Chapter 16: Narrator

“By the way, I hear you have a daughter.” From the twinkle in the other man’s eye Dunal knew what was coming next.

“Yes Your Majesty, it is so. But alas, she’s not a suitable match for the future Crown Prince…”

“Your title will be restored, that’s already been taken care of. All your holdings and the monies they’ve entailed over the past fifteen years are there as well.”

To say that he was shocked would be a grave understatement. Dunal’s head all but spun on his shoulders at this magnanimity. He dropped to his knees once more, with his hand over his heart in profound gratitude.

“Still, your majesty…”

“I know. My father gave yours that title even though it was unheard of. He defied the imperial court to make his trusted guard a Duke after he was wounded and retired.”

“I have called you back here after all this time because I cannot leave this earth unless I am sure that someone I trust is protecting my son and grandson. Please for the sake of past friendship do not deny me.”