Emperor Virgentarth found himself sharing a meal with not only Queen Catira, but also the Grand Seeress Lady Elsa from the Imperial Academy of Magic and the Minister of Research Lady Sigrid from the Ministry of Magic.
"I believe this is the work of a very powerful individual," Lady Elsa spoke up. "I can see a figure in my visions, but their face is skewed. All I am sure of is that they are an individual seeking the power for their own use."
The queen took a large gulp of wine as a chill crawled up her spine. "I, too, have seen these visions, although… their goal is to surpass my power and take the throne by force."
The women gasped as the emperor rubbed his thumb across his bottom lip. "Is there any kind of spell or ritual to find this person?"
"Lady Duana is developing a ritual, but it takes time," Lady Sigrid explained to him.
"Another aspect to consider is that if this person were female and born with magic, they would have already come to the attention of the priestesses as my successor."
"The eternal flame will turn blue when the next princess is selected by the ancients," Lady Sigrid reminded her.
"You already know what needs to be done, My Queen," Elsa watched her.
"As Queen, I cannot make such a decision on the whim of a vision. Things must fall into place as they are meant, and the first step is to call a ministry meeting."
The women at the table quieted as their empty plates were removed by attendants.
"Please feel free to make yourself at home, My Dragon," she turned to the emperor. "Lady Mara will show you to your chambers. If you should need anything at all during your stay, simply call for Lord Nolan. I'm afraid that now my attention is needed elsewhere."
He rose to take her hand once again. "Thank you for your hospitality and your ear. I am determined to stay until we have agreed upon a course of action."
"Your diligence is much appreciated," she curtseyed before dashing off.
He returned his attention to his personal guard who followed him as he met Lady Mara in the hall.
"Your Imperial Majesty," she curtseyed lowly. "I am The Queen's Head Lady, please follow me to your accommodations."
"Thank you," he nodded as he did just that. As soon as he walked through the door, his knights stood at either side of the door to begin their watch for the night. The door closed behind him as he took the opportunity to look around the room.
He walked around, placing his hand on the warm wooden canopy of his bed, thick red velvet draped down around a fantastically comfortable feather bed and pillows. Fatigue from the travel, alcohol, and a savory meal caught up with him. As he unbuttoned his jacket, he glanced out the window only to see a hooded figure walking out the back of the tower toward the forest. They stopped, a blue glowing flame bursting forth in their hand. They spoke to the flame before holding out their hand and releasing the flame into the forest. They then turned around to return to the tower.
He looked closely at the figure and realized it was Queen Catira who had just performed a type of magic he was unfamiliar with. His mind was just too tired to dwell on it, however, and as soon as his clothes hit the floor, he slid into the bed.