The Path

Dermands seemed to stumble on his words

Dermands seemed to stumble on his words.

"I know only what I have been told, by many. They seem to feel that ..."

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King Ghannel raised his hand, stopping Dermands's rant.

"Enough. It is obvious to me, that you either know nothing or know much. And perhaps, you are lying to all of us."

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Council Dermands shuffled some papers on his desk.

"I merely reflect the opinions of my wards."

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"Tell me, Dermands, what do you know of Deark? What do you know of anything? You appear here, with no forewarning and proclaim yourself as the Council for Landiss. I see no proof."

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"I do not have to prove anything to you," Council Dermands snapped back.

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Council Sharves stood, saying, "I support King Ghannel. This is enough of this bullshit. We have our Queens and the so called Outlanders, as you dress them, are our friends and have been for many years. There has never been an issue with this before. And I see no issue now."

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Dermands seized an opportunity, "Then let us put it to a vote. A vote among only the original Seven Kingdoms."

He turned to Emmeline and asked, "Or are you afraid?"

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Emmeline looked up at me.

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Dermands noticed the glance.

"You look to her for advice," he snapped.

He began laughing and walking backwards across the stage.

"What Queen looks to a child for advice?"

When he turned, he stumbled into me.

"What is this?" he asked, surprised.

He gained his footing and took a step back from me.

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"If you have an issue with me, then you talk to me. You do not go through my family or my friends," I told him firmly.

"And, I now stand in front of you."

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"This is out of order!" Dermands turned back to the Queens. "This, person, has not asked to address the Council."

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I looked at the two Queens. To my utter shock and surprise, Relina stood and said, "Lady Whisper does not have to request, to speak to the Council. She is the Standing Lady in Waiting to Council and she has the right to address the Council at any time."

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'You ever insult me or my family again and you will have to deal with me.'

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He turned and pointed at me.

"Did you hear that?" Dermands cracked.

"She just threatened me."

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"I did not hear anything," Relina said, looking around at the others on Council.

"Did any others hear such a threat?"