Winter's Rebellion

Chapter 8: Tides of Intention

Tristian's POV:

"Your Majesties, I respectfully request that Princess Elara be released early from her confinement," I say, bowing my head low momentarily before the King and Queen.

Queen Isabella's eyes narrow, her voice cold and imperious. "And why should we do that, Sir Tristian? What reason could possibly justify this request? She was reckless, destroying priceless furnishings that belong to our palace, and then she held a shard of ceramic to her own neck! Does she not understand that her actions have consequences, especially when there are eyes all over this palace?"

Anger churns within me, but I keep my tone measured. "The survival of our kingdoms is at stake. Princess Elara's training is crucial to our defense. Manners are a luxury we cannot afford in times of war."

The Queen's lips curl into a mocking smile. "So, you would have us overlook her insolence because she is a princess?"

"I would have you see the greater need," I reply, forcing the words out with calm. "She may have offended, but she is also your future Queen. We cannot afford delay."

The Queen's laughter rings out, sharp and derisive. "You dare question my judgment in my own court, Sir Tristian? How bold."

"Your Majesty, my loyalty to Aerlion remains unwavering. I do not question your authority, but we sought an alliance, not a rift. The enemy we face is relentless; we must be united."

King James, who has been silent, watches the exchange with a flicker of amusement in his eyes. The tension in the room is thick, the courtiers around us holding their breath. Queen Isabella's eyes flash with fury, her fingers twitching as if she might strike.

The silence stretches, heavy and charged, as I await her response.

"Queen Isabella, I do not wish to challenge your authority, but it is crucial that Princess Elara be released immediately. We have received urgent reports of Malorian knights infiltrating Aerlion. They are coming for her."

I feel a tight knot of frustration as I watch her reaction, hoping she grasps the gravity of the situation.

"What?!" The King exclaims, shock evident in his voice as he rises from his throne.

"Your Majesty, I received this report from my knights before I came," I say urgently. "The military guards at the gate have reported chaos spreading throughout the kingdom. Malorian knights are ravaging your citizens and searching for anyone who might know Princess Elara's whereabouts. We must leave with your army immediately, before they breach the palace!"

"Sir Tristian, I apologize for the Queen's actions that have endangered the Princess's safety. We will join forces with you. Lead our combined armies to victory. We will retain half of our forces here to protect Aerlion." He adds, casting a brief but pointed glance at the Queen, his disapproval clear.

I sigh heavily in relief, grateful that they are finally acknowledging the gravity of the situation.

"I am deeply grateful, Your Majesties, for your understanding!" I exclaim, bowing deeply before exiting the throne room.

In the hallway, I see Sir Brynden and Sir Percival standing at attention, their faces etched with anticipation. I nod in approval, and their expressions shift to relief.

"Prepare the army immediately and meet at the horse stables. I will locate the Princess, and we will depart at once," I command. The palace erupts into a flurry of organized chaos as knights scramble to ready themselves for the imminent departure.

I make my way through the corridors hastily to find Princess Elara. My heart pounds heavily in my ears as I burst through the door of her room. She startles, looking up from where she sits comfortably at the window nook.