Royal visit

The king visited the princess's chambers with a grave expression. He looked with some relief at his daughter, who was still tearfully staring at Anaisa lying on the sofa.

Trace hadn't liked the spoiled princess before, but her genuine concern for his wife went a long way in endearing her to him.

"What happened?" King Harold demanded of the doctor.

"I gather she was poisoned," The doctor held out a dish of special treats, which had been tested with a silver needle in the man's possession and found to contain the poison.

"What else can be done?" The king looked down at the sofa, not reacting.

"Nothing for now. If you will excuse me, I will go mix more of the detoxifying drink for when she awakens." The doctor bowed deeply and the king nodded, dismissing the old man.

"Are there no magical doctors?" Trace frowned at the monarch.