Chapter Three: I Wed You and, Thus, Strip You of Your Rights

A week later, the sun shone faintly over the city of Sabla Urbo, its rays illuminating the luxurious dining room of the Zendel mansion. Inísel, her silver hair gleaming in the daylight, was seated at the table, calmly enjoying her breakfast. The scent of freshly baked bread and ripe fruit filled the air. However, the morning's tranquility was abruptly interrupted when her adoptive father, Reynard Zendel, entered the room with a serious expression on his face.

"In kune: Inísel, mi bezonas paroli kun vi (Inísel, I need to speak with you)," said Reynard, his voice laden with unusual distress.

Inísel looked up, noticing the worry in her father’s eyes.

"In kune: Kio estas malbona, patro? (What’s wrong, Father?)"

Reynard sat down across from her, taking a deep breath before speaking.

"In kune: Mi ricevis novaĵojn de Lia Ŝántruk Theodric Elektita unu. Vi vidas, Inísel, li (I have received news from His Shántruk Theodric, the Elect One. You see, Inísel, he...)"

The father struggled to continue his words. Inísel, who could feel the man’s concern and the growing sorrow deepening his face, feared what Reynard would say next.

"In kune: Li interesiĝas geedziĝi kun vi (He is interested in marrying you)."

The words fell like a heavy weight on Inísel. Her heart raced, and her mind filled with immediate rejection. Inísel knew that the Shántruk was a man over forty years old—a difference in age far too great to even consider accepting such a proposal.

"In kune: Ne, patro! Mi ne povas geedziĝi kun la Shántruk. Mi ne volas esti edzino de viro kiu estas pli ol duoble mia aĝo (No, Father! I cannot marry the Shántruk. I do not want to be the wife of a man who is more than twice my age)."

Reynard understood her reasons for rejection, but he knew that neither he nor anyone else could deny the Shántruk’s request.

"In kune: Inísel, mi komprenas viajn sentojn. Sed vi devus scii, ke ĉi tiuj specoj de proponoj ne povas esti malakceptitaj. Ne nur vidu tiun geedziĝon kiel altrudon, vi ankaŭ devas vidi la profiton, kiun ĉi tiu kuniĝo povus alporti al nia familio kaj Erial. Alianco kun Lia Shántruk estas honoro, kiun vi ne povas rifuzi. Lia Shántruk estas elektita el la dioj kaj liaj deziroj ne povas esti neitaj (Inísel, I understand your feelings. But you must know that these types of proposals cannot be refused. Do not see this marriage only as an imposition; you must also consider the benefits this union could bring to our family and Erial. An alliance with His Shántruk is an honor you cannot reject. His Shántruk is chosen by the gods, and his desires cannot be denied)."

Inísel rose from her chair, her face full of determination.

"In kune: Patro, ĉi tio ne estas ĉio, kion mi povas signifi por vi! Ĉu vi vere intencas vendi min kiel unu el viaj varoj? (Father, this is not all I can mean to you! Do you truly intend to sell me like one of your goods?)" began Inísel, though she already knew that someday this would happen. She had been delaying marriage as much as possible, but now, she knew she could no longer avoid it...

"In kune: Mi ne estas varo interŝanĝenda kontraŭ politikaj avantaĝoj. Mi ne volas edziĝi kun iu, kiun mi ne amas, des malpli kun kvardekjara viro (I am not a commodity to be traded for political advantages. I do not want to marry someone I do not love, much less a forty-year-old man)."

Reynard looked at her with sadness, but his resolve did not falter.

"In kune: Inísel, foje ni devas fari oferojn por la pli granda bono. Via patrino kaj mi jam akceptis la proponon de Su Shántruk, ni bedaŭras, sed ni ne havis alian elekton (Inísel, sometimes we must make sacrifices for the greater good. Your mother and I have already accepted the proposal of Your Shántruk. We are sorry, but we had no other choice)."

Inísel turned to her mother, Diara, hoping to find support, but the woman’s eyes reflected the same sadness and resolve as her father’s.

"In kune: Patrino, bonvolu diri al mi, ke vi ne akceptis lian proponon (Mother, please tell me you did not accept his proposal)."

Diara sighed and stood to approach her daughter, gently caressing her hand.

