I spot Hyssop, looking down at me with an expression of fear and muted anger, as I enter the castle, Nightshade close behind me. As I make my way to the throne room, I see Galangal, in a heated argument with Cardamon. Chicory is nearby and spots me first. 331Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYH6wNXArsi
"Your Majesty!" Chicory exclaims, pointing in my direction. Galangal and Cardamon turn to see me. Cardamon rushes at me, and we embrace. I watch as Galangal puts on a solemn face, and walks towards me, my crown in her hand.
"Your Highness," She bows, glaring at Cardamon. "The kingdom thought you had been killed."
"Yes, and I'm sure you were readying a replacement king," I snap, and she flinches. "No matter. I'm back, and I've got plans to discuss." She gives me a hopeful look.
"With the council, I assume?" She asks, and I laugh.
"Of course not," I say bluntly. "I'm disbanding the council immediately." Her face goes from hope to horror.
"B-But, you can't do that! The council has served the royal family for generations!" She protests. Cardamon whirls on her, blue eyes blazing.
"But you and the council weren't concerned with Bergamot's disappearance! You were going to crown a new king!" She replies harshly, taking a step towards Galangal.
"Wait Cardamon," She stops, looking confused at my calm tone. "Galangal. I am the king. And as the king," I look Galangal in the eye. "I'm disbanding the council. You and the rest of the council will leave the kingdom. Or else," I glance at a castle guard who's standing his post. "I will send soldiers after you all and strike you down." I point towards the castle gate.
"Now leave!" She runs to the castle gate, faster than I would expect from an elderly woman. The other council members appear and follow after her. Cardamon look at me, surprised.
"Wow, Bergamot," She grins. "I didn't think you could be that scary!" I smile and turn to Chicory, who bows.
"It's good to have you back, Bergamot." He gives me a small smile.
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