Rick closed his eyes and sent back his love and gratitude. Then, somehow, he finally drifted off to sleep. It was too early for dawn to arrive. When he woke up, he found ceremonial robes laid out for him.
The robes were deep red with gold embroidery, matching Sylvia's colors. He dressed automatically, and although he knew what was about to happen, his mind felt strangely calm.
This was it... The last test...
Sylvia arrived to fetch him in person, adorned as the Dragon Queen. Her armor-dress was more elaborate than usual.
The scales glimmered in shades of red and gold with each movement she made. Real flames were intricately woven into her styled hair. She embodied the strength and authority of the ruler she had always been.
"Are you ready?" she asked softly.
"Yeah, even though I'm so nervous right now, let's do it anyway."
