The old man sat with disdain upon his throne. It had been over five decades since he ascended to King of his people. Those five years were filled with nothing but peace and prosperity not only for his people but for the neighbouring kingdoms as well. Truly, his reign would be one that was remembered for all times.
It was only now, however that Valerie felt a shift in the balance of peace. Having been of thirty years of age when he was appointed as ruler, he was now in his eighties. The changes for the people were of no consequence. They never saw the King, her father, every day and couldn’t understand the minute differences that he went through every season.
A wrinkle here aches and pains there, it happened slowly but by the time winter was here they constantly plagued and harassed the old man. Even his body, the once powerfully built frame, now looked like that of a starved lion, tawny, stretched muscle and sinew displayed evidently beneath the skin.
It was not only his body, but his mind too that was beginning to suffer the ravages of time. What once were carefully laid out plans and negotiations had turned into harsh hoarse barks that demanded things to be done his way otherwise the kingdom would suffer painfully for it. Even though it may have been the worse option, no one dared to disagree with such a mighty ruler lest he turn his anger upon them.
‘Father, I’m here with your wine,’ she said, approaching the royal dais.
‘Good, good,’ the old man took the silver goblet and took a large mouthful. Placing it on the arm rest next to him, he looked down at his daughter.
‘You look so much like your mother,’ he mumbled.
‘Thank you, father. You should rest, you look tired.’
‘I am tired. But I must remain alive for my-’
There was the clatter of noise as the cup was knocked to the floor in the King’s twisted throes of agony.
‘Guards, guards!’ screamed Valerie. ‘My father is dying!’
She hugged the old man close, holding him still as the poison took hold on his fail body.