Ch - 5 Fear in Hearts

Regina

Just the voice of this woman was irritating. But today she is getting on my nerves.

I held Margaret’s gaze, my expression unreadable. “Lady Margaret, firstly, I already have the unwavering support of the ministers who served alongside the Grand Duke,” I said calmly. “And secondly, I suggest you tend to your own house’s affairs before concerning yourself with mine. Beyond that, why should I entrust the Duchy’s matters to you over all those who have stood by us for generations, remain steadfast in their loyalty?”

Margaret tensed, her lips pressing into a thin line. The gathered ministers, all steadfast allies of the Grand Duke, murmured in agreement. Their support was unwavering. It was a simple, now they know that there is no scope for a marriage alliance, they are just like the rest of the nobles. They no longer stand first in line when it comes to this territory. The favor they once held over others is now gone.

Jasper stepped forward, his voice measured yet firm. “Your Grace, you are right in your competence, and no one questions your ability to rule,” he paused before coming to the point, “But the weight of the Duchy is heavy, and a ruler must not only govern but also intimidate. The House of Godwin commands the Silver Sword Knights, one of the most renowned knights in the empire. Let us stand beside you, ensure the Grand Duchy remains unchallenged, and strike fear into the hearts of your enemies.”

So this is their play. A throne without an army is nothing but a gilded cage. If I allow Jasper to command the Duchy’s protection, the real power shifts to him. The Grand Duchess in name, but a puppet in truth, unable to command even my own knights. And if he controls when swords are drawn and when they are sheathed, then he rules this land, not me.

I could see the nobles considering it as well. They could tolerate me ruling over the diplomatic affairs, but the military? No. Who would listen to a woman who never held a sword in her hands? How can she direct them? But I expected it.

My lips curled into a smile. 

“A noble sentiment,” I replied, tilting my head slightly, I added, “But unnecessary.”

Jasper’s smile was beginning to strain. “And why is that?”

A door at the far end of the hall opened. Heavy, measured footsteps echoed against the marble floor, filling the grand chamber with a palpable shift in energy.

Gasps filled the room.

Sir Langston

The best knight in the empire. The man who trained the Crown Prince. A warrior whose name sent shivers through enemy ranks. And my aunt’s husband, thus family. 

No one was more qualified than him, and no one could be trusted more than him.

I had sent a letter to my aunt yesterday to have her husband come to the duchy as soon as possible. I knew I would need his support to turn things in my favor.

I turned slightly to look at the defeated faces of Jasper and his mother. “Because the Grand Duke’s family has never stood alone.”

Jasper inhaled sharply. He knew his knights could compare to what this man could do for the duchy as their commander. Margaret stiffened, her nails digging into her palms.

I continued after a pause, “As family, he will aid me in maintaining charge of the military of the Duchy. And as you have all said, perception is important.” I let the words settle. “If the concern was vulnerability, then allow me to put those fears to rest. The Duchy stands strong. The strongest knight of this empire will lead the knights himself.”

The ministers exchanged looks, relief in their eyes.

A man was now by my side, handling the military affairs. And not just any knight, it was Sir Langston, feared across nations. The last barrier Jasper and Margret had clung to had crumbled before their eyes.

Jasper forced a tight smile, but he was already beaten. Margret clenched her fists, trembling with barely contained rage. 

There was nothing left to say. There was nothing left they could do now. 

I won. 

And the next time they come up with a new scheme, I will still win again.