Disclaimer: I own nothing

This is a fanfiction based on the anime 'Snow white with the red hair' and the song 'Not ready to make nice' by the Dixie Chicks.

QUICK NOTE: In the appearance description of Sofia on the Wikia fan page, it is noted that her hair is confirmed auburn which is a dark red even though in the show it looks light brown.

Sofia was walking through the forest covering her head with a hood from the water dropping from the trees from last nights rain.

"Found it." She said picking up a plant from underneath a rose bush.

"And that's the last of the herbs." She said checking off her list when the morning bell sounded making her begin to run.

"Gotta start the day." She said keeping step until she began jumping over the stones of the river and the wind made her hood fly off to reveal her long auburn hair that was as dark and rosy as a 'Red Delicious' apple.

"If I had my way. I would keep charting my own path and living my life the way I choose." She thought to herself as she ran back to the small complex of her Master the Herbalist.

Sofia was the beauty of Enchancia though many have seen her as many have come to stay with the herbalist for treatments and to have the chance of having his apprentice treat them many men would purposely get injured because Sofia was the only person that anyone ever knew to have such red hair.

Her herbalist uniform consisted of brown pants, a green tunic with red embellishments, the long hem of the tunic reached her thighs while a thin brown belt was tied around her waist, the tunic accented her impressive bosom that only showed the kissable top of her breasts and nothing more, while a white undershirt covered her chest up to her clavicle and long sleeves that were rolled up to her elbows allowed good movement for an apprentice, ankle high brown boots aided in her daily trek's to the forest to gather herbs and her travel cloak hid her hair when needed and a purple ribbon held her hair up in a ponytail.

Her delicate hand worked diligently to her Master's orders of grinding herbs and measuring them for the perfect medicine mix.

The Old Herbalist was an old man of maybe 74 or 84, he never told Sofia his age but the many wrinkles on his face told her that he is very old, he was always hunching over on his cane and adjusting his glasses, he never looked at Sofia like any other man would, he treated her like a daughter/apprentice but as a strict father who cared for her.

"Sofia when you're done with the cold medicine work on Keno's rheumatism pain reliever." He said stocking the shop's shelves with the bottles for fermentation.

"Yes, Master." She said with a smile, though he had always been like that never showing any emotion towards her she always had a smile toward him. If it wasn't for him she wouldn't be alive right now.

Sofia woke up to a bright light and blurry eyes.

"Rest child. Otherwise, you will hurt yourself more." A strange kind but strict voice said.

"Who are you?" she asked still laying down on a wool covered hay bed.

"I am an herbalist. Don't worry about your sight you will be able to see again." She heard him say before a shadow came over what sight she had left and suddenly a dark gunk was dropped in her eyes blacking out her eyes entirely but before she could rub them he wrapped a bandage around her head.

"Don't mess with it. Understand?" He said sternly.

"Yes, sir." She replied.

"Good. What is your name and how old are you?" He asked curtly.

"Sofia, I am 9." She replied continuing to only see darkness.

"Get some rest Sofia." He said before she heard a door close.

She turned over in the uncomfortable bed and cried as she remembered the horrible event that led to her being there.

Sofia looked over each vial making sure to write down each ingredient she will need to fill up on the next day on her trek through the forest.

While her master was out in the garden pruning his flower gardens when a royal soldier on his white stallion came running up to the complex making the herbalist grasp his cane with a dirty hand and stand as the soldier dismounted his horse and came up to the elderly man.

Sofia none the wiser about her fate as it began to change on its own.

It had been a week since Sofia was brought to the complex and now the herbalist was removing her bandages.

"All right go ahead and open your eyes." He said standing and turning away to put the soiled bandages in the hamper to be washed.

Sofia carefully opened her eyes to look around the room her eyesight had returned and she couldn't help but running up to the old man with gray hair and a forever frown.

"Thank you, sir." She exclaimed hugging his waist.

"So you can see now?" He asked pushing her away.

"Yes sir, thank you." She said stepping back to give him her smile.

"Good, I have work to do." He said walking out of the small hut he gave to her for her rest, he felt remorseful for the child he had heard of a child with strange red hair but had never seen her until he saw the act for himself.

Though he was too late to save her peasant parents who had died trying to protect her but he was able to help Sofia, he was repulsed by those teenage boys that were holding her down pressing their thumbs in her eyes and shaving her head of her hair.

He looked at the small child she was covered in bumps, bruises, scratches, and a swollen purple ankle while her head had patches of red hair left but she was mostly bald now.

"Can I help?" She asked following him with a limp as he walked away.

"Do what you want." He replied he said that so often ever since though he actually gave her an order from time to time when he was busy and he needed her to do something, but when she knew what to do and she would tell him what she was going to do he would reply with the same. "Do what you want."

He never sent her away and she had unofficially become his apprentice ever since, he was glad her head didn't suffer any damage from her shaving.

Her parents were the local bar owners peasants but most of their customers only came for their daughter with the red hair until drunk teen boys wanted to have some idiotic fun, causing the death of her parents and the damage was done to a small child.

Sofia pulled the ribbon from her long hair letting it flair around her in waves before combing it into a new ponytail then tying it off with the same ribbon, her face was framed with side swiped bangs and shoulder length curly tresses.

Sofia had left the past behind her as she continues her path of life.

The soldier mounted his horse after his conversation with the herbalist.

"I will leave it to you then." The soldier said with his stern expression that had seen war.

"I will take care of it." The Herbalist said adjusting his glasses before the soldier trotted off then picked up speed heading towards town.

The herbalist came back in and looked diligently at his apprentice as she worked, her beautiful red hair had grown down to her back, her loveliness was obvious and today was the perfect time for her final exam, their patient will arrive by sunset which gives her plenty of time to get ready.

"Sofia." He said making her smile and look up at him but she was expecting him in passing with an order for her but found him staring at her.

"Is something wrong Master?" She asked wiping her hands on her apron.

"Your final exam has come dear. We have a patient that is half a day away he will be here at sunset with his party." He explained watching her actions.

"And my final exam is to treat him?" She asked coming around the counter to stand before him with excitement.

"Yes but not in the usual medical way. It is our jobs as healers to take care of the sick and weak..." He paused sitting down and patting the seat next to him for her but she just kneeled in front of him like she did as a child at the end of the day to listen to his stories while he occasionally ran his hand over her head.

This time he brushed the back of his hand over her bangs.

"Sometimes using sex as a method of treatment." He said watching her as her face fell in recognition and he gently pulled her chin up to look at him.

"Today is your 18th birthday so tonight you will take this patient to your bed, I am told he is exhausted from his long journey. And town is still a full day away from where he is if he continued to stay on the road they will arrive in the morning and most likely killing horses and men as they are all exhausted, so they will stop here for the night before heading back to town tomorrow morning." He explained looking down at her as she laid her head in his lap, he could feel her shaking.

"Am I to sleep with all of them?" She asked with fear.

