Chapter 2: The Old Woman Visits Eldoria

"I have something to tell you, and you won't like it."

The grandma hobbled into the throne room, looking like she belonged there, her cane patting against the tall grass. Birds flew overhead, and the sunlight tossed sunbeams across the king's kindly, wrinkled face and golden crown.

"What is your message, my lady?" The king asked.

The old woman bowed and pulled out her parchment. "My message is this: your kingdom Eldoria and the kingdom Rivenstone have been at odds too long. Here is the command..."

The princess burst into the room, her head adorned with white lilies to match her dress white with innocence. Her dark skin made the white dress like the brightest star in the night.

"Give us a moment, Zelia."

Zelia bowed. "Of course, but may I stay?"

The king looked at the old woman. "My message is not secret," she said.

"Continue your message, dear lady."

"Here is the command: the two must come together in peace, or they shall be destroyed in discord."

"Is there any explanation you can offer us, or any presentation you are waiting to give?"

The old woman bowed and presented her basket to the gray-bearded king. The petals were black. "Here is a signet, your majesty."

She pulled the silver signet from her olive petticoat pocket. It was shaped like a dagger.

The king looked at the signet, at his daughter Zelia, then at the old woman. "I cannot do this."

"But you must."