Song of Life 15

The king’s choice

Sarabek awoke in the morning to the unfamiliar sounds of the city in the distance. The gardens around the palace and its thick walls made it quiet but the early morning activity could not be ignored. She realized it was not that loud and thought that living here would mean she would get used to it and not be disturbed. The family’s rooms were on the west side of structure and the sun had just risen when they gathered dressed in John and Naomi’s room. John opened their door and a servant waiting outside said breakfast would be served shortly. It was not many minutes before another delicious meal was set before them. Everyone ate and drank heartily, although Sarabek was somewhat nervous about the meeting to follow and ate less heartily. Naomi smiled at her daughter and after they finished, John gathered everyone and prayed for their peace. Sarabek always found her father’s prayers comforting and her family’s love once again flooded her soul and peace followed.

Everyone had put on the worship day clothing they had brought in anticipation of meeting household members. They did not have long to wait before the official came to their rooms and invited them to follow him. Samuel was left playing with a servant. The family was led through the palace, passing by the large room where the king met with officials and held court. Just beyond, servants opened the double doors to a smaller room and ushered them in. Another door opened just as they entered and the official bowed as a man and woman came through the door. Sarabek’s family bowed as well.

John immediately recognized the man as King Reuwel. The king welcomed the family and introduced the queen, Chavvah. The official introduced Sarabek’s family one by one and the king shook each man’s hand and the queen grasped each of the women’s hands in greeting. When she met Sarabek, she kissed her cheek and said how glad she was to meet her. The king offered wine to everyone and when each had a glass, he lifted his glass and said “to family.” After the toast, he turned to Sarabek and said “Your family was told you were to be considered to be my son’s bride. It was not deception; it was my instruction so you would not be frightened. I tell you now that you have already been chosen. My queen and I are meeting with you all today to welcome you. In 3 days, we will become one family.” The queen added “We are so happy to have our son marry such a beautiful and gracious young woman.” She hugged Sarabek who was overcome with surprise but quickly regained her composure and returned the hug warmly. John started to bow and say thanks. The king instead offered him his right hand and the men shook.

The king explained that preparations for the wedding and feast to follow were already underway. The heir was away on business and would return the day before the wedding.

New clothing had been prepared for Sarabek’s family based on descriptions of them, and the garments were ready for a fitting that morning. Reuwel introduced the official who had visited John and Naomi’s home as Joash and told them he had been chosen to help Sarabek’s family learn about the palace and the city before the wedding. “Joash is a trusted man and can reach me with messages if you need my help,” Reuwel said. Chavvah added “The fitters are ready to meet with each of you to finish your clothing for the wedding and feast.” Mary indicated she needed to feed Samuel first and the family divided with the men going with Joash and a young woman, Mirav, accompanied the women, taking Mary back to Samuel.

Next: A wedding gown

Mirav l