"No child, just the highest ranking officer if you sleep with everyone in the same party your no better than a prostitute, this treatment is only for the highest rank and as herbalists we keep it classy dear, I will let him know of this so that he will go easy on you for your first time then depending on how he feels in the morning will determine how far you have come for the title of Master Herbalist," he explained leaning forward on his cane as she sat back away from him.

"I understand. is there no way I can avoid this? I don't want to be that type of herbalist." She tried but he grasped her chin again with a gentle roughness.

"Only the most respectable Herbalists know this practice. If you refuse your final exam then you can pack and leave my complex now." He said gazing into her eyes with fierceness.

"No please Master don't send me away this is my home." She said sitting up on her knees in alarm but he placed his hand on her shoulder in comfort.

"Then you must go prepare the large hall and make them a fine dinner. Then bathe; you need to be clean before you service him," he said with a gentle smile that she had only seen in the few times her Master had been sincere.

"Yes, master." She said standing and going to work but turned in the doorway.

"Master?" She said brushing her falling hair behind her ear.

"Yes child," he replied looking at her.

"What rank is the officer I am to sleep with?" She asked curiously.

"One of the highest ranks that will give you the highest honor as a Master Herbalist. Prince Cedric Shenazard of Enchancia." He said with a proud smile.

Sofia gasped and turned then walked into the large hall.

It had been a few hours since Sofia went to the hall and The Herbalist smelt her special rejuvenation stew, she had spent many years perfecting its flavor to the point it is a well-renowned favorite of those who knew of the herbalist apprentice.

He held a medium box with a purple ribbon on it as he entered the cleaned and lit up large hall its 3 long tables were set for the party of 50 men while the large pot of stew was simmering on the fire and Sofia was bringing out her sixth basket of bread when she saw the herbalist.

"Are the rooms cleaned as well, child?" He asked as she set the basket down in its position on the last table for the bread to be distributed after it cools.

"Yes, Master, with fresh clean sheets, towels, fresh water and I also prepared the stables for their horses as well with plenty of hay and clean water with some rejuvenation herbs." She said with a diligent smile.

"Very good, I can smell your rejuvenation stew as well." He said with a smile.

"Yes, I thought it was the most appropriate for such a tired party." She exclaimed with pride and a smile.

"Very good. Is that all of your chores?" He asked looking back at her.

"Yes, sir." She said holding her hands behind her back with a smile.

"Very good then you must go bathe then put this on," he said holding out the box he brought with him.

"What is this?" She asked holding the box.

"It was my wife's she wore it on our wedding day. I would have given it to a daughter but you are the only daughter I never had so you take it and use it to seduce the prince, also be sure to have a spare dress hidden in his room so in the morning you can let him rest and you have something to wear as you leave." He said with a smile and easily pulled the ribbon from her hair letting the silky waves fly out in a waterfall.

"Yes, Master." She said walking off to her hut.

Sofia was shaking as she stared at the purple box she had about an hour before sunset so she needed to start getting ready but she was scared she hoped her plan would work.

She washed diligently making her porcelain skin shine with a pristine cream color then moisturized with her herbal lotion making her body perfumed with lavender, she washed her hair with delicate fingers and brushed it along with a towel to help dry it quickly.

She left her bath naked and opened the box.

Cedric was exhausted as was his party he was glad that he sent the messenger ahead for the herbalist to prepare for their arrival.

He saw the smoke from multiple fireplaces and the smell of herbs and food caused his body to shake with anticipation for rest.

"Stay steadfast men our Heaven awaits us ahead," Cedric called out as the sun began continued to set as they arrived at the Herbalist complex and they were greeted by a little old man in a blue suit with a cane.

"Welcome Your Highness. I am The Master Herbalist of this compound." The Herbalist said with a bow while Cedric dismounted his horse followed by his men hands on swords at the ready in case of foul play.

"We thank you for opening your compound for us," Cedric said holding the reigns of his horse.

"It is a pleasure for my line of work please follow me I have stables for your horses with fresh hay and clean water and I have my largest hall for you and your men." The old man said as he walked through the gate into the compound while Cedric and his men followed.

Cedric and his men got their horses settled in the stables before the Herbalist led the men towards the large hall where the men were greeted with a warm room filled with an exceptional smell of delicious food.

"Here you are, Sire." The Master said showing the largest chair at the head of the middle table for the Prince.

"Thank you," Cedric replied taking a seat while the others filed into the room and sat waiting for their prince to take his first bite so the rest can eat.

"I hope the preparations for our arrival weren't too hard for you, old man," Cedric said breaking a bread as he began to eat his hot stew.

"Not at all sire for I had my apprentice do all the work and I made sure the work was done appropriately with all of the amenities you required." The Master replied.

"Ah yes, that is what young lads are for aren't they. Well, bring the lad forward so I can show my appreciation this stew is divine." Cedric exclaimed dipping the moist bread in the pungent stew before eating.

"Before I do that Sire might I peak your interest for a moment?" The Master asked.

"You may speak freely for all that you're doing for us," Cedric replied in between bites while looking over at his Captain Wormwood who was at the ready for any sign of trouble.

"Thank you, Sire. My apprentice is actually a girl and as any Master Herbalist, it is an Herbalist's job to treat any ailments that are needed. However, there is one treatment that is reserved for the highest-ranking officer of each party that comes to stay at an Herbalists compound. So if it pleases you Sire I would like to offer you my Apprentice for your pleasure for the night to help relieve your travel stress." The Master said with a bow, making everyone turn to look.

"Is she well trained in that field?" Cedric asked casually taking a sip from his pint of beer.

"She is not trained at all Sire for she has never known a man." The Herbalist said with a serious look on his face to show that he means business making Cedric stop eating and turn towards the old man.

"Really?" Cedric asked with an intrigued smile.

"Indeed. She is a ripened Apple of virginity in the prime age of 18 as of Today, and it is tradition that any apprentice herbalist must lose their virginity to the highest ranking officer they can for the highest honor and reputation as a Master Herbalist." He said not wavering with his serious tone.

"I see, well it is quite an offer. I get a ripe virgin to release my stress on while she gets a good reputation as a practiced herbalist and treatment giver." Cedric said giving a look around making the other guys laugh.

"Indeed sire. You can make your call once you see her, Sire." The Herbalist said before going over to a servants entrance door at the opposite end of the hall which he knocked and shouted.

"Come on in, girl, and keep your wits about you." The herbalist opened the door allowing Sofia to step into the room and suddenly every eye was on her.

Cedric hid his recognition easily and with the practice of a Prince for he had known the apple headed beauty that walked toward him, he hadn't seen her in over 10 years and she wouldn't remember him, but oh how beautiful she had grown in the time she had been missing, her long red hair was like a waterfall of curls down her back, her face made up with delicate strokes of makeup to accent her natural beauty and the lavender chiffon gown ran over her curves like water as she moved the garment was barely see through teasing all of the on lookers of her treasures, showing off a shadow of a triangle in between her legs, and the lovely D-cup handful breasts that jiggled as she walked while her obviously rosy nipples poked out while the length dragged along the floor but not too much to hide her lavender slik slippers.

