[OrangeFanta]

They walked into court together. Armand stood in front of his throne, and Emmett stood in front of the throne that had been empty for years. A hush fell over the court, followed by whispers. A few courtiers recognized Emmett from his earlier appearance. Armand cleared his throat.

"Ladies and gentleman of the court, I have much to announce. Let me start by introducing Emmett of the house of Albany, consort to the king and prince of Brivaria. I have married this man and he is pregnant with the future of our great kingdom. You will receive no explanation of this. I understand that this is not the arrangement that you are used to and I invite discussion and questions, but know this: condemnations of my marriage or my husband will not be met with kindness. You will be expected to treat Emmett no different than you would treat a queen."

The court grew silent again. Armand grew nervous that everyone he knew would turn on him, but then a line formed of people eager to meet Emmett. They embraced him and were excited to meet him. A few of the men expressed that they were not surprised at the idea of the king marrying a man, and some even expressed hope that they too could do the same. After Emmett met what he assumed to be the entire kingdom, the king's fool stepped forward for a performance. He was young, clad head to toe in a skintight blue and white bodysuit. He was a skinny boy with a surprisingly round backside. He performed juggling and acrobatics much to the delight of the king and the rest of the court.