With a camera cut, River, behind the guard and followed by Stace, walks through the large door and past the guards at either side defending the king.

Guard
Your liege, I fetched your daughter as ordered.

King Phosphorus
Thank you, you may get back to your duties.

Standing up from his throne as the girls approach, he walks down the steps from it and looks down at his daughter in front of him.

River
(Unnerved)
What is it you want?

King Phosphorus
I must tell you, your birthday celebration must be sped up. It will arrive in two days time.

River
(Shocked)
Tomorrow?! What, why?!

King Phosphorus
I had arranged for you to meet with a prince from Avantasia, a kingdom from the mainland at that celebration. An heir is a necessity if I were to pass, which is a day fast approaching.

River
(Impatient and frustrated)
Father, you've already told me this.

King Phosphorus
Yes, I did. But what I have to tell you is the reason for it arriving sooner than intended, so listen well. That kingdom's ruler, Queen Isabella, has supposedly made the decision to send her son earlier than expected. As such, we had to hasten the celebration.

River
But-!

King Phosphorus
(Quiet)
Shh.

Sticking up his finger, he presses it on her lips to silence her.

King Phosphorus
(Gentle)
Hush now. This is a day of the utmost importance. If you wed, and bear a child, not only would this kingdom get an heir, but it could also gain a powerful ally. That child would be the combination of two dynasties. Therefore, when they grow up, they could merge the kingdom's into one, being the eldest heir of both. That is an opportunity we shouldn't pass up, don't you think?

Listening as her father rubs her cheek down to her chin, River is conflicted, mind racing with thoughts.

King Phosphorus
Did you understand all of that?

With nothing but a nod, River's inner conflict is visible on her face, which Stace notices.

King Phosphorus smiles as his daughter, who looks up at him.

King Phosphorus
(Warm)
Good. I am glad you do understand my reasoning. It is vital you and this man wed, as it could be extraordinarily useful. That is all. You may go back to your day.

Camera closes on River's saddened and nervous expression of contemplation before fading to black slowly.