Mated To The Cruel Prince
Chapter 607: Enemies On A Narrow Way

Chapter 607: Enemies On A Narrow Way

As Islinda stepped into her assigned room, she was startled to find two Faeries already waiting for her. Their presence caught her off guard, and she nearly jumped out of her skin. The Faeries, whom she recognized as members of Aldric’s staff, greeted her with a respectful bow.

"Welcome, my lady," they chimed in unison, their voices soft and respectful.

"What are the both of you doing here?" She asked, confusion flickering across her features as she tried to make sense of the situation.

"Former High Lord Karle demanded that you are provided with the best treatment possible. He was doubtful that you would do well among strangers, so he picked us from among Prince Aldric’s staff, assigning us to serve you during your stay here."

A heavy sigh escaped Islinda’s lips as she took in the sight of the two Faeries assigned as her maid servants. She should have anticipated that Karle’s idea of "best treatment" would involve being waited on hand and foot. The high Faes were accustomed to being served, after all.

But Islinda didn’t want to be treated like some highborn lady in a lavish Fae court. She was just as much a servant in this realm as the two Faeries standing before her. Not to mention she had never been one to revel in such luxuries, preferring to rely on her own independence and resourcefulness. The idea of having not one, but two maidservants at her beck and call felt overwhelming.

What was she supposed to do with them? It felt excessive and unnecessary. Islinda shook once again with a long sigh. This wasn’t what she had signed up for, and she wasn’t sure how to deal with it.

"Fine, do whatever you want," Islinda relented, knowing it was considered rude to turn down a Fae’s favor. Despite recognizing Karle’s gesture as a peace offering, she remained unmoved. No amount of pampering from Karle would lessen her disdain for him. She wouldn’t be swayed by such attempts at bribery.

As the maidservants assisted her with undressing and guided her into the warm, perfumed water, Islinda couldn’t shake off the discomfort of having strangers’ hands on her body. Though this routine wasn’t new to her, the sensation remained unsettling. Yet, the professionalism and impassive demeanor of the maidservants helped alleviate some of her unease. So she pushed aside her reservations, focusing on the task at hand.

Islinda’s hair was expertly braided into an style reminiscent of the winter court, with delicate twists and loops adorned with frost-like crystals and silver hairpins. The braids cascaded elegantly down her back, adding to her regal appearance.

Thanks to her earlier dye job, the glaring blonde streaks blended seamlessly with her natural hair color, concealing any hint of her undiscovered identity. Her maidservants skillfully applied makeup, enhancing her features with shimmering hues of silver and blue to match the winter theme. Despite her rounded ears, tanned skin, and curvaceous figure, Islinda looked every bit the part of a noble winter court beauty.

Islinda gazed at her reflection in the mirror and couldn’t help but feel a sense of satisfaction at the sight. She looked stunning, her features enhanced by the skilled hands of her maid servants.

Yet, a strange eagerness stirred within her. Why was she suddenly so eager to meet Aldric? Was it the hope that he would notice her appearance and compliment her? Perhaps even desire her.

"By the gods, Islinda. Get a grip of yourself." She quickly chided herself for such thoughts, forcing herself to take control of her emotions.

"Dinner has been served, my lady. We should head out before the food becomes cold." One of the maidservants directed her towards the entrance.

Although Islinda followed her maidservants in silence, she was certain they could hear the thunderous pounding of her heart. With every step she took, her heart raced anxiously in her chest. Recalling the intimate scene with Aldric in the throne room, Islinda felt her cheeks flush crimson. Fortunately, the servants walked ahead, hence they couldn’t see her blushing face and fuse over her, thinking something was wrong.

However, Islinda felt conflicted inside. She didn’t particularly want to see Aldric, yet there was an undeniable eagerness bubbling within her to encounter him again. The routine of seeing Aldric at dinner had become something she both loathed and strangely looked forward to. She had grown accustomed to his teasing and attempts at seduction, finding a certain comfort in their interactions.

So, it came as a surprise to Islinda when she entered the dining room to find it devoid of Aldric’s presence. Even more surprising was the fact that it was just her and Elena.

There was a saying that enemies were bound to meet on a narrow road, and it seemed to ring true in this moment.

Elena, sensing Islinda’s confusion, explained smugly, "I’m afraid Aldric is occupied with matters of his court and wouldn’t be joining us tonight. So it’s just the two of us, isn’t that delightful?" Her grin was positively fiendish.

Wonderful. Islinda cursed under her breath.

Almost tempted to turn and leave, Islinda suddenly had a realization. Why should she be the one to retreat? Elena held no power over her, and Islinda refused to show any sign of weakness. Plus, she couldn’t deny herself the pleasure of the sumptuous meal laid out before her.

With her head held high, Islinda gracefully pulled out a seat directly across from Elena at the dining table and sat down.

"Indeed, it is quite delightful," Islinda replied, forcing a polite smile on her face. "I’m sure the two of us will find plenty to discuss."

"Oh don’t worry, there are plenty of things for us to discuss," Elena remarked, stabbing her fork into a steamed mushroom with unnecessary force before bringing it to her mouth, chewing with exaggerated vigor as if trying to make a point to Islinda.

Islinda remained impassive, unaffected by the thinly veiled threat emanating from Elena. If anything, she was the first to speak, her tone cold and unwavering. "Tell me then, are you intending to be Aldric’s whore?"