Trial by Rule

James stepped closer, his hand resting firmly on the hilt of his sword.

"Is this necessary, councilmen?"
"My wife just addressed the people of Vespera.”
“Surely this can wait."

Councilman Orwin stepped forward; his expression taut with restrained irritation.

"I'm afraid it cannot, Your Highness," Orwin said, his tone sharp.
"You may have won battles, but the future of Vespera is not decided solely by proclamations to the masses."

Lord Harrow gave a slow nod of agreement.

"There are urgent matters that require attention, Princess Isabella," he said, his voice laced with a condescending edge.

The way he said Princess sounded more like an accusation than a formality.

"Your speech has stirred the people, but your claim to the throne is far from secure.”
“The council must determine the next course of action."
"Then let us proceed.”
"I have nothing to hide, nor will I shy away from the duties that come with this crown."

James gave me a brief nod of support, and we followed the councilmen through the palace halls. Outside, the sounds of the city hummed faintly through the open windows, but inside, the air felt thick, heavy with the weight of tradition and the old power these men clung to.

The council chamber was cold, the flickering sconces casting long shadows over the faces of the councilmen as we entered. The large wooden table, cluttered with parchments and documents, dominated the center of the room. It was clear they had been preparing for this meeting. I took my seat at the head of the table, James to my right. Across from us, the councilman's faces were inscrutable, though their eyes betrayed their scrutiny. Orwin was the first to speak as usual.

"Princess Isabella," he began, his voice controlled, "your speech today has caused quite the stir.”
“The people are uncertain, and rightfully so.”
“You cannot expect to wipe away your past with a few carefully chosen words."



"I do not intend to erase the past, Orwin," I replied, my tone firm.
"I will not be shackled by it, either.”
“My past with Captain Blackthorn does not define my future as queen."

Lord Harrow leaned forward, his fingers tapping the table in a rhythmic pattern that grated on my nerves.

"The people will not forget so easily," he said slowly.
"Your marriage to Captain Blackthorn—"
"Was not my choice," I cut in, my voice as sharp as steel.
"Just as this city was forced under Alec’s rule.”
“I have made my intentions clear.”
“I will lead Vespera into a new era—one of strength and justice.”
“That cannot happen if the council continues to undermine my authority."

A murmur rippled through the council, some exchanging brief glances while others remained stoic. Orwin cleared his throat.

"You speak of authority, but authority must be earned.”
“You claim the title of princess, but there are those who still question your legitimacy.”
“We need more than words, Princess Isabella.”
“We need action."

I could feel James's tension beside me, his hand tightening on the table as his jaw clenched. His other hand reached for the sword at his side.

"Is this a challenge to my wife’s claim to the throne?"

Orwin shook his head slowly.

"Not a challenge, Your Highness.”
“A test.”
“The remnants of Alec's supporters are still out there, plotting, waiting for an opportunity.”
“We need assurances that you can defend the throne you claim."
"What exactly are you asking for?"

Lord Harrow folded his hands in front of him, his voice measured.


"The council proposes that you oversee the capture of those who remain loyal to Alec’s cause.”
“There are whispers of rebellion.”
“They must be silenced before your reign can truly begin."
"You want me to hunt down Alec’s remaining forces to prove my loyalty to Vespera?”
“Is that your test?"

Orwin nodded.

"Precisely.”
“The city needs to see that you are willing to protect them.”
“That you are prepared to get your hands dirty for the sake of peace."

James began to rise, but I placed a hand on his arm, stopping him. I needed to control the situation.

"I understand the council’s concerns.”
"Alec's remnants must be dealt with, and I will see to it.”
“This is not a test of my loyalty.”
“It is a test of yours."

The councilmen blinked, clearly taken aback.

"My loyalty to Vespera is unquestionable," I continued, my words gaining force.
"I fought for this city while Alec sought to destroy it.”
“I stood with the people while they suffered under his tyranny.”
“It is you, councilmen, who have debated in your chambers while the city bled.”
“If you want me to clean up Alec’s remains, I will do it—not for your approval, but for the people."
"You will have your peace," I said, rising to my feet.
"I do not rule Vespera for your sake.”
“I rule for the people."

James stood beside me as we left the chamber, the councilman's eyes heavy on our backs. This fight was far from over, but I had taken the first step. The council would not break me. In time, the people would see their queen rise—and they would stand with me.

“Are you all right?”

I exhaled slowly, keeping my voice calm.

"I am fine.”
“I expected resistance, but not quite like this.”
“They think they can toy with our power, that they can test us.”

“They forget who saved this city."
“They are testing you,” James said, his hand fully taking mine now.
"They think they can push you.”

“We need them on our side, at least for now.”
“They still hold sway over the people.”
“If I do not tread carefully, the throne could slip away before I have truly claimed it."

James’s expression hardened.

“Let me deal with the council.”
“I can handle Orwin and Harrow.”
“They respect force."

"No.”
“That will only confirm their doubts.”
“We have to be smarter than that."

In my heart, I knew I had to be careful. One misstep and I could drag James down with me.