Trash of the Royal Family (Ao3)

XII

Every day would've been normal if it hadn't been for a worrywart first prince, who was constantly spacing out, staring blankly, and sighing.

Everyone thanked Robbit for bringing that prince back to earth after he had missed his Callie so much.

"It appears you are the only one who misses your baby..."

"Maybe he got so used to the count's house that he forgot about his beloved Hyunnie."

"You bastard, just do your paperwork," Alver said, glaring at Robbit, who gave him a shitty smile.

When Callen reaches the age of five on the day of his birth, he will be chosen as Crown Prince. That is why the other princes are preoccupied with their tasks, particularly cultivating relationships with noble houses. He doubts Callen would understand all of this. He'd think he'll just play house with the Henituse kid.

"Antonio will become your most trusted advisor."

"We've been friends since we were kids... but I don't think he is..."

"At the very least, look after him... Gyerre Duchy will help you solidify your position."

Robbit abruptly came to a halt. Their works were nearly identical to the First and Second Princes. However, compared to Alver, Robbit is still the son of the King and a noblewoman. Although the current Queen is the Third Prince's mother, Robbit's Maternal family wields considerable power.

"However, you will become king."

"Robbit," he said, "that was just a passing blabber of a child."

He gave his brother a friendly smile. He was well aware of Callen's foresight. It was a terrifying power that everyone inside the palace desired. Predicting who will and will not become king will determine the throne struggle.

Alver could tell that Callen wasn't lying. He can trust his words, but not the people around him. Callen's the only one that's left to him once the Crown Prince Selection starts.

"Hyung."

"Hm?"

"Can't you ask Count Henituse to support you?" Robbit worriedly asked.

His concern is understandable; after all, he is the only one without the support of a noble house. The majority of the nobles support the third prince and other princes. Count Henituse, who can compete with the nobles, is expressing neutrality.

"I can't..."

Because...

"It's the only family I feel comfortable leaving that child with."

If the worst were to happen, the neutral house would be the only safe place he could send Callen in the future.

"You," Robbit exclaimed, "looked more like his father than an older brother."

Alver smiled. He stood up and patted Robbit on the shoulder. "If I can't become king, I'll go with Callen and travel the world, but I need to put someone trustworthy on it."

He made the decision not to believe in fate.

*knock! knock!*

"Your Highnesses, the King has summoned all the princes."

Alver and Robbit rose to their feet.

"We'll be there..."

They exchanged glances and took note of each other's desires.

"If... Hellion becomes king..." Robbit said quietly, "all of us will perish; if not me... That crown should belong to Hyung-nim..."

"You're still thinking about what that brat said," Alver laughs as he approaches the door.