**All that matters**

"The true measure of a man is not how he behaves in moments of comfort and convenience, but how he stands at times of controversy and challenge." — Martin Luther King Jr.

Although it was almost too late, William followed the king's advice and set off, in the early hours, towards his home to rest his mind for a while.

As he made his way along the familiar trail leading to his house, he savored the smell of the damp soil under the moonlight that bathed his path, along with a gentle breeze carrying the scent of night flowers. "Hannah has the scent of flowers like this," he thought, and that thought lightened his mood despite all the chaos.

As he approached, he felt his heart quicken with anticipation of reaching home and reuniting with his beloved wife, Hannah, and her floral scent.

Upon reaching the entrance of the house, he was discreet, not wanting to disturb the silence of the night. He opened the door gently, the candlelight inside dancing in welcoming shadows. His eyes scanned the room, hoping it would be empty, until they found Hannah, sitting in the armchair by the fireplace, with a book in her hands.

The weariness on his face disappeared when she saw him, replaced by a radiant smile. It seemed like she was expecting him. "You really came!" Hannah said, getting up and walking gently towards him.

Sir Fairtower enveloped her in his arms, feeling the warmth and softness of her body against his. The scent of the flowers he had been thinking of filled his lungs. They stood like that for a moment, just holding each other, gently feeling the warmth of each other's bodies. William could feel Hannah's rapid heartbeat, which made him even more eager.

"Yes… I'm home," he replied, his voice hoarse with desire.

They locked eyes, and without the need for words, their lips met in a long, deep kiss, full of longing. Despite the euphoria, they were careful not to make too much noise, as little Kate was asleep upstairs. He tasted the familiar flavor on her lips, the softness that always made him feel at peace.

Hannah led him by the hand to the bedroom, the soft candlelight creating an intimate and welcoming atmosphere. William, enraptured, admired the way the light highlighted the delicate contours of her face and the curves of her body, still clad in the blue robe she wore, outlining her lightly tanned skin and golden curls.

When they reached the bedroom, he pulled her closer, his hands gently sliding over her arms and body, softly untying the knot that fastened the robe. Every touch was a confirmation of how much he had longed for her during his absence.

Blushing, with her hands trembling, she helped him remove his clothes. Then, she approached him gently, putting her hand on his chest. They intertwined in another passionate kiss, their hearts beating in unison. It wasn't just desire, but a deep emotional connection that made each moment precious.

At that moment, words were unnecessary. Their bodies communicated like in a dance, each caress and kiss a testament to the intensity of their feelings. The rest of that night was filled with whispers and sighs, the union of two bodies belonging to each other, translated into tender and passionate gestures.

When they finally fell asleep, embraced under the soft light of dawn, they both knew that soon he would return to the castle and nothing would be as calm or gentle as it had been just a few moments before.

In contrast to the passionate and warm dawn that Sir Fairtower experienced with his wife, the king, in his office at the castle, felt defeated. The dream he had with Leonor was a reminder, a reminder he didn't even know he still held.

That dawn, he thought of that moment, of the true words spoken by Leonor during that day: "I want us to stay like this forever!" He wished that had really happened.

Leonor's arrival brought colors to what was just a black and white script: being the heir prince, being the king, and ruling wisely. That was all he was, what he had heard all his life. He should find a good girl, from a noble family, preferably the daughter of a king from a neighboring country, to make political relations. They said he didn't even need to love the girl, but he should produce an heir for the Ashrose family.

These words, engraved in his mind throughout his existence, were erased like dust in the wind as soon as he saw Leonor riding that horse.

He saw in Leonor the true nobility, bravery, and the most perfect beauty he had ever seen in his entire life. Everything that didn't make sense, everything that was a burden, gained purpose. Leonor was the reason his life made sense. And without her, the world was in black and white again.

