorrell with "Yes, I would like to see them. Thank you."

He noticed Sorrells eyes glance at the seats. Although he could not read text, he could read body language. David motioned for her to sit and he sat across from her. The man was finding Sorrell to be very formal with an unwavering sense of courtesy and respect. He wondered if that was due to her upbringing or life in the harem.

He listened to what she had to say about the education in the harem and how some viewed the rules in place. When she finished he said, "If you get a chance to speak with the eldest, I would like that. But I'm curious about the conditions you mentioned. Are there rules or customs that you believe should be changed? Please speak freely, I can sense this place brought a great amount of fear to some of the women. I'm hoping to remove that."

The two talked for a long time, and David could feel Sorrell was opening up to him. He liked her and felt if she hadn't been in the harem, she would make a great leader in any field she chose. However, dinner was nearing and David needed to speak with one of his advisors. He rose and said "Sorrell, thank you very much for the tour and all of your wisdom. I hope to see you at dinner." With that, the two departed and David called for an advisor.

An older man in his sixties named Byron Forsyth entered the living area and bowed. "Your highness." David motioned for him to sit and said "The dinner tonight will be filled with several dozen women who will be returning to their lord fathers. I want them to leave with a sense that their new king is better than the last. If that can be achieved, I feel the kingdom will be able to heal faster from this civil war."

Byron smiled, thinking to himself that David was a natural leader. He was smart and honorable. Were it not for his illiteracy, Byron felt he would be of little use to the king. "It sounds like you require a speech of confidence. I've had a few ideas in my head, we will see what you like."

For the next half-hour the two sat and tweaked the speech he would give during dinner. The two knew that every word was important. Even if the women forgot what he said, they needed to leave with a sense that King David was a just ruler and was here to stay.

When the speech was well-practiced, David said to Byron "Oh, Sorrell will be bringing me some texts on the various harem rules. Could you go through them and note any rule that seems out of the ordinary or too strict? I trust your judgement."

Byron nodded "Of course, your highness. I've often wondered what the rules were myself. This harem has been around since almost the start of the Rinali line."

David patted Byron on the back, and together they went to the banquet hall were dinner was ready to be served.

When he entered, David felt that all were in attendance. The eight women that chose to remain where at the end of the table near his seat, while his advisors were sprinkled in with the women who were to depart the harem. David could see the strategy is the seating.

He stood at the head of the table as everyone stood and said "Thank you all for joining me. I wanted to have one dinner with us all together to see you off properly. I wish you all safe travels and hope we can meet again someday." David kept it brief for now. The speech could wait until later. Right now, he knew everyone was likely hungry from the late meal. The man understood that preparing a meal for over a hundred people took some time.

He took his seat, and everyone followed. David smiled, looking at each of the eight women who he would get to know a great deal more and perhaps bear him children. As the food was brought to the table, warm from the fires, his eyes caught Circe's. He gave her a smile and asked "Do you happen to remember me?" He hoped the question did not embarrass her. David did not imagine she would remember a peasant stable apprentice.
 
“That will be a welcomed change.” Sorrell nodded, knowing that most of the women in the harem resented the color. Unfortunately, it was all they had. And it would be costly to replace the clothing. The costs of the harem were already a concern. She didn’t want to add to his worries at the current moment, keeping the thought to herself. It could be discussed later. Honestly, she loathed the color. Her hair was already red, and it just blended into her clothing.

She moved to take a seat. Sorrell smoothed out her dress, looking forward to when she could wear a different color. Blue would be nice, perhaps. By all accounts, she had developed a solemn and dutiful attitude from being raised in such a religious household. She herself had hopes of entering into the Holy Order and becoming a nun. Unfortunately, when she caught the former King’s eye during court, that was simply not to be.

The worst part had to be the Holy Order’s view on sex. When sex was performed for pleasure instead of procreation, it was frowned upon. Needless to say, the Holy Order was one of the most vocal dissenters on the dissolution of the harem. Especially as not a single woman had bore a child. They would much prefer the money to be instead funneled into their causes.

The redhead listened to the monarch before her, her mouth opening in surprise as he asked of her opinion. She was quick to remind herself to shut her mouth, lest she appear like an imbecile before him. “You could ask that question to any one of the hundred women that were of the harem, and receive a thousand different answers. Perhaps even some that would contradict the views of the others.”

She took a deep breath. If this had been the former King, she never would have been so bold. But, she was still smart enough to be careful with her words. “Instead, I believe it would be most advantageous for you to ask this of each of the eight remaining. I, for one, do believe that the history of the harem should be revealed to the public. There is much secrecy regarding us. Perhaps if it were known, the people could be more accepting. And things, perhaps for future monarchs, could revert to how the harem was initially. That women came willingly, knowing that the harem could provide an education not available to them. That even peasants could come, and have the chance to better themselves.”

