Crowned in Crimson Cinders

Chapter 28: Darians POV

When I knocked on Aleah's door earlier tonight, I had every intention of telling her how much she meant to me, how much I admired her strength. I wanted to lay bare all my feelings, to confess that my regard for her had been present from the start. I'd known, with a certainty that settled deep within me, that she was important. And when we had that moment, I believed our connection was undeniable. Now, it's clear I misjudged.

She seems to view any deep connection between us as a mistake, something to be avoided. Yet, if we are to be bound by marriage, it seems pragmatic to forge a functional relationship. What is the benefit in denying a connection that could prove beneficial, especially given our circumstances?

I understand her hesitation. I was, after all, instrumental in the conflict that devastated her armies. She may never fully grasp that my actions were not born of malice. I only sought to prove my capability to my father, to demonstrate my worth to my kingdom, and to show I could be a capable leader. I did not, and still do not, believe that the slaughter of innocent people or waging war on a blameless kingdom is the correct path.

I've always advocated for peace. My father, however, constantly seeks conflict, perpetually looking to expand his territory and conquer lands. I've always seen it as a waste. In my view, stronger alliances with other kingdoms would better prepare us against more formidable adversaries.

When my father ordered me to command the front lines, I was stunned. Perhaps I shouldn't have been. My older brother had just vanished, and after only weeks of searching, my father abandoned the effort. I was devastated by my brother's disappearance and likely death, but I knew I couldn't succumb to grief. I had to remain a strong figure for my people. I still find it hard to believe my father would send his only remaining heir to the battlefield, but his thinking is inscrutable.

Would he still be looking for my brother if he knew that he was alive? The hooded woman told me he was here, in the castle, beaten and bruised but still alive. I had to remember my true mission and not let my conflicting emotions for Aleah get in my way. If I could find my brother, I was one step closer to getting out of this castle and returning with him to Trithia, perhaps with Aleah too if she decided. She doesn't truly love me though and she made it clear just before we vanished into the secret tunnels. I wished I could make her change her mind about me, but I promised not to force anything on her that she wasn't ready for and I was a man of my word.

I look at the young woman before me now as she led me through the dark tunnels. She perceives herself as overlooked, disliked, and weak. Yet, I hold her in high regard, a sentiment I believe she senses, though she may not understand its depth.

I would make any sacrifice for her protection, even if it meant confronting my father and defying him. If it came down to my Father or Aleah, I didn't truly know who I would chose. It was my sworn duty to be loyal to my kingdom, but I loved Aleah deeply. Could my feelings for her be stronger than my duty to my kingdom?

If I chose Aleah over my kingdom, my father would stop at nothing to capture me and make me pay. He would destroy kingdom after kingdom and kill anyone who stood against him, just to get back at me for not fulfilling my duty.

For that reason, when the opportune moment arrives, I will ensure he no longer threatens anyone.