The solar of Xu Castle was a small room in comparison to others of the same type Kaewyn had learned about in other castles. He had heard from Camilla that her home of Varde Castle boasted a particularly exquisite solar that was adorned with the finest furniture and tapestries. Xu castle’s solar was much smaller, though not without its own charm. Quality artworks and framed works of literature covered the walls wherever one looked, a reflection of Greystone Province’s close relationship with artisans and scholars. A magnificent oaken table that was rumoured to have dated all the way back to when Xu castle was originally constructed dominated the room. The table bore many small scratches and half-hearted engravings owing to its age. Another feature of the room was a massive ornate fireplace that covered the western wall entirely. Above the hood of the fireplace hung a large silken Edderfield family banner which seemed to glow vibrantly. All of these features made the solar one of the most impressive rooms within the castle, but what Kaewyn liked most about it was how comfortable and quiet it was, the perfect place to reflect on difficult decisions in the relative peace of solitude.

His father had often withdrawn to the solar when he was under pressure or simply wished to be left alone, an act in which Kaewyn could see the appeal. Today however, this peace was to be broken by those outside of the Edderfield family. It was an odd occurrence, as the solar was traditionally reserved for only the Lord and his close family. Kaewyn, technically still the acting lord, had decided to make an exception to this old rule. He wanted to keep the meeting as private as possible and by having it within the solar rather than the Great Hall, the chance of Rahim or someone loyal to him stumbling upon them mid discussion was greatly lessened.

Kaewyn ushered in Marcus, Yohren and finally Camilla, who all then took their seats at various points of the oaken table. After he had shut the door and turned to see all three of his guests admiring the room and its many sights in awe, he couldn’t help but let out a faint smile. He barely noticed them anymore, for he had spent so much time in the solar in his youth, mostly to read, but sometimes just to be near his father.

“Very well, I suppose we should begin.” Marcus said as he stood at the end of the table in front of the fireplace. “Though… truly I must express my concern at the Lady Camilla’s presence here. What we are to discuss should only be heard by those sworn to you, my lord.”

“I have known Kaewyn since we were small children.” Camilla said with no small hint of anger in her voice. “He trusts me completely and I trust him.”

Camilla looked to him and he nodded in support of her words. “Camilla can stay Marcus.”

“With all due respect my lord, this is not about friendship. We are to discuss sensitive matters which cannot leave this room.” Marcus explained candidly.

“I can be discreet. Maybe I can even offer some sage advice.” Camilla said confidently.

Marcus scoffed, a little too loudly for Kaewyn’s liking. “If you must insist on staying then I will pose to you a question hypothetical in nature. Answer it truthfully if you are able.”

“Ask your stupid question then.” A clearly aggravated Camilla spat out as she sat back in her chair with crossed arms.

Yohren sat beside her and squirmed uncomfortably in his chair, echoing exactly how Kaewyn was feeling as well.

“Would you, Lady Callidus…” Marcus said with a sly smile. “Consider yourself a loyal person?”

She nodded hesitantly, unsure of where Marcus was leading her.

“Then you would agree with me when I say a loyal person, especially a member of the nobility such as yourself, owes their allegiance to their family and land above all else?”

“I would…” Camilla said. “But I don’t see how—”

“Then by your own admission, your interests and loyalties lie with Vinum Province and your brother.” Marcus pushed. “Not with my lord or Greystone Province. Therefore, it is reasonable to assume that if a conflict of interest were to arise between these two parties, you would never choose Greystone Province over your own home now, would you?”

“What a ludicrous argument. We would never be at odds with each other. Even if Kaewyn and Rhys are lords now, they were childhood friends well before that.” Camilla snapped back.

“That may be so, but my point still stands my lady. You are not sworn to Greystone Province and your loyalties rightfully lay elsewhere. There is nothing wrong with that, but that is the truth… now it may be different if you were my lord’s betrothed or—”

“Woah there Marcus.” Kaewyn interrupted. “I think you have said enough on the matter. As for Camilla, I’ve already given her my blessing to attend this meeting.”

“I just wanted to be a part of this, maybe I could have helped in some way, but it’s just like it was back home.” Camilla said shaking her head angrily. “I don’t even want to be here anymore.”

“It’s okay Camilla, you can stay. The matter is settled.” Kaewyn said in an effort to disarm the situation.

“No Kaewyn, it’s not. Apparently, my presence means that he cannot speak openly, like I would betray your trust or something.”

“I never stated such.” Marcus interjected, but the scholar quickly quietened when Kaewyn waved him off angrily.

“Just have your meeting without me.” Camilla said as she rose to her feet and headed for the door, wiping at her eyes as she moved.

“Camilla, wait!” Kaewyn said as he stood from his chair. “Please.”

Camilla shielded her face from view with one hand and opened the door with the other and proceeded to storm out of the solar, leaving the door ajar as she disappeared down the hallway. Kaewyn thought about going after her, but this meeting was urgent and had been delayed long enough. She was very upset and angry, justifiably so in his opinion but what she needed now, Kaewyn guessed, was some time alone. He would make sure to find her later and make it up to her. Turning his attention back to Marcus, he shook his head slowly and sighed. Marcus really had a way of getting underneath people’s skin, a quality of his that was quickly become tiresome to deal with.

“Satisfied?” Kaewyn asked sarcastically, but Marcus remained silent and avoided his gaze. “I suppose you wish for Yohren to leave as well now?”

“Not at all my lord. Yohren is your sworn retainer is he not?”

