Catapat-
As he explained his the purpose of his
visit, he was led into a small waiting room to await the
arrival of the King. He slowly looked around and admired
the furnishings of the room. This room had a definite 
feminine quality about it that made it very comfortable for a 
room in a castle. The only thing he could find wrong with the
room was that the fire in the hearth had been allowed to go
out, making the room chilly. He finished his tour of the small
room and took a seat to await King Eldric's arrival.

Hearing a small noise in the corridor outside the slightly
open door, Padraic knew the King was arriving. As Eldric
bustled into the room, he said, "Why, by all that's holy, did
that idiot place you here, my boy? Its cold in here! This
fireplace does not seem to keep a fire burning, no matter
what we do. Please, Prince Padraic, make yourself
comfortable. I will have refreshments brought and you may
tell me what brings you here." 

After saying this, King Eldric sent for the servant to bring in
some warm drink and food. As King Eldric turned to Prince
Padraic, he noticed him staring at the portrait of his
daughter hanging over the cold fireplace. Smiling to 
himself, he told the Prince that everyone had the same 
reaction to the portrait of his daughter. She was the most
exquisite woman. Her features were delicate. Price Padraic 
dragged his gaze from the picture and asked if he might 
meet the young Princess.

Upon hearing this request, King Eldric's face became bleak
and haggard. "My daughter is missing," he said. 

"Please Your Majesty, tell me what has happened to her,"
Padraic asked with a look of pain.