Meet with his advisors

Stewart steps out of the sitting room just as his mother finishes delivering the news to Duncan and Adella. His siblings look stunned, and Adella bursts into tears. Stewart feels that he should try to comfort her, but his brain seems to be so overwealmed by a hurricane of thoughts, that he can do nothing more than stand helplessly, with his arms at their sides.

His eyes briefly make contact with Duncan’s, who gives him a look that says, “Now you’re in for it.” It is the first time he can remember his brother not having a joke or biting remark to make at someone’s expense.

Stewart feels a presence at his side. It is his father’s chief advisor, Norbier. “Forgive me, Your Majesty, but perhaps it would be best if you were to convene the Council to discuss — developments?”

It took Stewart a moment to realize he was the one being called “Your Majesty.” At first, when he heard those words, he had a fleeting hope that it was all a misunderstanding and that his father had just walked into the room. Then, just as suddenly, the thought struck him that he was the one now shouldered with the title and the responsibilities.

“I think that would be wise, Norbier. Can we meet in the Council Room?”

As soon as he asked the question, he regretted it. As king, he could call a meeting in the women’s baths, if he so desired. He needed to remember that his word is now law.

“As you command, Your Majesty. I will tend to it at once,” replied Norbier, with a bow at the neck.

———

A short time later, Stewart is seated at the large conference table, gathered with his ministers. He looks at them, trying to ascertain what their thoughts might be about this young king who was suddenly thrust into power.

Norbier is the first to speak. “Your Majesty, we should first address the matter of your father’s funeral. There is precedent for how to arrange such matters, if you wish to follow custom.”

Before Stewart can speak, Lord Addlebrook, Minister for State Security, interjects. “Planning the funeral before an inquest? Forgive me, sir, but your father’s passing was not at all expected, and he appeared to be a robust man with many years left to him. His **** will raise questions throughout the kingdom. I suggest you order an inquest to determine the cause of ****.”

Stewart is startled by the recommendation. “Are you suggesting my father’s **** was not natural?”

Addlebrook answers, “Surely that’s what would be determined, Your Majesty, but under the circumstances, and with rabble from the Resisitance and the Enlightenment making ripples at every opportunity, it would be best to be able to provide some answers to the inevitable questions.”

Norbier says, “Surely this is unnecessary! No one was with the king all night except the queen! Think of what she has already endured; it would be best to get the funeral out of the way and let her properly grieve.”

Stewart considers his advisors’ words.