Their talk was long and informative. Sorrell had certainly learned a great deal regarding the new King. She would go back to the remaining girls, and inform them of what had been discussed. It would be beneficial to ease their fears. She bowed low to David before departing, returning to the remaining harem girls. They were still the only ones in the common area, the women who were leaving seeming to keep away from them. After all, the departing women had to gather their things and say their goodbyes to the fellow girls that they might not ever see again.

Sorrell asked that they all gather together so they could talk, and the small gaggle of girls complied. They were all mindful enough to shift closer to Circe, Arianna being the only member who made an audible sound of disdain at the effort. The white haired girl was polite enough to close her book, devoting her attentions to Sorrell. If there was a girl in the group left who she preferred the company of the most, it was the pious redhead. When she had been injured, Sorrell always came to her air to care for her and pray. Her kindness was not lost on her.

“King David is a kind man.” Sorrell announced. “He has already made the decision that we will not be required to wear the color red, unless we wish to.” This caused the small group to glance between themselves, most of them appearing pleased at the prospect.

“Red looks best with my skin tone.” Aurelia haughtily announced. This earned her a look of annoyance from Viera, the golden blonde woman with the largest chest in the group. Her blonde hair was swept back from her face, in a braid to the side that hung over her shoulder.

“Regardless, that is now your choice to. Now, he wants to learn everything he can about harem rules and customs. Even the history. So, it will be up to us to ensure that such is done. I will speak with the elder harem members tonight after dinner, in hopes of finding the books.” The redhead kept glancing between the women, wanting to see their reactions. After all, not all of them were as good at keeping emotion off their face as Circe.

“That also means that each of you has your own history and unique knowledge to be shared. So should he ask questions, you must answer.” She pointedly looked to the purple eyed girl. Even if her exotic looks gained her favor from the Renali King, it might not be the same with the new monarch. And there was another in their presence who was an exotic girl, having been sent from the Kingdom of Trussaley as a gift for the former King. It was the asian woman, Li-Hua, who was sitting on the edge of her seat.

“As the oldest, I know that it is expected of me to ensure that your best interests are seen to.” Sorrell continued. “I will strive to be the best representative for us all.” Until the King would choose his wife, she would be the only woman in the harem who could approach him with any complaints in the small group.

“I believe my bloodline ought to rank me above you.” The brown haired woman with a sour look on her face crossed her arms. This woman was Reginan, cousin to the deceased King. She thought very highly of herself. But with her family executed for being of the blood, there was no where to go for her.

“Careful. The same blood that courses through your veins could lead to your downfall.” Circe turned her head to the woman, disliking her for being related to the royal family. The only thing that kept Reginan from being executed was the fact that she had to serve Georgio with her body.

“Ladies.” Sorrell cleared her throat. It wouldn’t do to break up a fight. There was more talk between the group, before the dinner was announced as being ready. The entire harem made their way up the wide stairs to the second level. Upon entering the banquet hall, the only harem members who would stay after this evening were seated at the same table as the King. They were the last group to enter, wanting to keep up with Circe as she slowed the group down. Aurelia and Reginan entered first, while the other girls grouped around Circe to try to mask her injury. After all, it was a chance to get to know him better.

Everyone remained quiet while the new King spoke, out of respect. Once he was finished, the chatter resumed as they took their seats. The meal was served by the servants of the castle, no longer slaves.Many of the departing women were more than happy to chat up the new men and be as flirty as possible. They had to spend their lives with an impotent fool. This was the first chance to actually make a life for themselves.

Circe’s cold gaze had lingered a bit too long on David, still trying to figure out where she had known him from. There was something undeniably familiar about the man. When the King shifted his gaze from talking to Aurelia to look to her, she felt a light flush creep into her cheeks. Thanks to her pale skin, it was very prominent. She listened to what he asked of her, taking a moment to sip from her goblet.

“You do seem familiar.” The Animus girl nodded, even finding his voice to be familiar. “But no, I’m sorry….I’m afraid that I can’t place you. Would you mind reminding me?” Circe was willing to be polite to the King, unless he proved unworthy. She did already appreciate him decapitating the man who had caused so much pain in her life.
 
When the King finished speaking, Byron sat. He had chosen his table for a reason. The women who sat there were of noble blood from the eastern areas of the kingdom. Byron new that region to be far more loyal to the Rinali line than the rest of the kingdom. While he did not think the women favored King Georgio, he knew it was exceedingly important for them to return to their families with a good impression of David. The battle for the crown was over, but the one for the hearts of the people was still underway.

