That night, Queen Calyss sat alone in her room when a servant announced Prince Geralt. He walked in, bowing, but it felt more like a show than respect. Calyss sent the servant away.
Once the door shut, her voice was sharp. "Don't pretend, Geralt. You didn't come here for a feast you weren't invited to."
He smirked. "And why not, sister? Can't a brother visit his family?"
Calyss shot back, her tone icy. "My mother is dead because of yours. Don't insult me with talk of family. Why are you here?"
His grin faded. He stepped closer, eyes fierce. "I'm here to take back what's mine. The throne you sit on should be mine. I am the true King of Fenroth."
Calyss's expression turned to anger. "How dare you say that! You're no better than your mother, no wonder Father sent you both away."
"Don't talk about my mother like that!" Geralt snapped, his voice sharp.
Calyss stood tall. "You're being disrespectful. You stand before your Queen, talking treason. I could have you executed with a word."
Geralt laughed, but it was empty. "Sister, oooh... my Queen. You know you wouldn't dare. You pretend to rule, but you're weak. Just a puppet in royal robes."
Her anger flared. "Are you trying to provoke me?"
"No," he replied calmly. "I'm telling the truth. The Lords are plotting against you, which you know. But I won't let them disgrace House Eryndor. As the true heir, I'll fight for you. But..." He paused, then added, "I propose marriage."
The room went silent. His words hit her hard. "Marry me, and I'll be King Consort. Together, we'll make Fenroth strong and defeat those who threaten the peace of the throne."
Calyss clenched her fists. "I've had enough of this nonsense. Guards!"
The doors flew open, and three guards bowed low. "My Queen?"
She pointed at Geralt, her voice shaking with rage. "Take him away. Don't let him disturb my peace again."
As they grabbed him, Geralt's voice was steady. "Think about it, sister."
***
Lord Serion, Commander of Fenroth's army. He was the son of Lord Cedricus and part of the loyal House of Sylvon.
While training new soldiers on the kingdom's defenses, a young soldier rushed to him. The soldier looked anxious, his face pale, and he clutched a small piece of parchment.
"My Lord," he said quietly, "this came from the governor of Avalor four days ago." He revealed a rough sketch of a man's face. "This man killed four people in a bar fight. The governor wants him caught."
Serion studied the sketch. He recognized the sharp jaw, cold eyes, and noble brow. It was Prince Geralt, his cousin.
"This is Prince Geralt," he said, his voice steady. He met the soldier's gaze with determination. "If he's found guilty, he will be punished. Not even a prince, is above the law. Get the troops ready". He directed the young soldier.
***
Lord Serion strode into the throne room with twenty armed soldiers. Their shining armor signaled strength. He knelt before Queen Calyss, but his words were firm. "Your Majesty, I've been told that Prince Geralt matches the description of a murderer from a provincial inn."
Just then, Geralt entered. He flashed a wry smile, realizing he had walked into a trap. Lord Serion stood tall, eyes locked on the Prince. "I'm here to enforce the law, Your Majesty. This man is to be arrested and brought to trial. He will be tried by a local magistrate"
Before he could give the order, Duchess Evanderia stepped forward, commanding attention with her presence. "On what grounds?" she asked, calm and steady.
"Murder, Your Grace. He killed a man during a gambling dispute and then went on to slay his friends who tried to help."
"A serious accusation," the Duchess replied, her gaze on Geralt.
"It was self-defense, Your Grace," Geralt said, voice low. "They attacked me first. I had to defend myself."
"Did you?" the Duchess pressed.
"Yes, they pulled their swords. I had no choice," he insisted.
The Duchess turned back to Serion, her tone final. "The Prince has spoken. It was self-defense. You can stand down."
Serion hesitated. He was torn between following orders and respecting royal command. He glanced at his father, Lord Cedricus, who looked furious in the corner.
Calyss spoke clearly, "Lord Serion, let the royal court handle this. You may leave."
With frustration and defeat on his face, Serion bowed. "Yes, Your Majesty." He and his men exited, leaving the hall in an uneasy silence. Geralt, a man known for causing trouble, had been spared.