Astray Among The Stars

Chapter 32: Feudal Feud

Princess Maral twirled a strand of her ruby hair, smiling as she gazed into Holloway's walnut eyes. He took a bite of food, avoiding further encouraging eye contact. He could not be left alone, her invasive stares of admiration always present. She clung to him like a greedy parasite, not giving him any free time throughout the day, asking him questions, giving subtle hints, trying to seduce him. Her flirts and complements were relentless, a constant barrage of annoyances. Her persistence was the only thing he admired about her, even making advancements when he burst out in anger. Ignoring her would work for a while, but it wasn't enough to discourage her, not in the slightest.

"Am I pretty or ugly?"

Holloway thought for a moment, smirking slightly as he swallowed. "You're both: pretty ugly."

King Grigor chuckled as his daughter stared back incredulously. "See, Maral, he does not find you attractive."

She shook her head, enamored with his appearance. "I won't give him up, father. He is a gift of the gods. It is as if Lusine herself sent him."

The king scoffed. "Gift of the gods? These peasants came here without the gods' help, especially the god of love. Just like the rest of these Terrans, he is a mere commoner alien, unworthy of your time, unworthy for the thrown. They are Valmirians but with intelligence and technology. It would be a disgrace to marry a slave, just as it is to betroth him."

"Need I remind you, father, that marrying him is my decision to make, not yours."

"You can marry him, Maral, but that does not mean you can bear children with him."

Holloway nearly spat out his drink. "Wait, what?"

The king smiled at his utter shock. "She is infertile with our own. That is why she must marry outside of our species."

"Hell no." Holloway stood up. "Oh, hell no! I am not going to have children with her. I-"

Gadar stepped forward, forcing him back in his chair with one arm. "You will do it, or your ship will be destroyed and your kind will be imprisoned. Is that understood?"

Holloway nodded, his stomach sinking. He should have never stepped foot on this planet.

* * *

Polla knocked on the large wooden doors. They opened, the king's hazel eyes greeting her.

"May I have a word, your majesty?"

King Grigor nodded, stepping aside.

Polla walked to the window, staring out into the lakeside forests below. She sighed. "Does Holloway really have to marry her?"

"If that is what my daughter wishes, then yes."

"How can you let her do this? You're the king!"

"My days are numbered, Terran. Everyday, I get weaker. The end of my reign is near. I do not want her to be alone when I die."

"What will people think, knowing you cannot even control your own daughter? Can't you do something?"

The elderly king sighed. "I cannot, my child. If it is her wish to marry and bear children with Harris, then I cannot and will not get in her way."

"She's using you. She's taking advantage of your health."

"Nonsense! Do not accuse my daughter of such deception. Do not anger me, Terran. Your kind has already done enough damage and disrespect! I do not approve as you do, but that does not warrant you the reason to take your anger out on me! Get out of my chambers, now!"