Kaewyn rolled his eyes. “Yes, he is.”

“Then I see no such problem.” Marcus said much to cheerily for Kaewyn’s tastes, as though he had won a victory of some sorts. “May I suggest we put this unpleasantness behind us and begin our meeting in earnest?”

“…Very well.” Kaewyn said, letting out an exasperated sigh. “Speak, and do your best to not anger anyone else as you do it.”

Marcus smirked and walked over and shut the door slowly, but before he could open his mouth, a furious knocking echoed into the room from the other side of the heavy door.

“Camilla?” Kaewyn called hopefully.

“No, my lord.” Seneschal Talbury’s voice came through the door. “but I did see the lady Callidus just now. She appeared to be close to tears.”

Kaewyn gestured for Marcus to let Talbury through, to which the abrasive scholar moaned audibly as he undid the latch and stepped back. Ignoring Marcus, Kaewyn asked what Talbury had wanted.

“My lord.” Talbury said as he looked around the solar and marked every one inside, one at a time. “Forgive me for my assumption, but are you not holding a private meeting?”

“…We are.” Kaewyn replied awkwardly. “Or we are at least trying to do so.”

“And I was not invited?” Talbury said, obviously offended at being left out. “Need I remind you my lord, that I was one of your father’s closest confidants. He often relied upon me for advice and you would do well to imitate him in this.”

“My lord… forgive me.” Marcus interjected once more. “But I thought I was this man’s replacement? Why is he still allowed to roam the castle?”

“Gods be good…” Kaewyn muttered as he slapped his forehead with his palm.

“Replacement!?” Talbury practically screeched, his voice breaking. “I have served the Edderfield family for longer than you have been alive! I knew Lord Corrhen before he was even the lord! How dare you insult me in such a way!”

Marcus rolled his eyes and was about to speak when Kaewyn cut him off pre-emptively. “Enough! Not a word Marcus. I can tell that you woke up this morning with the intention of insulting every you possibly could, but we have more pressing matters to attend to, wouldn’t you agree?”

Marcus appeared to swallow back his thoughts, though it was obvious to Kaewyn he was struggling to remain quiet, but to his credit he nodded respectfully. “…Yes, my lord. As you wish then.”

“Good.” Kaewyn said sternly, his patience with Marcus had completely run out. “Talbury, you are welcome to join us and offer sage council, as you have done many times for my father in the past.”

“Thank you, my lord.” Replied Talbury through clenched teeth, eyeing Marcus as he took a seat. “Though I wish you had the foresight to include me from the start.”

Everyone else followed suit and found their seats at the oaken table and waited for the others to speak. Marcus broke the silence first, owing to his impatient nature. He began by explaining the difficult and rather awkward situation they had found themselves in regarding the succession. Marcus’ words brought Kaewyn back to when he was just a child, still young and learning about how everything worked. His tutor had educated him in how succession was supposed to work in great detail. Often the old tutor would make him repeat what he had learned back to him several times over before moving on. At the time he found it incredibly boring and tedious, but he still remembered it clearly.

The succession law in the Revaryn Empire was somewhat complicated. It generally followed the rules of male-preference primogeniture. Essentially, this meant a title would always fall to the eldest son first and then other younger sons. If there were no sons available to inherit, the title would then fall to the daughter. There were always exceptions to the rule however, for instance, a lord may choose to disinherit an unfit son and favour another son, or in some rare cases, a daughter. In dire situations, some lords even resorted to legitimising a bastard child in order to solidify their family line and keep it from disappearing completely. In the end, the matter of succession was a tricky business and if an heir was not clearly designated by the ruler, it often led to conflict upon his death.

Succession law was a topic that had haunted Kaewyn’s dreams since the death of his father, speaking of it openly now only served to pull the fears from within his mind and make them that much more of a reality. Since his father had not officially named an heir, the succession of Greystone Province had been muddied, with officials weighing up who would better serve as the next lord.

“Rahim has the support of the military officials which is a cause for great concern.” Marcus explained. “From what I have learnt, he is a military man through and through. His shared experiences with the troops whilst on campaign with your father in the Heartlands has solidified his standing with them. In addition, he makes no secret of wanting revenge for the death of Lord Corrhen and openly plans to march against the Elentide family, while you, my lord, are seen as overly cautious and unwilling to march to avenge your father.”

“That is completely untrue! I just find it difficult to decide on forcing the province into another conflict so soon after Severus’ invasion.” Kaewyn said with a hint of anger.

“Regardless, this is the general mood of the troops. They see Rahim and see their revenge. We need them to associate you the same way to win them over. When Rahim rode off to meet with Captain Alaric and the rest of our returning troops without notifying us, he revealed that he is not interested in following your orders. It is obvious he plans to recruit the Captain to his side, to his way of thinking.” Marcus explained as he scratched at his neatly trimmed beard. “I would not be surprised when the Captain returns to find out that he has aligned himself with Rahim’s cause. If that were to happen, you could not stop them from making Rahim the Lord of Greystone Province, if they pushed his claim.”

“That simply isn’t true.” Talbury chimed in. “The military officials do not hold all of the power. I know the civil officials well, and the consensus among them after my lord’s victory over Lord Severus, is that Kaewyn is fit to rule and take his father’s place. I for one agree with them. Rahim is rash and unthinking, his reputation amongst the civil officials is not one of respect.”

“in times of war, it is the military that holds the power.” Marcus said sinisterly. “That is, if we let them.”

