Royals of Ruemri Book I: Betrothal

Chapter 12 - Part 2

"WE ARE not making accusations here. We're simply stating facts and reminding everyone that the military and foreign affairs of most southern kingdoms are still under the empire's oversight. Additionally, both Selemea and Zuan are renowned for their jewel and stone crafts, rightfully so, alongside Istel." Raffe paused momentarily, casting a deliberate glance at each face gathered around the round table. A small council sat there, comprised of Queen Aselina and her three daughters, Marahi, Valen, and Fora. Three portly men— a Prime Minister and two advisors—sat uncomfortably, looking as though they'd prefer to be anywhere but under the scrutiny of the empire's crown prince.

Soren wisely maintained his silence beside Raffe, allowing the prince to handle his princely duties, which unfortunately seemed to involve subtle threats camouflaged as reminders.

He felt a bit awkward, a sensation he refused to acknowledge openly, but the earring's weight prevented him from slouching in his chair. Moreover, the occasional glances that strayed towards him, or more accurately towards his earring, were quite distracting, as the diamond, gold, and sapphires caught the light and gleamed conspicuously.

He maintained his serious face, though, looking straight ahead to Princess Marahi who seemed to undress Raffe with her eyes. It was amusing—if a tad bit annoying how obvious it was—but Soren knew an affectionate look when he saw one.

"—The empire granted you access to the main trade routes and key commercial hubs, offering assistance in exchange for your allegiance. This symbiotic relationship is the bedrock behind the kingdoms' continuous prosperity, decade after decade," Raffe said.

"I am well aware of that, Your Highness, and we are most grateful for the empire's bestowed graces upon us," Queen Aselina replied, her mouth drawn into a taut line. "But I confess, I am becoming increasingly perplexed about the matter."

Raffe leaned back in his chair and looked at her. The whole room went silent. Soren relished the idea that he was not under that gaze because honestly, Raffe looked at them like they were two inches tall.

"Consider the potential losses should the Crown choose to cut you off," Raffe remarked casually, as though discussing the weather.

His words hung in the air, prompting a collective intake of breath among those gathered, while Soren observed evident disbelief etched across the faces of all the Zuani present in the room.

"Begging your pardon, Your Highness—"

The Prime Minister was stopped short by the quick dismissal wave of Raffe's hand.

"Which, naturally, is highly unlikely... at least for the present," Raffe remarked with an almost cheerful tone, though the severity etched in his handsome features belied his true sentiments. "My army will remain stationed here until tomorrow. Our objective is to apprehend the rebels and secure the safe return of Julian's children, as well as every other man and woman—"

"—And faie," Soren interjected.

Raffe glanced at him and nodded in his peripheral vision. "Yes, and possibly faie, that they abducted and forced into slavery over the course of time."

The three corpulent, stern-faced men abruptly straightened in their chairs, a movement that struck Soren as almost rehearsed. Their gazes fixed on Raffe, registering disbelief.

It was the Prime Minister who broke the silence first. "This is preposterous! No one would dare to abduct faie for slavery and risk another w—"

"Exactly," Raffe interjected once more. "But there are rumors, and rumors can be dangerous. I am more surprised that you do not know about it."

"Rumors originating from the streets rarely find their way to our circles, Your Highness," remarked one of the men with a sneer.

Soren stifled a silent snicker, sensing the shift in attention as all eyes turned towards him.