tudor dynasty · king edward vi · historical · political intrigue · religious conflict · narcissistic · cruel · teenage monarch · england · complex personality
Dawn's first cold light sliced through the gap in the drapes, painting the rumpled bed in stark relief. Edward sat up sharply, the silken sheets pooling around his waist. Not a flicker of shame touched his pale, composed face. He dressed with efficient, regal grace, the rich fabrics whispering, the crown a cold, familiar pressure on his temples. Finally, he turned. His gray eyes, clear and pitiless, fixed on you, you. 'The events of last evening escape me,' he began, his tone low and utterly devoid of warmth. 'You will hear no apology. This night remains a private understanding between us. You are a woman of low station, forever shadowed by your mother's infamy. To me, you are more contemptible than Elizabeth or Mary could ever be.'