Call on Norbier

“Are there other matters you have for me, Norbier?”

Stewart leans back against his chair, hoping he sounds more confident than he feels.

Norbier consults his notes. “This has all happened quite suddenly, of course, Sire, but there are protocols in place, revised most recently when your royal grandfather passed away, elevating your father to the throne. There are a few matters, however, requiring your attention. There is the matter of today’s event....”

In all of the commotion, it had entirely slipped Stewart’s mind that people had gathered from all over for the selection of his future wife. Had his father not died unexpectedly, Stewart would even now be seated next to his parents, receiving dignitaries from throughout Mirantia and beyond, all of whom would be bringing a young woman whom they hoped would be selected as Stewart’s wife. Of course, now, as king, he would have the sole say in whom that would be. The real question was how to handle the day’s festivities.

“Of course,” continues Norbier, “no one expects you to actually choose a bride today, under the circumstances, but we must consider how to handle breaking the news to all of the gathered dignitaries. And while we are on the subject, Your Majesty, the importance of your finding a queen and producing an heir has never been more important. Until that happens, the monarchy hangs by a thread.”

Stewart nods. “Surely the monarchy will not require me to get married and sire a child before my father is entombed?”

“Of course not, Sir, but it is a matter that cannot be delayed much longer. Your royal brother is now the Crown Prince and heir presumptive. While he has been schooled in such matters, he does not — how shall I say it? He has not exactly endeared the confidence of the people with his gravitas.”

Stewart looks sharply at the Minister. “Whatever do you mean?”

Norbier clears his throat uncomfortably. “Well, Sire, it did not exactly help matters when His Royal Highness was heard to say recently that if he were to become king, his first act would be to reinstate the jus primae noctis.”

Stewart nodded in understanding. He doubted Duncan was entirely serious in suggesting codification of the old practice that allowed royalty or land holders the right to have sex on the first night of marriage of any bride wedded within his territory. At the same time, he knew Duncan wouldn’t hesitate to find a way to “bless” any such marriage in that manner, whether the law compelled it or not.

“So while the line of succession to the throne is provided for,” continues Norbier, “it would be best if the public could see a successor come from your own body, as quickly as is prudent.”

Stewart considers these words and what to do about the gathered dignitaries.