The Heart of Broken Wishes

Chapter 2

Chapter 2: Peace and Sacrifice

My father was over the moon with happiness, and the entire kingdom was celebrating.

I had no clue what was going on, so I approached my father and asked, "What's happening, Dad?"

With a joyous expression, King Howard replied, "We have won the war, and we couldn't have done it without Loki's help."

"I am happy for you," I responded, trying to hide my suspicion.

I knew that our kingdom was still at war with Loki, and it was highly likely that he would want something in return for his help in defeating King Jermey. I was alone in my room when one of my father's guards came to inform me that he wanted to see me.

I went to visit my father.

I said with anger in my voice. "What do you want, Dad?"

King Howard looked surprised at my tone and asked, "Why are you so angry? I thought you would be happy that we won the war."

Not wanting to talk about the war, I repeated my question, "What do you want?" King Howard took a deep breath and replied, "I want to reward Loki for his services by giving him your hand in marriage."

Shocked, I asked, "How could you make such a decision without even asking me about it?!"

"King Howard angrily replied, "Loki has saved this kingdom and you should be grateful!"

I replied with equal fury, "Loki only saves the kingdom for his own benefit. He does not care about you or your people. Furthermore, he does not love me, and I do not love him. I refuse to marry him!"

King Howard insisted, "You will learn to love him!"

Frustrated, I saw no point in further arguing and stormed off."

Prince Paul

King Richard was facing a problem with his son, Prince Paul. The prince was lazy and did not fulfill his responsibilities as a prince. He spent most of his time with girls. Meanwhile, King Richard was engaged in a war with King Howard, who had the support of Loki's army. King Richard was concerned about the strength of Loki's army and wanted to make peace with King Howard. To achieve this, he planned to send his sons, Prince George and Prince Paul, to France for negotiations. However, King Richard was uncertain whether it was a good idea to send Prince Paul, given his reputation.

King Richard sent a letter to King Howard requesting permission for his sons, Prince George and Prince Paul, to come to France and discuss peace. King Howard replied, agreeing to let the princes come, but he wanted to wait until his daughter and Loki were married before allowing them to visit France.