553 The Hunt Ball Part 5

There was no hint of the beautiful Warrioress they all knew as Princess Kyera. The thin chain around her neck, and the ear cuff the only things resembling the Princess Kyera that they had expected. She wore a pelt across her back, two great paws over her shoulders as she walked to the Empress Vivian and stunned Emperor. She met their eyes and gripped the paws and slung

the great beast off her back. Laying at their feet was a mountain lion larger than even the moose. The soft pelt of the pale white fur was stripped with pale blue patterns. "A Frostfang Lion as proof that I can protect as well as feed my people." Kyera spoke gently, her voice more regal as she bowed to the Royals.

A mix of emotions passed through the room as she approached Clovis who took his wife's hand, and smiled. He was shocked to see her this way, perfect. Every inch of her was beautiful and glowed. However, her guards both looked less than pleased. They cast a glance at one another but stayed near their royal family. There was silence for long moments as everyone took in the four kills at the Empress Vivan's face.

"This evening, we are gathered for the Hunt Ball. This tradition is meant to prove the beauty of the Empress. She must be a mother to her people, a provider for their needs. All of these princesses brought forth meat from the kill. They have proven they can indeed be the mother's to our people. However," Empress Vivian paused for a moment as the applause continued. Once it died down, she began to speak again. "Only one Princess has brought forth not just the most sizable kill, but also the most vicious. It is clear she is indeed a good choice as a leader, and Empress. The Belle of the Ball shall be Fourth Princess Kyera ." The Empress waved her hand, sweeping her arm at Kyera and Clovis.

Kyera swept a deep beautiful bow, her head bowed humbly. Empress Vivian settled the wreath of vines on Kyera's hair, and then there was a pause. "The Medallion, Emperor?" Vivian asked raising an elegant eyebrow. His eyes widened as he realized he didn't have it.

"If I may, Dethroned Empress Evelyn did not return said medallion. It was considered stolen when she left our lands." Queen Kira offered, her venom clear as she spoke.

"I dare you say that again, you bloody wench." Growled Mordakai his hand already on his sword as he stepped to Evelyn's defense.

"Mordakai, it is quite alright. I am sure that Kira misspoke." Evelyn replied as all attention turned on her. Many of the guards and even lords and ladies smiled knowingly, pleased and aware of the humble nature of their true Empress.

"Oh did I?" Kira asked raising an eyebrow. Kyera stayed bowed, her knees were starting to ache and she was struggling to keep herself balanced.

"You abdicated your throne, and abandoned your right to be the Emperor's wife. You should have left the medallion as well as the Empress Crown." Kira replied carefully. It was clear in her eyes she was trying to air some of her anger.

"No, I am afraid not. It was given to me as Belle of the Hunt, and is not intended to leave the Belle until the day a new one is crowned in her place." Empress Evelyn rose to her feet and walked forward. All eyes were on her for each unstable step. The Emperor's expression was complicated. Eve didn't even give him a glance. She was focused on the woman on her knees struggling to keep her balance.

She carefully brought the silver chain out of her dress and lifted the necklace over her hair. It was a beautiful Crest that shone in the fire light as if it was alive. She settled it over Kyera's head so the Crest hung over her chest.

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