The Crown of Gilded Bones (Blood and..

when it comes to ruling Atlantia. But we don’t need
unnecessary drama.”
I fought a smile as his father’s eyes narrowed. “I
apologize, son. I wouldn’t want to cause any unnecessary
drama,” his father replied dryly.
“Apology accepted,” Casteel murmured, and I heard the
huffing sound of a wolven laughing behind me. Valyn’s eyes
narrowed.
“He’s right,” I agreed. “We do need your help. There is
much for me to learn, and there is a lot that Casteel and I
have to do.”
“And your reason for coming to this decision?” Eloana
asked.
Thinking of what Casteel had said to me, I met her
stare. “My reasons don’t matter as long as they’re my
reasons.”
She stared at me for a moment, and then one side of
her lips curved up. With a nod, she looked at her husband.
“It’s time,” she said. “It’s been time.”
“I know,” his father said with a heavy sigh. “I just hope
you both understand that this responsibility doesn’t end
when you accomplish what you seek.”
“We know,” Casteel answered, coming to stand beside
me once more.
I nodded. “We do.”
Valyn and his wife came to the edge of the dais. “I have
a suspicion that neither of you will want to go the traditional
route?”
Casteel looked over at me. Assuming the traditional
route meant balls and feasts, I said, “Once we have handled
the threat to the west, we would like for there to be a…more
elaborate coronation. Neither of us feels the timing is
appropriate to do so now.”
Eloana nodded. “The coronation celebration can be held
whenever, upon your discretion.”