A Kingdom of Untold Truths || Dreamnotfound

22

Clay's POV

The day of the coronation was busy as hell. Clay could hear servants and guards moving around the castle constantly. He hadn't seen George since last night.

The days after their agreement for Clay to come to the coronation went past in a blur. George sat with Clay whenever he wasn't busy with meetings. They talked and George had helped Clay with his wounds. They were getting better, but Clay could see the healer's point; armor would not be comfortable on his back and shoulders.

The night before coronation day, George stayed with Clay until the healer yelled at him to leave and let Clay sleep. Before she interrupted, however, Clay had peppered George with kisses and praises, making him blush and squirm in bashfulness.

Clay smiled fondly at the memory. Now he was standing in front of a full-length mirror. His outfit for the day was black pants and knee-high leather boots that were trimmed with red and gold patterns. He wore a silk, white shirt. And of course he had his sword. Clay was disappointed that he couldn't wear a cape, but it rubbed against his burns.

He studied his appearance a moment longer. His scar was still prominent, but Clay was gradually getting used to it. His dirty blond hair drifted across his forehead. His eyes were bright and well rested from all the rest he's gotten. He smiled at the mirror, finally starting to feel better with himself. He had George to thank for that. Clay took a deep breath and left to find George.

He found Wilbur instead.

"Dream!" Wilbur called to him, "I'm so glad to see you recovering!"

Clay's lips thinned. "Thanks. Do you know where I can find Prince George?"

"Oh. You can't see him until the ceremony. It's tradition," Wilbur paused, "I can keep you company until then."

Clay suppressed a grimace. Wilbur looked at him expectantly. Clay shook his head. "I better get going. The coronation will start soon."

"I will accompany you then."

Clay nodded tersely and they walked to the room where George was to be coronated. Wilbur walked slightly closer than what he would've preferred, but Clay said nothing.

As they neared the room Wilbur said, "I have some things to do before the ceremony. I hope to catch you later."

Wilbur winked and Clay held back a scoff. He nodded in farewell and Wilbur left to attend to his duties.

Clay cleared his throat and stepped into the coronation room. He gasped in awe at the beautiful display. Servants rushed to and fro as Clay looked around. The light, spacious room radiated happiness and celebration. Banners with Emberfall's crest hung down on the walls. A table was set out, filled with oils, scrolls, and a crown.

One side of the room was open. It led to a large balcony. Clay stepped onto it, leaning over the rail. Thousands of men, women, and children were below. Everyone was waiting excitedly for the ceremony. Several guards lined the edges of the crowd, but no one would dare to misbehave today.

Clay smiled at the buzz of excitement in the air. It was a perfect day. The sun shined brightly and just the right amount of clouds dotted the sky.

"Beautiful, isn't it?" George asked from behind him.

Clay turned around quickly. He smiled broadly at George. George smiled back with just as much excitement.

The soon-to-be king was wearing an elegant outfit that consisted of a white shirt, like Clay, and fashioned with a long, red and gold cape. He wasn't wearing a crown. The overall effect took Clay's breath away.