131

The palace was filled with mournful sighs due to the King's death, yet the new King had to be crowned, so the preparations were in full swing.

The queen lay in her room, dressed in a pale white gown, her face showing clear signs of aging over the past few days. The death of her husband had taken a toll on her. Everly stood silently at the edge of her bed, waiting for her to say something or at least show signs of life apart from her breathing.

"Your Highness, the people need to see you. Please, you have to come out," she insisted, but there was no response. The silence was gnawing away, even at the most resilient person.

"What's the point?" she said disheartedly.

"It's the crowning of your son! At least you can participate in that. Please, I beg of you!" Everly urged, but she shook her head. "Son, you say? What kind of son doesn't come to see his mother even once after she has been through such a huge mess?" The queen was utterly devastated.