The Savage Storm of Golden Geese

Anthony

The room was silent, it seemed like Anthony was interrupting this silence.
William Blackwell regards him with a glance, he looks Anthony up and down, he doesn't seem impressed by the intrusion nor his appearance.
"I called for my daughter, I have spoken to my daughter," William says as he dips his quill in ink. "You are not my daughter, nor a woman, nor a Blackwell. Speak."

The chamber was long and cold, the high stone walls laced with the Blackwell banner and sigil. A fire weakly crakled in the hearth casting flickering shadows along the edges of William's heavy wood desk. The scent of burnt wood and old parchment was intoxicating.

"Anthony Mirthfall, second in line, first of my name. The Blackwells are invited to the King's court, the ties of loyalty and service must be reaffirmined in person," Anthony says calmly as William places his quill on the desk. "Your union with the Barringtons will strengthen the realm, you will contribute to its defense and prosperity. The Crown demands support, and the Mirthfalls trust you will honour your family's place in the realm's future. The Crown watches closely, closer than you might like."

William readjusts his sleeves with slow and deliberate motions, as he very quietly sighs before rushing to speak.

"Your family honours me with such summons, my throat is filled with praise for The King, but I must question his motives with the wedding so close to the day."

William's chair creaked as he leaned back.
"My family does not honour you, they demand your presense. Refusal will be met with swift consequences, the Barringtons will be met with the same proposition."

As Anthony's words become sharper, William stood from his desk like a man who had never feared, least of all a King or his messenger.

"Are you suggesting my heir marries out of his home? Since when does the King demand so much from a House he scarcely knows"

"I'm demanding your heir marries in Valemar, you grow too comfortable in your isolation. The King knows of you, all Vassals must be assessed."

William scoffs.

"The Blackwells serve the West first, we have held these lands for centuries without the need to beg."

Anthony remains motionless, his hands clasped behind his back as he spoke. His words carried a calmness, each syllable deliberate and smooth.
It didn't matter whether this visit was a death sentence or a peace offering.

"The King recognises your strength, he calls for it to be put towards the Realm. He offers you a chance to strengthen your bond with the realm."

William scoffs with a slight chuckle.
"The King offers me a chance to empty my pockets, and send my men to their death. What is this really about? Do you question my loyalty?"
William growled as his eyes darkened.

"The King does not question your loyalty, he denies any proof. You are lucky he gives you another chance. You are lucky he allows you to join your house with the Barringtons, a loyal Vassal requests the King's approval."

Anthony did not flinch, or leave William's eyes when they darknened. He was here as the voice of the King, or the sword of the King, and that is power.

"I do not take kindly to veiled threats, least of all from a messenger."

"It is not a threat, but an assurance of your House's prosperity if you comply. The North grows restless and all vassals must be ready to stand when called upon. The Crown has no patience for hesitation." Anthony admits, though he prayed his threats could be more direct.