“That sounds like you have some sort of plan Marcus?” Kaewyn asked. “Or have I misread you?”

Marcus simply smiled and then continued.

“Establishing you as the next Lord of Greystone Province is paramount. Once you have officially taken the title, it will be that much harder for anyone to take it from us…” Marcus stumbled. “Meaning you, of course.”

“Agreed…” Kaewyn said. “But I still don’t see how we can do that. Rahim has already told me he will not even discuss the succession until after the Elentide pay for my father’s murder. If the civil officials support me, but the military support him, a new successor cannot be named.”

“With the death of General Alaric, gods grant him rest…” Seneschal Talbury spoke very slowly and ponderously. “perhaps we could elevate the young captain to his father’s position, thereby ensuring his loyalty to Kaewyn, and not Rahim.”

Marcus looked ready to protest, but cocked his head instead. “I cannot help but be surprised Seneschal. Your idea has some merit. I concur with Talbury. Naming the Captain to be the new General is a move we should make.”

“I have issues with the captain. He can be reckless and irresponsible, but he did prove himself during the battle against Lord Severus… It would also seem that he has led our men well in Vinum Province since then.” Kaewyn said aloud. “Very well, I agree with your suggestion. We will promote Captain Alaric to his late father’s position, and hope that this wins us his support.”

“It seems a fitting reward for the young man, and if not for him, then at the very least his father would be pleased.” Talbury added.

“Forgive me for speaking up.” Yohren said softly. “But why didn’t Lord Corrhen avoid all this mess and just name an heir? Seems like that would have avoided all of this trouble.”

Kaewyn felt a lump form in his throat. He knew the answer, but speaking of it was harder than he expected. It was mostly his own fault, which made it all the harder to explain to openly, but Yohren asked a reasonable question and deserved to know.

“My father wanted to name me his heir, but he wanted, and needed, an heir who would be ready to rule after him.” Kaewyn said sadly. “He tried to train me in all matters of rule, but I never showed much interest. I constantly failed to listen or to put in any significant effort. I would rather be in my chambers reading or spending my time in taverns in Oakerton and I made no secret of it. And then there was Rahim, ever the dutiful son. While I was off doing whatever I wanted, Rahim was there ready to learn at my father’s side. I knew for a long time that my father wanted to teach me, but I was unwilling to learn. Eventually he started to let me do whatever I wanted and focused on Rahim instead. At first, I was relieved, I finally felt that I had the peace I so craved and father no longer pestered me about it. But when I heard father constantly gloating about Rahim’s exploits to anyone that would listen, any distinguished guests or visitor of renown, I started to realise what I had lost. By the time my father received word about the campaign against the Great Traitor, I was already trying to get back into his good graces. I practically begged him to let me accompany him as his second on campaign, to give me another chance to prove myself worthy of him. I told him how I was ready and willing to listen to him, but he refused and I was left behind anyway. He took Rahim as his second and named him the vanguard general… A great honour. That ended up being the last time I ever spoke with him.”

“I…I’m sorry Kaewyn. I didn’t mean to bring up painful memories.” Yohren said.

“It’s okay Yohren. You only recently lost your father too. Now I know how you feel.”

Marcus faked a cough in an effort to return the attention of the room back onto himself, then cleared his throat and continued. “Even if we win Captain Alaric’s support, Rahim still holds significant sway amongst the majority of the military officials. Therefore, we need to erode that support in any way we can.”

Kaewyn knew a way to accomplish exactly what Marcus suggested. A secret that had been kept for just over twenty years, a secret only a few trusted individuals had ever known. His father knew, as well as his mother. Rahim himself had never spoken of it to anyone as far as Kaewyn knew. Only one other person knew of this secret. Revealing it would ruin Rahim’s image. It was completely foolproof, yet entirely abhorrent to him.

Kaewyn glanced over to Seneschal Talbury who eyes locked with his own. The old advisor had been around since before he was born and he knew him as well as any member of his family. When the seneschal gave a sad affirming nod, he realised the two of them had been thinking of the same thing.

“I cannot do it Talbury.” Kaewyn said shaking his head. “Not to him.”

“I’m afraid it may be time.” Talbury said solemnly. “We can’t risk him usurping the title and becoming lord. He would lead Greystone Province to ruin. You know this Kaewyn.”

“I know… but that doesn’t make it any easier.”

“What are you referring to, may I ask?” Marcus said curiously.

Kaewyn sighed heavily. “…Tell him.”

All attention in the room shifted to the old seneschal. A man who had been trusted with the secret he was about to reveal for over two decades. Kaewyn felt conflicted, but Talbury was right. He knew that if Rahim was to gain control, his reckless nature would bring the province to ruin. Your first duty must always be to the people of Greystone. His father final words to him before leaving on campaign echoed in his mind, over and over. If he had to, he would do anything to keep that promise, or so he had thought. When it came to protecting the people of Greystone or going against your own family, how do you choose between them? Kaewyn shook his head, wondering what sage wisdom his father would give him now.

“Lord Corrhen, gods grant him rest, entrusted me with this secret, and I do not break it lightly.” Talbury said through obvious strain. It was clear that this was affecting him too. “When Lord Corrhen inherited the Lordship of Greystone Province, he did so because his two brothers, one older and one younger, had both died suddenly. In those times, disease was rampant in the Empire, and many people fell ill and died. Officially… Corrhen’s brothers died of the sickness, but the truth was far more controversial. You see, both of the brothers lay with the same woman. Neither were wed to her, and when she fell pregnant, the two brothers discovered their secret tryst. Both proud men, they resolved to end their dispute with violence. The younger brother emerged victorious, killing the elder, but he too, soon expired from the injuries he had sustained in the fight.”