The man did not start with his views of King David, or politics at all. Instead, steered the conversation toward the upcoming harvest. The eastern region was exceedingly fertile and well known for their grapes, cherries, strawberries, and vegetables as well. One of the women, named Lucresa told about her family's vineyard and how the scorching heat of this summer would make for a good year on their favorite species of grape. Another woman recalled her family's cooks being able to make the most delicious cherry pie. Byron let the conversation flow from there, happy to see excitement on the faces of the women. Barrels of wine were emptied and high spirits were easy to come by. When the mood was right, he would slip in the mention that the women should someday visit Calais with their families. He promised their stay would be covered by the crown since King David wished to meet as many of the noble families as possible. However, the man did not dwell too long on the topic. He did not want it to turn the conversation rigid.

King David, Byron Forsyth, and Heran Weathers were one of the few to know the crown's vast wealth. Everyone had known the Rinali kings had been well-off, but the amount of gold and jewels was immeasurable. David had seen the countless vaults with his own eyes, a sight that even amazed the calm Heran. Those who held the knowledge of such stores decided to keep it secret. The wealth would be used for the benefit of the kingdom, but it had to be done in the right way. For now, the right way was gaining support of those who had been part of the loyalists.

Sitting with his eight harem women, Aurelia soon struck up conversation with David. He was pleased she had come forward to speak with him and soon found she was very interesting. The man could sense an air of cockiness to her voice and body language, but there were far worse traits that could have replaced it.

When their conversation eased to an end, he heard Circe's response. David smiled and said "Eleven years ago I was an apprentice here in the stables. I remember seeing you there a few times and talking briefly." The man knew her remembering that was a stretch. It was so long ago and such a short time. Plus, he was forced to leave without the time to say goodbye.

So he decided to explain. "My predecessor..." The man knew it was a time for healing. He did not need to berate the former King Georgio, his tyranny had ended. "My predecessor did not like me being in the stables, a young man so near to his harem. So I left and joined the military. Had he known I'd grow to take his place... well I think he would have done more than fire me." David laughed, long ago realizing the humor in his ascension.

Circe was the only harem woman he had spoken to or remembered. After all, his only times in the palace were to get into the kitchens, and that was through a side door. From there, all he would see were the servants busying themselves with meal preparation.

David watched the expression on all of the women's faces. There were raised eyebrows, mouths open slightly in surprise, and a few remarks of surprise. A stable apprentice becoming a king was something only heard of in the more far fetched of fairy tales. It made for a good story.

King David and his advisors had wondered how to portray the man. In the end, David insisted on honesty. The story was grand enough as it was. Not having royal blood would make some look down on him, but the majority would be intrigued and perhaps hopeful. Besides, it detracted from all of the many horrors of war that could replace it. Those were things no one wished to relive through story.
 
Circe had kept her wine glass in her hand, and as she listened to him reveal who he was, she nearly dropped her drink on the table. Her eyes widened in surprise as she turned to fully face him. The typically stoic girl had just shown more emotion in a few seconds then she had in the last 6 months easily.

“You were the stable boy….” Her voice trailed off as she looked to him directly. “You gave me apples one day, that you were treating the horses with. Remember that?” What David didn’t know about that day was that she had been refused food for rebuffing the King’s advances, time and time again. The Renali King always liked the forbidden aspect of things that were denied to him, causing him to want it even more.

David had heard the way her stomach growled, and offered it to her. Of course, what he hadn’t been ready for was for Circe to gorge herself on the bruised and damaged green apples that were meant for the horses. It gave her the energy she needed to survive to another day. Ever since that day, she always had a weakness for apples. Apple tart was by far her favorite dessert. They reminded her of one of her first small acts of rebellion against the former monarch.

Aurelia’s pretty face screwed up into a frown. Having a connection like this was something that could jeopardize her desired position. And she wasn’t going to allow that to happen. She silently vowed to do her best to capture the King’s attention, and make him obsessed with her. The tanned girl was willing to do whatever it took.

Viera noticed the look on the scheming girl’s face, and stepped on her foot under the table. Hard. The buxom blonde had always detested the younger girl, finding her to be unbearable. There had been a time that she had actually engaged in a fist fight with her. It had caused Aurelia to suffer a bruised cheek, and Viera was harshly punished by Georgio for causing discontent in the harem. Viera’s family were Generals and warriors, and didn’t hesitate to train her in the aggressive lifestyle that they hoped she was to take over. By all accounts, she was quite the wild child in her youth. No one would have thought her to be suitable for harem life.

Aurelia’s jewelry jingled as she jumped from the injury, muffling a squeak in protest. She shot a dirty look to Viera, knowing that it had to of come from her. The plainest woman of the harem that had stayed behind, Pyrelle did her best not to laugh at the display. Her hair was in a low braided bun style. No matter how much jewelry or makeup she would put on, she was ultimately rather homely. What she had managed to excel at, catching the King’s attentions, was her skill in playing instruments.