The men wolf whistled and hollered as she walked down one of the center aisles right toward him, Sofia held her gaze on the man in the chair meant for the highest ranking officer she could see he was handsome he held his hand in front of his mouth as he leaned on the table while he judged her, his eyes seemed foggy while a few strands of his grey bangs fell from the pins he had holding back most of them while the black part of his hair was barely shoulder length and the purple embroidered Royal Army coat did nothing to hide the muscles underneath, and his green shirt was stretched along the defined muscles of his chest.

Sofia stopped right next to his chair making him turn towards her showing off his black pants and grey riding boots that didn't even bother to hide the bulge of his crotch or the well-trained leg muscles of horse riding, she knew he was staring at her barely hidden body she had tried on the gown with underwear but it would have been seen so with shaking fingers she had foregone underwear.

"Well, Rosy indeed," Cedric said making Sofia gasp at his voice.

"Your Highness," Sofia said giving him her well-practiced curtsy making Cedric gasp her thrilling voice.

"Hey, Boss why don't we all break in the virgin?" One of the men asked making others wolf whistle while Sofia looked around for her Master but found him gone.

"Silence," Cedric called out while Sofia was still kneeling on the floor.

"Only I shall take her maidenhead and I will not hear of such vulgarity again it is inhumane to subject women to nothing more than common whores, am I understood?" Cedric screamed as he stood making the men look solemn and apologize at once before returning to their eating.

"Here." He said holding out his hand towards her which she gracefully took and felt an electric pulse pass through their hands as he helped her to stand both gazing into each other's eyes.

"What is your name girl?" Cedric asked looking down at the scared girl, though he needn't ask

"Sofia, Sire." She replied with a smile of innocence.

"Come Sofia." He said pulling her by the hand then carefully wrapping his arms around her waist gently pulling her into his lap.

"Feed me." He said making Sofia grasp the bowl and some bread then fed him like a toddler.

Sofia kept up her flirtatious smile as she fed Cedric until his meal was complete.

She had just set the bowl on the table when she was hoisted in the air with a squeal causing her to wrap her arms around his neck.

"Gentlemen, I'm going to bed," Cedric said before he walked through the tables while the men called after them with great pleasure much to the embarrassment of Sofia who hid her red face on his shoulder giving much pleasure to Cedric.

Cedric climbed the steps and found his way to the end of the hall where the nicest room was set for him, Cedric set Sofia on the King sized bed he leaned over her with his hands by her sides keeping a close distance between their faces so that their noses grazed, he tapped her chin up and she felt his breath on her lips.

"Watch me." He said before he stood up and stripped himself and he loved the way she grew red at seeing a man naked for the first time, especially when his erection popped free her eyes widened, Cedric smiled and walked over to the bed then held her hand to rise he was gentle in turning her around where he easily unlaced the sash that tied together the dress then he set his hands on her bare back making her straighten her spine while her skin was dusted with goosebumps.

Cedric grazed his fingers up her back then over her shoulders taking the straps of the dress down her arms with them letting it fall to the floor, he gracefully laced his fingers with hers and closed her arms over her chest while his face went to her neck to give tingling kisses, Sofia leaned back against him at the erotic feeling.

Now he got rough he spun her around and pushed her onto the bed causing her naked breasts to jiggle and her legs to splay out before his eyes giving him the first look at her budding womanhood.

"Beautiful." He said before he purposefully fell forward pulling her legs closer and instantly placed a sweet kiss right on her clit making Sofia scream at the delicate suction of her love button, Cedric vibrated her clit with a chuckle giving her slit a languid lick getting a good taste before he kissed up her body until he reached her mouth where he gently grabbed her chin while Sofia grasped his shoulders he pulled her mouth to his where Sofia recieved her first kiss, fireworks and color danced behind her eyes at the feeling and she laced her fingers through his hair and copied his movements with a dancing tongue while she felt his manly hands grasp her breasts giving rough but tender squeezes while his thumbs flicked her nipples raising the points and causing her womanhood to leak with arousal.

His excitement grew and hit her thigh but before he got it close he crawled lower and latched his mouth onto her nipple where he gave generous suckling like a baby, then he suddenly stopped, his movement ceased and his member went flaccid his entire body went still and limp right on top of her.

"Your Highness?" She asked petting his head but a snore caught her attention.

"Oh thank goodness." She said before she gently rolled him over she rolled with him letting her body lay on top of him but she was quick to extinguish the candle of the room then silently she crept in the shadows to look out the window.

"Yup, I knew he would watch." She said to herself barely looking over the window sill to see right into her Master's bedroom in his house as he was watching the room but without the light he can't see anything so she carefully reached up and let the curtains fall to cover the window, you see Sofia was no fool, she would always chart her own path she looked back to the bed where the Prince lay asleep.

"you don't need to be associating with a common girl like me your Highness it would just be an embarrassment to you." She said gently brushing his hair from his handsome face.

"The sedative sure took its time to kick in I guess I didn't use enough for the whole group. Travelers don't need sex they need sleep and lucky the Master never asks what I put in my rejuvenation stew" She thought to herself as she gently did some placement work on her bed mate getting him in a comfortable position so that he won't wake up with cramps.

She reached under the bed to find the box she hid there that held her morning after dress and the small vial of pig's blood from the storehouse, she gingerly poured the small vial on the sheets giving a decent sized small stain to give the sign that he had taken her maidenhead then she covered him before she slipped under the covers keeping a bit of distance between her and the Prince and avoiding the stain she had to wait for her arousal to calm down but then fell right to sleep.

Sofia awoke with the sun leaking through the unfamiliar window her mind had to remember the events of last night and she sat up slowly, she looked over to the Prince still knocked out and in the same position, she left him in then looking at the stain it had dried and would show a good evidence.

She carefully slipped out of bed and pulled the long green dress from the box then got dressed putting on her underwear first then her pants and boots before slipping on the dress, she clipped the top of her hair back then used some water to wash away the smudged makeup then grabbed the purple gown and everything else of hers she left the room, she slowly and quietly slipped past the rooms of the soldiers hearing the distinct sound of deep sleep snoring then she was met with the large hall that still had a small group of men passed out from staying up to drink which they will easily blame their sleeping location on the drink and not on foul play.

Luckily the sedative had a dream sequence property so it will give the person who takes it a dream of what they were doing before they fell asleep and will make a mark in their memories as if it really happened, so as far as Sofia is concerned and Cedric knows he did take Sofia's maidenhead last night then cleaned off his member with her mouth afterward which will explain why the sheets are stained and his member is clean.

Sofia slipped through the servant's entrance she came in through last night and was met with a start as a hand slapped around her mouth but came face to face with her Master.

"Quiet girl, you will wake our guests. How are you feeling?" He asked removing his hand as he escorted her outside.

"Sore." She admitted knowing the correct answer from a book on women's health she read when she was 13.

