The Land of Grimney - The Illustrated Adventures of Cora Pearl, aged 12

I know several young ladies who will make you a good bride. Do you have any preferences for hair colour?

*She pats Carados gently on the shoulder.*

I shall arrange for the divorce papers to be sent by the Dudrassan ambassador. It may be worth drawing up a document declaring Philomena illegitimate and questioning the certainty of her paternity.

*Carados turns to Lucia

I will not question Philomena's legitimacy! She is my daughter and will always be. All it will take is forcing her to conform and she will leave without looking back. She does not like being told what to do. Although she will hate me, she will return to the safety of her mother's people. It is best.

*He turns to look at Queen Eleanor. Her eyes speak volumes as a tear falls down one cheek. The Queen turns her head and wipes her cheek as she stares into the fire.

But Lady Montrose is right, regardless of whether she is on sea or land, if you acknowledge her as your legitimate daughter then she remains your heir.

*The Wolf Witch gazes at Lucia then turns to Carados*

With your marriage to Onedina dissolved and if you are estranged from your only daughter, you will no longer be allied to the Dudrassa. The High Council know that their navy is useless while you have this alliance. You give up more than your family Carados.

*She smiles and sniffs the air*

You are a brave man in battle... but if you want the truth of your heart, you are scared. You are scared that you cannot build a relationship with your daughter after years of abandonment, you are scared that Onedina wants a divorce because she no longer loves you and you are scared that your daughter will replace your love with Kalvos's love. You think it is noble to make your daughter hate you? That you are somehow saving her by pushing her away.

*The witch shakes her head sadly*

Your little cub left the sea to find her father, a bold act for a mermaid. Show the same bravery as the Princess.

Freki, nice of you to join us. I am not afraid. I have no need of love. My daughter must choose; become a true princess and take a proper husband or leave forevermore. The Dudrassa will take her back with open arms. It is her choice to make; I will just be the one forcing a decision.

I am starved, lets eat.

*As everyone enters the banquet room, Nazik speaks to Carados quietly,

Duke, there is rumors of a black carriage moving through Grimney. I would like your permission to investigate.

Of course, Nazik. Take twelve guards with you and send word promptly.

I would like to travel alone. I will be able to cover more ground, quickly and unseen. I will return with word in three days time.

* Carados considers Nazik's request.

I admire your bravery to travel alone in Grimney. Very well, I will look for you in three days. You realize if this leads to Philomena, this will change everything. Everyone knows the only black carriage belongs to Sir Robert.

*Carados' mind is racing with possibilities.

Nazik, until your return, I will not make any decisions. Things in Grimney are not as they appear.

*He turns and looks at Lady Montrose as she smiles and makes eye contact. Carados returns the smile and orders Nazik.

Be on your way and beware; no one is truthful with their intent during such civil unrest. We need to unite the royal family. Godspeed

*Nazik bows and turns to walk out calmly to avoid any suspicion.

Listen to him Lady Montrose, talking of forcing his daughter into marriage. Do you remember when his father tried to make him take a bride he didn't choose? His daughter is headstrong like him and for all his brave words, he loves her the more for it.

Headstrong is obviously a genetic trait. I predict my daughter's responses, yet she always amazes me with her loyalty and strength.

*Carados hung on Freki's last words, "he loves her the more for it". He loves Philomena and wishes she were here arguing with him in person.