Within the pages were unfinished plans yes but more than that were words of his final days, a journal entry almost. Part of Regine wondered if he knew she would find this.

The words read as follows;
'We ride for war soon and I fear our army alone isn't enough.
Regine wanted to join, I laughed it off but deep down worry filled my heart at the thought.
Thankfully she relented and stayed behind, I don't want her to face the reality of war, if I could I'd shield her forever.

Can't believe I ran out of space in all my other journals and have to use my planning book for my final thoughts, not enough time to get another journal...not that it would matter, but a page or two of final thoughts in a mostly empty journal, if I don't return is a depressing realisation.

Regine, she'll be all alone if I don't make it back. I have to make it back. And then, of course, the succession...a matter I'd rather not consider but as a monarch I must.

I have no doubt the other kingdoms will rally to have one of their own on the throne despite it being ruled by mortals for decades, the only thing I can know for certain is Regine will be considered and, if she's as smart as I think she is, she will figure out a way to bide time.
My Will, the last words for my successor and people...

Regine caught herself with a deep breath, almost feeling like there wasn't enough air in the world to sate her starving lungs.
She read the final page,

I cannot say where it is, but it does exist. I wrote it years ago and hid it within the kingdom, only the worthiest ruler will find it. But I am not without mercy, I shall provide a clue.

Three keys, three scrolls, and you will find my succession, the first key and only hint I give is this.
Average key it is not, round and small, unlock its box by listening to the rhythm of your heart.

...Regine, I personally hope you find them, I know you'll share these final pages with the kingdoms. You are fair. And I'm sorry for our final words...for breaking my promise.

I hope I get to tell you in person if I come back...

Regine took a moment, re-reading the last few pages once more and feeling the weight behind the words.
In her heart there was a heaviness that had risen since the moment she had been told of the King's fall, once again bubbling to the surface as she traced her finger on the handwriting.

Once she steadied herself and memorised the hints, a thought of not telling the other rulers crossed her mind but she shook it off.
He was right, she would be fair and if his written Will stated a different path for her and the kingdom...so be it.

She was an orphan, even if he had adopted Regine it didn't matter. She wasn't a trueborn princess, her common blood was stronger than any royal title given to her.
With those thoughts heavy on her mind, Regine left quickly and announced it to the others as soon as she could.

There was a little scuffle over the final words by the King about her possibly taking the crown but it was settled quickly, there was small talk about the keys but Regine was barely there at all.
Her every thought and second started to wind back, the memories playing one by one like a movie.

Drowning out their voices completely.