"Good, then you must take this and get to work no rest for the healers." He said handing her a painkiller pill, she knew the painkiller first hand and there were no lasting effects nor sedation properties so it was obvious he was none the wiser about what she had done.

Sofia went to her room where she dropped off the purple gown on her bed then dropped the pill in a small pouch she had of emergency medicine, she didn't have time to change into her uniform so she just went as she was.

Sofia clasped her cloak around her neck and tucked her hair behind the hood as she slipped out of the compound to do her daily forest trudging for herbs, about an hour and a half later she heard the morning bell chime the signal of the beginning of the workday.

Sofia carried her wares back to the compound she saw the men had all woken up and were getting the horses and wagons ready to leave she felt their eyes on her and their smiles sent shivers down her spine but she easily ignored them, she knew they were smiling at her like that because of what they knew she had supposedly done with their Prince.

Sofia entered the store and set the herbs on the counter when the Master and Cedric came in.

"There you are, girl," Master said as he came around the counter and pulled out a very familiar bag to Sofia.

"Sir isn't that my luggage bag?" She asked removing her hood and letting her hair fall down her back.

"Indeed child. Here are all of her belongings as you requested." The Master said pushing the bag towards Cedric as the Prince pulled out a gold embellished bag that clinked when it hit the counter.

"And here is the 9 gold pieces for the past 9 years you have taken care of her," Cedric said pulling out the money and dropping them into the Master's hand.

"It has been a pleasure Sire," Master said tucking the money away.

"Master, what are you doing?" Sofia asked coming up to him to lay her hand on his shoulder.

"What it looks like Child he has given you top marks for your work last night which means you are now a Master Herbalist." He said holding her shoulders then dragged her out to the courtyard with Cedric right next to them.

"But I don't understand." She said looking at him then around at the men that were almost ready to leave.

"Allow me Sofia, I have bought you from your master so now you are my property," Cedric said coming up to them with a smile that meant business and it scared Sofia.

Forgive, sounds good Forget,

I'm not sure I could

"No Master what does that mean?" She said going to her knees in front of her Master, but he just walked away.

"Sofia keep your wits girl, the Prince is going to take you to the palace and you will live a life of luxury. Think of how fabulous your life will be." He said to her, considering her long gown she had difficulty as she stood to walk after him but her arm was caught by Cedric and she could only watch as her Master sat down on his rocking chair on his front porch to smoke his pipe.

"Master Please. I don't want to live in the palace." She called out but she was whipped around and grasped on her forearms by the Prince who she came face to face with.

"Sofia, this is non-negotiable, you have royal sperm swimming around in your womb and it could lead to a pregnancy so I am taking you with me to be my concubine." He said making her eyes go wide, she immediately fought against him and tried to run toward her Master but her gown made her trip slightly.

"No, Master please." She screamed but he just ignored her as Cedric easily ran after her and grasped around her waist pulling her to the ground under his weight.

"Bring the carriage," Cedric called out as he held her arms down behind her back.

"Help me please Master." She cried out as Cedric hauled her up and held his arms around her chest as the prison wagon was brought forth making Sofia struggle more but her long dress was halting her mobility.

They say time heals everything
But I'm still waiting

Cedric hauled Sofia into the cabin of the prison carriage but as she tried to get up the door was slammed in her face and locked to keep her in.

"I'm sorry about this, had I known I was bringing home a Lady I would have brought a proper carriage for you," Cedric said before going over to his horse and mounting it.

"Master Please, Don't do this. This is my home." She cried out, The Master Herbalist heard her screams but she was ignored.

"MASTER MERLIN" She called out in her frightened tone that she used in the past if there was trouble, Merlin gripped a fist as he had difficulty ignoring her so instead he came up to the carriage with a lit lantern in the early light it was unnecessary Cedric watched with curiosity while the surrounding men all had the hands on their swords but Cedric kept them calm as he watched the old man came up to the barred window.

"Master Merlin please help me." Sofia tried until she was met with a face full of sedation gas from his lantern, Cedric rode closer and watched as the gas caused Sofia to lose mobility and fall to the floor of the carriage in an unconscious heap.

"She is very smart Highness she can easily think of a way to escape, just light this lantern and blow through the top pointing this tube in her face it is a sedative not harmful to any possibilities of pregnancy but it will keep her quiet until you reach the palace," Merlin said blowing out the lantern before handing it to Captain Wormwood.

"Thank you, Merlin," Cedric said before he trotted off as his party followed while Merlin waved after his unofficial daughter hoping for a happy future in the palace.

Sofia awoke to movement and slowly her mind settled as the memories came rushing back, she slowly sat up as her body adjusted then she grasped the bars on the window to see outside she saw they were still on the road and by seeing that they were in the farmlands they were well about a few hours away from town, so she needed to think up a way out and she needed to think it up quick.

But before she could she got another faceful of sedative gas that made her fall asleep again.

She awoke once more to shouts and screams, she stood up again but instantly hid in the shadows when she saw they had just passed the gates of Tanwitty the capital city in the Kingdom of Enchancia she hid her hair in her hood and watched as they passed through the streets like a parade as people shouted greeting their prince back home, Sofia watched as the gates of the city closed another barrier she would have to escape to be able to leave but then when they arrived at the palace she was met with another gate it was tall covered in spikes and connected with a tall wall surrounding the palace it too had spikes along the top of it.

Sofia was now trapped, She sat on the floor of the carriage as they stopped in the courtyard.

"So Cedric what kind of Prisoner have you brought us this time?" She heard a voice that sounded like it belongs to an older man that held years of wisdom she instantly recognized it as the King's.

"Someone you will be surprised with Father." She heard Cedric cackle, then she heard the lock disengage and the door was opened to reveal the prince with Captain Wormwood and 2 soldiers.

Sofia carefully stood up and walked to the edge of the carriage where they waited for her to do something but when she didn't Prince Cedric came up and grasped her waist while she grasped his shoulders and he hauled her down from the carriage gently setting her on her feet then led her with his hand on her back toward the front steps.

"A woman, that's a first." She heard the King say though she couldn't see him from underneath her cloak.

"Not just any woman, Father," Cedric said before he very quickly unclasped her cloak and yanked it off of her making her hair fly around her with the wind and only then did she notice that there was a huge quiet crowd of city people surrounding the wall and looking through the fences and gates who immediately began to whisper.

"Well, Well. So the rumors are true." King Goodwyn said making Sofia look up to find he was a tall muscular man with an overpowering demeanor with gold crown sat on his grey head while his red suit accented his status while a lovely plump woman with brown hair and a lilac gown stood to his right, she wore a Silver crown indicating her as Queen Winifred. Behind her was a woman with long brown hair in a bright green gown, a well rounded pregnant belly, and a bronze Tiara, First Princess of Enchancia Cordelia she was standing next to a man with brown hair who wore a blue suit and a bronze diadem he was Cordelia's husband Consort Prince Greylock.

