The Royals of Silvercrest

23

King Shane's POV:

The kingdom had been devastated by the Plauge.

Hundreds of thousands fell.

In the beginning there was panic as people rushed to get whatever they could for supplies. Uproars ensued from disgruntled people. We sent out as many riders and dragons as we could to deliver supplies. Not everyone returned. Word was some men had been ambushed, supplies stolen. At worst as the Plague raged on, a dragon went missing without a trace.

The only safety I had was knowing at the very least that my daughter is safe.

I have had two wives.

Two long term entanglements.

I know what I must do to secure my power: wed again and bring about another heir....

What can I do to help my people?

Food has been delivered...

I decide upon damage control.

Walking up to the wall I pull a chain connected to a bell.

A few moments later, my chamber door opens.

A man a few years younger than myself enters.

"Chester, send for the soldiers. They are to maintain order. Keep people inside their homes whilst the searchers handle and dispose of any infected. Tell them that maintaining order is the highest priority. Send the riders on another sweep through the sky."

"Of course, Your Grace."

He bows and exits.

I sigh, pacing back and forth.

It feels as though no matter what moves I make, they crumble as the body count rises. The people do whatever they can to survive. It seems to be an endless, vicious cycle. I would receive word of the townspeople's thanks and the request for more security hours later. Security I do not have.

Sitting down, I gather my quil and parchment.

By order of His Majesty,
King Shane has made a royal decree that boys of good health between the ages of 16 to 19 shall proceed to the Knight's Quarters to proceed with mandatory training. It is for the benefit of the Crown and its people to do all it can to protect those inside the walls of the kingdom.

King Shane

Ruler of Silvercrest

I fold up the parchment, sliding it into the envelope. I place the wax container on top of the candle, allowing it to turn to liquid before pouring it over the envelope, pressing my KS stamp on top of it. I set it aside and draft another letter for the dragon handlers.

By order of His Majesty, King Shane,

All dragons shall go through the following training with their riders effective immediately: battle maneuvering, silent movement, as well as defensive and offensive training. Begin with basic commands then move forward. All riders and dragons must receive the same training. Any dragons that are nesting shall be exempt until their hatchlings are ready to separate. Deliver daily reports to Lord Micos, Commander of Riders whom you will meet with at the dragon stalls every morning and evening for lessons.

King Shane

Ruler of Silvercrest