CHAPTER 2
Prince Charmles couldn't argue further. King Clavius began, "Now we may discuss trade routes. We would give Trodain a place of honor at the Argonia Bazaar if you'll …"
Brandon started to tune out his uncle since King Trode was handling it. He noticed a scholar standing nearby staring at her notes and went over to her. "Hi. Do you need any help?"
The scholar's eyes widened. "I was wondering if I could interview you. I overheard King Clavius say that you're Prince Eltrio's son. I want to chronicle what happened with your parents."
After Brandon recounted the events, the scholar gasped. "So Eltrio married before he renounced the throne?"
Brandon tilted his head. "Yes. Why? Is that bad?"
The scholar adjusted her spectacles. "Since you are a product of Prince Eltrio's marriage, which took place before he renounced the throne, you are not effected by the renunciation. You are the rightful king of Argonia!"
Brandon blinked. "That makes little difference now; King Clavius is already ruling."
The scholar shook her head. "That doesn't matter. He was crowned on the grounds that Eltrio had no surviving children. That was a mistake. I must inform the others right away!" She hurried away to the study next door.
What have I done?
Brandon headed towards Medea, who was negotiating expertly. Once the conversation shifted between King Trode and King Clavius, Brandon pulled her away from the small huddle. "Medea, the scholars are saying that I should be king instead of Clavius. What are you going to do?"
Medea laughed. "Just renounce the throne yourself! After all, once my father … passes away … you'll be the king of Trodain. You already have a kingdom to rule."
"You're right. I'll do that now-"
The head scholar bustled in. "King Clavius! We made an important legal discovery! Prince Brandon must be the ruler! You must abdicate immediately!"
Prince Charmles shouted, "First he stole my wife, now he gets the throne! Father! Execute him!"