Queen Liora strode out of the castle, facing a restless crowd of commoners. "We want our ruler! What is going on?" shouted one of them. "There's no good harvest, and yet you tax us beyond our means," another joined in, the tension mounting.
"My people," Queen Liora began, her voice commanding attention amidst the chaos.
"You are all aware that this kingdom belongs to each of us, yet we adhere to our own way — rules, regulations, and tradition. The investigation into King Adrain's death is ongoing; no coronation can take place. Let justice prevail for King Adrain, a monarch to be remembered. We cannot let it slip away like a lost goat, and I want you to remember that a hot tea needs patience. If you can endure, even a stone can soften. We bear your pain, for we are human like you. I feel everything, and we strive not to inconvenience you but to make things better. This kingdom is yours, and you are mine. Remember, everything that is hard and solid is bound to soften and yield. May the gods be with you."
"I'll consider everything. My people, return home. Wait for my feedback," Queen Liora concluded, and the crowd grew calm.
She hurried to find the second prince, Aurelian. She searched the chamber, but he was nowhere to be found. In the throne room, she discovered him, facing the throne with a declaration. "Aurelian! What are you doing?" she demanded.
"I am your king. Don't call me names," the second prince asserted.
"You are not my king, not even the regent. The people don't recognize you as their ruler," Queen Liora retorted, frustration mounting.
"I think the queen is no longer needed. We can't work together, and about the treasure room, I'll find it myself," he insisted.
"I don't care, but I am still the queen. The taxes you impose on the people are too much," she insisted, interrupted as her brother emerged from a palace corridor. "Brother," she greeted, seeking support.
"Aurelian, what are you doing?" she implored.
"You need to go home. This is no longer your home," he declared.
"How dare you! I am still your queen," she exclaimed, struggling as her brother attempted to hold her back. "Don't hold me. This is my home."