The orphans settled into their new home in the Royal Palace. They, too, awaited the birth of a new prince or princess, though all the kingdom was in mourning for King Hakor, at Stannock"s request. Some stubborn settlers in Peace River refused to relocate. Tevron and Mariette enjoyed the luxury of their new suites. They oversaw the education and play of the children, especially Mariette, while Tevron was involved in matters of State.
“What"s in the chest?” asked Mariette as she knit a green gown for the new heir. Almere, uncomfortable, lurched to her feet and took the tapestry off the box in the corner.
“Merrywether, the Fairy Queen, gave it to the child as a gift, to be opened on the child"s coronation day eighteen seasons hence,” Almere said. “We don"t know what"s in it.”
“Aren"t you c
