Page 43 of Courting the Dragon King

Konrad always found that having a goal and a focus assisted in times of emotional turmoil. Perhaps finding Leon a way to be useful would help his current mental state.

Leon nodded. “You’re right. Of course you’re right. Sorry. It’s just⁠—”

“I understand. It’s been a trying time. But if you are looking to be useful, speak to Gerard or Senta. They will put you to work. There is much to be done.” Konrad released his shoulder.

“Thanks.” Leon nodded. He put down the goblet. “I’ll do that. Now.” He stood, swaying slightly.

“I am going to speak to Gerard and Senta,” Konrad said. “They have a meeting with the grand shield that should be wrapping up soon. You can accompany me.”

For a second, Konrad considered suggesting that Leon bathe and change first. Stains marked his rumpled clothes. A nap could also be good, so Leon could sleep the drink off. But it was probably better to get Leon quickly involved in something that wasn’t drinking the day away.

They left the Draconian quarters.

“King Konrad,” a voice called out.

The two paused. Their cousin Clara, now a monk, walked towards them.

In the war she’d led a group of dragons who’d been tasked with burning farmland and crops that fed enemy troops. After the war, she’d regretted her actions. Perhaps because innocent farmers and villagers had sometimes gotten caught up in her attacks. So she’d joined the Monks of the Way of the Dove in an attempt to atone for whatever sins she’d committed whilst serving her kingdom.

Although Konrad could understand the sentiment, he also felt it was somewhat irresponsible to abandon Draconia when its future was so fragile just because you felt guilty.

Konrad did not have the luxury to get lost in his feelings and run off with monks and spend the day chanting, studying, and repenting for anything he’d done during the war. He had a kingdom to take care of. And she, as a part of the royal family of Draconia, should have felt a duty to the kingdom too.

But she’d renounced all that when she’d joined the monks, prioritising healing her soul over healing the kingdom of Draconia. Clara’s shaved head shone. Her beige robes and copper chains hanging around her neck swished as she walked towards them. She smiled.

“Cousin Clara,” Konrad said. “Have you met my younger brother, Leon? He would also be your cousin, too, of course.”

Clara was of a similar age to Konrad. They’d even played together as children, at least when Konrad wasn’t locked away learning how to be king one day. She’d been one of his favourite cousins in childhood. But they had less to do with each other as they’d grown.

“We have met, but only briefly.” She inclined her head to Leon. “I’m sorry for your loss.” She looked between them. “It must be such a trying time.”

“Thank you, Cousin,” Konrad said.

“At least soon this treaty will be completed and true and lasting peace will be obtained soon.” She clasped her hands together. Her eyes glowed. “Now I cannot stop to talk. I am on my way to speak to the grand monk.”

“And we have business with Senta and Gerard,” Konrad said.

“It was good to see you,” Leon said.

“You as well. May peace guide your steps.” She bowed and strode off.

Konrad and Leon walked in the other direction.

“Why would anyone want to join the monkhood? It seems very boring to me,” Leon said. “You have to live a life of poverty, chastity, and discipline. Sounds bloody wretched.”

Konrad chuckled. “It doesn’t sound particularly appealing. Now let’s go find Gerard and Senta.”

Chapter

Twenty-Three

Wraith walked the monastery for hours, not wanting to return to the Draconian quarters. Umbra plodded along beside him, often rubbing against him. He helped another ghost move on.

But finally, he returned to the Draconian quarters, dismissing Umbra before he arrived. He did not wish to tempt Konrad’s anger any more.

The guards at the door stared at him. For a second, he thought they might deny him entry. Finally they opened the door.

Wraith entered but had no idea where to go. He stopped in the middle of the corridor. His belongings were in Konrad’s bedroom. But that was not his room. He had no room. Perhaps he could find a sitting room or something where he could hide and be out of the way and not make anyone angry.