He tried to be strong because of the children, Amy and Killian, but he wasn't strong enough. He thought he hadn't been a good husband to Leonor and wouldn't be a good father to those children. Along with all the darkness that formed after Leonor's departure, feelings of guilt, fear, and apprehension took over. He didn't feel loving anymore, but forced to live without his beloved, so he couldn't convey affection. He thought that must have been the reason why his two children preferred to stay away from him. Amy preferred to go north, and Killian…

He thought about how miserable he was, and cursed any god that existed, beyond humanity. He only thought: "Why did she have to die and not me… My existence is insignificant compared to Leo's!". Before he realized it, he was sunk in thoughts of self-pity and suicidal desires.

It was when a falcon landed on the office window. Still sitting, it took him a while to reason what that meant. But as soon as his reason returned to his body, he jumped out of his chair and went to the falcon. He took the note that was tied to the animal and then read:

"So far, we haven't spotted any children! But the forest is more dangerous than ever! I think they're hunting some beasts for trafficking, I found many traps scattered around, I almost fell into one myself! And because of that, the species living here seem to have acquired a self-preservation instinct! They're attacking more easily, walking in greater numbers, and are very territorial! Sir Fairtower, I don't want to disobey your orders, but I think if the child entered this forest, we won't even find his bones! Besides, I saw some human bones along the way. I know he's the king's son, but continuing to walk in circles in this forest can cause unnecessary casualties to the men! I don't want to be the bearer of such news, but the crown prince is probably dead! I await further instructions.

Signed: Sir Alerc Swordline, captain of the second patrol troop of the Kingdom of Ashrose."

After finishing reading the note, Sebastian felt his breath fail again. The void that had formed since Leonor's death seemed to have taken on greater proportions. He was just the void at this moment.

Still with the note in his hands, but motionless, he began to feel nauseous. His ears started ringing, his heart beating faster and faster. He felt his body grow cold, and a sensation of being out of tune with his body took over. He longed for death. Then"The true measure of a man is not how he behaves in moments of comfort and convenience, but how he stands at times of controversy and challenge." — Martin Luther King Jr.

Although it was almost too late, William followed the king's advice and set off, in the early hours, towards his home to rest his mind for a while.

As he made his way along the familiar trail leading to his house, he savored the smell of the damp soil under the moonlight that bathed his path, along with a gentle breeze carrying the scent of night flowers. "Hannah has the scent of flowers like this," he thought, and that thought lightened his mood despite all the chaos.

As he approached, he felt his heart quicken with anticipation of reaching home and reuniting with his beloved wife, Hannah, and her floral scent.

Upon reaching the entrance of the house, he was discreet, not wanting to disturb the silence of the night. He opened the door gently, the candlelight inside dancing in welcoming shadows. His eyes scanned the room, hoping it would be empty, until they found Hannah, sitting in the armchair by the fireplace, with a book in her hands.

The weariness on his face disappeared when she saw him, replaced by a radiant smile. It seemed like she was expecting him. "You really came!" Hannah said, getting up and walking gently towards him.

Sir Fairtower enveloped her in his arms, feeling the warmth and softness of her body against his. The scent of the flowers he had been thinking of filled his lungs. They stood like that for a moment, just holding each other, gently feeling the warmth of each other's bodies. William could feel Hannah's rapid heartbeat, which made him even more eager.

"Yes… I'm home," he replied, his voice hoarse with desire.

They locked eyes, and without the need for words, their lips met in a long, deep kiss, full of longing. Despite the euphoria, they were careful not to make too much noise, as little Kate was asleep upstairs. He tasted the familiar flavor on her lips, the softness that always made him feel at peace.

Hannah led him by the hand to the bedroom, the soft candlelight creating an intimate and welcoming atmosphere. William, enraptured, admired the way the light highlighted the delicate contours of her face and the curves of her body, still clad in the blue robe she wore, outlining her lightly tanned skin and golden curls.

When they reached the bedroom, he pulled her closer, his hands gently sliding over her arms and body, softly untying the knot that fastened the robe. Every touch was a confirmation of how much he had longed for her during his absence.

Blushing, with her hands trembling, she helped him remove his clothes. Then, she approached him gently, putting her hand on his chest. They intertwined in another passionate kiss, their hearts beating in unison. It wasn't just desire, but a deep emotional connection that made each moment precious.

