King Richard

Kirigan's POV

When Trina had gone, I had small talk with Jane to apologize for her behavior before she retired for the night.

I headed to the balcony to lean over and enjoy the night wind that blew into my room.

I remembered the past when I used to stand at the grand balcony of the palace, my gaze fixed upon the moon that hung high in the night sky. 

It used to be a favorite thing of mine to do at night.

But now, it was different. I couldn't remember the last time I had done something like that. Now I was focused on my kingdom.

This was a time to relax and forget about matters of the kingdom. I should even be sleeping by now. The day had been filled with discussions about the kingdom's affairs and I wanted to sleep and forget about reality.

Earlier that evening, my father, King Richard, had showed up in the kingdom after his long journey with his generals.

Of course he was only back temporarily before he would leave the kingdom in my hands but now he was back, it was good to be freed from the shackles of being a leader for a few seconds.

A knock on my door shattered my thoughts as I opened the door to find a maid standing before me with a bow.

"The king summons you to his chambers."

Finally, It meant he was done with his meeting and I could talk to the man who had birthed me.

***

As I entered the room, I could sense the weight of my father's expectations. The king had always been a formidable ruler, respected for his wisdom and strength. I doubted I would be able to match his reputation.

I would try but in the end I would not still match his performance as a king.

"Kirigan, my son," King Richard began, his voice having authority and power in it. "We must discuss the future of the kingdom, and your role in it."

I took a seat across from my father, my mind racing with anticipation. 

"You know father, I haven't seen you in over a year. At least we could leave all this talk and get right into how we each are doing," I said, wanting to know more about my father and his adventures.

"Oh dear. I already know much about you from your personal general. I don't need to know anymore. I heard you got a blind maid for your personal needs."

"Father!"

"Oh don't worry," he laughed. "Whatever fetish you like I'm sure it's fine. Just make sure she consents before you…"

"Father she is just a maid and nothing more. Besides, I have been focused on other things while you've been gone."

"Yes, I can tell. And I need to discuss something with you."

I knew this conversation was inevitable, yet a part of me yearned for the freedom to choose my own path.

Now I would have to hear what he had to say.

"What is it that troubles you, Father?" I inquired, trying to maintain a composed demeanor.

King Richard sighed, his gaze fixed upon the paintings hanging on the wall. "You are of age now, my son. It is time for you to consider marriage and securing our dynasty. The stability of the kingdom rests upon your shoulders."

My heart sank at his words. The weight of responsibility bore down upon him, threatening to suffocate my desires. 

Was he being serious right now?

This had to be a joke.

I had always dreamt of finding love on my own terms, of marrying for affection and companionship, rather than for political alliances.

"Father, I understand the importance of securing our kingdom's future," I responded, my voice filled with respect. "But I am not ready for marriage. I long for a connection that goes beyond political gain. I want to find love, to have a partner who supports and understands me."

King Richard leaned forward, his eyes filled with concern. "Alexander, my son, I want nothing more than your happiness. But as a ruler, one must sometimes make sacrifices for the greater good. A marriage alliance can strengthen our position, ensuring the prosperity and security of our kingdom."

"What did you do father?" I asked, knowing he must have done something to want me to marry for political reasons.

"I met a young girl while on my way out there in a kingdom. The king there is quite strong and he is in need of a prince who can have his daughter and have half of his army as well. That would make us stronger than ever. What do you say?"

I sighed, my gaze drifting back to the moon outside. "I know, Father. I understand the weight of my responsibilities. But I cannot bear the thought of marrying someone I do not love. I want a chance to find true happiness, even if it means delaying my duties as the future king."

King Richard's expression softened, his voice filled with paternal love. "Kirigan, you possess a rare depth of character. I cannot force you into a marriage. However, I want you to consider the consequences of your decision. We will continue this discussion in due time."

This was not how I wanted a father-son bond to be.

Since he was back I expected he would tell me all about his travels and bring me to the souvenirs he had gotten but I was no longer a child.

All he wanted was for me to get married and carry on some kind of legacy.

This was wrong and I wanted to tell him but I decided against it.

"Are you still seeing that Trina girl?" He asked as I nodded. "I don't like her. She's not a great fit for the crown. Maybe you can find the other offer more suitable but that is for another day."

With a heavy heart, I left his chambers and sought solace on the highest balcony of the palace.