The next morning, Benjamin turned over hoping to find Charles in his bed, but he wasn't there. Not wanting to face this reality, he slept in, and missed his meeting with Ara. By noon, he had washed up, but he did not feel the desire to leave his room.
Only when Sofia arrived to drag him out did he find himself in a part of the palace he had never been before. It was a large parlor. A long carpet ran from one end of the room to the other, with small rectangular tables spaced apart and large cushions scattered about, some resting against the walls. There were drinks and small plates of food on the tables.
Light music played as dancers, both male and female, moved through the room. They were dressed in outfits that accentuated every curve, adorned with gold sequins and long, beaded belts at the waist. Gold chokers, bangles, and anklets completed their attire.
