by Mike Shelton
“Forget these farmers for now, my King. They can be dealt with later.”
“Maybe you are right.” The King sat down again and thought for a few moments. “Let’s bring your son back here to Anikari, with his prisoners in tow. We will parade his victory around the city, build up his reputation, then send him down to Belor to quickly and decisively take care of that problem. We will allow him to gain popularity with the people, but under our terms and direction. He must be ready when the time comes, Richard, but not be in a position to take power any sooner than that.”
“We should hold the council and let all weigh in on these matters. I know we can’t say anything about Darius, but which wars we fight, the petition of the outsiders, this Preacher; they should be consulted in these matters, my Lord. We need the other councilors’ thoughts to make sure we take the right course. Why don’t you convene a full council to deal with these problems? You can’t handle everything yourself. That is probably what is giving you these headaches.”
Edward drank more wine. “Richard, I don’t trust the council.”
“What? You appointed them. Who don’t you trust?”
“I am not sure, but until I do, I cannot hold a council and share information. I worry some are sympathizers with the preacher from Belor, and others may be dealing with the Gildanians or Arcs. But most of all I fear the ones that are undermining my position as king and are trying to set themselves up as the next ruler when I die.”
“Then what can we do?” Richard said in exasperation. “Do you have a plan?”
“Yes. We trust in your son. He must learn to be a leader on his own and to gain the respect of the men.”
“My son?” Richard bellowed. “That is your plan?”
King Edward DarSan Montere, rested his head back on his high, stuffed chair and whispered so softly that the councilor had to lean in to hear. “That is my plan Richard. We must continue to prepare him to be the next king of the Realm.”
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Read The Path of Decisions,
Book II of the Cremelino Prophecy
to continue the adventures of Darius, Christine,
Kelln, Mezar, and their friends.
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About the Author
Mike was born in California and has lived in multiple states from the west coast to the east coast. He cannot remember a time when he wasn’t reading a book. At school, home, on vacation, at work at lunch time, and yes even a few pages in the car (at times when he just couldn’t put that great book down). Though he has read all sorts of genres he has always been drawn to fantasy. It is his way of escaping to a simpler time filled with magic, wonders and heroics of young men and women.
Other than reading, Mike has always enjoyed the outdoors. From the beaches in Southern California to the warm waters of North Carolina. From the waterfalls in the Northwest to the Rocky Mountains in Utah. Mike has appreciated the beauty that God provides for us. He also enjoys hiking, discovering nature, playing a little basketball or volleyball, and most recently disc golf. He has a lovely wife who has always supported him, and three beautiful children who have been the center of his life.
Mike began writing stories in elementary school and moved on to larger novels in his early adult years. He has worked in corporate finance for most of his career. That, along with spending time with his wonderful family and obligations at church has made it difficult to find the time to truly dedicate to writing. In the last few years as his children have become older he has returned to doing what he truly enjoys – writing!
www.MichaelSheltonBooks.com
