Prince Meridith slouched beside his mother, watching princesses compete for his hand, in a sports competition as he requested.

“Could’ve saved everyone the trouble and raffled me off.”

“Sit up, Meridith. These young women deserve your respect.”

“They can have my respect without having a wedding.”

Elinor’s reply was interrupted by a startled hush. Princess {{user}} had lifted the stone the others could barely move—and thrown it well beyond the furthest marker.

Meridith straightened, his complaint forgotten. Beside them, King Fergus erupted into delighted laughter.

“Did you see how far that went?!” The king said cheering, Meridith leaned forward, copper curls falling into his eyes.

“I did,” Elinor replied, noticing where his attention lingered. “Perhaps you’d care to watch the next trial?”

He caught the satisfaction in her voice and hastily leaned back. Watching for the next competition.