The Royals of Silvercrest

12

Three Days Later:

King Shane's POV:

Emberfall Castle

Loud music fills the air of the extravagantly decorated dining hall. The room is filled with royals, nobles and knights. All stand facing me to hear the announcement, knowing naught why they'd been gathered.

"My friends, I have gathered you all here to announce my betrothal to Princess Leia of House Evera!" I announce joyfully

A trumpet plays from across the room at the entrance.

Everyone turns their attention to where a young woman stands.

"Princess Leia of House Evera!" The royal announcer bellows

Her black hair falls in waves down past her shoulders. The dress she wears is black like the night sky and shimmers like the stars. She glows with beauty in the torchlight. Music begins to play and as she elegantly walks forward, her dress and hair flow gracefully. She smiles when her eyes set upon me. Once she is in front of me, she curtsies deeply, head bowed.

"King Shane, Ruler and Lord of Silvercrest," She greets royally

"Princess Leia of House Evera." I say

I extend a hand which she takes.

She moves to stand beside me at my left.

The crowd erupts in cheers and applause.

I feel an ache in my chest when I think back to a few years ago when I was in this same place, celebrating my betrothal to Princess Ida. I swallow hard, taking a deep breath in as I try and refocus.

This is for my kingdom.

This is to secure my reign and protect my daughter.

Princess Leia squeezes my hand lightly and I turn to face her, flashing her a smile. She mouths discreetly, asking if I'm alright. I give a brief nod, turning back to the crowd, not wishing to be seen as easily shaken. We make our way to the center of the room as people hurry out of the way to clear a spot. Music begins to play as we face one another. She curtsies and I before I take her right hand in my left, taking a few steps forward then back before spinning her around. She twirls graceful and slow while I bow to her. I step forward, taking her hands in my own and together we glide about the dance floor, spinning and and smiling at one another. The music concludes and with this, she curtsies and I bow one final time before I step forward, extending an arm which she takes. We spend hours feasting and drinking. Princess Leia requests another dance and I tell her to save me one. From across the room, I can feel someone's eyes upon me.

"Your Grace." A young man says, bowing

"How are you today sir?" I ask

"I am well, thank you my lord. I desire to know if you wish to try this ale, brewed special for your wedding day." He says

I grin.

"I would be delighted. I would also like to share a shot with Lord Ryson. He, like myself has excellent taste." I say giving the man a playful slap on the back

Lord Ryson agrees.

The young man pours two glasses.

I turn to Lord Ryson and we tap our glasses.

Lord Ryson is the first to put the wine to his lips.

I inhale, smelling a fruity blend.

"I was informed of your esquisite tongue and do hope this pleases you."

Before I can put it to my lips, a hand knocks it from my hands.

The cup clatters to the ground, wine soaking the floor.

I whip my head to the side, alarmed and confused.

Lord Ryson has a hand to his throat, gargling before he collapses to the ground. I turn to where the young man stood who now is running for his life. I signal to my knights, shouting for them to arrest him on attempted murder of their King. The knights spring into action, following. My eyes search the room. Princess Leia stands with her ladies, her eyes wide but she is unharmed. On the other side of the room, Lady Freydis stares at me looking worried. I turn my attention back to my friend. Lord Ryson lies motionless, blood dripping from his mouth. He's not breathing. It's too late.

I make my way to Princess Leia telling her to spend the rest of the night in her chambers where she is safe. She nods, taking her ladies with her.

Then I make my way to Lady Freydis.

I whisper quietly for her to meet me in my chambers.

Mistress Freydis's POV:

I curtsy to King Shane after stepping inside his chambers.
I can feel his eyes taking me in.

King Shane begins walking over to me.

I stand and he smiles warmly at me.

Knowing of his engagement, I wonder why I have been summoned.

When he leans in to kiss me, I back up.

Seeing my reaction, his brows furrow in confusion.

"Have I offended you?" He asks

"Forgive me, Your Majesty. As you are soon to wed I am not certain of my...position to you." I say nervously

"I wish for tonight, at least one last time, to have you in my bed."

I nod, taking this in.

I am still his Mistress, therefore this is my duty.

This time when he embraces me, I allow it.