Queen Calyss stood in front of a mirror, looking at a girl who had changed.
A servant walked in, carrying a tray stacked with red scrolls, each sealed with the royal emblem. These were the formal invites to her coronation banquet as per custom.
"Your Majesty, the invitations are ready," he said softly.
Calyss turned away from the mirror. She picked up the top scroll, running her fingers over the seal.
Her father had sent these scrolls many times before. It was a long-standing tradition: the new ruler invites all the royal families to a banquet to celebrate their coronation. It was supposed to be a moment of unity, but she knew it was just a show, a temporary peace before the real battles began.
"Send them," she ordered, her voice firm. "To all the Houses. Valmorin, Halvek, Thoryssa, Sylvon and Eryndor. Across Fenroth and beyond." The servant bowed and quickly left to carry out her instructions.
***
Meanwhile, a military commander, got the news and rushed to tell the Governor of Avalor. The governor, listened closely to the scared stories coming from the inn. They talked about a mysterious man who had taken down his enemies.
He looked at the commander and said, "Spread the word. Get his face drawn. I want a full manhunt. Capture him and bring him to me alive. Let the soldiers know he's a dangerous fugitive."
***
A royal messenger steps into the Grand Hall. He announces that Queen Calyss's grandmother, Duchess Evanderia of Sylvanius, has arrived with two young cousins; a boy and a girl. They traveled from the nearby kingdom Sylvanius to join the celebration of Calyss's coronation.
The duchess walks in with grace, her sharp eyes showing wisdom. Behind her are her grandchildren: Lord Elian, a tall and charming boy, and Lady Serafina, a calm girl.
As they reach the throne, the duchess bows her head. "I'm so sorry, Your Majesty," she speaks softly. "I wish I could have been here sooner, my apologies for not attending the late King's burial."
Calyss stands from her throne, surprised and thankful. "Thank you, Grandmother. Your being here means so much to me."
Elian and Serafina step closer and bow as well. "It's an honor to be here, Your Majesty,"
Elian says, admiration shining in his eyes. "We are so proud of you." Serafina offers a gentle smile, showing her support without words.
The news of Duchess Evanderia arrival spread fast and wide and caught everyone's attention.
The Lords gathered to greet her. A figure stepped forward from the grand doors. It was Lord Cedricus, the strong leader of the House of Sylvon, along with Hand Haelen, his quiet protector. Lord Cedricus approached with purpose, his eyes locked on the royal family. He was a man embodying the strength of the kingdom's armies, yet his face showed sincere respect.
He reached the duchess first and bowed deeply. "Duchess Evanderia," he said, his voice low and commanding. "On behalf of the House of Sylvon and the armies of Fenroth, we welcome you. Your presence honors us."
Hand Haelen, standing slightly behind, stepped forward and bowed his head.
The duchess noticed the loyalty in their eyes and the respect in their stance. She smiled warmly. "Lord Cedricus. Hand Haelen," she said, her voice calm amid the tense atmosphere. "Your loyalty comforts us all."
Just then Lord Varion stepped forward reluctantly "Your Grace, welcome to Fenroth,"
Lord Varion said with a forced smile.
"How are you handling justice in Fenroth as Chief Custodian of the Law?"
The duchess asked him mockingly,
Lord Varion sensed the mockery. "Your Grace, I'm doing my best to uphold justice for everyone, rich and poor."
"Is that so?" she replied, shifting her gaze to Lord Zorven. "How's governance going with the new Queen? I assume you'll choose new Governors of unquestionable honesty and loyalty since the Queen might want to dissolve the past government of her father."
"Your Grace, your words are clever, but I don't believe the Queen wants to dissolve the Government or appoint new Governors. I'm here to support her whenever she needs," he said with a sly grin.
She then looked at Lord Maelor. "My dear Lord, you've gained so much weight. The wealth of Fenroth must be treating you well?"
Lord Maelor understood the jab. "Your Grace, as the custodian of the kingdom's wealth, it's my humble duty to ensure the people are well-fed, not myself."
Turning back to Lord Cedricus, she said, "I need more soldiers in Sylvanius, most especially at the borders. There are reports of rebels trying to enter."
Then, she faced Lord Maelor again. "I want two years' worth of grain sent to Sylvanius. My people need food. The famine is hitting hard. You don't need the Queen's approval for this."
"Yes, your Grace," they replied.
Lord Maelor was furious. Two years' worth of grain was excessive. But what could he do? Every Lord feared the Duchess and wouldn't dare question her.
***
The great hall was alive with chatter.
Noble ladies stepped up, each with a gift for the duchess.
First was Lady Lyra from House Halvek, wife to Lord Zorven. She wore a sleek black gown and moved with the grace of a cat. In her hands, she held a silver compass shaped like a tiny sword. "May Your Grace always find your true path," she said with sharp eyes.
Next came Lady Morgana, the serious wife of Lord Cedricus. Rumor had it she led armies into battle and never lost. "Your Grace, this is a gift from House Sylvon. May your reign in Sylvanius be fruitful," she stated.
Then, Lady Gwen, the cheerful wife of Lord Maelor, approached. Dressed in silks with golden coins, she carried a chest filled with fragrant spices. "For the prosperity of Sylvanius, Your Grace," she announced, her smile warm but clever, just like her husband's endless hunt for wealth.
Finally, Lady Alena, the eldest daughter of Lord Varion, stepped forward. Tall and dignified, she looked like her father but was kinder. "Your Grace, I bring a gift from House Valmorin."
Servants gathered all the gifts. The duchess smiled and said, "I appreciate my noble ladies. But I hope you don't encourage your husbands or father to choose the path of destruction?."
Lady Lyra and Lady Alena lowered their heads, knowing they supported their lords' schemes for the throne.