“By the gods…” Yohren said in complete disbelief. “Brothers killing each other? Kin slaying? I never would have guessed.”

“It was then that Corrhen was recalled from his adventures with your father, Yohren, to return and assume his place as the heir of Greystone Province. Before he could make the return journey however, Corrhen’s father, Kaewyn’s own grandfather, was distraught over the death of two of his sons and succumbed to the sickness that plagued the land shortly after. Corrhen, now Lord Corrhen, found the woman who had torn the Edderfield family apart. She was heavily pregnant at the time and soon gave birth, unfortunately the mother did not survive, but the child did. Not knowing which of his two brothers was the father, Lord Corrhen took pity on the babe which was his nephew by blood. Instead, he took the boy and raised him as his own and named him Rahim… with Kaewyn being born late the following year.”

“Is…Is this true my lord?” Marcus said in bewilderment as he looked to Kaewyn for confirmation.

“It is.” Kaewyn said as he nodded, still uncertain as to whether revealing the secret was a good idea. “This information cannot leave this room, am I understood?”

“But…”

“Marcus, No!”

“But my lord. This is perfect for us and you know it to be true, otherwise you would not have revealed it at such an opportune time.” Marcus said pleadingly with his eyes wide open. “What if we were to… let slip this information. It would severely impact on Rahim’s standing with the troops.”

“He would know that it came from me.” Kaewyn said shaking his head. “I couldn’t do that to him. He hasn’t acted against me yet, how can I turn on him by making this public? It would ruin him.”

“Exactly my lord.” Marcus said sinisterly. “And ruining him is exactly what we need in order to ensure a smooth succession. This is the easiest way to guarantee you become the next Lord of Greystone Province!”

“Regretfully my lord…” Talbury added. “I find myself agreeing with your new advisor in this matter. Rahim must not become lord or the province will suffer.”

“There must be some other way? Before we told you of Rahim’s secret you acted as though you had a plan. What was it?”

Marcus sighed. “You won’t like it my lord.”

“It has to be better than what you just suggested. Tell me.”

Marcus narrowed his eyes and slammed a fist onto the oaken table. “We kill him!”

Kaewyn leaned back in his chair, completely mortified at the suggestion his new advisor had just made. It made him feel instantaneously sick to his stomach. He could not hide his disgust as he shook his head vigorously.

“How dare you suggest Kaewyn have his own family murdered so soon after losing his own father?” Yohren roared in anger.

Marcus seemed unphased by Yohren’s sudden outburst and merely rolled his eyes. “To be a lord of the land is to make difficult decisions above those of a common man.”

The way Marcus emphasised common when he looked at Yohren angered Kaewyn. Yohren was proving to yet again, be a reliable and likeminded friend. He was glad that his friend seemed to share the same values as he did.

“The many monks and priests that… infest our empire, claim that the founding emperor was kin to the gods. Yet even he was betrayed by his brothers when his power and influence reached its zenith.”

“And history remembers those traitorous brothers for exactly what they were, gutless cowards.” Kaewyn said from memory, content that his hours and hours of study could be put to use.

“It is foolish to yield advantage to your enemy if you have the capability to strike first Kaewyn. You demonstrated this concept when you launched your night attack upon Lord Severus.” Marcus said passionately, it appeared he was not willing to let this go without a battle of words.

Kaewyn stood from his seat and spoke with a strong, deep voice. “I would rather Rahim betray me, before I had to betray him! The reason we are here… is because my uncles could not love each other as brothers. If I emulate them and turn on Rahim, before he has even wronged me, then I am no better. I will NOT repeat the mistakes of my forebears.”

For a moment, the room fell silent. Talbury had grown quiet and Yohren looked on supportively. Kaewyn looked at Marcus, and saw that he was desperately trying to come up with some argument or rhetoric that could win the debate, but after a few awkward attempts to begin, he nodded and conceded. Marcus grew sombre and quiet after their exchange, which led Kaewyn to believe that the odd scholar had never in his life been at a loss for words before today. Secretly pleased with himself, Kaewyn did his best to supress a wry smile.

“What if we asked Camilla’s brother… lord Rhys, for some help. After all didn’t we just send Captain Alaric to help him take back his own land?” Yohren suggested.

“A good idea, in theory perhaps, but claiming the title of lord whilst relying a outside source will make my lord look weak and unable to stand on his own. Power gained through such means is fragile.” Seneschal Talbury explained.

“Then what about the Emperor?” Yohren asked. “In my village I remember hearing tales of the Emperor bestowing titles to solve disputes.”

“Another decent suggestion Yohren.” Seneschal Talbury said with a smile. “But the Emperor is currently being held captive once again by the one who used to lead the very Coalition of Lords who once formed to rescue him. Any official word we receive from the Emperor is likely to just be the words of the one controlling him, in addition an imperial missive could take weeks, perhaps months to arrive.”

Kaewyn pat Yohren’s shoulder supportively and gave him a warm smile. He was pleased to see Yohren growing into his role as his retainer. He was gaining confidence and absorbing so much about life at court. It was almost hard to tell that he had been born a common peasant and only recently been introduced to courtly life. With more time, he had no doubt that Yohren would grow to become a core part of Kaewyn’s council.

