THE RED KING - JACAERYS VALERYON [MALE OC]

NEW HAND • 10

THE RED KING◽️. #mature audiences only.

The next morning, I called a council meeting to announce the change in leadership. The council members gathered in the Great Hall, murmuring among themselves as they speculated about the purpose of the meeting. Felix, now the new Lord Commander, stood at his post, his eyes sharp and alert. My mother was there, her expression unreadable as she took her seat.

I stood at the head of the table, waiting for silence before speaking.  "Members of the council, I have an important announcement to make regarding the future leadership of Aurea."

The room fell silent, all eyes on me. I took a deep breath and continued.  "Effective immediately, Aurora Faye will be taking over the position of Hand of the King.  I believe that her vision and guidance will be instrumental in leading Aurea into a prosperous future."

There were murmurs of surprise and approval, but my mother's reaction was swift and unmistakable.  Her face hardened, and she stood up abruptly.  "This is outrageous," she declared.  "Aurora is young and inexperienced. How can you place such a burden on her shoulders?"

Aurora stepped forward, her expression calm and composed.  "Thank you, Your Majesty.  I am honored by your trust and will serve to the best of my abilities."

Before I could respond, one of the older council members, Lord Harwin, spoke up, his voice dripping with skepticism.  "Your Majesty, with all due respect, this decision seems hasty. Are we now adding young minds and friends to positions of power instead of experienced leadership?"

I met his gaze steadily, my resolve unwavering.  "Watch your tongue, Lord Harwin," I said, my voice firm.  "Aurora has proven herself to be a wise and capable advisor.  She understands the direction we need to take and has my complete trust.  This decision is final."

Felix, standing beside me, added, "Aurora has demonstrated her loyalty and intelligence time and again.  Her age does not diminish her capabilities."

My mother looked as if she wanted to argue further, her face a mask of barely concealed fury.  "You are making a grave mistake, Mylo. Experience is irreplaceable.  Aurora may be loyal, but she lacks the wisdom that comes with age."

Aurora remained composed, her voice steady as she addressed the council.  "I understand the concerns, and I do not take this responsibility lightly.  I am committed to serving the kingdom and its people to the best of my abilities.  Together, we can bring a fresh perspective and new solutions to the challenges we face."

The rest of the council members nodded in agreement, albeit with varying degrees of enthusiasm.  The murmurs quieted down, and a sense of cautious optimism filled the room.

The tension between my mother and me was palpable, but I knew that standing firm in my decisions was the only way to lead effectively.

As the council members began to disperse, my mother approached me, her voice low and filled with concern.  "Mylo, please reconsider. This decision could have far-reaching consequences."

I met her gaze, my expression resolute. "Mother, I have made my decision.  Aurora is the right person for this role.  I need your support, not your opposition."

She sighed, a mixture of frustration and resignation in her eyes.  "Very well, Mylo.  I hope you know what you're doing."

"I do," I replied confidently.  "I trust Aurora, and I trust that this is the best path forward for Aurea."