The elder men looked at each other, seemingly surprised that the Prince needed to ask. The senior member of the three spoke up. “Prince Yadin, you’ve no doubt heard by now, the tragic news which has befallen us all today.”
Yadin sighed to himself. Certainly, if he hadn’t heard it before now, these men would inform him. Though the three had great wisdom and knowledge, their bedside manner left much to be desired. One of them glanced at his wife; the concern for her condition was apparent in his eyes.
“My Dove, would you please excuse us? You’ve been up all morning. Why not summon lunch for us and retire to the bedchamber? I’ll meet you when I’m finished.”
Libeth smiled sweetly. She pulled his head down for a quick kiss; Yadin briefly saw the reflection of his face in her eyes. He was reminded of an ancient proverb, ‘To see yourself, simply look into the eyes of others.’ He watched her walk out of the throne room, longing to be with her. She was seven months with child, yet he still found her beautiful.
“Now that we’re alone, Advisory members,” Yadin began. “What business do you have to discuss?”
The eldest of the three members spoke, following their own established protocol to the letter. “Avendis has lost their King today, Sir. The country needs to re-establish leadership as soon as possible. Prince Forsythia, you are the King’s only heir. The Advisory Panel feels it best if you stepped up to the throne today.”
Yadin stood looking at the throne incredulously. He’d lost his father today. He needed time to mourn, lest his mind become overwhelmed. The Advisory members could be less than tactful at times, but he knew they really cared. As they had done, so must Yadin do also; duty and responsibility must come before his personal desires.
Under normal circumstances, the King passes the crown to his son when he steps down from the royal seat. A grand ceremony would be held with the entire kingdom watching in awe. However, the circumstances of today were anything but normal. With his mother years deceased, Yadin automatically became King. To sanction his position, these three men must anoint him.
He made no argument. The kingdom of Avendis had to come first. Yadin knelt on a single knee and bowed his head. The members took turns dipping their fingers in a small, crystal jar of oil, each touching his forehead as a sign of acceptance. The senior member said a few ceremonial words and it was over. He only hoped that he could rule as well as his father.
