The paradox of Chivalry
Chivalry is depicted as an ironic character throughout the story. Chivalry is the biological father of Fitz, but he does not execute his fatherly roles as required. Prince Chivalry is expected to offer guidance and care for Fitz despite siring him out of wedlock. However, he delegates the responsibility to Fitz's grandfather, who gets tired and decides to return the boy to the palace. Instead of finding the courage to take care of the boy, Prince Chivalry again leaves the young boy under the care of his stableman, Burrich.
Regal and Prince Verity
Regal and Princes Verity lamented that Fitz should not appear near the royal family because he is a bastard. The reader notes that these two siblings played a role in staging a plan to sell Fitz. Ironically, they relied on Fitz when he became mature for their security. For instance, whenever Regal and Princes Regal goes out of town for a political meeting, they go with Fitz to gather information about their security. Therefore, the person they underestimated and humiliated has become very important because he ensures they are secure wherever they go.
King Shrewd
Most readers expected King Shrewd to accept the request of his wife and children to dispose of Fitz because they were the majority. Paradoxically, King Shrewd single-handedly refused their request and maintained his stand that, despite Fitz being an illegitimate child, he would not go anywhere and would be under his careful watch. The King's stand on the welfare of Fitz is paradoxical because the people outside the palace also consider Fitz a bad omen who made Prince Chivalry abdicate his chance of becoming the next King.
