Birthright: The Contested Seat

Genna

Levi sat at his desk, scribbling on a piece of parchment. The weight of his responsibilities reflected in the furrowed lines on his forehead. He gripped the quill tightly, its tip gliding across the parchment as his thoughts flowed onto the page. The ascension speech had become an all-consuming task since the solemn day of his father's passing, an endeavor demanding countless hours of his undivided attention.

Throughout this process, Genna had been an unwavering support. Rather than mere assistance, she lent him her ears, patiently absorbing every word he read aloud, offering him invaluable insights and perspectives. Genna admired how much he cared about what his people thought. His profound concern for their opinions, despite being adored by all, revealed a relentless quest for self-improvement that burned deep within his being.

Yet, Genna recognized that buried within Levi's desire for perfection was a lingering sense of inadequacy, an enduring trauma left by his father's influence. No matter the heights he achieved or the love he received, there remained an intangible void that whispered in his ear, suggesting he could never truly measure up.

Levi let out a weary sigh, leaning back in his chair as he carefully placed his quill back into its ornate well. Genna approached him, gracefully gliding across the room, and took a seat beside him. She attentively read through the speech he had just completed, her eyes traversing each line with thoughtful consideration. The words on the parchment encapsulated Levi's thoughts precisely, echoing the sentiments he had shared with her.

"It's truly perfect," Genna affirmed, returning the speech to him with a warm smile. "But even if it weren't, the people would still hold you in their hearts. Their love for you surpasses any flaw or imperfection."

Levi's face brightened as he reached out and gently clasped Genna's hand, bringing it to his lips for a tender kiss. "Thank you. I know I have been a terror these past few days. Once the ascension is behind us, we can finally focus on our wedding and the joyous future that awaits us."

"You haven't been a terror in the slightest," she assured him. In truth, it had been Lord Dorn and his entourage that had been the terrors. Several of his men had to be arrested for their mistreatment of the women in the local brothels; others for starting fights in the taverns or destroying property.

Genna ensured that the punishment was severe for those who abused the brothel women. She herself remembered just how rough and unpleasant men could be. How lords left all nobility, honor, and courtesy at the door to let their baser instincts run free.

Unfortunately, Lord Dorn had taken up residence in the castle, becoming an unwelcome presence that constantly sought Levi's attention. Without the company of his own sons, he clung to Levi far more than was appropriate. The ceaseless revelry surrounding the ascension had left Magnolia, and the castle's staff, drained and exhausted. Genna, too, longed for the culmination of these events, grateful that it would all come to an end today, granting respite to everyone involved.

A swift knock came to the door before Lord Dorn came striding in. Genna felt a surge of irritation, but she suppressed it, maintaining her composure. Levi, always gracious, rose from his seat with warmth in his voice. "My lord, how may I be of assistance?"  No matter how much of a pest Lord Dorn made himself, Levi always spoke to him warmly. He had great respect for Lord Dorn, but he only caused Genna irritation.

"A delightful surprise and a profound honor await you today, my boy," Lord Dorn boomed, placing his hands firmly on Levi's shoulders. "Even now, the queen and her council make their way through the city gates."

Genna wavered as a sudden wave of dizziness washed over her. Grasping Levi's arm for support, she managed to steady herself. Concern etched onto his face; Levi guided her to sit on the edge of the bed. "Are you alright, my love?" he asked with genuine worry, his caring nature shining through.