Quietus

The End of the Crown Division

When Acaila entered the dining hall she immediately knew that something was wrong. Her siblings were all silently standing behind their chairs.

Her father's presence was impossible to ignore. He towered behind his chair, engaging in conversation with Reed and Inc who were already standing behind their's. Inc had taken Acaila's seat, adjacent to Reed's and therefor one step closer to their father than herself.

Acaila walked over to Inc's chair and stood behind it. She had been busy finishing a letter to Heturain. He had apologized thoroughly for not paying her much heed during the wedding, and Acaila had found it easy to forgive him. What had recently become an issue was Kasdahn.

Kasdahn was to turn thirty, and Acaila had been invited to his party in the kingdom of Brown. Acaila hadn't known how old he was compared to herself. The twelve-year age gap did not seem to bother him, and it was obvious to her that he was interested. He had been showering her with gifts twice as often as Heturain, which was concerning in more than one way.

"Now I believe we are all here." Their father announced. "As you have probably understood, I am here to announce which member of the Crown Division that is to inherit the throne."

Acaila's throat knotted.

It was as if all her siblings held their breath.

Acaila could hear her own heartbeat, but she could also hear Inc's and Reed's. She reached out and grabbed Inc's hand. It was a reflex. He looked just as shocked as Acaila felt, but he didn't let go.

"I have come to the conclusion that the person most suited to inherit the country is the oldest son."

Acaila could feel tears in her eyes. She knew it would be Reed, but the disappointment flooded her nonetheless. Inc squeezed her hand tighter.

"To me it does not matter that he is not a fullblood. He has proven himself worthy in every way." Their father beamed.

Someone started clapping. I turned my head to see Tavia with the biggest grin. Of course, she would be happy for him. She was the biological sister to the future king.

Acaila had to remind herself of who Reed was. He was no tyrant. He had not robbed her of anything. He had earned the right to the throne, and he was her favorite brother.

She hated to admit it, but Reed truly deserved the crown.

"Congratulations, my son." Their father said as he pulled Reed in for a hug. It was only when he let go that I saw the tears in Reed's eyes. He pulled away, shaking his head.

"I don't- I just-" he started, but he didn't finish. He turned away from the table and took quick longs steps to the door. Tavia was quick to follow.

Inc looked at Acaila.

Acaila let go of his hand and smiled softly in his direction.

She could only imagine what was going through his head right now. If she was disappointed, Inc must have been furious.

If he was, he sure was good at hiding it.

"Good game." Inc said and patted Acaila's shoulder. Then he sat down, picked up his fork, and ate.