“…Despite Yohren’s excellent suggestions, it appears we are still at a loss for what action to take.” Marcus said softly, working his way back into the discussion. “I believe that the only other alternative is to win over the military officials.”

“You said that before Marcus.” Kaewyn chided.

“I did, and the point is still valid.”

“Then how do we win them over? Offer them all a raise?” Talbury said sarcastically.

“I have only been here a short while, but it is plain to see that the people and troops loved Lord Corrhen. They want justice for his murder, rightfully so, but the troops look to Rahim as their only chance to avenge their departed lord as they know him as a military man.” Marcus explained. “What we need to do is show them that you, my lord, are both willing and able to march to war to right the wrong of your father’s death.”

“Go to war? Isn’t that just what Rahim is planning?” Yohren asked.

“Yes, but Kaewyn is still the acting lord of Greystone Province. It is likely that many of our troops wish to avenge Lord Corrhen, but are unsure who to follow. At the moment they are divided between supporting Kaewyn, or following Rahim to satiate their hunger for justice. If we announce a campaign, many of the men will be relieved that the brothers are working together.”

“I see the sense in your words Marcus, but if we march against the Elentide… we will be starting a war, breaking the Emperor’s peace. I’m not sure my father would have approved.” Kaewyn said. “Not to mention that we risk angering the other lords of the Empire. The Edderfield name has always been seen as one to respect, I do not wish to tarnish it by going to war.”

“We will not anger them my lord, for your father’s murder provides us with the perfect Casus Belli. We have a very legal and real reason to go to war with the Elentide. No one will question it.” Marcus explained. “And for breaking the so-called emperor’s peace, such a thing no longer exists. I have received several reports of anarchy in the Heartlands already. Nearly every lord has raised their troops in an attempt to gobble up as much land as possible. Those who dally and stew on such decisions will be preyed upon by those men of ambition. It is imperative that we expand our powerbase, otherwise it is only a matter of time before we face another invasion like Severus.”

“If the Heartlands have descended into such chaos, it is only a matter of time before it spreads to the south my lord.” Seneschal Talbury added.

“It already has.” Yohren said. “Lord Severus must have seen what was going to happen, that must have been why he took advantage so early on.”

“Indeed. Severus saw what was happening and acted quickly, it is unfortunate for him that his first opponent was so gifted in the art of war.” Marcus said gesturing toward Kaewyn. “And one so gifted should not shy away from war when the opportunity presents itself, but seek it out instead.”

Kaewyn leant over in his head and rubbed at his forehead as he thought. The very idea of starting a war terrified him. When Severus invaded, he felt forced to act to defend his people, but this was different. The reality was though, that inside he yearned to avenge his father, every time he saw Rahim’s passion, his anger, his drive for revenge, it echoed within himself as well. He had been struggling to sleep for a while now, his dreams were haunted by many things, but most of all was the thought of the person responsible for the death of his father was unpunished. Justice was important to him, and he knew so long as the one responsible was out there, he would never feel contentment.

“I have my reservations and doubts about this, but if you are all in agreement, I will do as you suggest.” Kaewyn said, looking to each person present for confirmation that they agreed.

Yohren was the first to nod his support, then Talbury followed suit. Finally, there was Marcus, the man who’d suggested the idea. The odd scholar smiled and nodded. It was decided. Greystone Province would to go war.

“Alright… we will hold council in two hours. There, I will announce a military campaign against the Elentide.” Kaewyn said with finality. “Marcus, Talbury, begin the preparations at once. I want to know how soon we can march. I expect a report when we hold council, understood?”

“Yes, my lord!” The two advisors said in unison as they bowed.

Marcus then left the solar in a hurry, practically beaming with excitement, but Talbury lingered a moment. When Kaewyn asked what he wanted, the old advisor smiled warmly and told him that there could be no doubt that his father would be proud of him. He was becoming the man his father had always wanted him to be. Kaewyn thanked him for his words, and soon after Talbury departed as well.

Yohren then suggested he go and find Camilla as she looked very upset before the meeting. Kaewyn agreed, but after such a momentous decision he felt the need to be alone. He needed to think on this meeting in private so he could collect his thoughts for the council. Instead, he opted to ask Yohren to find her and apologise to her on his behalf. Yohren agreed, and then left in a hurry, leaving Kaewyn alone in his father’s solar. He felt awkward and unwelcome alone in this room he associated so strongly with his departed father, so he decided to return to his chambers to prepare for the council there instead. He needed to recite what he was going to say and how he was going to say it. The pressure was immense, and as he would be addressing all of the officials at once, it was vital that he appeared strong and confident, which in truth was the complete opposite of how he was actually feeling. With a sigh, he left the solar and headed through the hallways on his way to his chambers, hoping that he would have a moment to rest his body and mind.

Kaewyn was eager for some peace and quiet before the council, but fate had other ideas. As he turned the final corner which led to his chambers, he spotted a familiar figure standing by his chamber door. It was Camilla, she hadn’t seen him yet and it looked as though she had been waiting a while. Just as he approached, she turned and began to leave. He called her name to get her attention. Hearing him, she spun around and rolled her eyes. Camilla then covered her mouth and giggled softly.

“Naturally you appear right when I decide to give up and leave.”

“What brings you here Camilla?” Kaewyn asked.

“Well.” Camilla said as used her finger to pull back several lose strands of her long brown hair behind her ear. “I wanted to talk to you about something, away from the others.”

