Not One Of Us (Imperialis Family)

Some time had passed since Valentine’s talk with Rhyme. During that time the new season had come and brought with it a slightly less crabby mood for Valentine. That blasted skunk was still around and driving him crazy, but it was hard to be sour when the land was warm and the ache in his bones was minimal.

The old king had plenty of time to think after the exchange with Rhyme. His opinion hadn’t changed in the slightest. For the sake of the rest of the family and their strong name it was best for everyone involved that Rhyme not carry the Imperialis name. The spectacle at the battlefield had only served to underscore that fact.

It was time to tell the others about what had happened. Valentine hoped it would serve as a cautionary tale for those who had similar tendencies and he hoped it would weed out those who couldn’t stomach the threat of disownment. If there were some who were offended by the idea of cutting off someone who did more harm to their family than good then they too could live under another name. He wouldn’t begrudge them their decision, rather, he would welcome it. Let those not eager or fit to carry his name and all that it entailed go. He was an old man; he would be dead soon and he wanted to be able to rest easy knowing his name was in good hands.

Valentine decided to hold an informal family meeting in the Orchard so that all of his children and grandchildren could attend. He settled down between two rows of fruit trees in an isle he had picked because it was the most clear. Valentine knew many of them wandered far and wide, but he hoped they would be near enough today to hear him.

Though time continued to wear him down there was one thing it couldn’t take from him so when Valentine raised his voice to call to him the Imperialis clan his voice was strong and steady. Like his resolve it did not waver.