The First Night Pebble Stayed
Pebble did not ask where she was supposed to sleep.
After the feast, after the court dispersed, after the palace grew quiet, she simply followed King Mohg the Fourth into his chambers and lay down.
The servants paused in the doorway.
The guards exchanged looks.
The scribe opened his mouth, then closed it again.
Pebble curled herself tightly against the king and sighed.
Mohg did not move.
The court debated in whispers whether this was permitted. Protocol was consulted. Precedent was searched for. None was found. Someone suggested carrying her out while she slept.
No one volunteered.
By morning, Pebble had shifted position exactly three times, each one closer to the king. Mohg awoke pleased and slightly trapped.
The court declared the matter unresolved.
Pebble declared it settled.