The Fuchsbau Vixen - soon to be hailed 'Maudra' - overlooked her suitors. Many Fuchsbau Toms, Males, stood at attention, hoping to be the one the future ruler chose to be her High Knight - the one and only Male she would accept as her lifelong Mate, the only that would be allowed to breed with her, and the only Male in any sort of power.

"Lyra, my dearest daugther,' the older Fuchsbau spoke to her younger successor. "it feels like it's only been a few months since you were born. A small, delicate Kit, wiggling in my arms to be set down to explore the world around her. Even then I knew you would grow to be the strongest, bravest and smartest leader we could hope for. With you and your Chosen taking the title, we will retire, and your rule will prevail."

They smiled at each other, the Maudra couldn't fight the tears in her eyes as she watched her daughter puff in pride.

The Fuchsbau High Knight that stood beside the Maudra beamed just as proudly, perhaps even more so. Beside him, two other Toms held the line.

He brothers looked very noble in their bronze armor, and they looked happy for their elder sister.

They, themselves would never hold as high rank as their female counterparts, but instead take the role of Royal Knights - aside from the High Knight, they would be the highest ranking Males in the Kingdom.

Their mother continued.

"Your father took great pride in rearing the next Maudra - he'd spoken very highly of your progress all these years, becoming the fine, upstanding woman you've become today. And it is on this day, with great pride and a heavy heart, that you will no longer be called our Princess, and instead be crowned our Maudra - guardian and protector of all."

Lyra bowed to her mother and father, who returned the movement.

"As our law states, you must choose your High Knight - the Male you chose to be the most worthy of carrying the mantle of your advisor, your confidant and the one to sire and rear your young."

"There are a fine collection of men, Mother." Lyra smiled politely to them each in turn.

Her mother knew all too well what her next statement would be. "But I suspect you already have one in mind."

"Yes, Mother. These are fine gentlemen, and I don't doubt any one would suffice to uphold our honor. But there is one I trust completely."

The crowd murmured, excited to see who it was the soon - to - be Maudra had deemed her own, especially if she didn't even bother to sort through the Toms already there.

They were shocked when she turned to the side of the platform, and held her hand out to a Male wearing silver armor. "My love - my Novo. He shall be my High Knight - my closest ally, and my Gelding."

The crowd went stunned as a large Blutbad stepped up to take his place beside the Fuchsbau.

He was clearly nervous, and seemed skittish at the chattering from the onlookers, but gave a loving smile to the one that had chosen him.