“Before we get into that, I wanted to apologise for what happened in the solar.” Kaewyn said earnestly. “Marcus acted atrociously toward you and I want you to know that I do not share his views. I trust you Camilla, completely, and I know you would never betray that trust.”

“Thank you Kaewyn, that means a lot to me. Really, it does.” Camilla said with a smile as she turned her head away. It seemed to him that she was struggling with confidence, something he had never associated with Camilla before. “If you don’t mind, perhaps we could speak further…but perhaps inside your chambers? I do not mean to be rude, but out here anyone could stumble across us and hear what we are saying.”

“Oh uh, of course.” Kaewyn replied. “Just let me get the door for you.”

Kaewyn walked past Camilla and produced his personal key from his belt, then he began to fiddle with the lock. It took him longer than usual with the key to find the hole, he was acutely aware of Camilla watching him over his shoulder which only made it more difficult. To his relief, he then felt the satisfying click of the mechanism working. The door was unlocked. He pushed open the door and backed away, gesturing politely for her to enter first. Camilla nodded and stepped through the open door. Kaewyn found himself looking nervously down the halls to see if any servants, or anyone else for that matter, had spotted her entering his chambers. His heart quickened, and for some reason he felt as though he was doing something wrong. Even though he realised he was being silly, he still looked around before closing the door behind them.

“What’s wrong Kaewyn?” Camilla asked innocently as she eyed him fidgeting with the key that was still in his hands.

“Oh, n-nothing.” He said as he wandered over to his reading table and casually tossed the key on top of it. “What did you want to speak to me about?”

Camilla took a deep breath as if she was trying to build up her courage. “You see, Kaewyn, when I asked if I could join you in your private meeting earlier, I was honestly expecting for you to say no, and that would have been fine, I suppose… But then you allowed me to come, even when Marcus made it known he didn’t want me there. I just wanted to say…. Well, thank you.”

“You don’t need to thank for me for that Camilla. It’s not even worth mentioning.”

“But it is!” Camilla said vehemently. “You don’t understand. I’ve always wanted to be included. Whenever my father held meetings, I’d always ask to be allowed to come along, but he always refused.” Camilla then put on a silly voice imitating her father. “You’d best focus on knitting and embroidery girl. Gods I hated it when he spoke to me that way.”

“That must have been frustrating…” Kaewyn said, realising the irony in their individual situations. Camilla’s words indicated that she sought out responsibility, while he had always avoided such things.

“It was the same during council too.” Camilla went on, snapping him back to the present. “I’d always be in attendance of course. The pretty daughter of Lord Callidus had to be on display at all times… but whenever I tried to speak up on something, or offer some thoughts on some important issue, the officials would all stare at me with daggers in their eyes! My father didn’t want to me speak in public either and he was not subtle in making that known to me. More than once he scolded me after I said something at court.” Once again, she put on a tone mocking her father. “It is not your place to be heard girl, only to be seen.”

“He sounded like a difficult father to have.” Kaewyn said softly, with memories of his own father spilling into his mind all at once.

“I think he just wanted boys. You should have seen how he doted on my male cousins every chance he got!” Camilla said angrily, but her tone shifted quickly when she realised what her words had stirred up in him. “Oh, I am so sorry! I’m such a dolt when I get all angry and upset about something. I shouldn’t be speaking like this about my father when, well, you know.”

“It is alright Camilla, honestly I think my father would have liked to have had you as a daughter. I was scolded because, unlike you, I said nothing during court.” Kaewyn explained. “I am curious to what your mother’s opinion was on you speaking up at court?”

“Well, at first I thought she would support me, but she just acted as she always did which was just however my father wanted her to.” Camilla looked at her feet sadly. “I… I even remember her telling me that I wasn’t supposed to have a voice.”

“That was rather cruel of her to say.” Kaewyn said. “What about Rhys? What did he think about all of this?”

“I’d hoped things would change when he became the lord, but typical Rhys just followed father’s example. When we received word about Lord Severus’ invasion, he looked so stressed and overwhelmed. I tried to help him, but he ignored me as he always does. Wouldn’t even give me five seconds to hear what I had to say!”

Camilla let out a sigh of frustration and breathed deeply in an attempt to calm herself down. It was obvious to him that this subject was of extreme significance to her. Just in how she spoke with such a fiery temperament and used her hands and arms in wide gestures to emphasise her points. It was clear that she had been holding this in for a long time. He felt honoured that she trusted him enough to speak to him about such things.

“Anyway, I don’t want to seem like a raving lunatic.” Camilla said more calmly than before. “What I wanted to say is that I appreciate you giving me a chance to use my voice. I’ve always been excluded from men’s business; it seems to be just the way things have always been done and probably always will be.”

“It wasn’t always this way.” Kaewyn corrected as he turned to his obscenely large collection of tomes and scholarly books. He then began to rummage through them to try and find something to prove his point. “There are records from before the founding of the Revaryn Empire that hint at civilisations and cultures of the distant past where men and women both shared their responsibilities. Where women hunted and men cooked, and both could become leaders.”

Camilla chuckled. “You and your books Kaewyn, I swear to the gods…”

“But they aren’t just books, inside their pages lies our history Camilla, a history most have forgotten.” He countered passionately as he continued to search through his obscenely large collection.

“Well, what about that tribe of warrior women you told me about before.” Camilla said with an obvious interest. “The ones that defeating the founding Emperor in battle?”

