Later, in the Courtyard...
Prince was surrounded by his friends and newfound allies, all celebrating his victory in court.
"You have been inducted into the Royal Crown!" Duke declared, throwing an arm around Prince's shoulders with a triumphant laugh. "We'll make a prince out of you yet!"
"Am I the only one who thinks we need a round of drinks tonight?" the captain bellowed, his hearty laughter shaking his rotund belly.
"Valentine did not wish to be seen here," Melvin said, his voice low and cautious as he leaned in close to Prince. "But he did send word that he is very pleased with your survival of the trial. He hopes to meet with you at a later time—when there are fewer eyes watching."
"Once there was a Dark Prince, a shadow in denial," Canton chimed in with a flourish, his lyrical voice carrying above the noise of celebration.
"Now stands royalty, tempered by his trial.
Once a life of harshness and strife,