DEMONS | Nikolai Lantsov

Chapter 11

---Nikolai's POV---

Nikolai had assumed the weighty mantle of responsibility, and his days were now consumed with the demands of his new role as the future king of Ravka. The palace buzzed with activity as ministers, advisors, and courtiers vied for his attention, leaving him with little time to spare. Despite the pressing matters at hand, his thoughts often wandered to Mara, the one who had captured his heart.

As he sat in the grand study, poring over a stack of documents, a familiar voice interrupted his concentration. It was Zoya, his trusted advisor and confidante, who stood at the doorway, her expression stern yet sympathetic.

"Your Highness, we have a matter of utmost importance that requires your immediate attention," Zoya announced, her tone laced with urgency.

Nikolai sighed, a hint of frustration creeping into his voice. "Zoya, I understand the gravity of my duties, but can it not wait a little longer? I have been pulled in every direction today, and I long for a moment of respite."

Zoya's gaze softened, and she approached him, placing a reassuring hand on his shoulder. "I know, Your Highness. But as the future king, there are certain obligations that cannot be postponed. I promise, I will do my best to expedite matters so that you may find some time for yourself."

Nikolai's eyes briefly flickered with disappointment, but he nodded, acknowledging the weight of his responsibilities. "Very well, Zoya. Attend to the matter at hand and let me know if there is anything that requires my immediate attention."

As Zoya turned to leave, a flicker of determination crossed Nikolai's face. He couldn't help but voice his concerns. "Zoya, please ensure that Mara is well and safe. I haven't had a chance to see her in days, and I worry that my absence might cause her undue distress."

Zoya's gaze softened further, her voice filled with understanding. "I will personally ensure that Lady Mara is attended to, Your Highness. She is well taken care of and knows of the demands on your time. I'm sure she eagerly awaits the moment you can be together again."

Nikolai offered a grateful smile, appreciating Zoya's reassurances. "Thank you, Zoya. Your loyalty and dedication mean a great deal to me."

With a nod, Zoya exited the study, leaving Nikolai alone with his thoughts. He yearned for a break from the relentless pace of his duties, to steal a moment with Mara, to bask in her presence and share the burdens of their respective roles.

But as the weight of responsibility pressed down upon him, Nikolai knew that sacrifices had to be made. He resolved to navigate the complexities of his new position with grace, always keeping in mind the love that bound him and Mara.

And in those stolen moments between council meetings and diplomatic negotiations, Nikolai vowed to cherish every second with Mara, to make each encounter count, and to ensure that their love remained a guiding light amidst the challenges that lay ahead. Together, they would weather the storms of duty and responsibility, finding solace and strength in the knowledge that their hearts beat as one.

---A few days later---

Nikolai stood before the mirror, his heart pounding in his chest, as he gazed at the dark figure that stared back at him. Fear and confusion swirled within him, threatening to consume his thoughts. He slowly reached out, his trembling hand tracing the edges of the darkness that coursed through his veins.

"What is happening to me?" Nikolai whispered, his voice filled with a mix of desperation and disbelief. 

His mind raced with a thousand questions, his thoughts swirling in a chaotic storm. Nikolai knew that revealing his affliction would shatter the trust his people had in him, and the consequences would be dire. He clenched his fist, the broken piece of chair digging into his palm, a physical manifestation of the inner turmoil he felt.

With a heavy heart, Nikolai made the difficult decision to distance himself from those he loved. He secluded himself in a hidden office, carrying out his duties in secret, shielded from prying eyes. He meticulously planned each move, ensuring that his condition remained hidden from the world, even if it meant isolating himself further.

Days turned into weeks, and the transformations became more frequent and unpredictable. Always making excuses to why furniture was broken, and why he couldn't be more involved in the dealings of the kingdom. 

Nikolai grew more and more weary, the weight of his secret consuming his thoughts. The monster inside of him, growing stronger every day. And with every change, he would remain the beast longer. But deep within, a flicker of hope remained, fueled by the love he held for Mara and the unwavering determination to protect her from the darkness that threatened to consume him.

One evening, as the moon bathed the palace in an ethereal glow, Nikolai found himself standing at the balcony, a mixture of longing and despair etched on his face. He watched as Mara walked through the palace gardens, her presence a bittersweet reminder of what he had chosen to sacrifice. She sat alone, a light blue dress floating behind her. Her hair shining in the moonlight. Reminding him of the nights they spent together on The Hummingbird.

"Mara," he whispered, his voice carrying the weight of a thousand unspoken words. "I hope you understand, my darling. One day, when I have found a way to rid myself of this darkness, I will return to you. Until then, please stay safe."

Nikolai turned away from the sight of Mara, his heart heavy with the burden of his secret. With resolute determination, he continued his solitary journey, navigating the treacherous path of both king and outcast. His love for Mara burned like a beacon in the darkness, guiding him towards a future where he could once again stand beside her, unburdened by the shadows that threatened to consume him.

In the depths of his seclusion, Nikolai vowed to uncover the truth behind his affliction, seeking a way to reclaim his rightful self and protect the kingdom he held dear. And as he battled the darkness within, he whispered words of love and longing, hoping that Mara would hear them on the wind, carrying the promise of a future where they could be reunited once more.