A/N:
Written as part of an assignment for Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry (Challenges & Assignments)
Task: Write a Regency AU!
Extra Prompt: (Word) Weary
See Reason
"You will be labelled a usurper Stephen," Hermione said with a matter of urgency. "Many of the nobles may not favour Matilda as successor, but it was your uncle's wish. Need I remind you that you swore an oath to recognise her as his rightful heir?"
Her face stung as the soon to be coronated King's hand connected with her cheek.
"I know perfectly well what oaths I swore you insignificant little witch," the infuriated, weary and battle hardened man spat. "But the crowds have made their wishes known. They want, nay deserve, a strong King, not a weak minded, easily controlled woman, who single-handedly started a rebellion in Normandy with Geoffrey, that ridiculous husband of hers. She is unfit to rule our great land."
Hermione threw her hands up into the air. There was absolutely no getting through to the strong minded man. It made her wonder why she stayed loyal to Stephen when he could be so rash.
"Stephen, I implore you to see reason. Your cousin will not be best pleased when she hears of this." Hermione told him, in a last ditch effort to convince him to change his mind. "Sooner or later she will seek to claim the crown that she rightly believes to be hers."
"Hermione, you are only a woman. I wouldn't expect you to understand these matters, but you really need to hold your tongue before I have you executed for treason as my first act as King," Stephen hissed at her. "Now get out of my sight, I have a coronation to arrange."
Seeing the fury in Stephen's eyes, the young witch slipped quietly from the room.
Since he would not heed her warnings, Hermione could only see one option for her. She would join Matilda in France, and do everything with her power to uphold King Henry's final wishes.
A/N:
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