But the most eye-catching people were those that stood at the top of the steps, a tall man with dark blonde hair and a charming smile had a simple silver collar around his neck, next to him was a woman with long dark brown hair in a pink gown and a diamond-encrusted gold collar, next to them was a man in a green suit with blonde hair and a simple Bronze collar. She knew them instantly they were the royal concubines.

The man in Blue with the silver collar was Roland the 2nd, Lover to Queen Winifred, the woman in Pink was Miranda, Concubine to King Goodwyn, and James, Lover to Princess Cordelia.

Then 2 woman appeared at the top of the stairs, one was wearing a gold gown with gold hair and an amethyst encrusted White gold Collar around her neck while the other had long brown hair in a ponytail with a white gold and amethyst Tiara, Sofia knew them instantly as well. Consort Princess Sascha Wife to the First Prince of Enchancia Cedric Shenezard and his official Concubine Amber.

They came down and bowed to the King first then coming over to the Prince and bowing to him.

"Here you are your Highness," Amber said as she held out a small pillow which held his amethyst encrusted white gold Crown which he took in his hands and placed on his head.

"Amber, Sascha, this is Sofia, my new concubine. I broke her maidenhead just last night." Cedric announced a little too loudly making the crowd erupt with happiness.

Amber came up and curtsied slightly with a smile then presented her neck as Cedric reached up to unclasp the collar she wore from her neck, Amber stepped back as Cedric came closer to Sofia she took a step back but was met with arms of soldiers holding her in place as Cedric clasped the collar around her neck, it was terribly heavy and the large purple gem glittered against her creamy skin.

"Sofia, you are hereby titled Madam Sofia the First, the virtuous Princess of Enchancia, it is your responsibility to keep Prince Cedric happy in and out of the bed while also baring him children since it is known that his wife Sachsa cannot conceive." King Goodwyn explained in his booming voice making everyone in the nearby area cheer out in happiness.

"Amber, Sascha please escort Sofia to The House and for the ceremony," Cedric said with a relaxed smile who held a high authority with an uncaring attitude as Sofia was led up the stairs following Sascha and Amber.

Sofia was left by herself inside a room in the palace she had to wait until some things were set up for her because she wasn't expected, Sascha and Amber had a few other things to do so Sofia was left on her own, which for such a smart girl she saw her opportunity.

She peeked out of the door and when she saw no one she fled, following the halls, avoiding servants & soldiers trying to find a way out but it was too good to be true, she was caught and was dragged with little force, the soldiers had her by the arms and cuffed her arms behind her after they caught her in the kitchen.

Sofia was brought into the King's office, where The King, The Queen, and Prince Cedric.

"Thank you for joining us, Sofia" Prince Cedric said with a sarcastic and slightly disappointed frown.

"I don't want to be here." She replied as the soldiers were waved away leaving her to sit in a lonely chair with her arms cuffed to the chair.

"Well, I'm sorry but it's not up to you." King Goodwyn said holding his hands on the desk.

"Whether you believe this or not Sofia you belong here in the palace, you always have ever since you were a child." Queen Winifred said with a gentle and caring smile.

"WHY? Because of the color of my hair?" Sofia challenged.

"Not at all," Cedric said coming up to her with the key to her cuffs and gently unlocked them releasing her.

"It's because of this." He said setting down the cuffs and the key to pick up an older looking scroll and handing it to her.

Sofia opened it to reveal a long letter with the official King's seal and the large word 'CONTRACT' caught her attention but what caught most of her attention was her parent's signatures at the bottom of the page.

Red's Bar and Tavern.

Sofia barrelled down the stairs in her favorite dress she was going to make plans with her parents today for the upcoming event.

She was waiting at the bar with a large smile her parents were busy but she was patient so she turned to look around the room to view their customers they always had an array of different customers but today one stood out the most.

He was a tall, thin, and lanky man with grey bangs and short black hair he was nursing a tumbler of an amber liquid but he looked scared and sad, so Sofia did what she does best, she pushed off of the barstool and went around the bar.

Her Mother saw her and watched as Sofia pulled out their stash of homemade chocolates and she prepared a small plate of the blood chocolates that Sofia's father made just for his daughter and its unique flavor was made with the help of a very clumsy 2-year-old Sofia who accidentally knocked over a bottle of paprika into a large vat of molten chocolate making their famous blood chocolates.

Sofia replaced the stash of chocolate back in their spot that ran back out being careful with the plate, then with a smile she approached the sad man and set the chocolates down in front of him, he looked surprised at the plate then up to find a child of 4 years old.

"What is this?" he asked looking at the blood red chocolate hearts.

"These are our Blood chocolates they make any problem feel like nothing," Sofia said with a smile as she stepped up on the bench then sat down like a lady.

He raised an eyebrow then grasped one and popped it in his mouth and suddenly his senses exploded, the light spice of the paprika tingled his tongue and complimented the chocolate while the milk and sugar killed any chance of over spice.

He teared up as he swallowed then sipped his apple soda that went incredibly well with the flavors.

"That is amazing." He complimented before looking down at the child.

"House specialty," Sofia replied.

"Do you mind if I ask what is wrong?" She inquired gently, he viewed her for a moment before taking a deep breath.

"I have a whole future laid out before me and its like I don't get to choose what I do or where I go and I just want to be free and make my own choices." He said almost in a challenging way towards the child to see if she will understand the world of adults.

"If there is one thing I try to live my life by its that, my life is leading somewhere I don't want to go then I will do my best to chart my own path down the road that has been paved for me. If life isn't what you wanted then make it the way you want with life that you have been given." Sofia said.

Cedric gasped and felt like crying as another chocolate melted in his mouth, 'how can a child be so adult?' He asked himself.

The next day Sofia was enjoying her birthday party when that man came back but this time with the King and Queen, Sofia barely noticed the long conversation the royal family had with her parents or the fact that they had signed a paper.

"How could my parents do this to me?" Sofia asked rhetorically as she skimmed over the contract.

"Because they wanted you to have a future and one where people won't hurt you or gawk at you because of your hair color, they knew that coming here you would have status, protection and a future of security not a future of uncertainty with pain and poverty, and not only that, they knew you had so much virtue and talent that it would serve the Kingdom in the best way. That's why they signed the contract. As it states in the contract you were supposed to be brought here when you were 16 to begin your concubine training before taking your place when you turned 18. But then the bar was robbed, burned down, you and your parents went missing. When we heard about the robbing of the bar 10 years ago, we sent out search parties for you and your parents. When they found the bodies of your parents and the remains of your hair we guessed you were hurt so bad so we continued to look for you because we promised your parents that we would protect you and keep you safe. We are lucky that Cedric found you safe and sound at that Herbalist compound and you were finally brought home where you belong and where your parents wanted you to be." King Goodwyn explained and ending with a smile making Sofia look at him incredulously.

Dearest Sofia,

My child, my only child, I don't know where to start,

I am incredibly proud of you, my Sofia

You probably don't remember this, but your many virtues, your beauty,

and especially your hair, they caused us many problems,

I never have and never will blame you, my child. I do however blame the greedy

people who want you as a doll to just dress you up and show you off like nothing more than an object.

