“No, not like this one,” said Bria. Her voice held a trace of sadness. “My father even then did not care for his family as Quentin does.” She smiled and nodded to where the king returned bearing one youngster on his back and two others in his arms, all of them laughing happily. “You see? He has changed.”
Toli nodded slowly. “A new era is begun, my lady.”
“Indeed! Then let us hope it lasts a thousand years,” said Bria.
“Ten thousand!” added Esme.
“Let us hope it lasts forever,” said Toli.
“Come along,” called Quentin, striding past them. “We must not be late for our own celebration!” He marched through the doors with his young ones, and Bria took her place at his side; Toli and Esme came on behind. They all reached the high table to find Ronsard and Theido with Renny and his parents, and Pym the tinker with Tip at his feet, and all the other guests of honor already assembled and in their places.
Quentin seized his goblet and held it aloft, saying, “Welcome, fair friends one and all. Let the banquet begin!” And they all sat down to feast in the Hall of the Dragon King.
The Sword and the Flame Page 34