"In kune: Pardonu, mia knabino. Mi scias, ke ĝi estas malfacila, sed vi ne plu povas eviti vian respondecon. Via Ŝántruk estas potenca viro. Vi povos fari multe da bono kiel lia edzino. Ankaŭ, pensu, ke estas honoro por vi edziĝi kun li multaj junulinoj via aĝo envios vin; Vi estos la estonta Valkúr kaj tio lasos vin en avantaĝa pozicio (I’m sorry, my girl. I know it’s difficult, but you can no longer avoid your responsibility. Your Shántruk is a powerful man. You will be able to do much good as his wife. Also, think of it as an honor to marry him; many young women your age will envy you. You will be the future Valkúr, and that will leave you in an advantageous position)."

Inísel felt a lump in her throat, her frustration growing. She knew nothing she said would change her parents’ minds. She was trapped in a situation she could not control. Finally, she retreated to her room, feeling powerless and desolate.

Two nights later, the Zendel mansion was preparing to receive honored guests. Your Shántruk Theodric Elektita unu, with his regal bearing and imposing presence, arrived accompanied by his entourage of advisors for a formal dinner with the family.

Inísel, wearing an elegant blue silk dress that highlighted her green eyes, descended the stairs with a mix of pride and disdain. She knew she had to behave with dignity, but she was not willing to accept her fate without expressing her opposition.

"In kune: Lia Ŝántruk, Tezakar Hazim Domovan, Ghárzhen Derik Guilerd kaj Lórzhen Darian Alenov. Bonvolu esti bonvena (Your Shántruk, Tezakar Hazim Domovan, Ghárzhen Derik Guilerd, and Lórzhen Darian Alenov. Please be welcome)," greeted Reynard courteously. The men entered with regal faces and an august demeanor. As soon as they stepped inside the property, everyone’s eyes turned to the woman with hair as silvery as the moon, standing indomitable on the residence’s staircase. The Shántruk smiled—not a smile with vile intentions, but one of approval for the beauty he was beholding.

"In kune: Bonvolu renkonti mian filinon (Please, meet my daughter)," said the father. Inísel finished descending the stairs and presented herself with appropriate courtesy.

"In kune: Via Ŝántruk, Tezakar, Ghárzhen, Lórzhen, estas honoro bonvenigi vin en nia humila hejmo. Mi esperas, ke ne estis ĝenoj dum via vojo ĉi tien (Your Shántruk, Tezakar, Ghárzhen, Lórzhen, it is an honor to welcome you to our humble home. I hope there were no inconveniences on your journey here)."

The guests looked at each other and soon their gazes returned to the young woman before them.

"In kune: Ne estas problemo povi kontempli tian belecon, Zhelyra Inísel. Zhelyra Reynard Zendel, lia filino vivas laŭ sia priskribo; ŝi estas tre klera kaj bela virino (It is no trouble at all to behold such beauty, Zhelyra Inísel. Zhelyra Reynard Zendel, his daughter, lives up to her description; she is a very cultured and beautiful woman)," commented Hazim, his eyes gleaming with indecency as he scanned Inísel’s figure. The young woman showed no signs of retreating, although inside she was squirming with the desire to dismiss the guests and cancel her engagement to the Shántruk.

"In kune: Koran dankon, mi esperas, ke Via Ŝántruk konsideras mian filinon taŭga resti ĉe via flanko kaj ne seniluziigis viajn atendojn (Thank you very much, I hope Your Shántruk considers my daughter fit to stay by your side and has not disappointed your expectations)," said Reynard. The Shántruk nodded and, with his serious face, affirmed:

"In kune: Ni baldaŭ scios, kion ĝi havas por proponi. Kvankam ŝia beleco jam igas ŝin taŭga partnero (We will soon know what she has to offer. Although her beauty already makes her a suitable partner)."

Inísel clenched her fists as she tried to maintain her composure. She hated feeling like a piece of meat and seeing how those around her interacted as if to barter her away.

During dinner, Inísel remained defiant, her responses sharp and her attitude cold. Though her parents tried to ease the tension, Inísel was unwilling to be treated as merchandise. However, Theodric seemed more intrigued than offended by the young woman’s attitude.

"In kune: Mi vidas, ke mia estonta edzino havas fortan spiriton (I see that my future wife has a strong spirit)," commented Theodric with a smile.

Reynard, after giving his daughter a reproachful look, apologized in embarrassment...

