Forbbiden Love Princess & Guard☑️

Chap #9 King Edmund & Queen Seraphina

In the grandeur of the royal study, King Edmund Falkenstein stood by the large window, his arms crossed over his chest as he gazed out at the palace grounds. The evening sun bathed the kingdom of Valorian in a golden light, but the king's mind was far from peaceful. His brow furrowed, deep in thought, as the weight of his duties and the future of his kingdom pressed heavily upon him.

Behind him, Queen Seraphina sat at a polished mahogany desk, reviewing documents with her usual calm efficiency. Dressed in an elegant gown, her posture was regal, yet her eyes gleamed with the sharp intelligence that had always set her apart as more than just a queen in title. She was a strategist, always thinking several steps ahead.

"Is something troubling you, Edmund?" Seraphina's voice cut through the silence, soft yet commanding.

Edmund didn't turn immediately, his gaze still fixed on the horizon. "It's Elara," he said after a long pause. "She's been... distant. I worry she isn't taking her role seriously enough."

Seraphina placed the documents down carefully, her fingers lingering on the edges as she considered her husband's words. "She is taking it seriously, perhaps too seriously," she replied. "But you and I both know she's resisting this marriage with Lucien."

Edmund finally turned, his expression stern. "She has no choice. This alliance with Avendale is crucial. Our people depend on the stability it will bring."

Seraphina met his gaze, her own expression calm but firm. "I agree, the alliance is necessary. But Elara is our daughter, not just a pawn in the political game. If we push too hard, we risk losing her in ways that matter far more than politics."

The king's jaw clenched, frustration flickering in his eyes. "What would you have me do, Seraphina? We've given her everything—position, education, guidance. Yet she hesitates. Do you think she could be in love with someone else?"

Seraphina's brow arched slightly. "There are whispers. The bond between her and Captain Blackthorn is... noticeable, to say the least."

Edmund's expression darkened at the mention of Caden. "That knight—he is loyal, yes, but his station is far beneath hers. If Elara has feelings for him, they must be quashed immediately. Her duty is to the crown."

Seraphina stood, walking gracefully toward her husband, her hand resting gently on his arm. "Edmund, you're right—duty is important. But Elara's heart matters too. If we force her into a loveless marriage, it will only breed resentment. We must be careful how we navigate this."

The king sighed, his stern demeanor softening slightly in the presence of his wife's wisdom. "I don't want to see her unhappy, Seraphina. But I also cannot allow personal desires to undermine the stability of Valorian."

Seraphina nodded, her fingers lightly tracing the fabric of Edmund's sleeve as she considered their next move. "Then perhaps we should speak to her. Not as king and queen, but as her parents. Let her voice her concerns, and we will remind her of the larger picture—but with compassion."

Edmund studied his wife's face for a moment, appreciating the balance she always brought to these difficult matters. "You always know how to bring sense to my stubbornness," he said quietly, a faint smile tugging at the corner of his mouth.

Seraphina returned the smile, though her expression remained serious. "It's not stubbornness, Edmund. It's your devotion to this kingdom. But we must also devote ourselves to Elara's well-being."

The king looked away, his mind clearly working through the complicated emotions swirling around his daughter's future. After a moment, he nodded. "Very well. We'll speak to her."

Seraphina's hand dropped to her side as she stepped back, her gaze lingering on her husband. "There is also another matter we must consider. Duke Montford has been growing more ambitious as of late. His influence within the court is expanding, and I've noticed he's becoming too comfortable with his position."

Edmund's eyes narrowed at the mention of the duke. "Alaric Montford is useful, but he must remember his place. If he oversteps, he will be reminded swiftly."

Seraphina's voice was measured. "We may need to keep an eye on him. Power-hungry men like Alaric don't often stay satisfied with what they have. If he senses weakness—either in us or in Elara's situation—he may try to take advantage."

The king's hand clenched into a fist, his protective instincts rising. "He won't get far. But I will be vigilant."

Seraphina gave a small nod of approval. "Good. We cannot afford any distractions, not with this marriage alliance on the line. Avendale must remain an ally, and Montford must stay in his lane."

Edmund stepped closer to Seraphina, resting his hand on her shoulder. "I will handle Montford. You focus on Elara. If anyone can make her see the importance of this marriage while also respecting her emotions, it's you."

Seraphina smiled softly, her hand covering his. "Together, we will guide her. For the sake of Valorian, and for her happiness."

The king and queen stood there for a moment in silence, their bond as strong as ever despite the challenges they faced. They were not just rulers of Valorian, but parents navigating the complex world of power, love, and duty. Together, they would find a way to protect their daughter and secure the future of their kingdom.