Vows And Veil

Alas, The Surrender.

As much as Gerald respects his father, he can't comply with the King's request to marry a girl he doesn't even know. Helping his brother escape the forced marriage, how could he possibly agree to it? Gerald was adamant. He couldn't fathom ruining his life in such a manner. The disbelief in his father's demand was evident in his gaze. How could he even ask such a thing? Didn't he understand Gerald's aversion to forced relationships?

Gerald firmly believes in honesty and values comfort in relationships. He maintains that if one isn't comfortable, they should part ways or minimize communication. Regardless of the relationship, it's preferable to separate than to endure forced commitments.

"Father, as much as I respect you, you know my answer," he stated firmly to the King, who sighed and turned away, gazing out of the window.

The King remained silent in response to his son's refusal. Deep down, he was aware that Gerald would not yield, recognizing that Gerald was not like Fredrick. King Davis felt the weight of constraint as he clasped his hands behind his back, shoulders slumping in resignation. He understood that demanding his son to marry the princess was unjust, yet circumstances left him with no alternative. Now, faced with Gerald's blunt rejection, he couldn't help but feel despondent, knowing he had no recourse but to call off the wedding and allow trouble to brew within the Kingdom of Lovaria.

Davis found himself confronting a situation he had never encountered before. He would have to go against his own word, an unprecedented action in his life.

"Father, you have to understand," Gerald's voice softened as he witnessed his father's hopes shattering. Despite their many disagreements, witnessing his father, both a parent and a king, in such distress tugged at his heartstrings. Yet, he couldn't deny his own culpability in this mess. No one had compelled him to pressure Fredrick into marrying the daughter of the King of Lovaria.

Davis heard his son's words, but he didn't turn around to face him. Instead, he swiveled his head slightly, his expression heavy with burden. "I understand, son. You may go now," he murmured softly.

Gerald glanced down at his feet, a heavy sigh escaping him. "I beg your pardon, father, but you shouldn't force anyone into this marriage. Fredrick and I are your children — how could you ask us to sacrifice our happiness for a princess whom the world doesn't even know exists?" Gerald spoke earnestly to his father.

The King maintained his silence, standing with his hands clasped tightly before him. His gaze lingered on the horseman riding down the street, carrying the guest to the church. A pang of anguish pierced his heart at the thought of the impending turmoil awaiting the unsuspecting girl once she discovered her groom's absence.

Finally, he exhaled heavily. "You should refrain from speaking when unaware of the circumstances," he chided gently, his voice laden with weariness. Slowly, he turned to face his son, his disappointment palpable in the creases of his brow. It was a rare sight to witness the usually composed King revealing his vulnerability, a testament to the gravity of the situation at hand. He couldn't shake off the fear gnawing at him, fully cognizant of King McLeod's formidable nature.

Gerald tilted his head, his expression curious yet resolute. "Then enlighten me, father," he implored, seeking understanding amidst the palpable tension. The King hesitated, grappling with the decision to divulge the truth. After all, he was asking Gerald to marry the princess; he deserved to know the intricacies of the situation.

"The princess is in grave danger," the King declared solemnly. Gerald furrowed his brow, uncertainty clouding his features.

"I don't quite follow, father," he admitted, seeking clarification. "What exactly do you mean?" he pressed further.