[See, this was why he would never actually understand lines of succession without intensive study first. That was a tree that came with gnarly branches that didn't make sense to him, and there was probably the ability to shoehorn oneself into that line somehow. It seemed convoluted and pointless.

The only truth he knew was this: life was limited by what a person could do and what they couldn't do. What they couldn't do depended on the strength of will to achieve it; even though with higher superiority could be torn from their perch with enough planning, resources and time.

His gaze moved to the crate again, clear that Richard was intent to keep that secret for himself. As curious as he was, he didn't claim to be invested in someone else's punishment set down by the Council. So far, whatever the consequences, Richard seemed to the weathering them well enough.

He shifted where he sat slightly, crossing one leg over the other.] I wouldn't dare presume the motivations of this man. [He could make educated guesses, of course, but Richard was fiercely protective of those he was in love with. He assumed similar reactions to the father might be upheld with the lover.] Why do you believe he choose you over himself? Surely you have an idea.