Inside my father’s study Gerom waits with Gradius. A small scroll lays in the table. On it’s edge stands the seal of the royal house of the Horanos .

“Well, it’s about time you showed up Jeremiuth. Gerom here says we both have to be present when he breaks the seal and reads father’s will,” Gradius says as I walk in.

“I’m so sorry my horse just isn’t quiet as fast as yours Gradius. And you’ve proven that on many occasions. Now that we’re both here thought, Gerom if you’d please,” I reply to my brother and take a seat across from him.

“Very well,” Gerom says in his deep gravely voice.

Gerom picks up the scroll and breaks the seal. He unrolls the yellowed parchment and begins to reads:

I Alexandar, king of the Horanos, leave the throne to Jeremiuth. He is a true born Horanos and is better suited to rule. Gradius, you are too aggressive. The king’s job is to prevent wars not cause them. You owe your success to the fact that you’re the same as the people. If you take the throne you put yourself above them, this will cause distrust and anger. But if you stay among them, and defend the clan you will retain their trust in you.

But you two must help each other. Jeremiuth you have influence and intelligence. Gradius, you have strength and cunning. Together you are strong, no one can beat you. So, keep that bond strong and help each other. Gradius, you have the support of the people and other clans, use it. Jeremiuth you have your wits and an army, use them.

Now too Gradius I leave cast Fortunas. Call this place your home; I know you loved it as a child. It will provide what you need. A home, income, a good fight now and again, and you’ll be close to the great forest.

Live well and prosper my sons. Protect our home.

Signed,

Alexandar, former king of Horanos, father of Gradius the fighter and Jeremiuth the new king

Gradius and I sit there looking at each other stunned. But I can’t help the smile that forms on my face. I am the king of Horanos. I can order Gradius around.

“Well, that puts a damper on my plans. And Jeremiuth if you don’t wipe that smile off your face I’ll smack it off with the flat of my sword. Just because your king doesn’t mean you can order me around, I’m older and stronger than you,” Gradius says with anger dripping off his voice.

“Don’t worry brother, I wouldn’t think of doing such a thing. But I know you don’t want to be here any longer, so I won’t hold you. But at least stay for the coronation so the people can see your not leaving for good now,” I reply back.

“Fine one week than I’m going to Fortunas and then to Tagar so I can fight again,” with that being said Gradius leaves the study.

Still brimming with happiness I say good-bye to Gerom and go to find Elizabeth. She’s waiting in the center courtyard of the castle talking to Larincia. I sneak up behind them.

“Is that anyway to treat a king? You don’t even rise from your seat in my presence. I should have you thrown in the dungeon,” I threaten.

They laugh at me. “So, you think we should treat you differently now, your Majesty,” Larincia says as she rises and curtseys.

I chuckle at the gesture, “no, but that won’t stop me from having my fun.”

“Well, I guess I’ll leave you two and go consult Gradius. I’m sure he’s not exactly pleased with this new development,” Larinica says as she walks out to go find Gradius.

“So, what do you want to do now, your Majesty?” Elizabeth asks as she walks towards me.

“Well, first off I want to ask if you’ll sit beside me as queen,” I reply.

She just smiles and kisses me. That’s all the answer I need. So we spend the rest of the day together wandering the corridors of the castle. Tomorrow I become king, and her queen. My life’s finally coming together just as it should.