"Have the men not returned yet?" the elder asked calmly.
"Unfortunately, not. We apologize for disappointing you again."
"It is of no matter. What of the sacred room? Is everything prepared?"
The butler stepped forward. "Everything you requested has been arranged, my lord."
The man nodded, then pulled the beautiful, much younger lady closer. "Allow me to introduce my wife. Her name is Kelsey. The three accompanying her are her closest companions. From this day onward, my wife and her friends will reside here. I trust you will ensure her comfort."
Not only the three women of the house, but even the servants looked at Kelsey with expressions of astonishment — some respectful, others subtly disdainful.
Their Fourth Elder was already fifty, maybe even sixty, yet the elder's wife was a young woman who wasn't even twenty!! What else could it be, if not ulterior motives?