"In kune: Pardonu, Via Ŝántruko, mi promesas tuj korekti vin kiam vi foriros (I apologize, Your Shántruk, I promise to correct her immediately after you leave)," he said, bowing his head in submission, while the other diners ate their meals calmly. However, the Shántruk shook his head and asserted:

"In kune: Ne necesas riproĉo. Mi kredas, ke ni ĉiuj havas la rajton je nia opinio. Krome, la tenaceco de via filino estas kvalito, kiun mi konsideras grava por mia estonta partnero (No reprimand is necessary. I believe that we all have the right to our opinion. Moreover, your daughter’s tenacity is a quality I consider important for my future consort)..."

Inísel held her gaze, her face impassive.

"In kune: Mi esperas, ke, Via Ŝántruk, vi ne rapide laciĝos pri mia karaktero. Mi ĉiam konsideris, ke kvankam mi estas nur virino, mi rajtas esprimi miajn opiniojn. Kaj sciu, ke mi konsideras viajn agojn malkonsiderataj pro tio, ke mi ne permesas al mi klarigi ĉu mi volis aŭ ne akcepti la devontigon (I hope that, Your Shántruk, you will not quickly tire of my nature. I have always believed that, although I am only a woman, I have the right to express my opinions. And know that I consider your actions inconsiderate for not allowing me to explain whether or not I wished to accept this engagement)..."

Reynard and Diara immediately looked at the scene with concern. The other diners raised their eyes from their plates and watched the Shántruk’s response with great interest.

"In kune: Mi certe neniam renkontis virinon kiel vi (I have certainly never met a woman like you)," Theodric mentioned, with a slight laugh accompanying his statement.

After dinner, Theodric requested a moment alone with Inísel. In the main hall, under the dim light of oil lamps, the Shántruk approached her with a cordial expression.

"In kune: Inísel, ĉu mi povas nomi vin tiel? (Inísel, may I call you that?)" he began, with a softness that surprised the young woman. Nodding, Inísel encouraged him to continue.

"In kune: Mi scias, ke ĉi tiu situacio ne estas facila por vi. Sed mi volas, ke vi sciu, ke mi neniam intencas malrespekti vin kaj mi ĉiam aŭskultos viajn opiniojn. Mi scias, ke Sabla Urbo havas siajn mankojn kaj mi volas ŝanĝi kelkajn el ili. Vi ŝajnas kiel malferma menso virino kaj mi eble bezonos vian rezonadon estonte (I know this situation is not easy for you. But I want you to know that I never intend to disrespect you, and I will always listen to your opinions. I know that Sabla Urbo has its flaws, and I want to change some of them. You seem like a woman with an open mind, and I may need your reasoning in the future)."

Inísel, though she accepted the compliments politely, could not prevent a shadow of unease from crossing her face.

"In kune: Mi dankas viajn vortojn, Via Shántruk. Sed mi esperas, ke vi komprenas, ke mi ne estas naiva. Mi scias kiel funkcias la mondo kaj mi scias, ke ĝiaj promesoj estos forgesitaj estonte (I thank you for your words, Your Shántruk. But I hope you understand that I am not naive. I know how the world works, and I know that your promises will be forgotten in the future)."

Although the Shántruk could claim he would respect his consort, Inísel knew that society did not allow women to voice opinions, much less direct the will of men. She knew that when she married, she would lose the freedom she so cherished and become enslaved to her husband’s desires.

Theodric nodded, his tone sincere.

"In kune: Mi komprenas. Nia geedziĝo estas aranĝita kaj mi geedziĝos kun vi nur por politikaj avantaĝoj. Mi volas esti honesta kun vi, vi ne konas min kaj mi ne konas vin. Sed mi esperas, ke vi povas vidi la veron malantaŭ miaj vortoj. Mi ne subtaksos vin, Inísel (I understand. Our marriage is arranged, and I will marry you only for political benefits. I want to be honest with you; you do not know me, and I do not know you. But I hope you can see the truth behind my words. I do not intend to underestimate you, Inísel)."

Inísel looked into his eyes, seeking some trace of truth in his words. Although she still felt trapped, there was a small spark of hope that perhaps, over time, she could find a way to make this situation more bearable.

The night enveloped the Zendel mansion in a cloak of silence as Inísel, with a polite smile and dignified bearing, bid farewell to Shántruk Theodric and his advisors. Courteous words flowed from her lips, but her mind was miles away, desperately seeking a way out of her situation. The echoes of the farewells resonated in the hall as the Shántruk and his men left, leaving behind a sense of weight and determination.