Though the King's offer is similar to that, however, he gave us something that the others didn't.

An offer that we just couldn't refuse though he gave the option that we could, however, the offer was too great,

we didn't want to refuse. A life of glamour and security at the palace where your talents,

beauty, and virtue would benefit not a greedy pig, but the entire Kingdom.

We wanted them to take you immediately after we signed the contract, but tradition states

you can only go when you are 16, but as I write this I want you to know our feelings about this.

You belong in the palace Sofia, it is where your destiny leads you too, you are going to change the future of our Kingdom,

my Sofia, an uncrowned Queen of Enchancia, The Concubine to Prince Cedric.

I will do my best to help you my child so that you will be ready for this one day, I am so proud of you my child.

I pray that you will read this and understand our feelings, a life at the palace for you can give you so many things

security is one of them but opportunity is another reason. It is a great opportunity for you to showcase your natural talents

then use them to help others. I beg of you my child, please understand this is what we want for you

Your Father and I both love you dearly, fly high Sofia.

With great love, Your Mother.

I'm through with doubt

There's nothing left for me to figure out

Sofia had tears falling down her eyes as she read the last line of the letter, and looked up at the Royal family looking at her with sorrowful eyes.

"They wanted me here." She said relaxing in her chair.

"They did indeed." King Goodwyn began.

"I remember. They practically begged us to bring you here after they signed the contract. They knew having you here would give you security. But in our tradition, we could only bring you here at age 16 to begin your training as a concubine while you needed to be raised by your parents until then. But we should have brought you here because they were right. You would have been safe here from the start and the tragedy with your parents might have never happened, for that we are incredibly sorry, Sofia." Prince Cedric said.

Sofia stared at him with watery eyes before looking down as she gently folded up the letter and put it back in the envelope and held it close.

"So what will you do Sofia? Are you going to continue to try and escape? If so we need to make arrangements for your comfort and security so that you won't hurt yourself trying to escape, but should you choose to stay you will be honoring your parent's wishes." King Goodwyn said calmly and with the tone of the businessman he was.

Sofia sighed a deep breath calming her nerves then blinked away her tears while sitting up straight.

"I choose to stay and honor my parents, not just for them but for myself as well. If what they say is true then I can be a great asset here. So I will stay." She said nodding and looking at them with sapphire eyes dripping with salt water that shined with determination that made Cedric's heartbeat incredibly faster.

"Well, there we are then. We need to begin preparations at once..." Goodwyn said before he was cut off.

"Wait. Not yet." Sofia said standing up making the guards come to her.

"Is there something more?" Goodwyn asked with a poker face while Cedric had a look of defense.

"I have done something that needs to be known before we continue," Sofia said holding her ground.

"Then tell us Sofia," Goodwyn said.

Sofia took a deep breath and looked down to gather her courage before she began.

"In my training as an herbalist I came across a special herb its called a Halli herb, it has the taste of garlic so that it's easy to hide in, say a deep pot stew for a large army," She said looking at Cedric whose face went from confusion to mild understanding.

"Only a small leaf is enough for that much stew you can never feel it kick in, but it effects take only half an hour to kick in and when it does it makes the taker fall asleep immediately then whatever the person was doing effects a very vivid dream, it will feel so real that they will wake up the next morning believing that the dream actually happened. Say a certain Prince were to take it then take a young herbalist apprentice to his bed, he would be intimate for only a short time until he fell asleep dreaming of what he was doing, but only dreaming of deflowering that young herbalist and falling asleep before he actually could." Sofia said with her honor intact, she noted the face of King Goodwyn scrunched behind his hand as he leaned on it letting his mind settle into this new information, while Cedric leaned on his father's desk on both hands while his head fell forward in exasperation.

"I appreciate your honesty Sofia. I must say your talents are really showing through right now." He said making Sofia let out a breath of relief then watched as he stood up.

"Your cunning and smart, you used those talents to not only save yourself in more ways than one, You truly do belong here and I can't wait to see how you change our Kingdom with your impressive talents. Your accomplishments are going to be the talk of our Kingdom when we announce your arrival. Tonight was our yearly Banquet to celebrate a simple harvest, however, arrangements are already being made to make this into your debut. I look forward to your future here." Goodwyn said patting Cedric on the back rather hard knocking him out of his reverie as he stood up and looked at Sofia with a look of exasperation.

"Cedric anything you would like to add?" Goodwyn asked his son.

"What about the blood stain on the bed sheets?" Cedric asked with wide eyes.

"I used a sample of pigs blood from the storehouse, then left early enough so you wouldn't see my unstained body." She explained with sorrow.

"Is there anything else we need to know?" King Goodwyn said looking between them.

"No Your Majesty," Sofia said looking at her hands in her lap.

"Not at the moment," Cedric replied placing his hands behind his back and not looking at Sofia.

"Then its time for Sofia to go to The House," Goodwyn said as Sofia sat down to wait for her escort.

I've paid a price

And I'll keep paying

Sofia saw that she was being led out of the back of the palace and through the gardens then looking up the mountain she saw an intimidating smaller palace behind another gate with a lock on the outside, the trek up the mountain only took 10 minutes.

Sofia looked behind her and watched as the gates were closed and locking her in, the soldiers and Cedric's wife Sascha was on the other side and heading back to the palace, Sofia looked down the small mountain to see the lovely details of the city that was bustling with people.

"Come on Sofia, there is a banquet tonight and word has already spread, so all of the dignitaries are looking forward to seeing the new Royal Concubine," Amber said gently grasping her arm and pulling her around and leading her up the stone pathway looking up she saw what was known as The House.

Looking around The House it was designed like the palace only smaller, while the inside was furnished like a brothel, with piles pillows and four-poster beds in the place of couches and decorated with drapes and curtains for sensual decoration.

"Welcome to the House Sofia. This is where the concubines of the royal house live," Amber said with a gentle smile as she led Sofia further in.

"The bedrooms are upstairs and we all have large beds for our Master's or Mistresses when they want to come stay the night which for us is most of the time, except a few nights a month when they give us a break when they fulfill their duties and sleep with their spouses to reproduce but other than that the royals sleep here. We each get our own bathroom but there are separate gender hot springs in the basement for the overused and achy muscles and we also have a medical clinic here for the royal doctor to watch over any pregnancies or injuries. We are the prizes of the Kingdom so our security is a top priority. The security is so tight that ONLY concubines with Collars or members of the Enchancian royal family that has concubines are allowed in here" Amber said with a smile.

"You were Prince Cedric's Concubine? What about now?" Sofia asked her without concern for her feelings.

"I was only interim Concubine so that dignitaries and others can't push their daughters towards him for the position if we let anyone shove their daughters in this position it is just a way for them to get their claws into the royal family for whatever control they could get" Amber explained.

"So if you're not a concubine then how are you allowed to come in here now?" Sofia asked.

