Damien's POV
“Of course, Uncle. What troubles you?” I inquired, maintaining a neutral expression.
“The six noble houses.” he said bluntly. “They considerable influence in the kingdom. Their loyalty… well, let's just say it's a fickle thing. Frankly, they could be a threat to your rule.”
“A valid concern uncle.” I nodded. I had thought about this possiblity previous and considered abolishing the six houses all together but I weighed the pros and cons before deciding to allow their existence to continue.
They have stood since the creation of Valthrun and it would be unwise to eradicate them just yet. It might even cause an internal war which I was trying to avoid. But, I had a plan to maintain absolute authority over my kingdom.
"Fear not, I have a plan.”. A confident smile spread on my lips.
“Do tell nephew.” He asked curiously.
“Let's just say, the noble houses will be reminded who yields the true power in Valthrun.” I said mysteriously.
Uncle Kieran's lips twitched as he regarded me with a blank stare. After a while, he smiled and nodded, giving my shoulder a tight squeeze.
“I understand what you mean, indeed an iron fist is required to rule.”
“Precisely.” I said with a grin. I was the king and my reign would be one of absolute authority. Challenge to my rule would come but I would face them and crush any threat totally.
“Indeed, speaking of power. Why haven't I seen your mate Damien, I presume she would be your queen?” He furrowed his eyebrows and asked.
My smile faltered as I hadn't planned on having this conversation yet. How could Uncle react to the news of Freda, a human - werewolf hybrid?
“Yes.” I answered simply, hoping he'd drop the topic.
“I have never seen her before, who is this woman? Is she of nobel blood? Does she have the temperament to be a queen?”
There. This was exactly what I was avoiding. He's already even asking whether she was noble blood. This wouldn't definitely not end well.
“Well?”Uncle Kieran pressed. “If it isn't too much trouble I'd like to see her “
I was about to answer when the door of the dinning hall creaked open which momentarily distracted us. A tall cloaked figure breathed in and I sighed in relief. It was Elara.
“Well, well well.” She drawled as she made her way to me. “I didn't expect this runaway to return so quickly.”
“You old hag, who are you calling a runaway?” He slammed his fists on the table and stood up.
“You, obviously.” Elara retored, the dark aura around her thickening.
“It seems I'll need to teach you some manners.” Kieran drew his sword from his sheathe. His eyes blazing with pure hate.
These two had never seen eye to eye. Their hate for each other was so raw that they couldn't stand being in the same room. My father had always managed to keep them in check but now, that responsibility was now in my shoulders. I could feel a massive headache coming in.
“You are no match for me Kieran, so stand down.” Elara chuckled as the dark aura solidified in her hands.
“Your memory seemed to have some problems, come. I'll show you who is superior.” He challenged, walking towards her with menacing steps.
Before they could start fighting, I stood up and slammed my fist on the table. Both Kieran and Elara flinched momentarily breaking their hostile eye contact and they stared at me instead.
"Enough!" I boomed, my voice leaving no room for debate. "There will be no displays of disrespect in my presence.”