"In kune: Inísel, karulo, estis tre longa nokto. Kial vi ne supreniras kaj ripozas? (Inísel, darling, it has been a very long night. Why don't you go upstairs and rest?)" said her adoptive father, with a smile that did not reach his eyes.

"In kune: Jes, patro. Bonan nokton (Yes, father. Good night)," she replied with a tone that hid her resentment, bowing her head slightly before retreating.

With every step she took toward her room, the weight of the situation seemed to press harder on her chest. When she reached her door, she paused for a moment, turning slightly to listen to her adoptive parents' conversation developing in the room below.

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"In kune: Estas klare, ke Inísel ne estas feliĉa kun ĉi tiu geedziĝo (It is clear that Inísel is not happy with this marriage)," commented Diara, with concern in her voice.

"In kune: Mi scias kaj estas parte mia kulpo, Diara (I know, and it is partly my fault, Diara)," responded Reynard with a sigh.

"In kune: Mi amas ŝin tiom, ke mi estis tro permesema kun ŝi. Mi kredigis al li, ke li havas la rajton je sia opinio en ĉi tiu mondo, kie tre malmultaj povas estimi sian voĉon. Inísel estas juna kaj virino, mi provis prokrasti ĝin kiel eble plej multe, sed mi ne povas protekti ŝin kontraŭ ŝia destino (I love her so much that I have been too permissive with her. I have made her believe that she has the right to her opinion in this world, where very few can make their voice respected. Inísel is young and a woman, I have tried to delay it as much as possible, but I cannot protect her from her destiny)."

The words echoed in Inísel's ears like a sentence. The young woman clenched her fists, fighting back tears of frustration. Finally, she pushed her bedroom door open and slid inside, closing it softly behind her. The opulent room, with its velvet curtains and carved furniture, offered no comfort in that moment.

Just when she thought she was alone with her thoughts, a soft knock on the door pulled her from her reverie. Inísel took a deep breath and said:

"In kune: AntaÅ­en (Come in)."

Isra, her loyal maid, entered with a look of concern mixed with her usual devotion.

"In kune: Mia mastrino, ĉu vi bezonas ion? Mi venis por helpi vin ŝanĝi vian vestaĵon (My Lady, do you need anything? I came to help you change your attire)."

Inísel shook her head and, with a smile on her lips, indicated to her maid:

"In kune: Ne nomu min mastrino, mi petas. Vi scias, ke vi povas alparoli min private sen formalaĵoj (Do not call me Lady, please. You know you can address me privately without formalities)."

Isra nodded and soon approached the young woman. Inísel, grateful for the presence of her friend and confidante, sat on the edge of her bed, allowing Isra to begin untying the complicated laces of her dress. Silence lingered for a few moments until Inísel could no longer contain her emotions.

"In kune: Isra, mi ne volas edziĝi (Isra, I do not want to marry)," she said in an anguished whisper.

"In kune: Jes, tion vi jam sufiĉe klare klarigis antaŭe, Inísel. Verdire, mi neniam ĉeestis tian streĉan vespermanĝon, mi pensis, ke la majstro havos koratakon (Yes, you have made that quite clear before, Inísel. Honestly, I have never witnessed such a tense dinner, I thought the master would have a heart attack)," she commented with slight humor, causing her mistress's face to lighten.

"In kune: Mi estas tro juna por ĉi tio. Kaj ankaŭ (I am too young for this. And also)," her voice broke, and she lowered her gaze, struggling to find the right words.

"In kune: Mi ankoraŭ ne havis mian unuan sangomakulon. Kio okazos, se mi ne povos doni heredantojn al la Shántruk? (I have not yet had my first bloodstain. What will happen if I cannot give heirs to the Shántruk?)."

Isra paused for a moment, placing a comforting hand on Inísel's shoulder.

"In kune: Inísel, ne zorgu pri tio. En Erial, ekzistas multaj virinoj kiuj ne ricevas sian unuan periodon ĝis post kiam ili estas dek ses. Ĝi estas normala kaj vi ne devas zorgi pri tio, kion vi ne povas kontroli (Inísel, do not worry about that. In Erial, there are many women who do not have their first period until after they are sixteen. It is normal, and you should not worry about what you cannot control)."

Inísel let out a heavy sigh, her shoulders relaxing slightly at Isra's words.

