NINE
"Even if your girl hasn't been eaten by the dragon, the beast will take her from you all the same," Regina announced as she swept into Reidar's solar.
Reidar set down the report he'd been trying to read. "Explain yourself, Mother," he said, trying not to grit his teeth. He failed, naturally.
"Word has reached the city that he has increased the reward. Whoever slays the pesky dragon shall have half the kingdom and be named the highest lord in the land." Regina spread her hands wide. "Well, we all know what that means."
Reidar sighed. "No, I do not. Speak plainly."
Regina gave an exaggerated sigh, as if to demonstrate she'd been doing it for far longer than her son, and was far more skilled, too. "Half the kingdom is the usual dowry that comes with a princess's hand in marriage.