“I have that very book here somewhere.” Kaewyn replied as he grew increasingly annoyed at his lack of success. “Anyway, I’ll find that book later, but the way I see it, you have a valid reason for feeling the way you do. I know if I wasn’t allowed to speak my mind, I’d probably be a raving lunatic by now.”

“You could never be a raving lunatic.” Camilla said. “You are much too well spoken for that.”

“As are you.” He replied with a cheeky smile.

“No, that’s not true at all.” She said laughing. “I could barely keep my anger in check when that new advisor of yours started to explain why I should be present at the meeting. I really wanted to break something, but that wouldn’t be very proper of me now would it?”

“It’s alright, I understand. Honestly, I felt the strongest urge to punch Marcus right in the mouth when he wouldn’t shut his trap.” Kaewyn admitted.

“I came thiiis close!” Camilla said as the pair briefly succumbed to laughter.

“It is good to see you smiling again.” Kaewyn said happily.

“I should say the same with you. You haven’t been smiling much recently.” Camilla said, lowering her voice. “I know you have been stressed lately with everything that has happened. You haven’t talked much about it, at least not with me.”

“I’m okay.” Kaewyn said, not really believing his own words. “Having you around helps.”

“That’s right, I am here.” Camilla said with one of her big smiles. “So why don’t you talk to me about it.”

“No, it wouldn’t be proper. You are my guest. I don’t want to burden you with all of that.” Kaewyn said dismissively.

“You just listened to my rant, it’s only fair that I return the favour Kaewyn. Come on, sit down and tell me how you are feeling.” Camilla said as she walked over to the edge of his bed and took a seat, enthusiastically patting the spot beside her.

Although he was initially hesitant, he found it incredibly difficult to deny her. He walked over and sat by her on the edge of the bed and began to speak. Once he started, he found it increasingly hard to stop. His thoughts and feelings flowed as fiercely as the Rau River had been during their battle with Lord Severus. He began with the immense pressure he had been feeling since before the battle of having to rule the entire province, a pressure that had magnified tenfold since learning the death of his father. Then he explained his strained relationship with Rahim and his fears about the succession crisis. He expressed his doubts and concerns about him having to step up and become the lord. He didn’t feel ready nor prepared to assume such a massive responsibility. Camilla listened intently and absorbed everything he said, especially when he described everything that was discussed in the private meeting in the Solar that she had missed. It was then that the topic of Garren and the bandits that had captured them came to light.

“I want to apologise for what happened to you with those bandits who attacked us.” Kaewyn said feeling immense guilt. “If I wasn’t off stupidly trying to avoid my responsibilities again, then it would have never happened.”

“You needed to get away, it’s only reasonable. I know I couldn’t stand Marcus for that long.”

“I know, but it doesn’t change the fact that I still put you and Yohren in danger. I was only thinking of myself.”

“No Kaewyn, you weren’t. We chose to come after you, just as Garren chose to become what he was. No one is to blame for what happened but Garren himself.”

“Does that mean you agree with what I did to him?” Kaewyn questioned. “I saw how everyone was looking at me after I gave the order. Especially Rahim.”

“I…I’m not sure.” Camilla stuttered. Kaewyn felt a pang of guilt when he saw her reliving the scene of Garren’s execution, but he continued to listen to her all the same. “Truthfully, the bastard deserved what he got, but I’m more concerned with how it affected you. I’ve noticed you haven’t really been the same since.”

“I might have to be more like that in the future if I am to become the lord. Everyone says the lord must make all of the tough decisions.” Kaewyn explained.

“Don’t think that way Kaewyn. You shouldn’t change who you are just because you become the lord. You are still you. I know you will do great and make everyone proud.” Camilla said warmly. “Let’s be honest, you can’t do worse than Rhys and you know what an idiot he is!”

“That’s not very comforting.” Kaewyn replied. “I always thought Rhys was quite intelligent and—"

“The point is!” Camilla said loudly, cutting him off. “Is that I know you’ll be okay. Trust in yourself a little and you’ll see what others see. Just look what you have already accomplished and it is plain to see that you have what is needed to rule.”

“Perhaps.” Kaewyn said flatly.

“No, not perhaps.” Camilla said as her hand found his and gently took hold. “You stopped Lord Severus from taking your home and you saved me while doing it! Have some faith in yourself. Yohren believes in you, Seneschal Talbury does as well…. And I do too.”

Kaewyn felt overwhelmed by Camilla’s overt display of support and noticed his hand tingling when she had taken hold of it. No one had ever said anything like this to him before. It made him feel much better about himself and gave him confidence. He felt very grateful to her for her words and wanted to return the favour. For a brief moment, his mind struggled to articulate what he wanted to say, but then it came to him.

“Camilla… for someone who was told they weren’t supposed to have a voice, you speak beautifully.”

His words caused Camilla to look away in embarrassment, but her hand did not leave his. Not only did her hand remain, but he noticed that she had only gripped it more tightly.

“Kaewyn?” She said.

“Yes?”

“I think the true reason I feel safe here is not because I’m away from Varde Castle… but because I’m here, with you.”

This time it was his turn to feel embarrassment, but unlike Camilla, he did not look away. He met her gaze and stared warmly into her dark blue eyes. He didn’t even realise he was smiling until he saw her return the gesture. It was in this moment he knew that he wanted to be closer to her, to hold her and for her to hold him. He wanted nothing more than to just be with her, to enjoy her company, her presence and her laughter. His ever active mind however, began play cruel tricks on him, sewing doubts and fears that she would be repelled by him if he were to move toward her. He hesitated with the uncertainty, but the way she was looking at him with that unique smile of hers that always made him feel better, dispelled such doubts in an instant.