"In kune: Dankon, Isra. Vi estas bona amiko. Sed mi ne povas ne senti min kaptita. Mi ne volas esti edzino de viro, kiun mi ne amas, des malpli maljuna (Thank you, Isra. You are a good friend. But I cannot help but feel trapped. I do not want to be the wife of a man I do not love, much less one so old)."

Isra continued untying the dress, her movements careful and compassionate.

"In kune: Mi scias. Estas malfacila situacio. Sed eble, kun la tempo, Lia Ŝántruko povos vidi vian veran valoron kaj respekti viajn dezirojn. Ĝis tiam mi estas ĉi tie por vi (I know. It is a difficult situation. But maybe, with time, Your Shántruk will see your true value and respect your wishes. Until then, I am here for you)."

Inísel smiled faintly, grateful for Isra's loyalty.

"In kune: Mi ne scias, kion mi farus sen vi, Isra. Vi donas al mi forton por alfronti ĉi tion (I do not know what I would do without you, Isra. You give me strength to face this)."

"In kune: Mi ĉiam estos apud vi, Inísel (I will always be by your side, Inísel)," Isra replied firmly.

"In kune: Ĉu kiel via sklavo, ĉu kiel via amiko, mi ne intencas forlasi vin (Whether as your slave or your friend, I do not intend to abandon you)."

Inísel nodded, feeling a spark of hope amidst her despair. As Isra finished helping her change, the young woman with silver hair allowed herself a moment of reflection. She knew the fate awaiting her would not be easy, but with the loyalty and support of people like Isra, she might find a way to maintain her dignity and fight for her own freedom.

That night, as the shadows lengthened and the moon dimly lit the room, Inísel lay on her bed with renewed resolve. It would not be easy, but she was determined to find her way, no matter the obstacles destiny threw at her. In her heart, she knew she had the strength and courage to face any challenge, even that of an unwanted marriage to a powerful Shántruk.

Days passed quickly, engulfing Inísel in a whirlwind of preparations and ceremonies that seemed foreign to her own desire. Her father, Reynard Zendel, and the Shántruk's advisors worked tirelessly to organize the royal wedding, ensuring every detail was in place for her union with the ruler of Sabla Urbo, Theodric Elektita Unu.

The wedding day arrived with a radiant glow, and the sacred oasis, the chosen place for the ceremony, buzzed with vibrant energy. The towering palm trees and ancient baobabs, reaching for the sky, provided a refreshing and majestic shade. Brightly colored tents rose around the oasis, decorated with intricate tribal patterns and symbols of the gods worshipped in Erial.

The bride and groom, Inísel and Theodric, wore vibrant robes adorned with beads and feathers. The beads gleamed under the sunlight, and the feathers, in various colors, swayed gently with the breeze, symbolizing the richness of their traditions and the union of their lineages. Inísel, though radiant, felt a mix of conflicting emotions as she walked towards the altar.

The altar, constructed with intertwined branches and sacred animal hides, stood as a symbol of the connection with nature and the gods. An elderly shaman, whose presence commanded respect and wisdom, presided over the ceremony. With his deep, resonant voice, the shaman invoked the blessings of the gods of the sun, earth, fire, wind, and water, asking for their protection and benevolence for the couple.

During the ceremony, various offerings were made to the gods. Fruits, honey, and aromatic herbs were presented as a token of gratitude and reverence. The aroma of the offerings filled the air, mingling with the rhythmic sound of the drums that rumbled, creating a mystical and celebratory atmosphere. The chants and tribal dances accompanied the drums, adding a layer of vibrant and communal energy to the ceremony.

Inísel, though absorbed in the splendor and solemnity of the ritual, could not help but feel a shadow of melancholy and resignation. However, she maintained her regal and dignified posture, aware of the importance of her role in this momentous event.

After the ceremony, the communal feast began, a celebration brimming with life and culture. Traditional dishes of roasted meat, couscous, and fresh fruits were shared, all prepared with care and devotion. The elders of the city, with their voices full of wisdom, narrated stories and teachings about love, family, and the importance of keeping ancestral traditions alive. Their words resonated deeply among the attendees, creating a sense of continuity and connection with the past.

As the feast continued, Inísel found herself surrounded by congratulations and blessings from those present. Although she smiled and thanked them courteously, her mind remained filled with thoughts about her uncertain future with a man she barely knew and did not wish to be with.

