The Game of Monarchies "Sanguis Rosa"

Chapter I

A little author note. If someone decides to read this. Just know I will be re-writting the story, this is only a rough draft. But if you do read, thank you. It gets better, just bear with me.

Sometimes deals are made. Not because they benefit us. But rather help us hide the truth. Though a question arises, how long can you hide? Won't the gospel truth come and find what has been hidden?

Those questions alone could not let the King of Aggeris sleep. They haunted him as he walked down the halls, following his each and every step. Reminding him, it could be his last... He was notorious for his killings and lack of empathy. Yet lying was his downfall? But it is worthy to mention that Aggeris was known for truthfulness shouldn't the ruler also represent the values of his nation?

By demand of the high counsel, a family meeting was held. The king was waiting in the office for his kids. While sitting he decided to look out through the windows. They revealed the view to the outside world and showed people gathering in the town square. The King only batted an eye; he didn't really care what was going out there. But his book shelves were proof of Ruler's knowledge about the elaborate life of Aggeris. Wars that others faced, fires destroying almost everything and many more things...

While the King was deeply lost in his thoughts, Zea and Helltin entered the room. Zea was looking relatively annoyed, hoping it was not a marriage proposal. She hated them, in her mind, the Queen did not need anyone but herself. Also, a forced marriage was not appealing to her. Zea believed in true love, one filled with compassion, caring, happiness and... Love... But as the future ruler, she really did not have a say in her love life. A century rule won't be broken just because of her. On the other hand, Helltin was thinking of what he could paint next. Maybe the town square, full of people. Or the poor dying in the streets. As an artist, more as a painter, he was of the opinion that portraying real life was more accurate and educational to the future generations...

A loud sigh echoed through the room, drawing the attention of both young adults. The King looked up, starting his speech.

"Without a reason I would never call the two of you," he opened a drawer, pulling out what looked like documents.

"Give this a read, but a serious one" he glanced over Helltin, giving a warning. Both siblings read the papers, without missing a word.

First to speak up was Zea, "Tell me, father, from when do we sign deals that engrave our tombstones? Guarantee a place in the graveyard?" her voice rose with every word. Helltin was also not looking pleased. But for now – kept his mouth shut.

"This deal is important for the survival of us and Aggeris. Why is that, I cannot say for now," the King answered. This only made Zea and Helltin more furious.

"So, keeping secrets from the family is our new rule?" brash words left Helltin's mouth. The King shook his head, was about to speak, but was interrupted by Zea.

"As the future Queen of Aggeris I do not allow this deal to take place. The result of it – is barely anything. Arguably nothing. We are not prepared, not enough soldiers or supplies." She pointed to the window, to her people "I will not sacrifice innocent people for your vendetta, wish for revenge. What will be gained if we take over the Collis kingdom, but have to share it with Veatus? And still they take more!" Zea's voice boomed through the room, she was shaking with anger.

The King stood up from his chair, walked over to them and pointed to his crown. "I am King, older than both of you, therefore more experienced. What I say, goes."

A loud bell was heard, coming from one of the church towers. Announcing the death of a noble man who, everybody knew, didn't die of natural causes.

"It would be a shame if this bell were to announce your passing, Zea." Coldness and spite was evident in his words. This time it was not a warning. But a threat.

Helltin took a step between them. As if to say that he, if he wants to hurt Zea, he would need to get through him first. But his sister didn't want to stay quiet, so before leaving she remarked. "War is a dangerous game. If you choose to participate, winning is your only option, Father," she spat the last word at him. Just like he did to her. Before turning away and leaving.