The king himself cleaned her, much to her surprise. He gently washed her with a warm towel provided by the headmistress. She closed her eyes in shame and protested, but the king would not let her. The water in the basin had turned pink, as had the white towel that had been stained with her blood. Damoen was given a robe by the headmaster, just as Venus was given a silk red robe by the headmistress. He scooped her up and led her outside.
She groaned as she remembered her father. When she couldn't find her father among the audience, she sighed with relief. The concubines were all flushed and envious of her. The queen pretended to be solemn, but she was raging on the inside. She noticed how her fist dragged her cape.
She hid her face behind the king's chest as he carried her. He appeared content, happy, and hot. He walked proudly while carrying her. The scouts exited the hall through the massive door, still carrying her.