Finally, following tradition, Inísel returned to her family's mansion with her adoptive parents. There, in the privacy of her home, she would prepare for the days ahead with her new husband. In the intimacy of her room, with the help of her maid Isra, she shed her ceremonial garments and dressed in more comfortable clothes.

That night, as she lay in her bed, Inísel felt that a new chapter of her life had begun.

The next morning, the sun rose with a warm glow over Sabla Urbo, lighting up the streets and homes with the promise of a new day. In the Zendel mansion, the atmosphere was festive. Reynard strolled through the dining room with a satisfied smile on his face. He was proud and pleased that the wedding had gone off without a hitch and that Inísel had accepted her fate without complaint.

Inísel, however, did not share the same joy. As she sat at the breakfast table, she looked at her adoptive father with a mix of frustration and sadness. Finally, she decided to express what she felt in her heart.

"In kune: Patro (Father)," began Inísel, trying to remain calm.

"In kune: Mi estas tro juna, mi ankoraŭ ne estas virino. Vi ne devus devigi min geedziĝi (I am too young, I am not yet a woman. You should not have forced me to marry)."

Reynard turned to her, his face growing more serious and understanding.

"In kune: Inísel, vi jam havas dekses jarojn. Mi edziĝis la unuan fojon je la dekdua, poste denove je la dek ok, kaj fine je la dudek kvina. En Erial, geedziĝo estas ofta praktiko de frua aĝo (Inísel, you are already sixteen. I was married for the first time at twelve, then again at eighteen, and finally at twenty-five. In Erial, marriage is a common practice from a young age)."

Diara Zendel nodded while adding:

"In kune: Filino, vi devas kompreni, ke geedziĝo estas nur formalaĵo. Ni donis al vi kvar pliajn jarojn da libereco, kiun multaj junulinoj ne havas. Krome, vi geedziĝis kun Shántruk, ne kun simpla komercisto aŭ kun iu ajn viro (Daughter, you must understand that marriage is just a formality. We have given you four additional years of freedom that many young women do not have. Furthermore, you have married a Shántruk, not a mere merchant or any man)."

Inísel clenched her fists on the table, feeling the injustice of her situation overwhelm her.

Reynard, knowing the dismay his daughter felt, decided to explain the situation to her.

"In kune: Inísel, la Shántruk Theodric, ne estas la unua fojo, ke li geedziĝas. Liaj antaŭaj edzinoj mortis provante naski siajn infanojn. Estas kvazaŭ la dioj ne volas, ke obtuzaj virinoj donu siajn posteulojn al la elektita. Sed ne zorgu, mi scias, ke vi diferencas de aliaj virinoj kaj ke vi povos fierigi nian familion (Inísel, Your Shántruk Theodric has been married before. His previous wives died trying to give birth to his children. It is as if the gods do not want dull women to give their successors to the chosen one. But do not worry, I know that you are different from other women and that you will be able to make our family proud)."

Reynard's words resonated in the room, leaving a sense of discomfort in the air. Inísel felt a pang of worry; she knew her period had not yet started and was unsure if the Shántruk knew.

"In kune: Patro, Patrino, ĉu via Shántruk scias? Ĉu vi scias, ke mi ankoraŭ ne makulis? (Father, Mother, does your Shántruk know? Does he know that I have not yet stained?)" asked Inísel clearly, wanting to know what her parents had hidden from her recent husband.

Reynard looked at her tenderly, but before he could respond, Diara intervened.

"In kune: Inísel, vi estas forta kaj tre juna. La Shántruko ne devis scii pri tiu eta ĝeno. Ankaŭ, mi scias, ke kun la tempo, ĝi malaltiĝos, ne maltrankviliĝu (Inísel, you are strong and very young. The Shántruk did not need to know about that little inconvenience. Besides, I know that with time, it will come, do not worry)."

Inísel sighed in frustration. She slowly got up from the table and, without saying another word, headed towards the door.

"In kune: Inísel, karulino, kien vi iras? (Inísel, dear, where are you going?)" asked Diara with concern.

"In kune: Ĉi tiuj lastaj tagoj estis tre tumultaj. Mi bezonas momenton por esti sola (These last few days have been very tumultuous. I need a moment to be alone)," Inísel responded. Despite her firm and determined voice, there was a slight hint of fatigue. Without waiting for confirmation, she left the room and retired to her bedroom, seeking refuge in solitude and silence. She approached the balcony and contemplatively looked at the sandy streets of Sabla Urbo. The bustle of everyday life continued, unaware of her situation. She saw merchants offering their goods, children running and playing, and women chatting while carrying water jugs on their heads. A sense of emptiness filled her heart. She wondered what would become of her now that she was married and had become the Valkúr, the consort of the Shántruk.

