Each wore a sheer two-piece garment of rainbow hue with a flattering glitter of jewelry and expertly applied cosmetics.Each wore a sheer two-piece garment of rainbow hue with a flattering glitter of jewelry and expertly applied cosmetics. Each was a vision of loveliness, presenting her best features for the pleasure of her master. Elna entered last with a psaltry and a large pillow from the harem. She would not be tending the table tonight, but rather providing the only formal entertainment. She positioned the pillow in a corner across from the door to the oil reservoir and knelt trying not to look nervous. Her performance would have to be flawless. The Dark Lord surveyed his arrangement proudly. The symbolic uniformity and hardness of the guards contrasted well with the softly subdued individual beauties around the table, making a splendid visual representation of his power. A sweep of his hand dismissed the eunuch to the harem to watch over his master's prize trophy who would be displayed after the banquet. All was in readiness, and he turned to watch the door, taking an appreciative glance at Darlene as she stood shyly behind his chair. She was lovely, not as achingly beautiful as some, but pretty in a way some beauties never had. Any other girl might have dared a tentative look up at him, but Darlene kept her eyes to the floor, not in fear like Gold-lily, nor out of respect or worship, like Alia and Zandra, but from innocent longing to please. |