Chapter 12: Chapter 12: A Simple Resolution

At first, Rowan was startled because she had no idea her uncle knew her birth name. Then, Rowan slowly watched eight tired, armoured men kneel before her.

“Get the Queen’s ring from the dresser with the mirror. The ring is now Rowan’s.”

Rowan numbly accepted General Tarik taking her hand and pushing a large ring onto her finger.

As the small assembly began to leave the room, Rowan took a look at her uncle who had fallen asleep once more. Turning back, she realized General Tarik still stood in the room. He silently gestured to the hall.

“Your Highness,” he began. “We have a problem.”

Rowan looked at him, “What is the problem?”

Lea came around the corner, and Rowan interrupted her conversation to Tarik to mouth, “Make more oil.”

Lea disappeared once more.

“Your Highness,” Tarik began again, his tone tired and sharp.

“Yes, yes. What is the problem?”

He put on his patient face, “Elves are in the Great Hall, demanding to be seen.”