“I'm so very happy with your decision, this is wonderful news.” King Lyall claps his hands together, then comes to embrace me. He envelops me in a warm bear hug; his large paw-like a hand, pats my cheek, and then he hugs Lycur. The joy on his face is as encouraging as the distress on my father’s face is disquieting.
I want to cry.
“All will be well sweetheart, don't worry.” Mother whispers in my ear as she kisses my cheeks and hugs Lycur. Her smile is relaxed as she turns to father, but it fades as she gives him a pointed look. Eventually, he stands and shakes Lycur's hand formally, and kisses my brow softly, but his mind stays closed to mine. I try not to let his detachment upset me, but I know my face is a cross between misery and joy.
Queen Malvina approaches and Lycur places his h
