The Royals of Silvercrest

6

Emberfall Castle

King Shane's POV:

I sit in the boring stone walls of the castle, sitting around a wooden table along with a handful of Lords, in a council meeting.

Sitting around me are Lords Julian, Miles and Ivan.

All sit wearing identical silver armor with the cloaks that resemble their station. All are around my own age, late twenties. I had sat back listening to the three talk then bicker back and forth for what felt like hours. I think back to my time with my Mistress, wishing to be out in the sun on a hunt, away from the castle walls. A voice saying my name catches my attention and I refocus on whatever the group had last been arguing about.

"It is time for a more important topic to discuss, King Shane." Lord Ivan says his green eyes staring intently, his blonde hair combed back

"As requested by Your Grace, I have been conversing with your Mother in Edwin about the recent events in the kingdom. She has spoken with concerned noblemen, worried for the future of the kingdom. It is highly requested that you remarry, my King." Lord Julian informs me

He has curly red hair and dark brown eyes with a round face, looking much younger than his true age. He wears his stress, looking beat.

It seems every man around this table shares this expression.

Myself, especially.

"It is for the good of all in Silvercrest for you to remarry and birth more heirs." Lord Julian agrees

I turn to face the eldest of the man, Lord Miles.

"What say you, Lord Miles?" I ask

Each turn to face him.

His blue eyes look at us all. Scratching his brown haired head for a moment, he says that it is not a decision of marriage but of the future of the kingdom and not a decision to rush into. I ask him to continue.

"Whomever you marry, Your Grace, that person will also pave the way of the future of your kingdom." He says

I nod thoughtfully.

"Thank you gentlemen. I shall take this into consideration."

"There is more, Your Grace. There is word that your..mistress has been causing some commotion at court." Lord Julian says

"I'm certain it is fine. Mere squabbling." I say with a wave

"It is in regards to the betrothal of your sister Princess Agnes and Sir Hallson, Your Grace." Lord Ivan says

At this, I tense.

"What happened?" I demand

"It is said that Mistress Melisandre had given some insult towards Sir Hallson. There are rumors he wishes to dismiss the union." Lord Ivan explains

"Clear the room. Lord Ivan send knights to Mistress Melisandre. Have her brought here immediately. Give no reason as to why."

The Lords bow before exiting.

A while later, the door opens.

"Mistress Melisandre, Your Grace." Lord Ivan says

I turn to face her, nodding to Lord Ivan who bows and exits.

"It has been brought to my attention that there was tension between you and the suitor set to marry my sister, Sir Hallson." I say

"I do not recall such an occasion." She says

"Use caution in my court. Your position can easily be reversed. Have I made myself clear?" I demand

"Yes, Your Grace."

"Make yourself scarce. I do not wish to have you in my presence for the day. Now go."

The next few hours are spent consoling my heartbroken sister and fixing the mess made by my mistress. Never had I been so disrespected by a woman I'd shared a bed with. I wonder if perhaps I should make good on my warning.

Perhaps she is not meant for court...