The King's Chambers

[Fel]

Maekar's eyes narrow at his brother. "You mock me."

[The Smith]

Daemon raised an eyebrow, "Is there a single word I just said that sounded remotely mocking? If anything I insulted Daeron not you."

[Fel]

"Do you wish to speak with me seriously, Daemon? If my offer of assistance bothered you state it plainly."

[The Smith]

"I still maintain I am speaking seriously." Daemon replied, "And if I am bothered by your request at all Maekar, it is because you are my third sibling in as many days to come to me privately speaking of position or favor. I have no doubt the next knock at my door will Daeron claiming he wants to serve as Master of Laws, and has been studying up so he could answer matters that pertain to the law of my land."

[Fel]

"I did not ask for a position, Daemon. You have no positions to give that I want. I am content in the Eyrie, and to be frank I am kept fully occupied by my seat. I offered you assistance."

He walked to the door, then turned back, "by your leave, Your Grace."

[The Smith]

Daemon stood, "If I misunderstood you I apologized Maekar. And I would love to have one sibling to just be my brother, but it has been so long since anyone has treated me as anything but King." He turned back toward his work dismissing him.

[Fel]

Maekar left.

[Deleted]

----

Lord Manderly arrived, looking a bit winded at the climb, but not complaining.

[The Smith]

The King greeted him at the door, and motioned for him to follow him into the chambers. The King motioned for Valrus to sit, and sat as well, "Any wine? Or something to eat?"

[Deleted]

Valrus smiled wanly and shook his head.

"I'm afraid that I've lost my appetite, your Grace." He said, and then laughed when he saw the incredulous look on the King's face.

"A murder so foul can turn even my stomach to stone, if you would believe it."

[The Smith]

Daemon nodded, "I believe it." He crossed his legs, and studied Manderly quietly before asking, "Is there a man you trust to run White Harbor while you are away. Is he quite capable?"

[Deleted]

Valrus nodded. "My brother Ryles is both capable and eager. Might I ask what reason he needs to watch over White Harbor, Grace?"

[The Smith]

"I have decided for the time being to promote you to Hand." Daemon replied, "For the moment it will be temporary, and unofficial. Yet if you do not let the kingdom fall apart I will make it permanent in a short time."

[Deleted]

Valrus nodded, surprised at the appointment.

"I accept, your Grace. I will make arrangements as soon as I exit." He harumphed and stroked his moustache. "I will make every effort to help you run this Kingdom efficiently and pragmatically."

[The Smith]

"I appreciate it Valrus. We will be as partners in this. I am glad you can aid me." Daemon smiled, "And my first piece of advice I seek is your recommendation for a new Master of Law."