At that moment, words were unnecessary. Their bodies communicated like in a dance, each caress and kiss a testament to the intensity of their feelings. The rest of that night was filled with whispers and sighs, the union of two bodies belonging to each other, translated into tender and passionate gestures.

When they finally fell asleep, embraced under the soft light of dawn, they both knew that soon he would return to the castle and nothing would be as calm or gentle as it had been just a few moments before.

In contrast to the passionate and warm dawn that Sir Fairtower experienced with his wife, the king, in his office at the castle, felt defeated. The dream he had with Leonor was a reminder, a reminder he didn't even know he still held.

That dawn, he thought of that moment, of the true words spoken by Leonor during that day: "I want us to stay like this forever!" He wished that had really happened.

Leonor's arrival brought colors to what was just a black and white script: being the heir prince, being the king, and ruling wisely. That was all he was, what he had heard all his life. He should find a good girl, from a noble family, preferably the daughter of a king from a neighboring country, to make political relations. They said he didn't even need to love the girl, but he should produce an heir for the Ashrose family.

These words, engraved in his mind throughout his existence, were erased like dust in the wind as soon as he saw Leonor riding that horse.

He saw in Leonor the true nobility, bravery, and the most perfect beauty he had ever seen in his entire life. Everything that didn't make sense, everything that was a burden, gained purpose. Leonor was the reason his life made sense. And without her, the world was in black and white again.

He tried to be strong because of the children, Amy and Killian, but he wasn't strong enough. He thought he hadn't been a good husband to Leonor and wouldn't be a good father to those children. Along with all the darkness that formed after Leonor's departure, feelings of guilt, fear, and apprehension took over. He didn't feel loving anymore, but forced to live without his beloved, so he couldn't convey affection. He thought that must have been the reason why his two children preferred to stay away from him. Amy preferred to go north, and Killian…

He thought about how miserable he was, and cursed any god that existed, beyond humanity. He only thought: "Why did she have to die and not me… My existence is insignificant compared to Leo's!". Before he realized it, he was sunk in thoughts of self-pity and suicidal desires.

It was when a falcon landed on the office window. Still sitting, it took him a while to reason what that meant. But as soon as his reason returned to his body, he jumped out of his chair and went to the falcon. He took the note that was tied to the animal and then read:

"So far, we haven't spotted any children! But the forest is more dangerous than ever! I think they're hunting some beasts for trafficking, I found many traps scattered around, I almost fell into one myself! And because of that, the species living here seem to have acquired a self-preservation instinct! They're attacking more easily, walking in greater numbers, and are very territorial! Sir Fairtower, I don't want to disobey your orders, but I think if the child entered this forest, we won't even find his bones! Besides, I saw some human bones along the way. I know he's the king's son, but continuing to walk in circles in this forest can cause unnecessary casualties to the men! I don't want to be the bearer of such news, but the crown prince is probably dead! I await further instructions.

Signed: Sir Alerc Swordline, captain of the second patrol troop of the Kingdom of Ashrose."

After finishing reading the note, Sebastian felt his breath fail again. The void that had formed since Leonor's death seemed to have taken on greater proportions. He was just the void at this moment.

Still with the note in his hands, but motionless, he began to feel nauseous. His ears started ringing, his heart beating faster and faster. He felt his body grow cold, and a sensation of being out of tune with his body took over. He longed for death. Then a tingling sensation ran through his hands and his chest began to ache with a strong pressure. It was as if he was being pierced by a sword. He had no strength to fight against that sensation, nor the will to fight against his possible death. He saw the color and light fade from his sight and, as he awaited his final breath, Amy came to his mind.

With the image of his daughter in mind, a warmth spread through his body, pushing away the cold. Thoughts about the possibility of Killian not being dead flooded his mind. Before he could realize it, he was sitting on the floor, whispering:

"It's not over yet..."

At that moment, Hilda entered the office to check on His Majesty. It was already dawn, he realized. She saw him sitting on the floor, pale as death, but avoided making comments, just informing:

"The doctor will be here shortly to see how you're doing!"