As she contemplated, she murmured to herself:

"In kune: Mi estas nur lia objekto, lia marioneto, mi estas nenio kaj nun, kiam mi edziniĝis, mi vivos submetiĝema al li (I am just his object, his puppet, I am nothing and now that I am married, I will live submissive to him)."

At that moment, the door to her room opened gently, and Isra, her loyal maid, entered. Hearing her lady’s words, Isra hurried over, concerned by the sadness she perceived in her voice.

"In kune: Inísel, ne parolu tiel, mi petas (Inísel, do not speak like that, please)..." said Isra softly. "In kune: Vi estas malsama, vi estas forta kaj mi scias, ke vi estos multe pli ol tio (You are different, you are strong and I know you will be much more than that)."

Inísel looked at her with eyes full of despondency.

"In kune: Isra, mi havas nur la titolon de Valkúr, mi estis senigita je mia respekto kiel Zhelyra. Mi sentas, ke mi estas kaptito en ora kaĝo (Isra, I only have the title of Valkúr, I have been stripped of my respect as Zhelyra. I feel like I am a prisoner in a golden cage)."

Isra moved closer, taking her hands in hers.

"In kune: Inísel, vi ne devas dubi, mi scias, ke vi estos multe pli ol simpla partnero. Kaj male al mi, granda estonteco atendas vin (Inísel, you do not have to doubt, I know you will be much more than a simple consort. And unlike me, you have a great future ahead)."

Inísel frowned and looked at her friend.

"In kune: Kial vi diras tion? Kial vi pensas, ke pli malbona estonteco atendas vin? (Why do you say that? Why do you think a worse future awaits you?)"

Isra lowered her head and revealed in a whisper.

"In kune: La majstro parolis al mi. Kiam vi iros loĝi kun la Shántruk, vi havos multe pli da sklavoj pli bonaj ol mi je via dispono. Do la majstro intencas vendi min al alia komercisto (The master has spoken to me. When you go to live with the Shántruk, you will have many better slaves than me at your disposal. So the master intends to sell me to another merchant)."

Inísel's heart shrank at the thought of losing her dearest friend. She knew that if Isra were sold, it would most likely mean she would be handed over to some vile man who would abuse her physically and emotionally. The prospect was terrifying, but Inísel's determination could not allow it.

"In kune: Ne (No)," she responded firmly. "In kune: Eble mi estas senvalora nun, kiam mi estas edziĝinta, sed mi ne lasos vin forlasi min. Eĉ se ĝi estas la sola volo, kiun mi estas donita, mi promesas, ke mi ne permesos al aliaj mistrakti vin. Mi planas protekti vin ĝis mia lasta spiro, Isra (I may have no value now that I am married, but I will not accept you leaving my side. Even if it is the only will granted to me, I promise I will not allow others to mistreat you. I plan to protect you until my last breath, Isra)."

Isra smiled, feeling a surge of gratitude and affection.

"In kune: Dankon, Ines (Thank you, Inés)," said Isra sincerely, using the nickname she only applied when she felt deep affection for her mistress.

"In kune: Mi donos ĉion, mian vivon kaj mian lojalecon, mi ĵuras, ke mi ĉiam estos fidela al vi kaj mi faros ĉion eblan por ĉiam resti ĉe via flanko (I will give everything, my life and my loyalty, I swear I will always be faithful to you and I will do everything possible to always stay by your side)."

Inísel hugged her, feeling a moment of comfort in her friend's arms.

"In kune: Dankon, Isra. Vi donas al mi forton por alfronti mian estontecon. Kaj mi promesas al vi, ĉi tie kaj nun, ke mi ne permesos fari min nura ornamaĵo en la korto de la Ŝantruk. Mi planas profiti mian pozicion kaj fari bonon (Thank you, Isra. You give me the strength to face my future. And I promise you, here and now, that I will not allow myself to become a mere ornament in the court of Shántruk. I intend to use my position to do good).

With those words in mind, Inísel decided she would not give up. She would keep Isra by her side, use her new position to improve the world, and find a way to live her life on her own terms, even in the complexity of her new role as Valkúr.