FORTY-FIVE

The members of the royal board were used to Edward's presence in their meetings though he looked like he'd rather not be there most of the time and was always an observer.

What was new was Regan standing on the right hand side of the king today.

"What is the devil's second in command doing here? And why is he on the right hand side? Is he not the youngest Prince?"

The financial secretary whispered to the man on his left, the minister in charge of food and cultivation.

"Are you asking me? Didn't I come in here with you? Let's just wait and see..."

He whispered back.

The entire court was filled with murmur and confusion as well as excitement. Some of them presumed this was the King's first test towards which of his son's was worthy of becoming his crowned Prince.