“Ladies…” Sorrell admonished them as Circe and the King continued to interact. Germaine discreetly raised a napkin to her lips, coughing into it as quietly as she could manage.

“I was so afraid….that you had been killed.” Circe confessed, averting her eyes. After all, she had blamed herself for years due to his sudden disappearance. They had been caught talking one day by an older member of the harem who had to go out looking for her, as she was about to miss a surprise visit from the King. The Animus girl was certain that had been his downfall. For as cold as she looked, she was shockingly vulnerable.
 
Hearing that Circe remembered, he smiled. He remembered the green apples as well. When the stable master wasn't looking, he'd eat one on occasion too. They hadn't been so bad compared to how they looked.

"Yes I remember that. On my way in I saw the same apple tree I used to gather them from. Only the ones on the ground of course. The orchard owner would have charged otherwise."

Then from the sides of his vision, David saw something going on between Aurelia and another woman. He had not learned her name yet, but she had blonde hair tied in a braid and very full breasts. The man did not know what had happened, but Aurelia did not seem pleased. He realized that he not only had to learn the rules of the harem, but about how the women interacted as well. They had likely all lived together for some time and become a family of sorts. And families certainly fought.

His thoughts then went to his mother. During the war he was lucky enough that she was able to move to the west coast where the fighting wasn't so bad. David had always worried that his actions would get her hurt, but others were sure to look after her.

When Calais was won and settled, he had her brought back to her home. The woman who had been a seamstress for most of her life would never have to work again. She was the mother of the king. David felt it had not sunken in with her, after all it had been a big change. However, she seemed to believe it a bit more when he promised to buy her a large home and land anywhere she wished. Having lived in a small upper-level apartment, it was like a dream come true. She was still deciding.

Then David heard Circe say she thought he had been killed. David nodded. "Yes... I thought the same would be done if I stayed any longer. When I was told about the king's displeasure in me, I had to act fast."

David took a long drink of his wine. The stress of that day was long gone, but now he had to give a speech. He had given many as a leader in the military, but this was different. It was not to get people ready to fight, but bring peace. Also it was for women and not men. After letting the bit of alcohol lessen his nerves, David rose and rang his fork against the glass.

"Before the evening gets too late, I just wanted to speak briefly to everyone... Many feel very uncertain about these times and what the future will bring. And while I can not see all that will happen, I know the future is very bright for Rhodesia. Swords and spears have been set aside for a new age in our kingdom, an age where those who lead put the people above money and politics. Somewhere in the history of my predecessors, they lost sight of that. Their priorities changed and their compassion was lost. I will not allow that to happen to me or anyone else who holds power over another. I vow that each day when the sun rises and I awaken, that I will not wear the crown until I fully respect the responsibilities I have to the people of this kingdom... The war is over, and I understand many of your families fought on the other side of the battlefield from me. I want you all to know, that I respect their loyalty and wish to put all of the pain and death behind us. I wish for the kingdom to be whole again, and should your families every be in need, all they must do is ask."

Byron watched the king as he spoke, counting the tempo of his syllables in his mind. He also measured to volume and intonation, and felt that the speech could not have been better. When the king raised his glass to toast for the future of the Rhodesian people, he raised his as well.
 
For the time being, his mother was staying at the Palace, in the rooms that were used for the Dowager Queen. Georgio’s mother had been dead for years, so the room was empty. The Rinali King was so cold and money hungry, that the moment his mother died, he sold off her furniture. So the room had to be filled with furniture during David’s mother’s stay. It certainly wasn’t the golden, jewel encrusted items it had been, but they were certainly nice.

When David revealed that he believed his life was in danger, Circe couldn’t say that she was surprised. The former King was such a coward. She silently thought to herself that she needed to speak to David in private, when the time would allow. After all, she wanted to thank him in private for being the one to swing the sword to remove the King’s head. Her quality of life had been greatly improved in the aftermath.

As the new King stood to ring his glass, the women looked in between themselves. The last King had a very odd, specific rule for the harem. If he was standing, then they should all stand. Some of the women got to their feet, out of respect for the tradition. The motion was ingrained in them. Aurelia was one of the few to get to her feet, beaming brightly as she elbowed Viera in her large chest, as discreet as possible. Sorrell stood as well. Germaine slowly moved to get to her feet, Pyrelle assisting her. Circe was mindful of her injuries as she got to her feet, a bit faster than the sickly Germaine.

