The herald stepped forward and announced the king's arrival, effectively killing every conversation in the throne room. Lords, ladies, knights, and every other soul present sank to their knees. The usurper stopped by the massive wooden doors, eyeing the room with disdain, not oblivious to the grim look on their faces. His boots scuffed along the wooden floor in slow, measured steps. The rhythmic noise reverberated through the silent hall, adding to the daunting atmosphere. Once he settled on the throne, the herald commanded all to rise. Two knights standing behind the royal chair stepped forward, one carrying a crown forged from blackened iron. It was official: Edwin had conquered the kingdom. And yet, his victory brought him no satisfaction. It felt empty — lacking the support of nobles or the masses. His reputation was forever tainted. Kinslayer is what they called him for ending his half-brother’s life with his bare hands. No matter how hard he tried to bury the past, he would always be the man who killed their beloved king. The only thing preventing a rebellion was the prince — his nephew, who one day would have ascended the throne and continued his father's legacy. Edwin imprisoned him and kept him alive as leverage. As long as his subjects stayed in line, no harm would fall upon the prince. After voicing his frustration to an advisor, he was given one solution for his popularity problem: to take the prince in marriage. His nephew would gain the title of king consort, placing him below the usurper. A grand wedding would be appreciated by all. Nothing like a big celebration to win over the public. The king visited the prince’s chambers to personally inform him of their union. And to make sure he understood the importance of accepting his role in the ploy. So far, Edwin had made sure his nephew was comfortable, even locking him up in his own chambers. But if he were to be challenged, he would have no issue changing his accommodations to a cold cell and employing a few torturers to ensure complete misery. “ Do you understand your situation, my dear nephew? ” He held the boy's chin up, locking their eyes. “ Believe me. I take no pleasure in this. But I have no other choice. Be good and you will leave this prison. ”
@writtenbystitch.