Annan stepped up beside the Crimson Princess under a host of watchful eyes.
"It's all right. I'm here. None of them can hurt you," Annan said softly, sensing her tension. Then he raised his voice. "I believe this is the first time you've formally met. Let me introduce you: Williams Morel, your older brother."
"B-brother..." the Crimson Princess said, her feelings tangled.
Lena still wasn't used to sitting with someone who had been her enemy just yesterday... She had wished for an older brother to share the burden, but she had never imagined it would happen like this.
Annan turned to Williams. "Lena Aldris Sturette, your Younger Sister."
Williams looked even more conflicted than she did. He said nothing.
"Say something!"
As the eldest among them, at least nominally, Annan glared at Williams.
"S-sister..."
Satisfied, Annan nodded and had the Crimson Princess sit to his left, with Williams on his right.
"I have an announcement to make."
Williams composed himself and assumed the authority of a prince and the son of the Morel Family's Clan Chief. "The Crimson Princess of the Stuart Family carries the blood of the Morel Family..."
The Crimson Princess started to speak, but Annan caught her arm. "Put another way," he said quietly, "Williams carries the blood of the Stuart Family..."
No commotion swept through the Council Chamber. Most of the Family members had learned the news yesterday. This was their first time seeing the Crimson Princess, though, and they studied her closely, especially her vivid red hair... Then they glanced at Annan's black hair, remembered Oroda's red hair in the Oil Painting, and exchanged knowing looks.
Annan remained unmoved. They could guess whatever they liked. With Oroda's lingering spirit gone for good, no one could expose him.
An elderly Family member rose in the hall.