Everyone listened to his speech attentively. Some of the women ardently believed him. While others were still loyalists to the core, regardless of his bad choices. Once he finished, the majority applauded for him, both seated and standing. No one would have thought that a man of his background was such a fantastic orator.

“How well spoken!” Pyrelle complimented him as Germaine did her best to cover up a cough that shook her body.
 
When the speech was over, David was satisfied. The man was not blind, he knew there were some there who did not enjoy it. But he felt no less because of it. He had given them unconditional freedom but that wasn't enough. Now David, Byron, and the rest of his advisors wished that it would be one more step toward unity. But only time would tell.

When the applause ended, he sat and finished the rest of his wine. David thanked Pyrelle for her compliment and saw others were moving to sit again. The man also saw Germaine's cough. Perhaps she had a sip of something that went down wrong, or Sorrell was right. The thought troubled him, but he decided it was too soon to do anything about it.

As a servant filled his glass, David saw Aurelia was looking at him. He smiled and asked "So what area of Rhodesia are you from, Aurelia?" She seemed to be of the same kingdom, but parts of the two neighboring empires had their similarities as well. Then again, it seemed all of the women were from Rhodesia except one. But he did not know her name yet.
 
Aurelia perked right up when the King asked a question of her. Little did David know, but there would certainly be competition in the harem to see who would be the first to lay with him. And then from there, it would be to see who could bear him his first child. Due to the lack of many activities that the women could do, they had to choose something to be the best at.

"My King," Aurelia gushed, putting a hand on his forearm. She scooted close to him. "I hail from Dualos, the city of your Kingdom that always contributes the most when taxes are collected. We consider it a service to be able to serve the King." The city gained its riches from the nearby mountain range, where they were able to mine for precious gems and minerals. "We always make it a point to give back to the King what he has done for our lands ten fold."

"If only we could give her back..." Viera leaned over to whisper to Li-Hua, who covered her mouth as she giggled.

"Aurelia is the most recent addition to the harem." Sorrell informed David, but didn't continue on to speak of any of her positive or ill aspects of her. Honestly, because it was very difficult to say something nice about the pain.
 
David listened to Aurelia speak. He had never been to Dualos before, but had heard of its wealth. But what was most recent in his thoughts of the city was how important it was to be captured. Not only was it a source of wealth to the king that could prolong the war, but it was situated near the western Heart river. Many on David's side believed Georgio would attempt to escape through there.

So the city had been under control of the rebellion a week before the attack on Calais. However, David knew that would not make good dinner talk. Discussion of the gems could be of interest to anyone, however he would need to look into the city's contributions to the kingdom. Such high self-imposed taxes seemed strange.

He smiled and said "It sounds like a lovely place, and very generous to the rest of the kingdom."

That was when he heard Sorrell say Aurelia was new to the harem. He did not expect that. The woman's confidence made her seem like she had lived here her whole life. He wondered why she stayed. In fact, David wondered why any of the women stayed. It was not a life he would choose. But then again, everyone had different motives and callings, and he was thankful to have these eight women willingly be his harem wives.

David looked at the emerald gem on Aurelia's chest. "Is the emerald from the Titos mountains?"

His thoughts then lingered on Sorrells tone. She was a very formal woman, but something had slipped through. Was it in regard to Aurelia, he could not say. However, David was growing very fond of the more mature harem wife. Yet he wished she would ease back the curtain of her formality.
 
“Well, color me impressed.” Aurelia batted her eyes, a hand going to rest at the jewel in question. “This is the largest emerald ever mined from the Titos mountains. It went on display around our beautiful Kingdom for a year before it was gifted to me, by my parents.” What she failed to mention was that they had given her such an expensive gift, one that even the King himself had tried to buy.

The logic behind this was that their daughter had been arranged to be sent to the harem, ever since she was born. They had several sons, but only one daughter. And as girls could not inherit property, this was going to be the best life possible for her. So she had been groomed from birth, encouraged to rise up in the ranks of the harem as fast as possible and become the former Renali King’s wife.

So, the expensive gem that was known to the King himself would draw attention to her, especially placed at her breast. With his money hungry ways known so well, the family hoped that Georgio would select Aurelia for his wife, in order to receive the large dowry that was guaranteed. Even if his coffers were overflowing, he never hesitated to find a way to add to them.

“Almost as big as her ego.” Viera softly joked to Li-Hua, the asian girl, before receiving a stern look from Sorrell. Whispering wasn’t exactly good manners. Especially at the table with the new King.

“Dualos is fine and dandy, but I much prefer the rolling plains of my home, Pryol.” Pyrelle was doing her best to interject into the conversation, the plain girl having sworn that she would be noticed by this King.
 
