King's Study
The king summoned his most trusted aides to deal with the current issue.
"Your Majesty, I suggest you let the former queen step forward and dispel the rumors. The divorce was entirely her decision and had nothing to do with your taking a mistress or covering up any attempt to harm her," said one of the chancellors still loyal to the king.
"No," King Edward refused. He also wished she would speak up, but he understood that Anastasia would never agree—especially after the incident with Gill.
"Your Majesty, Lady Anastasia is gifted with words. I'm sure that if she speaks, we might be able to manage the situation," the chancellor insisted.
"You speak as if Lady Anastasia's words are gold. Those rebels are deliberately spreading lies. I fear that even if she speaks, it may not help," another lord disagreed.
"We're only trying to silence the public. Who cares whether they believe it or not?" the chancellor argued.
