The Infernal : The Rise Of A King (K.TH)

Ch 29: Symbolizing A New Journey

The King

It was fine weather, the pavilion I sat in was decorated with flowers while various maidens came to settle down tea and signature pastries. I was running thin on my patience in the absence of Lady Zhan. A part of me still wasn't able to tolerate that I was present here, in a discussion of marriage.

''Your highness, please forgive my late entry.'' Her voice alarmed me causing me to rise from my seat. I have never seen Lady Zhan only heard stories about her victories and beauty. Gladly I could say that her beauty was remarkable. Tall and lean with long luscious hair. The soft blueness of her dress made her dark eyes only more mesmerizing than they already were. I lightly sank to the ground grabbing her hand carefully in mine.

''There is no need.'' I pressed her hand against my lips causing her to smile before taking a seat.

''The weather is lovely, I had the birds to accompany me while I waited.'' She chuckled at my comment looking at the fish that swam in the pond surrounding us. It is said that this is Lady Zhan her favorite place at the palace, so of course I had to speak well of it.

''How was your travel? No trouble on the way I take it?'' She leaned over wanting to pour herself some tea but instead I jumped in, doing it for her.

''We were blessed with steady wind and calm waves.'' As I spoke I poured myself something to drink as well. The both of us lightly clinked each other's cups before taking a sip.

''You look lovely Lady Zhan.'' Once again it made her chuckle but I was astonished. Usually, the ladies would hint away blushes on their cheeks but it seemed my compliment didn't make her feel that way.

''Your highness looks really handsome as well. I guess the rumors were true, you truly don't age.'' I brushed away her comment acting with courtesy.

''It makes me wonder why you proposed to have me as your suitor. I take it that many ladies are lined up to be the next queen.'' Here it was, the opening to flaunt her with my charms and shower her with compliments.

''I had no intention of selecting a new queen, but my duty to the realm makes it that I have to. Although there are indeed no doubt loving women waiting for my proposal, I was mesmerized by the beautiful lady Zhan I heard of.''

''What did you hear, your highness?'' Her eyes lightly squinted before taking another sip.

''Only that she is gorgeous, kind, intelligent, and courageous. A strong maiden who helps with the duties of the council, someone who has the qualities of leading a kingdom. I hear people say that you're truly a family person. It seems you have a great bond with King Sagan his daughter.''

''As if she is my own.'' She spoke.

''You would be a phenomenal mother.'' I tried to weaken her with my comment but instead, I noticed her linger in thought.

''You seek a new heir, your highness? And perhaps a claim to the Southern kingdom.'' Her eyes were teasing me, it seemed the smoothness of the conversation tricked me.

''I seek an alliance with the Southern realm.''

''For the crown is in debt, or so I heard. There also seems to be more uprising among the continents.'' The maiden did her homework.

''Alliance will help me secure more military power to keep the people in check and yes the crown has a debt, but I assure you I have no need for a claim to the Southern kingdom. You shall remain in your rights as my wife, I only ask of you to conceive my heirs. There is no need to step down from your current title or duties unless you wish to. The northern Kingdom their Navy is growing and there are rumors of the West joining their side. If we agree to this alliance we are far more powerful than them.'' After all, we hold the most prominent kingdoms.