Journey of a Girl

Ajo: Chapter Eight

Ajo could not have guessed the endless parade of responsibilities that would begin upon his return.

Nor could he have imagined how fleeting his stolen moments with Galeia would be.

Now he was expected to take on the duties of his impending title, which were far more consuming than his childhood studies had ever been. Hours were spent composing speeches, preparing the castle for arriving dignitaries, and reading countless documents before passing judgment.

And all the complaints and problems of the kingdom's citizens needed tending to.

In addition, he had two weeks to oversee and execute plans for the ball to honor his return, where the date of his kingship and wedding would be announced.

Then there was the actual coronation and wedding to prepare for.

Ajo felt it a little extravagant to hold two separate events, but he did not question the way of things.

His sole desire was to return to Galeia's side, but the ever-growing pile of obligations ate away the day until the sun dropped from the sky and it was time for dinner. When he joined the table he apologized to Galeia for his prolonged absence, and to his relief she was not upset, but delighted to have him present for the meal.

"We could open some of the gifts I brought after dinner," Ajo offered to make amends.

"There are matters that need your attention," the Queen interrupted. "But I'm sure Galeia won't mind opening her gifts privately and thanking you later."

Ajo looked at his mother, shocked, but did not argue.

The next days were spent in ceaseless work, and for all his effort Ajo could not find a single moment to spare for anything else. Long nights gave way to early mornings, and Ajo had not left his desk in the study once, but took his meals and sleep atop piles of parchment and quills.

One night while he was alone Galeia came to him, but Ajo did not stop scribbling when she entered the room.

"Ajo."

He jerked his head up, his eyes red and bleary. For all his muscles, he looked weak, and his appearance was distressing.

"You need fresh air to restore your energy," she said gently.

Ajo huffed. "What I need is more hours in a day to swim this ocean before me."

Galeia sat on the edge of the table.

"Save it for another time. The moon is full. Will you run with me through the woods?"

"You don't understand. I have to finish. If I don't, I cannot be a good king."

"What's so important about being king anyway?"

It was a playful jab, not an honest question, but Ajo had barely slept in several days, and his mind was split between a hundred different tasks.

"What's so important?" He spat the words with venom. "What's so important about protecting my subjects? Or maintaining alliances that are always on the verge of crumbling, so we're not plunged into war? What's so important about ensuring our kingdom doesn't fall into chaos and ruin?"

"I didn't mean it like that, Ajo—"

"I don't expect you to understand how significant my work is. But I wish you would respect it. As king, I'm in charge of everything. I can't be frittering in the woods all day like you."

"Is that all I do?"

Ajo motioned to the pile before him. "I don't see your writing on these parchments."