Trimming a red rose with a scowl, Queen Seraphina suddenly flung the pruning shears aside in irritation. The metal struck a maid hard on the arm, drawing a sharp yelp of pain — but Seraphina didn't spare her a glance.
"Scowling, and caring little for the maid's well-being, she paced back and forth, scheming how to place Gavin on the throne or at least secure the title of crown prince for him before Kealan could make his move."
"The rumors soon escalated in the castle,of what if the king chooses Kealan the crown prince instead of Gavin."
King Aldric gracefully put the wine glass in his mouth, taking a little of the wine in, with his royal advisor present.
The old man, whose hair was already filled with grey hair, had been the king's royal advisor for a very long time and was upright and just in his judgment and decisions.
"What do you think about the rumors going round the castle, though it seems I need to put some of the maids in check to teach others a lesson?" King Aldric authoritatively echoed.
"Your Majesty, what do you personally think of the rumors?"
"And it's time to make one of them crown prince."
Gavin possesses powerful mind manipulation abilities, secured the support of several dukes and lords and has been rigorously trained for leadership. This shows a Strong determinant for the throne , but he is sometimes heartless and inconsiderate towards the lower class and servants.
Whereas Kealan hasn't shown any power so far, which is rare for royalty, he wouldn't get much support from the people since no one wants a powerless ruler. He hasn't shown any interest in taking the throne, but he has the heart of a ruler, a kind, fast-thinking capacity, and the ability to handle burdens without making wrong decisions. Just like the late Queen Flora, who was also strong at sword fighting.
He stopped showing these abilities ever since the queen died. Maybe he still has it in him, Your Highness.
Advisor Robert waited for the king's opinion on this.
"The only reason Kealan isn't worthy of the throne is because he is powerless, but maybe a king can rule without powers. It's going to be difficult, as he is the only royal without a gift. But we will hold a fair competition between the two after Kealan's marriage."
"Wonderful decision, your majesty. Robert gave a bow before leaving.
Walking out of the king's chamber, Prince Gavin stood outside also seeking the attention of his father.
"Your Highness," Robert greeted.
"It's good to see you, royal advisor. I see you just finished having a conversation with Father. I hope it's in my favor." Gavin gave a sinister smile.
Your Highness, don't try to manipulate my mind; it's against the rule, and you could be disqualified for that. Robert tried to contain his fear; he already knew what the prince was up to.
Gavin burst into laughter.
"Sure, how could I dare manipulate your mind?
Robert heaved a sigh of relief when Gavin walked away, The prince entered the king's chamber.
King Aldric, lost in thought, didn't notice when Gavin came in. Gavin stared at his father, wondering what he was thinking.
"He smirked at the thought of breaching his father's mind undetected."
It will require him learning dark magic for that to happen, moving away from the light, but it didn't care as long as it made him more powerful.
King Aldric soon noticed a presence.
"Son, why didn't you make your presence known?" The king's expression was stoic .
"I apologize, Your Majesty. I didn't want to bother you, but what could Father be thinking that he lost consciousness of who entered the royal chamber? It could be quite dangerous, Father. He put on a smile.
"You are forgetting I am the king, and you can't harm me except if I wish to be harmed." You already pledged allegiance to me; you are under my power and authority."
King Aldric's power compelled people to pledge loyalty to him, a bond they could never break if they do they face searing pain before meeting their end.
The king smiled only that brat of his, Kealan, was able to evade pledging loyalty. King Aldric and Queen Flora decided to keep it a secret since they found out.
The king was pleased his son wouldn't be manipulated easily; that's why he knew Gavin's power didn't work on him.
"Apologies, Father, I meant no disrespect"Gavin bowed.
"Father, I heard of your sudden closeness to Brother."
King Aldric's expression turned unreadable.
"It's nice to see the both of you getting closer after so many years, and I apologize for disappointing you about not getting married to Liora's father."
King Aldric knew Gavin was trying to be manipulative in his words, but he wanted to know where he was heading.
"I should have chosen better; Kealan deserves her more." King Aldric replied.
Gavin's eyes twitched in annoyance. What does he mean Kealen deserves her more?
"You are right, Father, but don't you think it's time you made me the crown prince? I have completed all the studies, training, and laws I need to know to take the throne, Father."
King Aldric smirked. You will know the verdict after your brother's marriage. He left no place for further discussion.
Gavin balled his fist but couldn't go against the king.
"Before I leave, Father, I come bearing good news: I will love to get married to Nyssa, daughter of Lord Fredrick."
King Aldric didn't know what to make of it.
"Isn't she the lady visiting the castle to enjoy Thalmaris town's festival?"
"Yes, Father."
"So you have been seeing her while being betrothed to Liora."
Gavin gulped at the fear of being reprimanded.
"If you want the marriage, then I accept. Send word to Lord Fredrick; we will have the wedding after your brother's."
"Thank you, Father, Gavin put up a bright smile."
Coming out of the king's chamber, he smiled triumphantly. Nothing was going to stop him from gaining the throne. First, he needs more allies.
"Your highness few more hours before we get to Ardentor." Dorian shouted,
"That loud punk, why isn't he shouting? We are not that far from him." Lord Varek complained.
While Kealan glared at Dorian for disrupting the peaceful atmosphere.
Kealan expression was unreadable,but his heart was in chaos. He was excited to see Liora but also wondered how he would make her happy. Now Dorian's loud voice is giving him a headache; he glared at Dorian once more.
Lover boy, smile! Lord Varek teased, laughing with Dorian joining in.
You better pray I don't take the throne, because if I do, I'm throwing you both in the dungeon as my first verdict.
The three burst into laughter, and it helped cool his raging heart.
"I plan on visiting Florinda with Liora. I'm sure Grandma and Grandpa will be happy to see her."
Kealan put up a sad smile. He hasn't visited in years because everything reminds him of his mother; her presence was everywhere in Florindal.
His hands tightened on the reins of the horse as he tried to keep his emotions in check.
Lord Varek, seeing his dilemma, didn't know how to reduce the pain Kealan felt. He had been with him since childhood, and he knows how traumatized he still is.