"I was made Manager of The House so any and all business goes through me, I make sure the House is clean, the security is tight, and I make sure that we are well stocked in all amenities that you need," Amber replied with a large smile.

"Why are only members of the royal family allowed and not their spouses?" Sofia asked.

"Because most of the time the spouses can be jealous. So for protection sake, this is where our lives are most of the time and we are only to leave with a leash on our collars held by our Master or Mistress." Amber explained as she opened a hallway and walking down Sofia saw doors with signs, a red door with the sign 'Playroom', a blue door with a sign 'Toys', a white door with a sign 'Medical', a green door with the sign 'Bath', and at the end was a yellow door with the sign 'Ceremony'.

Amber pulled out a key and unlocked it before opening it to reveal a group of women bustling about in long maids costumes, Amber led Sofia in and saw there were Monks lining the wall, in the center of the room was a stand which is where Amber pushed Sofia up to.

"What is this?" Sofia asked looking around as the maids came up and began to undress her though Sofia fought she was held easily.

I'm not ready to make nice

I'm not ready to back down

"This is the Ceremony, where you will be made into concubine perfection, these ladies are the sisters of the Holy Church while the Monks are the Brothers from the St Bernards. They ensure the ceremony is a sacred ritual where your virtue is saved for the Prince." Amber said as Sofia was being held while her dress fell in a pool around her feet leaving her bare chest open to all of those eyes, and before she had a chance to react her pants were dropped revealing her fully naked body and her arms held by her side.

"I can do this myself." Sofia tried, close to losing her mind.

"This is tradition Sofia, your life is no longer your own anymore," Amber said looking over a scroll.

"What does that even mean?" Sofia asked as they began to wipe a mint and coarse salt lotion on her body, scrubbing so hard her skin was tingling and feeling raw and the hands squeezed her breasts as they were covered making them swell and become sensitive then her nipples were pinched harshly making them poke out, but it got worse when the lotion was scrubbed over her vagina and over her clit making it burn.

"Ah." Sofia moaned and shouted in minor pain.

"A stripping and cleaning of the body, then we prep and dress the body, molding you into a concubine the Kingdom can be proud of," Amber said smiling as the Maids began using sharp knifes and shaving off every body hair she had only leaving her eyelashes, eyebrows and her long auburn hair.

"You're talking like I am a body and not a person," Sofia said wincing at the pain she was feeling.

"Technically your not. Not anymore, your body now belongs to the Kingdom because of its duty to the Kingdom and to its future King. You are to please the Prince whenever he wants to have you and bare him children so that the Kingdom will have an heir." Amber explained while she continued looking over the scroll.

Sofia squinted her eyes as she was shaved especially when a maid got super close to her vagina, Sofia was shaved bald and the hair follicles were being pulled out, once her body was bald a bucket of scalding hot water was poured over her, "AHHHH." Sofia screamed doubling over in pain, then the maids began lathering lavender scented soap over her body and the pain began to cease as the lavender and milk soothed her open pores, and with generous and experienced hands her breasts were massaged once more and squeezed roughly while her nipples were rolled once again then her vagina was lathered and massaged letting the soap seep into the open hair follicles.

While her body was being lathered her hair was being trimmed, a lavender, lilac, and vanilla scented shampoo was lathered into her hair while her scalp was scrubbed vigorously, Sofia stood back up and relaxed but then her pain returned as soft brushes began to scrub her body and brush her hair, "Ahhh." She shouted in pain again.

I'm still mad as hell and
I don't have time to go round and round and round

She felt her body swell then once she was covered in bubbles she saw a rope being pulled and suddenly a rain of cold shower was dropped on her " AHhhhh" She screeched as she had to endure the ice cold water covered her body her hair was lightly pulled as hands ran though it to help rinse out the shampoo making her head tip back so that the water ran over her front while they massaged her body to give a thorough rinse mostly her breasts being squeezed and her nipples pinched roughly once more, hands were cupped and pressed against her vagina and rubbed vigorously and along her anal crack, her clit was flicked a little making sure it got cleaned appropriately then the water was turned off and Sofia was dripping wet and shaking.

Then the maids set to work again with soft dry towels drying her off, the feeling of it was better now that the tingling was dying down but there was still an echo feeling, her hair was wrapped in a towel and squeezed, then her hair was being brushed and squeezed in between 2 brushes to coax the water out, the rest of her body was massaged with lavender lotion instantly soothing her tingling body, the hands focused on her breasts than on her vagina.

She took a deep breath and relaxed though she still shook lightly, once her skin was dried with soft lotion her shoulders were grasped and she was forced to sit down in a chair that suddenly appeared behind her, 4 maids came up one to each of her limbs and they began clipping her toenails, fingernails, and cuticles, while her fingers were cleaned of dirt from years of herbalist work then her nails were buffed and filed while her skin was buffed of dead skin and callouses into soft perfection before being oilled and massaged getting her knuckles and wrists popped into relaxation, a plum colored polish was painted on her fingernails and toenails with delicate hands to accent her feminine beauty.

Sofia felt her hair being styled while they worked on her hands and feet, they sprayed a watery oil into her hair then combed it into a curly submission, they trimmed a thin bang to frame her face then pulled her hair over the crown of her head back and pinned it with an amethyst encrusted white gold hairpin with a diadem over her forehead that covered the hairline that separated her hanging hair and the part that was pinned back it was designed like a twisty rose vine with amethyst roses, tear drop gems hanging along the diadem and a slightly larger one over her forehead.

Another maid worked on her face she felt her face being dusted with rouge making a charming blush show permanently while a lovely sparkly lavender shadow was painted over her eyes, kohl-lined her eyes with false eyelashes that were implanted into her eyelash follicles with a black paint brushed over them pumping them up, making her eyes pop. A pink paste was brushed over her lips, it was thick and lightly tingling she felt it dry before the paste was pulled off like a thick non-dripping slime leaving a darling pink tint on her lips.

Now she was made up and ready they had her stand up, while a maid held her curls up as a plum colored corset was pulled over her head they positioned her breasts in the cups of the corset pushing them up and out while a thin plum colored fabric in the shape of an hourglass that had a white patch on the middle was pulled through her legs and then latched onto the corset the white patch cupped her vagina and the fabric covering it acted like underwear but it was only used for the Doctor to keep track of her monthly cycles.

It's too late to make it right
I probably wouldn't if I could

Her hair was held up as a lovely plum gown was pulled over her head, the gown hugged her curves, it was embellished with white gold embroidery and amethysts, trumpet sleeves hung from her shoulders and laid delicately along her forearm, the skirt flowed from her hips and flared out to a full circle then dragged on the floor, it had no back and just plunged to the top of her rump leaving her back bare except for dangling white gold chains that connected the sides of the gown, 2 more chains were connected from the back of her shoulder straps then locked onto the collar while 2 other chains hooked from the front of her gown right over her bosom and onto the collar as well, the plunging neckline dipped down to just cover her corset and showed off her impressive cleavage.

