Total pages in book: 83
Estimated words: 77485 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 387(@200wpm)___ 310(@250wpm)___ 258(@300wpm)
Estimated words: 77485 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 387(@200wpm)___ 310(@250wpm)___ 258(@300wpm)
Submission seemed to be a crucial and non-negotiable part of their existence. It was an expectation and way of living I found myself instinctively resisting.
At the top of the staircase, we walked past a few doors and then entered a room that was a contrast to the lavishness in Alexander's estate. Rows of cushioned chairs faced a grand, obsidian podium, creating an air of solemnity. A total of four women were in the room. The two standing I was seeing for the first time. The women sitting down were the other captives, both branded the same evening I was.
“Matron Seraphine,” Esther greeted.
The woman—Seraphine—pivoted towards us in sleek black heels, a bright smile spreading across her face. “Ah, you’re here!”
She was stunning—in her early forties, if I had to guess. Her navy dress hugged curves that were accentuated by her poise and a striking presence that demanded attention. Her dark skin had a rich warmth to it, and her eyes held a depth that suggested wisdom and perhaps a hint of something more profound and complex.
I couldn’t bring myself to return the enthusiasm, but she didn’t seem to mind.
"Welcome, Lolita. I am Matron Seraphine, and this is Acolyte Selena.” She waved a manicured hand in the direction of the other woman. Selena’s eyes swept over me, but not in a judgmental way. It was more contemplative.
She offered me a friendly but respectful smile, radiating a demure energy. “It is my greatest honor to serve you.”
“As it is mine,” Seraphine agreed. “You aren’t expected to use honorifics with us, so feel free to call me Sera, and Selena by name. We have been very much looking forward to guiding you through your immersion of Stygian Isle and transition to Sponsa Diaboli.”
It took a great deal of effort to keep my expression impassive. I didn’t want anyone to serve me.
Esther's light touch on my arm brought a small comfort. "You're in good hands," she said softly. "Alexander will come for you later."
The women bid goodbye to my tour guides, and then Seraphine gestured towards the other two captives in the room. "Please, take a seat beside your new sisters, Electi Pandora and Keres."
I hesitantly moved to sit beside them on the maroon sectional, feeling both apprehensive and curious. They were dressed similarly to me, but Pandora was still wearing a silk blindfold, and an exquisite diamond choker covered her throat. Her long, auburn hair and light dusting of freckles lent her an air of innocence.
Keres' presence was more striking, with her deep brown skin and contrasting silver-white hair. Her grey eyes were insightful, reflecting a strength that spoke of her own experiences on this Isle.
"It's nice to meet you, Lolita," Pandora's voice was as soft as she looked, a small smile gracing her lips despite her inability to see me.
Keres nodded once, her expression cautious yet not unfriendly. "Welcome to the club," she quipped, her tone carrying an undertone of solidarity in our shared circumstances.
I returned their greetings, feeling a mix of emotions. Behind us, Matron Seraphine, with her commanding presence, closed the door and began the session without any preamble.
"Today, we shall start with the basics," she announced, her voice echoing slightly in the room.
"Understanding the hierarchy of the Isle is crucial." She walked towards the whiteboard, her movements precise and calculated. "As the chosen companions of the Isle's most esteemed, you are revered above all. Your role is to be a beacon of grace, submission, and loyalty."
Her gaze swept over us, as if measuring our reactions. Keres leaned forward, a spark of defiance in her eyes that matched her assertive tone. "So, are we just supposed to accept these archaic roles? Not every woman dreams of bowing down to a man."
She made a damn good argument.
Seraphine smiled kindly and clasped her hands together at her waist. “You’re right. Many women abhor the thought of submitting to a man, but it’s different for us. There’s nothing quite like having someone protect, cherish, and provide for you and only wanting what we were always born to do in exchange.”
"So, we're supposed to be thrilled about popping out babies, being chained to a kitchen, and making ourselves available whenever they demand? For the record, I've never been keen on the idea of having kids. I'm not the kid type," Keres retorted.
Seraphine's laughter, light and seemingly understanding, did little to ease the discomfort we were feeling. “That way of thinking is common for those not raised among us," she explained with a reassuring smile. "But this is more than just conforming to roles; it's about discovering and embracing your true nature. It's understandable that you're resistant now, given your upbringing. With time, you'll see the freedom in our ways."
Her eyes then settled on me. There was a depth to her gaze that made me uneasy. "I give you my word. You'll each find your place eventually and become who you were always meant to be."