𝐅𝐀𝐓𝐀𝐋 𝐀𝐓𝐓𝐑𝐀𝐂𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍; 𝐄𝐑𝐄𝐍

47

Jean, one of now King Grisha's trusted knights, perhaps due to his insufferable dirty work, burst into the grand chamber where the king held his council meetings. Grisha, a stern and imposing figure, looked up from his scrolls and raised an eyebrow as he saw Jean's disheveled appearance.

"What's the meaning of this, Jean? You look like you've seen a ghost," King Grisha inquired.

Breathing heavily, Jean struggled to catch his breath. "Your Majesty, it's about your son, Prince Eren."

King Grisha's expression darkened. "What about Eren?"

"He's been... involved with the palace maid, Venus," Jean stammered. "In an inappropriate manner."

"Inappropriate in what way Jean. Speak don't stammer."

"Apparently, straight from Zeke as he boasted to Levi, they were in bed with one another."

"Ah... he's finally taken a mistress has he?" Jean stayed silent and slowly shook his head.

"I do not consider what they both share just plain bought-out intimacy. I believe the prince would much rather have her in his bed, than the young noblewoman Historia."

King Grisha couldn't help but begin to laugh uproariously. Grisha slapped his hand on the table, shaking the scrolls scattered across it. "Damn, that blasted boy! He certainly knows how to keep life interesting." Grisha's laughter quickly subsided, and his expression turned serious. "I allowed for such a thing to go on for far too long Jean. I want them both here by supper. Not a minute later."

Jean's snickered. His smile is evident and he knows what may come about the secret lovers. "Yes, Your Majesty. What do you intend to do?"

Grisha leaned forward, his voice resolute. "I will not tolerate such behavior. It's time for Eren to understand the responsibilities of his rank. I will send both my sons, Eren and Zeke, into battle. They need to learn what it means to bear the weight of the crown."

"And... Captain Levi?"

"What about that fool?"

"Well, he knew of such a relationship? Did he not? Shouldn't he be reprimanded? Perhaps demoted back to his knighthood? Someone to take his place?" Jean suggested with a smile as Grisha shook his head.

"That won't be necessary. I'll have him sent off along with my sons. Keep them in check for the most part. It gives me time to deal with matters within the castle."

Just as King Grisha and Jean were deep in discussion about their plans, the grand chamber doors swung open, and in walked Captain Levi. The room fell silent, and both Grisha and Jean exchanged a quick, knowing glance.

"Perhaps I came at the wrong time?" Levi raised a brow.

꒷꒦︶꒷꒦︶꒷꒦︶꒷꒦︶꒷꒦︶꒷꒦︶꒷꒦︶꒷꒦︶꒷꒦︶꒦꒷

𑁍┊-TiredBunBun