“Correct. And does that explain why the fighting began?”
“I think it was something to do with one of the Obsidian Clan’s ships being stuck in our ports and the ship’s crew taken to
prison without a fair trial.”
“And what a stupid reason to start a war.”
Father appeared in the doorway of our study, and both Hector and I rushed to our feet in respect and to bow. He just waved
his hand at the pleasantries before coming to my side and kissing me lightly on the cheek.
“How is my daughter doing in her lessons? Not falling behind, I hope.”
“Of course not, your majesty. She is a wonderful pupil.” Hector stuttered a little, my father always made him nervous.
Although my father was old in appearance, with greying hair and wrinkle lines at the corners of his eyes, he was still one of
the greatest fighters to ever fight in battle. If there ever was a battle.
Mostly, he would show off his skills during the training days with the soldiers or during our festivals at jousting and sword
play. My mother hated it, but I believed it made him feel young again.
“Please leave us for the moment. I will send for you once I am done speaking with my daughter.”
Without a word, Hector bowed low to the ground and rushed out of the room, almost sprinted even. A small chuckle came
from my father’s lips as he settled down at the top of the table, which was littered with history books and maps.
“Your mother worries.”
“Mother always worries.”
“Yes, well, there is a reason for it this time.”
He gestured for me to return to my seat as he leaned back, relaxing and looking very much at ease. He may have been the
ruler of our country, the all-powerful soldier with a hard shell on the outside, but he was a soft man at heart. He would often
tell me stories of love—of how he and mother fell deeply and madly in love with each other and how much convincing he had
to do in order for them to be wed.
“I am afraid I have some news, which may be upsetting,” he paused, clasping his hands together, and then leaned forward
on the table. “Your betrothal to Lord Aston has been stopped due to the Lord’s sudden passing during a hunting trip.”
Strangely, as much as the news should have been devastating, it wasn’t. Lord Aston and I only met a handful of times,
mostly at grand state balls and quite frankly, he was obnoxious and already way too clingy for my liking. I’d also heard talk via
the other ladies of the court that he had been with many of them already. I wanted someone loyal and filled with love like my
parents.
“Try not to act too upset, dear.”
I realised my face didn’t show any upset. If anything, it was very stoic and unbothered. I couldn’t help but laugh at my
