Within the hour I made it back to my office in the castle to go over candidates with Cedric, who willingly stepped in to aid in this decision. Cedric was about the only Council member who was willing to work this week, which I understood and was grateful at the same time. I was grateful that I had his help as I didn’t want one of the first big decisions that I had to make to be a bad one.

“Ready to go over the three candidates?” I asked Cedric who took a seat across from my chair. He sat with his left leg over his right, his posture was relaxed, his eyes seemed to withhold some sorrow, but he was ready to get things moving again.

“Yes.” His voice was firm and sharp. “We have three candidates from some of the most noble families here.” Cedric pointed out, “We have Isabella from the Xaveria clan. Highest level of wizard in her clan and highly respected amongst the wizard schools. Then we have Alexander Roslan, a prestigious high level cleric. And then there is Aster Mortimer, a half-elf turned elf by his great grandad.”

I nodded as I looked over each of their files. All three were well liked in the community Even Aster, considering his father was Orion. All very good candidates.

“We got a wizard, a healer, and a very good motivational speaker.” I spoke as I went over each of their abilities. Each has their advantages and disadvantages. Wizards tend to lean towards power hungry, so that was a concern with Isabella. For Alexander, his nobleness and willingness to help people spoke to my very own soul. However, even kindness could be blind. As he himself has had a few bad incidents in the past, however, those were overlooked by most in the kingdom. Then Aster, he often spoke at my parents' events, so he was already in the public eye. Not to mention his talents with musical instruments could really turn some heads. However, his family's rocky history may prevent some things from getting past the public.

“Honestly, I would be alright with all three. However, we only need one.” Cedric spoke as he pondered over who should be picked.

What do you think? I spoke as I asked Theoden through the bond. I was curious to see who he would pick.

Wizards are always beneficial. Healers, are a plus as it would be another to aid in times of need. As for Aster he is a character and I think would do well in the public eye.

His reasoning made sense.

“Perhaps, Isabella will have to wait… Wizards and their need for power makes me a little nervous.” I told Cedric. I had nothing against them, just that in past histories wizards never failed to grow to be power hungry.

“Agreed.” Cedric said, “I personally favor Alexander. His unique healing gifts will benefit us greatly. It’s nothing against Aster but I think Alexander’s powers would come more in handy.”

You might be reading a pirated copy. Look for the official release to support the author.

I nodded in agreement. “However, it is more of a political eye roll. Being that they would have to fill in if I can’t take the roll of the Royal Head.” I had no idea as to why I would step down for any moment of time. But that was a good point.

“Very true.” Cedric said, “Perhaps Aster would be a better fit. He does already have a good amount of knowledge with the Council and rules. Considering he has been utilizing the archives and doing research to try and help his own family.”

“Agreed.”

Théoden? Aster or Alexander.

If I had to choose I would go with Aster. We can always summon Alexander for his healing abilities.

I nodded, “Alright I think Aster. His outgoing personality would bode well with the public.”

Cedric nodded in agreement. “Sounds like a plan Maria. Want me to contact Aster?”

“Nope, I will. I will have him meet me in my office to give him the news. From there we will conduct a formal celebration….” I paused, “You know what, lets not do a formal celebration. I don’t think they are all that necessary. We will have him do the pledge in front of us.”

“Fair. Considering the last one, I think that is fair. Honestly, those was more so we can have a reason to drink the more expensive wines.” Cedric admitted.

“Once I tell him he is the new Council member we will have a meeting the following day so he can recite the pledge and be officially signed in.”

“I’ll alert the others of the meeting. What time?”

“Tomorrow at noon if everything goes as planned.” I told Cedric.

“Got it. See you tomorrow, Maria.” Cedric said. He stood up and walked over to the door casually. He turned back to me and with a smile said, “Can we still have the wine?”

I chucked, “Yes, yes we can Cedric.”

“Good. After the last one, we all need it.” He said and left the room shortly after.

I couldn’t help but chuckle at the thought. They really love their wine.

One of the perks of being on the Council. Théoden told me.

Can you communicate with Aster and have him meet me in my office in an hour?

Sure can. Théoden responded.

The bond fell silent briefly, long enough for Théoden to send a message and receive a response.

He will be there in an hour. Though he is now concerned if he is in trouble. Théoden told me.

Fair, usually you don’t get called by the captain of the guards to go to the princess’s office.

Indeed. Théoden said in response. You know what you are going to say to him?

Somewhat. I’m just going to get straight to the point with him.

Smart. If you need me, you know I am here. Always.

I know my dear.

I got to go to my next round. If you want to check in while you wait feel free. Théoden spoke. His willingness to let me see what is going on peaked my interest. It made me curious to see if something was going down or not. So of course I had to peek into his mind while I waited on Aster.