Lord’s Legacy

That evening, Kael returns to the palace, along with Ria, Evie, and Gabby. Evie clings to his arm, more nervous than Kael would have thought she would be. He wonders if her empathic powers allow her more insight into the situation than usual. Meanwhile, Gabby is arm in arm with Ria, the two of them laughing as they walk together.

When they enter the dining hall, they find Bernal and Lord Greyheart already seated, talking and drinking wine. Bernal nods in greeting, and Lord Greyheart gestures towards the table, indicating that they should sit. As they do so, Orin enters, holding hands with Lyssa, his lamia companion. It seems like the advice he received the other day was effective, as the genuine affection in the glance they share is obvious. Close behind them are Koa and his orcish companions. They wear dresses that match their vibrant hair colors, and the three of them catch the eye with their size and obvious happiness together.

Once everyone is seated, Lord Greyheart takes a final sip of wine before speaking. “My Champions and your closest companions. I’m glad to see you here and well. The food will be brought out soon, but first, I have some things to say.”

He sighs. “As you all know, my time is coming to an end. This curse will finish me, and soon. Perhaps weeks remain.”

He waves his hand in front of his face, sallow and tired, and chuckles. “As if that wasn’t obvious. But…I have not named an heir. A few of you know why. But that changes now.”

He looks around the table, smiling. “My Champions, you are my closest confidants, and I trust you with all that I am. Tomorrow, I make the announcement to the people, but I want you to know first.”

Lord Greyheart lays his hand on the table. “The truth is, I do have an heir. In this room.”

He gestures towards Evie. “Her. Evie is my daughter.”

Before anyone can respond, he continues. “But the people would not accept an elf as their queen so soon. And so, I came to an obvious solution. Kael will be my heir. And Ria will be his queen.”

There’s a moment of silence, before Orin speaks. “You know, not long ago, I would have argued. For some reason…” He glances to the lamia at his side, sharing a momentary smile. “…for some reason, I find myself in agreement.”

Koa nods. “I would have no such issue. Kael is a worthy leader.”

Orin chuckles, looking at Kael. “And I want to formally apologize for some…comments I made about Evie. I was out of line.”

Kael can see Evie stifling a giggle, and he shakes his head. “It’s fine, Orin. I think you know my private life can be a bit…interesting.”

Ria laughs. “Not exactly a prim and proper household!”

Now both Gabby and Evie are giggling, and Koa’s companions are as well. Lord Greyheart himself even smiles, shaking his head. “Again, that’s my daughter, so…I don’t want to know any more. Regardless, as I said, Kael and Ria will be my heirs. Evie will lend legitimacy to their rule. As for the rest of you, your status is up to you. I would appreciate it if you would serve Kael as you have me, but I won’t **** you.”

Koa’s answer is immediate. “Of course. My duty is to protect my lord, no matter that he or she was once a fellow protector.”

Orin sighs, but he smiles as well. “I too will continue, but I may be a bit less…respectful than Koa.”

Ria rolls her eyes. “So, no change, then?”

Bernal laughs, interrupting Orin’s response. “As for myself…I’m afraid that I won’t be remaining. When it…happens, I will be disappearing as well. For private reasons.”

He and Lord Greyheart share a long look, and Lord Greyheart nods. “Yes. That aside, I’m glad that this has been so readily agreed upon. My Champions, I have always been proud of you. I thank you for your service.”

He leans back in his chair with a sigh.