Kaewyn used his free hand to gently pull her in for a hug. In response, Camilla let go of his hand and then placed both of her arms around his waist and hugged him tightly. Feeling her body pressed up against his reminded him of when he had found her in Lord Severus’ tent. Back then, she had hugged him out of fear and relief, fearful for their lives. This time though, in the safety of his chambers, he had nothing so horrible to distract himself from the pleasant feeling of Camilla in his arms. He could feel his heart beating faster and noticed he was breathing a little quicker than usual. His mind felt both overwhelmed and at ease at the same time. It was an experience he had never had before in all of his life.

When they parted, Kaewyn took hold of both of her hands with his own. As he looked at her, he felt a sudden and strong desire to say something that would express his thoughts to her, to allow her some insight as to how he was feeling, but the words just wouldn’t come to him. Instead, he gently squeezed her hands and smiled at her, hoping that she would understand him without the need for words. She returned his smile, but he could see plainly that she wanted something more from him. Her hand soon found its way up to his shoulder and before he could react, Camilla was pulling him in closer with a look of impatience in her eyes. When her lips briefly pressed against his, he felt a rush of excitement spread all throughout his body. He was so surprised by the forwardness of her gentle, quick kiss, that he had barely responded to it. Camilla then pulled away from him and shuffled anxiously. He could see in her eyes that she was worried that her advances had been unwelcome. She looked nervous and uncomfortable, and seemed to be looking everywhere in the room but at him. He guessed that she was disappointed with his lack of a reaction, but the only reason he had simply sat there looking like a stunned animal, was because he was genuinely caught off guard. Wanting to reassure her that her kiss was very much welcome, he moved closer to her and then leaned in, kissing her back just as quickly and gently as she had done only a few moments before. Camilla’s face lit up and he could tell any doubts or fears she harboured had been put to rest.

The two awkward young nobles shared a quiet giggle at how hopelessly they had handled their first moment of intimacy. Soon though, the mood turned more serious. Kaewyn felt an intense desire to kiss her again, and so he took the initiative and leaned in once more, but slowly this time. When she smiled and subtly nodded to him, he closed his eyes and kissed her. Instead of pulling away immediately, he lingered in their closeness and kissed her again. Camilla showed her receptiveness to his advances by wrapping her arms around him and pulling him in closer. Just as he was starting to feel comfortable, a loud click coming from the door startled him. Both he and Camilla scrambled to separate as quickly as possible, but it was too late. Yohren stood in the open doorway, his eyes fixed upon them mid embrace. Kaewyn stood from the bed and stepped away from Camilla awkwardly.

“What are you doing here Yohren?” He questioned.

“You uh, sent me to find Lady Camilla.” Yohren stammered nervously. “To deliver her your message… but I couldn’t find her in her chambers… so I uh, came back to find you.”

“Well.” Camilla added playfully. “You found me.”

“Right, right… so do I, uh… give it to her. Or have you… already given it to her…. the message I mean!” Yohren quickly corrected. “Oh gods, I should have just stayed outside.”

Kaewyn sighed. “Just go and find Marcus and find out how long until the council is ready.”

“Oh, I met him in the Great Hall on the way back here.” Yohren explained. “He said that the council would be ready shortly and that you should come as soon as possible.”

“It was supposed to be in two hours!” He said in frustration. “I haven’t even prepared what I am going to say yet.”

Yohren just shrugged his shoulders in response.

“Fine, fine.” Kaewyn said as he rubbed his temples. “Go and find him again and tell him to delay the council a little longer. I will come as soon as I can…”

“Alright.” Yohren responded and bowed before heading back out the door. “And I’m sorry about… interrupting you.”

“Just go already!” He shouted.

After Yohren had gone, Camilla wandered over to him and hugged his side. “Don’t be angry with Yohren. He was only doing as you told him.”

“I know… I’m not angry with him. I just feel so overwhelmed with everything that is happening lately.” He sighed. “With you here, I finally felt like I could unwind.”

“You still can.” Camilla said with a smile. “Maybe tomorrow we can go for a ride? We’ll avoid the forests this time and just ride around town together.”

“I’d like that.” He said smiling. “I know a nice riding trail that runs around the castle.”

“Come and find me tomorrow then.” Camilla said as she let go of him and headed for the door. “This council meeting of yours sounds important, so I will leave you to prepare in peace. You probably don’t need me to distract you any further."

Kaewyn chuckled. “If you think I am going to be able to concentrate on anything other than you after this…”

“Try.” Camilla said cheekily as she disappeared through the door, leaving him alone in his chambers.

“Right.” He said aloud. “It’s time to focus.”

Kaewyn sat down at his desk and pushed all of his half-read books and tomes to the side, making space for a fresh piece of parchment. He dipped his quill into the inkwell and then… nothing. No words would come to him, not even a few. He stared at the blank parchment in frustration. He managed to make a small modicum of progress after a while of intense thought, but not much. Eventually he gave up and rubbed at his eyes. He could barely concentrate for longer than a few minutes. His mind was occupied by thoughts of a kiss with a woman whom he was starting to realise he cared for very deeply. Camilla’s essence had taken over his mind completely and while it was there, nothing else would take root. With a sigh he stood from his desk and made for the door. There was no use delaying any longer. He just hoped that he would be able to pull it together during the council, and once it was over, he secretly hoped he would be able to see her again.