Chapter 45 Onyi's POV
I stood at the edge of the grand hall, my heart racing with fear and uncertainty. The queen's's words echoed in my mind, and I knew that I had to play along if I wanted to survive in this treacherous world.
The room was dimly lit, with flickering candles casting eerie shadows on the walls. The air was thick with the scent of incense and something else - something primal and seductive. I felt a shiver run down my spine as I looked around, seeing men of all ages, some lounging on couches, others standing in clusters, their conversations hushed and urgent.
Some were indeed naked, their bodies glistening in the candlelight, while others wore elaborate robes that seemed to shimmer and shine. I felt a wave of fear wash over me, but the King's eyes seemed to gleam with encouragement as he watched me take in the scene.
"Join us, Onyi," he said, his voice low and inviting. "Let go of your inhibitions and indulge in the pleasures of the night."
I hesitated, my heart pounding in my chest. But the King's words seemed to echo in my mind, and I knew that I had to comply. With a sense of trepidation, I let my robe slide off my shoulders, revealing my bare skin to the room.
The King smiled, his eyes gleaming with approval. "Ah, Onyi, you're a natural," he said, his voice dripping with satisfaction. "Don't be afraid, just let go and enjoy the night."
As I stepped forward, a stranger's hand touched my arm, sending shivers down my spine. I turned to face him, and our eyes met. Ryker's gaze was piercing, his eyes gleaming with a seductive intensity.
"Welcome to the party," he whispered, his voice low and husky. "I see you're new here. I'm Ryker."
I felt a spark of attraction, but also a sense of unease. There was something about Ryker's gaze that made me feel like he was sizing me up, like he had a specific intention in mind.
As Ryker's eyes locked onto mine, I could sense his intentions. He wanted to seduce me, to claim me as his own for the night. I felt a shiver run down my spine as he leaned in closer, his breath hot against my skin.
"Let's get to know each other better, Onyi," he whispered, his voice dripping with seduction.
I knew that I had to be careful, that I couldn't let my guard down around Ryker. But the music was pulsing through the room, and the King's eyes were watching me, encouraging me to play along. I took a deep breath and let Ryker guide me into the dance, unsure of what the night would bring.