Chained Hearts: From Slavery to Sovereignty

The steward continued to assign tasks to everyone while calling their name. And Cassian's heart was ready to jump every time, he heard a new name called, fearing that he was the next one to be called. There was nothing wrong with being called out and assigned their task, but even Cassian didn't know why he had this feeling. Maybe because with these tasks, came responsibility far greater than he except and one mistake can lead to death. In just two weeks Cassian heard this statement multiple times from many people.

Harlan's voice can be heard across the hall where all of the servants are standing in neat lines. His voice is filled with his usual authoritativeness and respect. Harlan moved down the lines of servants while announcing their tasks, responsibilities and under whose command they were.

He wore a solemn expression while giving orders. Which showed how much of an importance this diplomatic visit is. Everyone could feel the tense atmosphere.

"Lisette," Harlan called out to a woman, one of the senior maids. Lisette is a head-level servant, she is a woman in her forties who has served the palace for over a decade. She was known for her meticulous attention to detail and unyielding work ethic. Her sharp eyes could spot a speck of dust from across the room, and her high standards had earned her the respect—and fear—of many in the servant's quarters.

"You will oversee the preparation of the main dining hall," Harlan instructed her. "Ensure that everything is in order—every silverware should be polished, every centerpiece perfect. The king expects nothing less than absolute perfection for this event."

Lisette nodded curtly towards the steward, her expression was one of grim determination and pride. She was a woman of few words, but her presence alone commanded attention. Cassian had seen her in action before, and he knew that she would leave no stone unturned in her quest for perfection.

Next, Harlan turned to Samuel, he was another head-level servant who had been in the palace for over ten years. Samuel was a tall, sturdy man with a calm demeanor and a reputation for being excellent in his work. He had seen countless events pass through the palace and knew how to handle the most demanding tasks.

"Samuel, you will be in charge of the royal chambers," Harlan ordered. "The king himself will be spending much of his time there during the visit. Everything must be flawless—the linens, the draperies, the furnishings. Leave no detail unattended."

Samuel inclined his head in acknowledgment. "Understood, sir," he replied with his voice steady and confident. Cassian envied his composure, wishing he could borrow some of that calm for himself.

Harlan's gaze then shifted to Ana, a middle-level servant who had worked in the palace for five years. Ana was a kind woman with a warm smile and a gentle nature, but she was also fiercely dedicated to her duties. She had mentored many of the newer servants, including Cassian and James, and was well-liked among the staff.

"Ana," Harlan said with his tone slightly softer, "you'll be responsible for the guest quarters in the east wing. The visiting nobles will be staying there, and we cannot afford any mistakes. and will have direct orders from Samuel and Lisette as you will work under them too. Coordinate with Cassian and James to ensure that all preparations are completed on time, they will be under your supervision.