The Unwanted Heir

Liam had always known that he was different from his family. They had the power of magic, and he did not. In his kingdom, the magic of light was highly valued, and those who could wield it were revered. Liam's family, including his father, the king, were all proficient in magic, except for him. This made him an outcast in the eyes of the people, including his own family.

Despite his lack of magical ability, Liam was a smart and resourceful young man. He had learned to rely on his other strengths, such as his intelligence, his quick thinking, and his physical abilities. He was also able to withstand the constant bullying and ridicule from his family and the people around him.

Liam lived in a magnificent castle with his family, overlooking the kingdom. The castle was made of white stone and had towering turrets that reached up to the sky. The castle's interior was adorned with intricate tapestries and ornate furniture. It was a symbol of power and wealth, but Liam never felt truly at home there.

He spent most of his time exploring the castle's hidden passages and secret rooms. He found solace in these quiet places, away from the prying eyes of his family and the outside world. Liam's only real friends were his uncle and elder brother. They were the only ones who showed any interest in him and treated him with kindness.

As Liam grew older, he knew that he would never be the ruler of the kingdom. His father and elder brothers had the power of magic, which made them natural heirs to the throne. Liam had resigned himself to a life of obscurity, but that was all about to change.

One day, Liam's father summoned him to his chamber. Liam was nervous as he approached the door, wondering what his father wanted. When he entered, he found his father seated on a throne-like chair, with a stern expression on his face.

"Sit, Liam," his father commanded.

Liam did as he was told and took a seat opposite his father. He could feel his heart pounding in his chest as he waited for his father to speak.

"I have an important task for you, Liam," his father said. "You are to marry the daughter of a lord from the northern part of our kingdom."

Liam was stunned. He had never met the lord or his daughter and had no idea why his father would want him to marry her.

"May I ask why, father?" Liam asked.

"I have my reasons," his father replied coldly. "You are to leave for the northern city in two days' time. The lord will be here tomorrow to discuss the details."

Liam felt a wave of despair wash over him. He knew that his father wanted him as far away as possible and that this marriage was just a way to get rid of him. But he also knew that he had no choice but to obey his father's command.

As Liam left his father's chamber, he couldn't help but wonder what kind of life awaited him in the northern city. He had no idea what kind of woman he was to marry or what kind of people he would meet. But he knew one thing for sure: his life was about to change forever.