Princess Esme:
I take a deep breath as I enter the grand throne room.
Large pillars stretch to support the high ceiling.
Dressed in an elegant black gown with a long train.
Light beams from the skylight above, casting colorful displays about the room. I step forward into the room full of nobles, family and citizens who slowly sink to their knees, sitting upon the floor as I enter. Music plays softly in the background by the musicians in the left hand corner of the room. The walls are covered with tapestries from battles long ago. At the far end of the room stands two magnificent steel thrones. Prince Xavier stands a stretch away from them, his Mother to his right. He stares, smiling proudly.
I shiver but hold up a beautiful smile.
I make my way down the aisle, over to his side.
We stand before Cara, now the Queen Mother.
She stands before her son who kneels before her.
He wears a suit of black armor and cloak.
To anyone else, he is handsome.
To me, he's despicable.
The Queen Mother gently places a silver crown atop his head.
"My good people, it is an honor to present to you, King Xavier, Ruler of the Valgo Isles!"
The nobles cheer wildly inside the room.
I kneel down next.
I feel the weight of my crown placed atop my own head.
"I present to you, Queen Esme, Ruler of the Valgo Isles!"
The crowd cheers again.
I stare out at the crowd, feeling my husband's fingers entwine with mine. As much as it disgusts me, I allow the false sense of support. If he looks weak, so do I as his wife. I cannot allow anyone to suspect my strength or power is waining.