While the gown was being placed to perfection her hair was let down and her curls were placed around her shoulders, then they helped her to place her feet in black tipped spat high heel shoes with plum siding and white gold embellishments and a strap covering her ankle making her gown raise with her so that now the skirt showed off her beautiful shoes, sheer petticoats were pulled up her arms and connected onto her sleeves making the trumpet of the sleeves flare out, white gold matching cuffs were locked onto her wrists while 4 very long white gold chains were locked onto the collar then draped and locked onto the wristcuffs letting the chains fall down to her thighs giving her plenty of room for movement.

Finally, Sofia was dressed so Amber smiled and circled her for inspection.

'Cause I'm mad as hell

Can't bring myself to do what it is you think I should

"Perfection at its finest." She stated before she took Sofia's hand and helped her down from the stand while Sofia held her skirt, Amber led Sofia out of the ceremony room then up to the second floor.

"Here is your room," Amber said opening the plum double doors to reveal a magnificent but quaint sitting room with couches, piles of pillows, and tables and unused tea sets, the entire room was decorated with different shades of purple, pink, grey, yellow, green, and black.

"THIS? Is my room?" She asked breathtaken.

"No Your bedroom is through here," Amber said opening another set of double doors to reveal a large bedroom that was almost like a small ballroom, with draping tapestries dripping from the ceiling with dangling amethyst chandeliers hanging at different heights and sizes. In the dead center of the room was that tallest and most elegant wooden carved four poster bed with a headboard that went all the way to point of the vaulted ceiling the curtains draped around it and in the corners of the room hidden behind sheer curtains she could see a vanity, a wardrobe and a door that most likely lead to the bathroom.

The floor was covered in intricately designed rugs all over barely showing the wood floor, and the room had the same color scheme as the sitting room while couches and pillows were everywhere as well, it had a dream-like feel to it.

I know you said
Can't you just get over it
It turned my whole world around
And I kind of like it

"Wow," Sofia exclaimed.

"Indeed. You're very lucky, I didn't even have this room when I was the interim concubine and considering your The Concubine to the Prince you have the second biggest room in The House. Next to Roland's and Miranda's rooms." Amber said.

"What happens to you now?" Sofia asked curiously looking at Amber through her long eyelashes.

"I am being moved to official concubine to Royal Prince Greylock," Amber said leading Sofia out of the room and back down the stairs.

"So Royal family who was married into the family get concubines?" Sofia asked as Amber opened the front door of The House and they began walking down the garden path of the mountain toward the palace.

"Yes, it was a new law made about 20 years ago, a concubine is currently on the lookout for Princess Sascha, however, it is well known that she and Prince Greylock have a sexual relationship so it isn't a huge priority and making me his Concubine raises my station at the Palace. I will not be needed for sexual relations with the Prince but it is necessary for my status considering I have grown up here and I am the daughter of Miranda and Roland." Amber replied with a smile.

"Am I to assume that little bit of gossip about Greylock and Sascha is to be kept quiet?" Sofia asked.

"Oh yes completely. We are Concubines, we are to be seen and not heard so any gossip we hear is to be kept to ourselves." Amber replied with a perfect but serious smile.

"Good to know," Sofia replied.

I made my bed and I sleep like a baby
With no regrets and I don't mind sayin'
It's a sad sad story when a mother will teach her
Daughter that she ought to hate a perfect stranger
And how in the world can the words that I said
Send somebody so over the edge
That they'd write me a letter
Sayin' that I better shut up and sing

Or my life will be over

The Banquet was just beginning as Sofia and Amber entered a small room where the other Concubines were waiting for their Master or Mistress to escort them into the banquet hall.

There was a soldier in the room with a pillow and a dark Bronze collar and dark blue sapphires, Amber went over to the pillow and with a large smile she picked up the collar and locked the atrocity on her neck then locked the special clasp keeping it on unless Greylock removes it.

Sofia sat down on a comfy chair and watched as the familiarity between the other concubines and some actually coming up to introduce themselves to her, she noticed that they all wore collars with connecting chains to wrist cuffs.

Then a loud knocking sounded in the room making them all take seats quickly and with smiles, the door opened to reveal the royal family walking in.

Sofia watched as each one went to their perspective concubine before a large bulge of tight pants stood right in front of her eyesight and following the body up she saw the face of her new Master, Cedric.

Cedric had a charming smile on his face as he looked down at her before he held out his hand which she gingerly took, he helped her to stand before leading her out of the room though they didn't follow the others they went through the main palace hallways.

"Where are we going?" Sofia asked holding her hands over her belly in a delicate manner.

"The entrance to the ballroom. This has become your debut so you have a grand entrance to act as your entrance to the palace for your position which should have happened on your 16th birthday, there should have been a parade from your house to the palace. Then a much grander celebration on your 18th birthday to celebrate your new position as concubine. But your accomplishments will overpower anything that wasn't fantastic enough." Cedric said.

"I love grandeur, but not over the top," Sofia said as they rounded a corner to stand in front of a large set of double doors.

"Here we are. You wait here." He said leaving her next to the doors.

"I will go in first then you come to stand in front of the doors, then you will be announced and the doors will open to let you in," Cedric said brushing a stray hair into place.

"Ok," Sofia said nodding, Cedric didn't say anything and she watched as he turned and the doors were opened letting him in as his arrival was announced, she waited until the doors closed then carefully walked to the doors and remembered her journey to get here as well as the letter from her parents.

King Goodwyn stood up and viewed the ballroom as Cedric settled into his seat at the royal table.

"Ladies and Gentlemen, on this day we would celebrate the yearly harvest, however as many of you know just yesterday a very special young lady was found in a humble dwelling, spending her life learning the trade of herbalism. Many stories have been told of a fiery young woman with flaming hair of red so now we have her here under the protection of the royal palace. Her virtue and talents are well known so let it be known that I have personally seen these strong attributes will make her the most sought-after women in the realms. The story has already been spread about how she slept with my son, however, I have been told on this day that she had used her skills as an herbalist to inebriate my son to make him believe they had slept together. Using her wits and skills to make an elaborate ruse to fool the Prince without harming herself or the Prince's reputation. So now we welcome her here as my son's new concubine. May you all help me to welcome Sofia The uncrowned Princess of Enchancia." He announced and began clapping letting the rest of the room start clapping as the doors were opened to reveal Sofia.

I'm not ready to make nice
I'm not ready to back down
I'm still mad as hell and
I don't have time to go round and round and round

Sofia viewed the room filled with extravagant people, tall purple tapestries hung from wall to wall and from ceiling to vaulted banisters, the room was a dream, she glided into the room smiling and nodding her head to the people as she passed, then walked up to the second most important table in the room that had all of the royal concubines sitting at it, she climbed the small staircase towards the table and a butler held out the chair she was to sit at. It was a purple upholstered chair with intricate carvings.

Sofia sat in her designated seat as she looked onward towards her new life.

Forgive, sounds good
Forget, I'm not sure I could
They say time heals everything
But I'm still waiting