David did not know much about gems, but he had no reason to doubt Aurelia's statement that the emerald was the largest one ever mined. However, he learned a great deal from what she said. She came from an extremely wealthy family, far wealthier than most lordships. It begged the question of why she had remained in the harem.

He was about to ask about Aurelia's family when Pyrelle spoke up. David smiled and said "Early in my career I trained there. The plains are also excellent for teaching horses how to gallop smooth enough for an archer." He took a sip of his wine and said "I enjoy the city, but getting out to a rural landscape such as Pyrol can be very relaxing."

He then thought of the view from the living area and how the fields spanned all the way to the Titos mountains across the river. Even though Calais was a bustling city, they were on a very comfortable edge.

The man had heard Viera whispering earlier, and felt maybe she wished to be included in the conversation more. Sorrell had mentioned her name earlier, so he was able to recall it. "Where do you come from Viera?"

Long before becoming king, David had been fascinated by Rhodesia. Having been born in the capital city Calais and living there until joining the military, he was able to meet travelers from all over the kingdom. It seemed here the women were just the same, brought from all over. David's advisors had mentioned a royal tour of the kingdom. He knew it was wise, but felt his presence should be more secured in the capital first. But as he listened to the women speaking of their home cities, it made him ache to travel. He wanted to visit at least every major city in the kingdom to learn all about his people.
 
Pyrelle flushed as the King spoke to her, turning nearly as scarlet as the clothing she wore. This was already more attention than the previous King had paid her in all of her time there. "Y-y-yes. There is always a b-big military...." She hesitated, thinking of the best word to finish up with. Many of the women from Pyrol ended up with military men, typically infantry men. They were young and cock sure, ready to fight and ready to breed.

The township-as it was hard to be called a city - had the highest number of widows in the entirety of Rhodesia. This was the life she expected. Her father had been a General for the King, having more daughters than most. Pyrelle's mother had been his third wife, and certainly not his last even after her untimely death. He was cruel to his women, but never his children. He tended to force them to bear him children constantly, the strain of such duty having been what put them all into an early grave. He tended to marry his wives when they were sixteen, and it was impressive if they made it through a decade.

Every time, he was allowed to keep the considerable dowry he received for the women, amassing quite a fortune in the process. From what the plain girl had last heard, her middle aged father was now on his fifth wife, a young and pretty girl of sixteen. But her family had been wise enough to put a clause in the contract, that if in the event of a death due to child bearing within the first ten years, half of the money would have to be returned. She had wished that her own mother's family had been as wise, but they were just eager to get rid of what they viewed as another burden. It was common for women to be treated as such in the Kingdom.

Viera looked over to him. "Fort Renegar. My family can't be counted among the richest in the lands, by far. But, my father was in charge of the Fort, General Sevfer." She spoke of the most fearsome among the Generals, a man who if he had chosen to become involved in the war, that things could have been a quite different outcome. He towered nearly seven feet tall, with hair almost as long, in the same golden shade as his daughter's. Fort Renegar was the first defense for the Kingdom from the war mongering Kingdom of Trussaley.

The buxom blonde was his daughter through a woman from one of the Government Brothels. He didn't have time for a relationship, and he barely had time for a daughter. The fact that she had even been conceived was a mistake, as he had never wanted to give one of his daughters to the King. But, he was smarter than to try to rebel, not wanting to be struck down. It was for that very same reason that he did not try to support the rebels. If they would have lost the war, he didn't wish for Viera to be punished for his decisions.
 
David made sure he did not laugh or grin too much. It seemed Pyrellle's courage had faded after hearing his reply. But that was no matter, he would not put her on the spot, especially in front of everyone else.

Then Viera answered his question. The King hid his solemn expression with one of interest. David had never met General Sevfer before, but countless letters and messengers had been sent to the man to join the rebellion. Rumors had been heard that the general hated Georgio, but the man would still not fight. If his army in the north would have joined forced with the rebellion, the war could have been over in months, not years. But Sevfer decided to remain neutral, disguising his choice as defense of the kingdom from Trussaley.

But David believed strongly that an entire family should not pay for the actions of one. It was the very reason he had spared Reginan. No one in the harem had known it, but he was told shortly after becoming king, that Georgio's cousin still lived in the harem. Some believed she should be executed to end the Rinali line, but David would have none of it and demanded the topic never be spoken of again. The woman who sat at his table now had no idea he held her life in his hands and spared it, and he preferred to keep it that way.

So David would not look down on Viera for the choice her father made. His respect for Sevfer was small, but Viera was her own person.

"The opposite end of the kingdom, and here I am so plain being born in Calais." He joked. "I have heard the fort is a sight to see. Someday I wish to visit it."

The man then looked at the Asian women sitting near Viera. "I'm afraid we have not been introduced. What is your name? And where are you from?" David smiled.
 
