TEN: Aiyana

I was anxious, sitting at the dining table opposite Elrond's brother. I found myself nervously picking at my nails, only to stop abruptly when I realized what I was doing.

Igor seemed pleasant enough, with a certain charm about him. He even offered the use of his library, which was kind of him. However, Cirdan appeared distant, entering the room as if he had more important matters to attend to and his reaction to my introduction by Elrond made me question if there was something amiss with my appearance.

Noticing Elrond's furrowed brows in response to Cirdan's demeanor, I sought to avoid any unnecessary conflict and hastily uttered, "A pleasure to meet you," though uncertain of his reaction.

Nibbling on cherries, I half expected him to ignore me, but his response was somewhat indifferent, "The pleasure is mine, Your Majesty."

Almost instantly, Sephora gasped, drawing everyone's attention, and she hastily apologized, her cheeks flushing with embarrassment. I gathered she was taken aback by his lackluster manners.

As the meal was served and everyone began to serve themselves, I noticed something peculiar; Cirdan was fixated on Sephora as she sliced into her steak.

Perhaps he was curious about her identity, and I could sense he was restraining the urge to inquire. It seemed he caught my gaze, prompting him to avert his eyes promptly.

He struck me as distinct, no, he was unmistakably different. While Elrond and Igor bore a striking resemblance that could easily brand them as brothers at first glance, Cirdan stood apart. His jet-black hair alone set him apart from the others. I surmised he must have inherited it from one of his parents, much like Aurelie took after our father's hair color, and I after our mother's.

His demeanor exuded an air of intimidation and cruelty, unlike the warmth of Igor or the quiet yet comforting presence of Elrond. To add to the contrast, he donned dark robes and slightly visible circles under his eyes, further accentuating a somber and melancholic aura to him.

He certainly seemed like the type who preferred solitude. It was unfortunate, considering he was quite handsome, perhaps even more so than his brothers.

I distracted myself from thoughts of Cirdan, my mind began to ponder what would happen after dinner. Elrond and I are expected to consummate our marriage tonight, yet I lack any real understanding of what that entails.

I wonder if Elrond will guide me through it, or if I should seek advice elsewhere. It's a daunting prospect, but I suppose every newlywed bride faces this uncertainty at some point. Perhaps I should try to relax and trust that everything will unfold naturally. Or I could ask Sephora after dinner, she may have some knowledge about it.

"Sephora," I whispered and she promptly glanced my way, "I have something to talk to you about…"I added, her eyes widening as if to convey, "right now?"

"...after dinner," I continued, and she nodded in response.

As I turned away from her, I locked eyes with Cirdan, and a cold chill went down my spine. What was it about this man?

-

"What did you want to discuss?" Sephora inquired as she ascended to my chambers post-dinner.

"Not here, it's private," I replied, feeling my cheeks flush with embarrassment at the mere thought.

She paused briefly, then her expression brightened with understanding. "It's about consummating your marriage, isn't it?" she chuckled, causing my embarrassment to deepen.

"Don't say it aloud," I whispered, pulling her into my chambers and closing the doors behind us. "Alright, tell me everything you know about, um, the act."

"Well, for starters, Lisette mentioned it can be painful," Sephora divulged, and I gasped. "Only the first time," she quickly added, prompting a sigh of relief from me.

"I still don't quite grasp how it all works," I admitted.

Sephora settled onto a nearby chair, her expression thoughtful. "It's a matter of intimacy and connection between two people," she began, choosing her words carefully. "Communication and trust are key."

I nodded, absorbing her words. "Yes, that I know but how do you... start?" I asked, feeling awkward even posing the question.

"I've never had sex before, so I'm clueless about how it all works... but from what I gather, the man inserts himself into you and thrusts while also touching you. It sounds like a lot to handle all at once." She stated, and I felt my face grow hot, this was all too much information to take.

"So, how does it begin?" I inquired.

"Well, there's a bit of romance, you know, kissing and all that. Then he undresses you, and as I mentioned, he positions you and penetrates you," she explained, just as my maids entered the room. "I eagerly await your story tomorrow. Have a delightful evening, Your Majesty," she said before departing, leaving me to prepare.

The maids bathed me in the scent of vanilla, and clothed me in the most revealing night dress i had ever worn. They left my hair to fall and began to prepare my room for the night. When they were done they left immediately, while I sat at the vanity desk alone with Yoru in my arms, stroking her fur gently.

Soft candlelight flickered, casting a warm glow across the room, while rose petals adorned the bedding, reminding me of the romance books I had read. Silken drapes hung from the windows, billowing gently in the evening breeze.

I had waited for what seemed like a long time and a candle had burned half way.

"He's not coming, is he, Yoru?" I asked my pet who purred in response to me stroking her head. I felt relieved but also disappointed, behind my nerves i had hoped that he would show up and we'd at least talk. I just wanted to bond with him at least.

I got up from my chair and to my bed only to find a shadow of someone sitting on my bed. I held Yoru to my chest and was about to yell for the guards when the figure spoke.

"There's no need to be afraid, it's only me." It was Elrond.