The King straightened his shoulders in his wooden chair, the strain on his body evident, but his spirit, perfectly unyielding. He wouldn't let that scornful smile remain on the faces down there. Everyone knew that he could no longer use his arms.
"Today is a day of great reckoning," he announced. "And I will not sit upon the Ruby Throne any longer… for it is time my heir ascends. She is young but has proven herself, and has yet to learn."
A ripple of stunned gasps spread across the throne hall.
"Did he say heir?"
"Is this… a coronation?"
"Is he truly dying soon?"
"What happens to the dragon?"
"Will the princess inherit the beast as well?"
The air buzzed with disbelief and intrigue. Then the King's voice cut clean through the noise.
"Lord Alekin," he called to his younger brother. The old lord rose, face unreadable. His daughter would be the Queen soon.
The King's eyes shifted to Aunt Everin, locking with the woman who had helped raise his children in secret and loyalty.
