King ~ A Troyler Story.

Chapter 2

King Tyler's POV

Tyler placed the goblet at his lips once more, tipping it back in a smooth movement which allowed the red liquid to slosh down his throat. He raised one hand and used his fingers to scratch down his throat where a light dusting of stubble had grown. His eyes were half closed, an effect caused by the alcohol. The beginnings of the day had begun creeping into the throne room, the sunbeams lighting up a few marble slates on the floor. Tyler sat up straight in his throne, already dressed in his slacks with just a thin shirt. One arm was draped over the thick golden arm while the other held the goblet tightly. He kept his lips pressed in a straight line and his eyes focused forward.

Several members of staff were bustling around the throne room, moving several tables and chairs to prepare for the party that was to take place after the coronation. No staff dared to lock eyes with the Prince, even though some of the newer maids had never seen him before. The Prince of course preferred it this way; he didn't want their looks of sympathy. It was of course early but he knew people would be arriving soon as he waited for the nervous request to get him ready from one of the maids. Eventually a young woman who looked to be about sixteen came and knelt in front of him. She stood with her hands tightly clasped in front of her, trying hard not to fidget. Her copper hair was swept back into a tight bun, with only a few wisps curling around her ears.

Tyler felt an unfamiliar surge of pity for her and he wished that he was once again his happy self so he could make her comfortable. However he was far from who he once was, the incident that took place four years earlier making him spiral into a place he wouldn't wish upon anyone. He did try not to snap at his handmaidens but one often found it hard when anxiety was always lingering like a shadow. He wished he could thank them all for their unwavering loyalty and he hoped the time would come eventually. He returned his gaze to the young girl, nodding to inform her that she could speak to him.

"Your Highness, I must prepare you for the coronation. It will be starting soon." Her voice shook slightly and Tyler lifted his goblet, drinking the rest of the wine with one swift gulp. He then stood, not wavering in the slightest, and walked down the length of the throne room feeling the eyes of several on his back. His stride was long and fast, giving off the impression that he was not to be interrupted by anyone except the hand maiden that quickly stumbled after him. He soon reached his private chambers and the guards swung open the doors, letting them shut once the young girl stepped through.

A while later, Tyler had been bathed, shaved and was now waiting to be dressed. He assessed the young girl who was organising his outfit, hanging it upon the closet. Just before she unzipped it, Tyler cleared his throat and spoke. "What exactly am I wearing?" The young girl startled at his croaky voice, immediately bringing him a glass of water. Tyler raised an eyebrow at her pushy action and her cheeks flushed brightly as she stepped back in apology.

"My sincere apologies, Your Highness. I was worried about your throat as it sounds rather sore. The outfit belonged to your father. It was his coronation outfit I believe." Tyler froze at her words, the resentment he felt for his father rising up in him. His eyes narrowed into a harsh glare which scared the poor handmaiden into kneeling on the floor with her hands clasped in front of her. He heard a dry sob from her but the fury was corrupting him again, rising up in his throat, Tyler's personality welcoming it with open arms. He always tried so hard to keep his emotions for the deep depths of the night when no one could be harmed by his inflicting words.

"Why am I wearing that...that traitor's outfit. He was never fit to rule, why should he be a part of me on my coronation day?" The handmaiden let out another hushed cry. Her decision became a difficult one, she could not disrespect the previous King who had unfortunately met a horrid death but could also not upset the Prince. She brought her sleeve up and wiped the tears that were falling down her cheeks, trying to compose herself. Yet another sharp 'answer me' from the Prince made her scramble to her feet, her chest heaving. Tyler instantly felt guilty and he walked up to her, watching with regret as she flinched from him. He felt the need to lift her chin or possibly even hug her but he couldn't bring himself to show affection to another.