He got up from the floor and, trying to appear strong so as not to worry Hilda, walked to the chair by the table where she had carefully placed a teapot and a simple toast with blackberry jam. He felt her care in this gesture, as lately he had rejected all the food she offered. She surprised him with a simple dish, but it was one of the queen's favorites.

He took a sip of tea to wash away the bitter taste that filled his mouth and, delicately, picked up the toast. Once again, his mind was invaded by many intrusive thoughts about Leonor. For a brief moment, he didn't feel so alone and then took a bite.

While he was distracted eating, he didn't notice that the royal physician entered the office. The doctor, in turn, arrived already speaking:

"Good morning, Your Majesty! Are you feeling any better today?"

Sebastian swallowed hard before replying:

"No, I'm not! But what do you have to tell me about my condition, Heinrich?"

The doctor conducted a brief examination and replied:

"You're not well, Your Majesty! You need to eat better and rest more! You're losing weight, and I fear it may affect your health in the long run!"

The king just nodded in silence as the doctor handed him a prescription and left the office.

After the doctor left, Sebastian remained silent, absorbing Heinrich's words. He felt the weight of responsibility on his shoulders, not only as king but also as a father. It was an internal battle between his personal pain and his royal duties.

Hilda, watching his downcast expression, approached with concern:

"Your Majesty, you need to take care of yourself. Your worries are understandable, but you can't let them consume your health."

Sebastian nodded, acknowledging the truth in Hilda's words. She had been a constant presence in his life, a voice of reason in the most difficult moments.

"You're right, Hilda. I need to stay strong, not just for myself, but for my children and for the kingdom," he murmured, struggling to find some measure of comfort amidst the whirlwind of emotions.

Hilda placed a comforting hand on his shoulder, silently conveying her support. Together, they would face the challenges that lay ahead.

Meanwhile, Sir Fairtower, who had just arrived in the royal office, remained focused on his duty, drafting a response to Captain Alerc Swordline regarding the note seen by His Majesty earlier. His mind was torn between concern for the crown prince and commitment to his mission.

"Captain Swordline, I understand your concerns and appreciate your diligence in protecting our men. However, we must persevere in our efforts to locate the crown prince. His safety is of utmost importance to the kingdom. Continue your search, but remain vigilant against the dangers of the forest. We are confident in your leadership ability and eagerly await updates. Steadfast and faithful, Sir Fairtower."

After sealing the letter with the royal seal, Sir Fairtower sent it urgently, hoping his words would bring some relief to the captain and his troop.

While the castle pulsed with activity, Sebastian struggled to find a balance between his role as a leader and his personal emotions. He knew the road ahead would be arduous, but he would find strength in those around him and in the purpose that propelled him forward.

Sir Fairtower, who had been focused on sending a response to the received letter, upon completing his task, heard the King speak from the other side of the room, seated in a chair reading about the advancements:

"Captain Swordline seems quite concerned about the situation in the forest," commented the king, lifting his eyes to meet Sir Fairtower's gaze.

"Yes, Your Majesty. It appears that the situation there is deteriorating rapidly," replied Sir Fairtower, standing firm before the king.

"There are reports of traps and even human bones found. It's a worrisome situation," continued the king, his mind already working on possible courses of action.

"I agree, Your Majesty. We must consider our next steps carefully," replied Sir Fairtower, his expression reflecting the seriousness of the situation.

The king pondered for a moment, thinking about the possible implications of what had been reported. Finally, he looked at Sir Fairtower with determination.

"Order reinforcements to secure the area around the forest. Send additional patrols and instruct them to remain vigilant. We cannot risk more lives being lost," ordered the king, his voice firm and authoritative.

"Understood, Your Majesty. I will coordinate the actions immediately according to your instructions," replied Sir Fairtower, ready to act on behalf of the king and the kingdom, noticing a brief change in the king's attitude.

As preparations were made to deal with the growing threat in the forest, the king knew it was his duty to protect his people at all costs. The battle was far from over, but he was determined to face it with courage and determination. It was important to have Killian back safely, but he also had a responsibility to the kingdom, and he knew that the work could not simply wait.