Pyrelle started to busy herself with her wine goblet, hoping to drum up the liquid courage if nothing else. Certainly, that had worked for far more timid women in the past. Why not herself?

"You wouldn't find it much to look at, I'm afraid. It's an assignment that most men are given after preforming...traitorous tasks to the Kingdom." Viera shrugged. "It's dirty and foul smelling, in part due to that there's no time for grave digging. So instead, the dead are put in the ground once a month, in a mass grave. And if you died at the beginning of the month, you tend to create quite the smell." A sardonic smile was on her pretty face as she sipped from her wine glass. "Not to mention, the problem of keeping the wild creatures away from them. It can be rather gruesome. But...it's home." She shrugged, not having a problem discussing such vulgar topics at the dining table.

Aurelia and Reginan both appeared horrified and disgusted. Out of all of the women, they certainly were the most high maintenance. Such talk wasn't pleasing to their palate, and Reginan pushed her plate away from her, still with food on it. It was a dramatic way for her to make such a point when people were starving in various cities, but she wouldn't even care if you told her to her face. The chances of her feeling any appreciation for having her life saved was also slim to none, thinking that her appearance in the harem would help solidify any children that the new King might have with her.

"Calais is fine enough, as is." Circe leaned her head towards him, speaking willingly on her own. The Anima house was all that existed in the small township outside of Kingswood. When her family was killed, and the house burned to the ground, so went the village on the map.

"This is where I was born as well." Sorrell nodded in agreement.

"Me?" Li-Hua glanced around the table, pointing to herself. She giggled in response as she realized it was her indeed being spoken to. Out of all of the women in the harem, many always mistook her for being the youngest. She had a child-like innocence and personality, infectiously upbeat. "I'm not from Rhodesia, not one bit! I actually came as a very young girl, from Trussaley. Imagine the King's reaction when he was promised a wife and instead got a six year old he had to raise!" She giggled at the memory, remembering the look of disappointment on his face, that he couldn't bed such an exotic girl immediately. Instead, she lived in the harem, lavished with attention by the women, until her sixteenth birthday.
 
Hearing Viera talk about the fort, surprised him. David was not surprised by what went on there, being in the military he heard of all the rumors. However, he was surprised she was able to speak so openly about it. Perhaps her time there wasn't so scarring. Aurelia and Reginan appeared thoroughly disgusted.

David nodded and said "Well I hope you can consider the harem home as well..." He then turned the conversation to everyone and said "By the way, I know I have a lot to learn about this place, but if there are any changes to the rules, I would like to hear them when you get a chance." David left it at that, figuring some may not be comfortable speaking of changes in front of the others.

Luckily, Circe picked the conversation back up and Sorrell joined in. It appeared the three were from the same area.

Then Li-Hua spoke. He had not heard her voice before, except as whispers, and couldn't help but wonder if she was always so happy. David wished she was, because it was contagious. He laughed at her story, easily able to imagine Georgio's disgust. "No one has ever said Georgio was a patient man. I can just imagine his hopes sinking seeing a six year old arrive."

David's thoughts then went to children. It was a thought many of his followers shared. The man had no heirs, and that made people uneasy. Luckily the women remaining in his harem were tasked with fixing that, but he still wondered. "So you were essentially raised here. Would you say the harem was a good place to be raised? It seems very inviting, I guess I just don't know enough about the place and all it's uses."

Since Georgio had lived so long and never had children, David didn't know how the Rinali heirs were raised. David certainly would not want to separate any of his children from their mothers, but he wondered if they would be raised and educated in the harem as well. His thoughts then drifted to which of the eight women would make good mothers. It was still soon, but it seemed Sorrell, Germain, Circe, Pyrelle, and Li-Hua had a nurturing demeanor. As for Viera, Aurelia, and Reginan he needed to learn more about them.

Byron glanced over at the king who was sitting with the eight women who had chosen to stay. He was happy to see things were getting along. The man knew the sooner King David conceived an heir, the easier his rule would be. He just hoped the first child would not be from Aurelia or even worse, Reginan. The two were too close to Georgio and it could be seen as a step in the wrong direction. Any of the other women would be far easier. However, Byron knew it was not his place to decide or even advise.
 
“Smells better, at least, by any means.” Viera shrugged, going to take another sip of her wine before moving to pour more of her own. She wasn’t about to wait for one of the servants to attend to her. Especially on such a celebratory occasion. Plenty of the women leaving were aggravating to her, with their uppity mannerisms. ‘Good riddance.’ Was the only thing she could think of in regards to those women. Sorrell would have been more of her speed, if perhaps she weren’t so religious.

