Tied to the Throne

chapter twenty six

Today is the funeral.

They still hadn't found either one of the royals' bodies.

The kingdom was still grieving.

Me, Cam, and Nikolai were still a mess. Each one of us coping in unhealthy ways, refusing to let the truth take its diminishing effect on us.

Truth be told I don't think I'll ever be able to accept it. Sure they weren't my parents, but god, they acted like them. Hell, Aiden was a better father than mine ever was.

I stand in front of the mirror, my eyes fixed on my reflection. It's a surreal moment, as I look at the somber figure staring back at me. My heart aches with grief, and my usual radiance feels dimmed by the weight of sorrow.

I don't see me. I see my teenage self staring back. The same heartbroken girl that lost her brother all those years ago.

My eyes, usually bright and lively, now appear heavy and weary. I see the dark circles under them, evidence of sleepless nights spent in mourning. My fair skin looks paler than usual, as if it has lost some of its usual vitality.

I'm dressed in a simple gown of flowing black silk, a departure from my usual colorful wardrobe. The fabric is cool against my skin, a stark reminder of the solemn occasion. The dress is modest, with long sleeves that reach my wrists, and a high neckline that conceals my usually graceful collarbones. It lacks the intricate details and adornments that I'm used to, but it feels fitting for the occasion.

I touch the smooth silk of my gown, and despite its darkness, I can't help but appreciate its elegance. The absence of embellishments seems to reflect the simplicity of my emotions at this moment - raw and unadorned, stripped of any pretense.

I've pulled my long, flowing locks back into a simple style, held in place with a jeweled hairpin that belonged to Juliette. It's a small, sentimental touch that brings me comfort amidst the sorrow. A few loose tendrils frame my face, softening my features.

A knock reverberates around the room.

I turn towards the sound of the knock, and the door slowly creaks open, revealing a tall man standing before me. His somber expression matches the gravity of the day, and I recognize him as one of the royal guards. He bows respectfully to me, acknowledging my presence as the princess.

"Your Highness," he says in a hushed tone, "It is time for the funeral procession to begin."

I nod solemnly, my heart heavy with grief. I know that I must gather my strength and fulfill my duties as a member of the royal family, despite my personal sorrow.

"Thank you," I say softly, my voice barely above a whisper. "I will be there shortly."

The guard bows again and leaves the room, leaving me alone with my thoughts. I take one last look at my reflection in the mirror, straightening my gown and fixing my hairpin. I draw a deep breath, trying to steady my emotions.

I remind myself of the responsibility that comes with my position as a princess - to be a pillar of strength for my people, to show dignity in times of adversity, and to honor the memory of my loved one with grace. It is a heavy burden to bear, but one that I must carry with resolve.

I walk towards the door, my steps measured and steady, my posture regal. I am determined to face the day with composure, to bid my final farewell to my loved one with the dignity befitting a princess.

As I step out of the room, the guard waits respectfully, ready to escort me to the funeral procession. I take one last look around the room, knowing that this moment marks the beginning of a solemn and challenging day. With a deep breath, I steel myself, ready to face this.

We had to take a carriage to get to the church were the service was being held, it was a quiet ride. Only the sound of the wooden carriage wheels going over rocks and debris could break the lack of noise.

My heart clenches as I make my way towards the familiar church where Nikolai and I had exchanged vows not so long ago. The memories flood my mind, and I feel a mixture of sadness and disbelief that I am now here for a funeral instead of a celebration. If you could call our wedding that.

The grand doors of the church are open, and I step inside, the cool air and dim lighting adding to the solemn atmosphere. The familiar scent of incense fills the air, and the hushed murmurs of mourners echo softly. The sight of the draped painting at the front of the church brings tears to my eyes, and I feel a wave of grief wash over me anew.

I take my place among the royal family, my head held high and my expression composed, despite the pain that weighs heavily on my heart. I know that I must be a source of strength for my family and my people, even as I grieve.

The priest begins the funeral service, his words a somber reminder of the fleeting nature of life. I listen attentively, finding solace in the familiar rituals and prayers. Memories of Aiden and Juliette flood my mind - their laughter, their warmth, and their unwavering support. I feel a lump in my throat, but I hold back the tears, determined to maintain my composure.

As the service progresses, I glance around the church, taking in the faces of those who have gathered to pay their respects. I see the somber expressions of the courtiers, the tear-streaked faces of the palace staff, and the saddened faces of the townspeople who had admired the formate monarchs. It's a testament to the impact they had on the kingdom, and it fills me with a sense of pride and gratitude for having known them.

Nikolai and Camille stood either side of me, I could tell she was crying and Nikolai was trying to hold everything together, thankful for the mask covering his wavering lips.

Nikolai was still being distant, and I still didn't know why. But that is the last thing to think about in this moment.

As the service draws to a close, I step forward to pay my final respects. I place a single white rose before the painting, a symbol of their love and the purity of their souls. I take a moment to say a silent prayer, bidding them farewell with a heavy heart.

As I turn to leave the church, I feel a hand on my shoulder, offering comfort. It's Benedict, a trusted confidante who has been a source of support during this difficult time. I offer them a faint smile, grateful for their presence.

I step outside into the sunlight, my eyes blinking against the brightness. Despite the weight of my grief, I feel a sense of resolve. I know that the King and Queen's legacy will live on in the kingdom, and I am determined to honor their memory by continuing to serve my people with the same grace and compassion that he had shown.

The funeral may be over, but the pain of losing someone so dear will linger. Yet, I am determined to carry on, to find strength in the memories, and to fulfill my duties as a princess with unwavering resolve, just as they would have wanted.

But that leaves one thing.

With no King or Queen, tye next would have to be crowd very soon.

And that just so happened to be me and Nikolai.

Fuck.

God knows I'm nowhere near ready to be Queen. But I didn't have a choice.

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YAAY! a chapter! thanks for reading :)
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