The Forgotten Luna

JADE MAKES READY TO BECOME QUEEN

CHAPTER TEN

Jade spent the morning looking through the books in the library. She had missed the smell of old books. It was one of her favorite

things. She ran her fingers over the fine leather bindings, finally choosing one written by an author she had never read before.

Looking around for someone to tell them she would be taking the book to her room, she found a small older lady bent over a book

reading.

Excuse me madam, but who do I need to speak with about checking out this book for a few days? Asked Jade.

Looking up from her reading, the older lady smiled and began to rise from her chair.

Please don’t get up. Said Jade

The older lady smiled once again and eased herself back into her chair. She looked at Jade and said," You need to tell no one that you

are taking the books, my queen, as they all belong to you.

Chose any you want and take them for as long as you want.

Thank you," said Jade.

Is there anything else I can help you with my queen? Asked the woman.

No, I think this will be quite enough for now. Answered Jade," But you look like a lady who would know all the good reading spots

can you point me in the direction of one?

, said the woman my favorite spot in the drawing room. I sit in the big window seat and catch a little sun while reading it warms my

bones.

Jade smiled and took her hand. I think it would be wonderful to warm my bones a little this morning. She kissed the back of the

woman’s hand and thanked her again for her information and kindness. Tears filled the old woman’s eyes.

Never has a Queen shown such grace and kindness. I shall never forget your generosity, my Queen," said the woman. Struggling to

rise from her chair, she bowed before Jade and said, Long live the Queen.

Jade helped her back into her chair and walked toward the drawing room.

Taking a seat in the window, she opened the book and began to read.

The sun came through the window and, just as the woman had said, she felt a warmth that reached into her bones.

So caught up in her new book was Jade that she didn’t hear Mariah when she knocked on the door. Mariah opened the door and

walked into the room.

Forgive the intrusion, my Queen, but it is time for lunch and then we have several meetings to attend. Said Mariah

Looking up from her book, Jade frowned. Just when things were getting interesting. Oh well, I suppose that’s the way it always goes

doesn’t it? Responded Jade. Closing the book, she stood and stretched. Will Victor be joining us or is he still working out with the

men? She asked

Mariah extended a warm wet cloth for Jade to wipe her hands on and said I have sent one of the guards to see if he is finished.

I’m sure he is laughed Jade in the time I have known him I have never known Victor to pass up a good meal. His wolf is always

hungry and I do believe that when it comes to food he wins the argument.

Then let us not keep him waiting, replied Mariah.

Lead the way, said Jade.

As they walked down the hall they discussed some of the events that were to take place over the next few days.

Jade was beginning to discover that the duties of a queen were vastly different from those of a pack luna and yet in many ways not

that different at all.

Victor was waiting for them when they entered the dining hall. Jade noticed that he had changed into more comfortable afternoon

clothing. He rose from his chair and in a few strides cleared the space between himself and the two women. Ladies, he said and

bowed before them.

Standing straight again, he offered Jade a hand. Jade took his offered hand and leaned into to kiss his cheek.

How was your training session? She asked.

Victor smiled and said, it was wonderful they have taught me so many new ways to disarm an opponent" but I had a few tricks of my

own to share. He winked at the last part and Jade knew he had fun sparing with the Fae.

Come, let us eat. We have many things to discuss before we start the second half of our day.

As they sat down, a server brought them a small fruit salad. Lunch was a nice salad consisting of many vegetables, some of which

Jade had never tasted before. When the dessert of strawberry shortcake was finished and hot tea brought they retired to the sitting

room and began to discuss the events of the afternoon.

First, we will start with the coronation of you, my queen. Next, you shall take the sword and declare Victor as your mate. Next

comes the appointment of your palace guards, the chief of palace security, and palace staff.

Next, you will appoint your Vicar and personal

assistant. After this has been done, you will be expected to make a cursory tour of the land. I have taken the liberty of sending a

regiment of guards and palace staff ahead of you so that everything will be ready for your arrival. Stated Mariah.

Jade felt apprehension beginning to build in her stomach and she was afraid she was going to lose the wonder lunch they

had just eaten.

Victor, seeing her apprehension, reached for her hand and gave it a little squeeze.

You will be fine Jade. I will be right by your side, so if you feel overwhelmed, just squeeze my hand. Don’t worry about hurting me

you won’t be able to. Said, Victor.

Jade sent him a grateful smile and then turned to Mariah. I suppose this won’t get done if we don’t get started.

Right you are queen so let’s begin with your coronation. Answered Mariah.