A Sip of Scotch

"Time to tell you the truth…"

Markos held the glass as he saw the lord holding it but his hand wasn't quite big enough, but he gave it his best try. The general watched him with growing amusement.

Marcius stood beside the fire and contemplated the way the flames reflected in the spirits within his cup. "Some truths we've kept from you, so you can chose what path you wish to pursue." He paused as he looked to the boy sitting on the leather couch. 

Markos stared at the man enraptured. "Yes, my lord?" He hoped for so many things to be shared and now, the general was offering to grant his fervent wish. 

"…Your father," Marcius began, taking a reverent sip of his drink, like this truth was hard to bear sober. "Is the former Emperor Dunstan de Alaverde." He glanced to Markos who stared at him wide eyed. "Your mother, Dame Krista does not speak fondly of Dunstan and has done everything in her power to hide your parentage from him and the current Emperor."