A couple days later, Briar, Tinley and Cloud had gathered the remaining princes. Only three remained. They had been gathered to discuss the next test.
“We have decided,” Cloud began, “That instead of holding a test, we will let our daughter, Princess Briar, choose one of you.”
Briar stepped forward bravely, “I don't choose any of you.”
“Wait what?!”Cor, the prince from Caran exclaimed, “But you have to!!”
Alexander from Exotia gave a smirk. He had had a suspicion from the beginning. Briar always acted friendly towards us all, but never gave any signs she liked any of us. Alexander thought back on how she reacted at the end of the first test, merely rolling her eyes. I'm happy for her, being brave enough to say it. Even though she will not ever likely marry, I'd be happy to be her ally instead.
“Prince Cor, I have the choice. And, if you were paying attention just now, neither my mother Cloud, nor my mother Tinley seemed surprised. I've already discussed this with them. They agree with me. I should get to choose if I marry.” Briar said with a slight edge of anger directed towards him.
“You little-” Cor poured out a string of insults as he was dragged out of the gardens by two guards.
Exavier smiled, sharing a glance with Alexander before nodding to him.
“Princess Briar.” Alexander said, drawing her attention to him.
“Yes?”
“Even if you do not have a co-ruler, Exotia would be grateful if you would be our ally.”
“So would Candia.” Briar walked up to them and shook both their hands.
“Briar!” Tinley exclaimed, yet sounded weak.
Briar turned quickly, eyes widening. She watched helplessly, as Gora the gummy worm, who had entered the garden silently, wrapped both Tinley and Cloud in her tail and squeezed.
“NOO!!” Briar screamed as Tinley and Cloud went limp, and Gora hissed, then lifted them up and into her mouth, swallowing them whole.
“Puny human. You don't deserve to be queen. I remember when you loved me. You’re a traitor.” Gora hissed before disappearing in a flash.
“No…” Briar collapsed to her knees, tears flowing down her face. Alexander and Exavier knelt down and hugged her, trying to comfort her.
“You must be strong, Queen Briar. Follow in our footsteps and you will be a great queen.” Briar raised her head, hearing her mothers’ voices, and whispered, “I will.” before her mothers’ spirits disappeared.