Crowns Of Fate (on Hold)

Chapter 12

G E N E R A L  P O V

In the elegant dining hall of the Zenith Arcanum castle, the royal family gathered for a sumptuous evening dinner. The long table was adorned with flickering candles, gleaming silverware, and platters of delectable dishes. King Alexander and Queen Aurelia sat at the head of the table, and finally, their son, Jeongguk, arrived at their side.

As the meal progressed and the atmosphere grew warmer, King Alexander raised his glass, a glint of purpose in his eyes. "My dear family, this evening marks a special occasion. Jeongguk, you have only a few weeks left until your coronation, and there is a matter of great importance we must discuss."

Jeongguk looked up from his plate, curiosity piqued by his father's serious tone. "Of course, Father. What is it?"

Queen Aurelia, her regal presence softening the gravity of the moment, added, "Jeongguk, as you prepare to ascend to the throne, it is customary for our kingdom to have a queen by your side. Have you given any thought to the idea of choosing a bride?"

Jeongguk's gaze shifted between his parents, his expression a mix of contemplation and unease. The memories of the Royal Camp of Diplomacy rushed back, the laughter, the friendships, and the moment when Taehyung's smile had unexpectedly filled his thoughts.

He took a deep breath and replied, "I have considered it, Mother, Father, but I must admit, I have not made a decision yet. The responsibility of choosing a queen for our kingdom is not one I take lightly."

He quickly turned his eyes back to his plate on the table, brows furrowed due to what had flashed before his eyes when his parents mentioned a partner. He could not decipher the reason as to why that particular image made itself know, and quite frankly, he was not upset.

Uneased? Yes. Worried? Yes. But not necessarily upset. He willingly allowed the image to display at the back of his mind, but he ad to explored that thought first.

His father nodded, his eyes reflecting a blend of understanding and paternal concern. "We understand the weight of this decision, Jeongguk. But as the days pass and your coronation approaches, it becomes increasingly important that we have a queen by your side to support you in your duties."

Jeongguk lowered his gaze once again as he had raised them up when his father started talking, his mind conflicted. The image of Taehyung's smile flashed before his eyes once more, a vivid reminder of the bond they had formed during their time together.

Queen Aurelia reached out and placed a reassuring hand on Jeongguk's. "Remember, baby, that we trust your judgment. Choose a queen who not only fits the role but also shares your values and aspirations. You have our support in this decision."

Jeongguk nodded, his heart heavy with the weight of his impending choice. "Thank you, Mother, Father. I will take your words to heart and make a decision that I believe is best for our kingdom. May I please be excused?"

The King and Queen exchanged worried glances amongst each other. They were worried that they had pushed their son too far with the marriage issue, knowing very well that it was the last thing on his mind, especially during a royal event such as The Royal Camp of Diplomacy where Kingdom alliances are strengthened and forged.

Aurelia somberly smiled and nodded at her eldest son who stood up and bowed to both his parents, courtiers and younger brothers before leaving for his room.

He left a quite atmosphere behind, but it was quickly recovered when they turned to Jimin who was trying by all means to hide from his parents behind a piece of chicken.

King Alexander sighed at his second youngest while the queen quietly chuckled at the duos behaviour.

"Jimin?" Alexander called. The former pretended not to hear his dad and said, "You know mom, this chicken is really good, I should go feed it to Bam." Then he quickly left the dining room.