Page 5 of The Most Unsuitable Prince (Another Arranged Marriage #8)
“I’m a strong believer in not worrying about issues until they’re raised, Your Majesty,” Winter said softly. “Now tell me, if you have a mind to, what concerns you most about your son ruling in your place? What do I need to watch for?”
“Make sure he doesn't raise the taxes. The people here are paying what they can afford. Also, try to ensure Rupert doesn't use the military to accompany him on hunting expeditions. Their job is better served by monitoring the borders on the northwest corner of the country.”
Winter frantically tried to imagine the map of Simigile in his head. From memory, in the northwest corner there was nothing but mountains. “Do you have issues with people living in that direction?” he asked.
“Nothing major,” the king said, although he glanced at his aide. “At least I haven’t been informed if there is anything major going on there,” he added dryly. “However, there are a few tribes up there who don't consider themselves under our rule, and that’s perfectly fine.
“I’ve never tried to move them on, and I respect their right to live as they please.
But every now and again, there have been a few incidents where they've come closer toward our townships and caused a few problems - stolen stock, tools, issues like that. Nothing of major concern, but our troops are better deployed there than anywhere else in the country.”
“You talk as though you're discussing a form of land-based pirates, perhaps.” Winter smiled to show he was teasing. But the king nodded.
“That's a good term for them,” he agreed.
“As I say, I don't think there are any major concerns. Most people in this country just want to carry on with their lives. They want to have the right to an education when they are young. They want to know they’ll be supported in building a house or purchasing land because I believe everyone has a right to a warm home. I don’t have any issue with what they chose to do for business, provided they are gainfully attempting to provide for themselves and their families.
“We offer free healers and medical care in all of our major cities. We have traveling healers who visit the more rural outposts. It would mean a lot to me to see those maintained. That was one of the systems that I set up after my father’s death, and it’s an issue I believe is truly important.
For now, our coffers are full. The treasury reports we have a healthy balance.
“The treasury man, I’ll arrange for him to meet with you.
Honestly, Lord Cable's a bit... He tends to look down his nose at everybody, even me on occasion. And unfortunately, he and Rupert, on the odd occasions they have met, definitely aggravate each other. But I’m hopeful you will have a more positive interaction with him. ”
“I don’t make a practice of annoying anyone if I can help it.” Winter mentally filed the name away for future reference.
“Just try and keep this country solvent and out of war. I confess I do worry occasionally that Rupert might inadvertently do something one day and cause us problems with the World Council that we could really do without.”
My goodness, he’s serious. Winter made a mental note to find out more about Rupert’s companions.
“I appreciate your advice,” he said out loud.
“That is all truly helpful for me going forward, and I thank you. However” - Winter had a strong urge to inject some levity into the conversation - “we have no idea if Rupert will even turn up for the ceremony.”
“Oh, he'll turn up,” the king said. “He might not be keen on the idea of marriage itself, but he does love a party, and there will be a large reception held after the vow ceremony. I invited all his friends, so if he wants to see them, he’ll have to be here.
“Unfortunately, I won't be able to attend the reception – the healers are adamant about that, apparently – but I will be there to see you exchange your vows. In the meantime, I have excellent staff who have arranged the wedding beautifully, despite the short time span. In case you were wondering, I have been planning this for a long time.”
Winter chuckled. “I truly appreciate you making me feel so welcome, sire,” he said. “I promise you I will do my best, both for your son and this country. My brothers and I have always hoped that anyone marrying into my father’s family would feel the same way about their new king.
“I give you my word, not as your son's fiancé, but as a man who sits here with you now, that I will do the best I can to keep your son on the straight and narrow.
I've got to admit, if he has been causing trouble, he's been very discreet.
There's very little gossip about him, and you should be aware that I've been listening for it as we've traveled here.”
The king laughed. “A sensible thing for any fiancé to do. But tell me, as a man who listens to gossip, what can you tell me about other people? Because, quite honestly, as much as it pains me to say it, talking about Rupert is not one of my happiest topics. Do you get out much? Have you visited interesting places? Tell me what happened at the coronation ceremony you attended. What were your impressions about King Serron and his two husbands?”
“It was an incredible event, Your Majesty, and yes, I had the opportunity to speak to a number of people there,” Winter said, settling in for what would prove to be quite a lengthy conversation. “Did you know, for example…”
Just make it through to the wedding , Your Majesty , Winter hoped, as he chatted, making sure to keep the conversation light and entertaining.
He wasn’t interested in bringing his wedding to Crown Prince Rupert forward, but Winter wanted the old king to die happy.
Despite his concerns, it was clear the king loved his son dearly, and Winter hoped he’d be able to follow the king’s wishes in keeping his son on a responsible path in the months and years ahead.
It would help if I knew what was wrong with the darn man in the first place.