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Chapter 4

"So Myles, tell us." Seb is saying. "How is Dantor Military academy?"

"It's fine, I hated it at first. But it's been four years, I've made my peace." We're all seated at the dining hall. Tristan went home half an hour ago and Seb invited Myles to stay for dinner.

He nods his head slowly. "So Myles, will you be attending the State dinner?"

"As a Liege, it is my duty." Myles sighs. "Also, mother would throw a fit if I missed it."

Grey laughs. "Mothers, they just keep pushing you."

Lilian gives him a look. "Children, they don't understand the stress we go through for them. I was just talking to Bailey Wester at my book club last week. Lovely lady."

"That she is, Lady Lilian," Myles says to appease her.

"So, Myles. What's military school like? Can't be too different from Brimstone." I ask.

"Oh, it is. Your school focuses more on academics. Mine doesn't, half of our time is spent harnessing our powers."

"Sounds challenging."

"It is." He agrees. "But it builds character." He doesn't sound at all like he believes that.

"So what's your plan for after you graduate next year?" Seb asks.

"Immediately resume my duties in the council and the public. My mum has had enough of them." We smile at his light joke. "I've been taking the appropriate classes, I should be fine."

Seb nods. "And what do you think of the reforms?" He's suddenly serious.

Myles stares blankly. "Which ones?"

"The one stated in article 29."

Myles doesn't answer.

Kat jumps to his aid. "I think it's unnecessary." She starts. "Things have been done a certain way for so long, why change it? All lieges should automatically be in the council."

I didn't even know what that was. I know most of the propositions in the document and what they mean, I just can't answer questions like that on the spot.

Three years ago, the prepositions were submitted to the council. Secretary Davis is personally sponsoring them.

He needs the approval of the Queen and 2/3 of the 120-member council. 37 of them are made up of the 37 liege title holders and a few more by their family members who were elected.

Aldeans have been complaining for years that they don't like that system. The bills are mostly citizens' complaints. They've been hotly debated for a while. Aunt Freya is scared that if their silent demands aren't met, they'll come after the whole system next, particularly us.

As someone who grew up in America, I don't blame them. Monarchies are overrated and unnecessary. You won't see me saying that out loud.

"So, Liege Wester. What do you think, should every title holder make rules for our country?" Seb asks, rather harshly.

Myles sighs. "Honestly, no," he admits. "I don't know anything. I'm 19."

Seb nods. "At least I know where you're leaning on the vote. I wonder what your other preferences are."

Kat clears her throat. "So, the basketball match is coming up." Her veiled attempt to take the attention of Myles. And on to me. "I know you can't play."

"I've been praying for a miracle, anything just so I won't have to."

And I do get a miracle. The basketball match never happens. What does is much worse.