Fallen Royals

Chapter 5

In the end it has taken Natan a month to resolve issues in Dalma and return home. It was an early afternoon when he arrived in Senj. Here was his summer residential home. The first signs of autumn were already visible so it will not be long until he moves to Obrovac which had less windy winters and mild climate compared to most of his kingdom.

His mother, former queen Manda, was waiting for him on the top of the stairs of his private home. Natan preferred to come back to his private house after being on a trip and then he'd move to live in the castle on the next day.

"Welcome back, son." - Manda gave him a peck on the cheek. She knew he didn't like to be touched.

"Thank you, mom. How are things?"

"Good. We're preparing for the winter. It's going smoothly. We're also very busy with Dalma region affairs. A new school year has started. In 2 weeks we'll have the first results on how our school system fairs in Dalma. We introduced it to 5 elementary schools and 2 high schools."

"I'm glad you're also participating in integrating Dalma in Dugodol."

"Thank you, son. I actually lent a hand in the education department, although it's not my strong suit. During winter, I'll be more enrolled in the economy department."

"As a former head of it, I'm sure you'll be a great advisor for them."

"Indeed. But I'd rather hear if you've met anyone on your travels." - Manda gave him a conspiracy look. Natan sighed.

"I don't have time for a wife, nor patience."

"Oh, no, she'll be the one to give you extra strength one day, and not milk you of it."

"Like you and dad were..."

"Exactly! And there's a girl who could be that person for you..."

"Mother, what have you done?"

"Don't be mad! I invited a young princess of Istria to come and enjoy autumn in Obrovac. She's never been this south and she's excited to meet you."

Natan frowned at her words. "I'll welcome her but I doubt she'll want to have anything to do with me."

"A young, cunning king who just returned from a successful campaign which almost doubled his territory and tripled his income? Ts, ts, ts. She'll notice you. Power and wealth are a strong aphrodisiac."

"No point in arguing with you, is there?"

"You're learning fast my son. Never argue with a woman. She's always right."

Natan laughed. I missed her.

They entered a dining hall where an early dinner was served on the table.

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Natan woke up in the middle of the night. The autumn brought chilly nights but he was totally soaked in sweat. Another nightmare.

He grunted as he got off the bed and went to shower. At least I'll do a lot in the day.

It was past 8 am and Natan was working in his office for the last 4 hours.

After a knock, a man entered the room.

Luka was one of the young noblemen, an easy-going person who always had a joke ready. They were close friends during the childhood years and they rekindled their friendship after Natan returned from captivity.

"Dude, have you done the graveyard shift again?"

"Sort of. Woke up early and couldn't sleep."

"Nightmares?"