I don't think the people here would accept that, and yet, according to you, you are king. What you do with that knowledge and with this crown is for you to decide alone. [It was true that Silco had no interest in being ruled, that he would buck against anyone that tried to put him under their thumb by claiming to be his ruler. He had pulled down people from their apparent high seats before, and he would again if the opportunity presented.

However, this crown and all that it represented was supposed to be a punishment for a crime that the council deemed worthy of their attention. Such items were always given with a purpose, and he had no doubt that something of value would be taken away if Richard didn't bend to the Council's silly whims.

He found himself staring at the crown where it lay in its crate. He noted that Richard didn't reach in and take it out or touch it. He knew it would be unwise to do such a thing himself as well.]

Those behaviours will grow more invasive and constant the longer you don't do as the Council demands. If you won't, I expect you can weather that storm for as long as you need to. [He nearly scoffed at the Council, but he thought for Richard it was a fitting pressure to endure. The younger man was self-conscious after all.] After a time, the effects will abate. People fail the requirements of the Council often.

[He turned his head to regard the younger man a moment, considering.]

Is the quiet unnerving to you?