The group noted his statement of wanting to change the harem. That was the exact same thing that Sorrell had reported back to the group of eight. The group wasn’t as emboldened as Viera, instead wanting to give their opinions on what needed to be changed in private. Of course, Reginan and Aurelia believed that the status quo was just fine.

Li-Hua blinked at the King’s question, putting the tip of her pointer finger to her lips as she thought it over. She thought so long that Viera was certain that the poor girl forgot what the question was, going to refill the asian woman’s wine as well. She cocked her head from side to side, giving it all serious thought.

“Oh! Yes!” Li-Hua put one of her hands palm side up, striking it with her other closed fist in the center. It seemed that she had finally decided on an answer. “I never wanted for anything! And children in the harem are treated like living gods, as tradition dictates. Even if I wasn’t one of the women’s child, they treated me just as good as one. I was never hungry. I was never beaten, even when I deserved to be! If I had to do it all over again, I would choose the same. Much better than the lives of my sisters in Trussaley.”

“You see how she responded?” Viera had a faint flush in her cheeks. “She almost forgot what you asked! Li-Hua, you’re adorable!” She reached over to tug the chubby cheek on the girl, the only chubby thing on her body. Li-Hua squealed in delight of her friend’s actions.

“Leave the baby alone.” Germaine chided Viera. Even if she was no longer the baby, so many of the older harem members referred to her as such that it stuck.
 
David was reassured from Li-Hua's response about being raised in a harem. It made him more confident on how any of his children would turn out. However, he wasn't sure if he wanted them to be treated like living gods. Love and care were of course required, but he didn't want them to become spoiled. David didn't worry about it, it was a ways off.

He laughed at Viera's comment about Li-Hua nearly forgetting the question. Li-Hua's reaction made it even more entertaining.

He smiled and heard Germaine speak. David took a long sip of wine and said "So Germaine, where are you from?"

While David and the eight of them talked, the night grew later. Some of the women who would be leaving made a point to visit his table. Most of them thanked him for releasing them, others gave him their confidence that he would make a great king, and a few even said they planned on visiting Calais someday with their families. He thanked them each and wished them safe travels. Heran had told him that the carriages that did not leave tonight would be leaving early in the morning, so before long it was just David and his eight women in the large hall.

Knowing that it was late, but the night would likely still continue, David dismissed the servants. Everyone seemed to be finished eating, and they could pour their own wine. At least, those who were not as drunk as others could. The King could feel his warm buzz growing ever closer to being drunk. It had been a long time since he had celebrated like that. The victory of Calais had been marred by Ella's death, and his coronation was swiftly followed by his duties. Now, he finally had time to celebrate, and he could not be any more satisfied with his company.

He had been telling the women a story of when he worked in the stables. In the summer all of the horses need to be shoed, but since the process was difficult and time consuming, David only did a few a day. When it came time for one very stubborn horses turn, the beast broke out of his stables and ran all around the fields behind the harem. David had to chase the horse for hours with his own before it tired and came back with a leash. After that he still had to shoe all the horses, but reinforce the stables as well. The man laughed remembering how frustrating it was. He wondered if any of the harem women happened to see him chasing the horse through the fields over a decade ago.
 
Germaine looked to the King when he asked where she came from, a smile on her face. “Ethrea, my liege.” Ethrea was a beautiful city, located by a steady water source. They were known for producing the most bountiful harvest out of all of the kingdom. The main harvests were corn, pumpkins, squash and onions. Items that could be stored long term, so they were favorable for rations. After all, the military needed a steady supply of food in order to carry out their duties.

Unfortunately for Ethrea, they were allowed to keep only a small fraction of what they produced. And they had most slaves, needing them for the harvest. It wasn’t uncommon for the slaves to try to rebel, due to the lack of food. But the former Rinali King had no issue sending in additional troops to ensure that the peace was kept. Germaine grew up malnourished, which contributed to her chronic health problems.

“The best pumpkins come from Ethrea.” Viera reassured David. “The cooks can make a pumpkin soup from them that should be served sometime soon, in this fall season. It’s simply...I’m at a loss for words.” Her cheeks were pink as she did her best to try to encourage the King to think more on Germaine. Li-Hua, Germaine, Sorrell and Circe were completely reasonable to her, easy to get along with.

“That horse was Elren.” Circe quietly commented. She remembered the headstrong dappled horse that her family had bred. She had opted to stay in the harem for the day, all of those years ago, wanting to allow David to do his work without her interrupting. Of course, at the time, she knew how taxing shoeing horses could be. Especially to the scale that the harem had.

“Ah, yes. The black brute.” Reginan nodded sagely, lying. She didn’t even manage to get the color right. Circe turned her head to look to her, frowning. “He should have been taken out to pasture many years ago. It would have been better that way.”
 
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