Bound by a Blade (PauPat)

Chapter Eighteen - The True King

A rising flame was alight as the flow of time carved a new history for the Kingdom of Dalywen.

"People of Dalywen!"

A cheer rang out, fading away into the open sky.

"For years, our great nation was tormented by the false king, Magnus. Throughout these past two decades, we have been in search of the true heir to the throne. After the battle that lead to Magnus's fall, the prince was discovered at last, wielding Klasina's Rapier with grace only achievable by one carrying her blood and sacred ring."

Another cheer of triumph sounded.

"Prince Pau Van der Velde, are you prepared to take an oath to your kingdom and be crowned king of Dalywen."

"I am ready."

Pau stared forward, his expression flat and serious. Even after days of rehearsals, he only felt more nervous and insecure than he had the day he was declared the heir to the throne. He gripped the rose gold sword in his hand, trying to imagine his mother being there, holding his hand to calm his nerves.

"Do you solemnly vow to govern Dalywen and its borders, and to keep them safe from those who would see them breached."

"I vow this to my land."

"Do you solemnly vow to keep its people safe from those who would wish to harm them?"

"I vow this to my people."

Taking a deep breath, Pau stepped forward. He kneeled after exactly twenty steps.

Just like I practiced. Just like I practiced.

His breath hitched as the crown- more like a gold headband- was carefully placed on his head. The headdress was simple- a golden band that fit behind his ears, decorated with pale pink and lavender gemstones. Apparently, the Dalywen royalty had never been much for showy, over-the-top crowns and robes.

"With this, we declare you our king. May your reign be long and joyous for all."

Pau stood up and turned to face the crowd. With a smile, he held up his sword- his precious family heirloom- and let out a cry of triumph.

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"Pau, where are you taking me?"

Pau only answered with a small laugh. His heart pounded against his chest as he held onto his lover's hand, practically pulling him through the snowy forest.

"Slow down!" Pat cried, nearly tripping with every step. "I can barely keep up!"

"Run faster then!" Pau replied with a playful grin, tightening his grip. "If I lose you along the way, you'll just have to find your way there yourself!"

"I don't even know where we're going!"

Pau was about to retort, but then gasped and stopped suddenly, causing Pat to run into him. "Hey!" Pat shouted. "A warning would've been-"

"Shh." Pau turned around and brought a finger to his lover's lips. "We're here."

He turned back around and began walking forward, Pat following close behind him. The place they had arrived at was the small clearing near the lake, where the two had spent many nights indulging in conversation during their days in the Resistance.

"Pau, oh my goodness!" Pat's eyes widened when he realized where they were. "It's been so long since- oh, you got so busy with planning the attack on the castle that we never got to..."

Pau smiled as they stepped out of the forest and into the clearing. "It's just as beautiful as I remember," he sighed. Turning around to face his lover, he grinned. "But not nearly as beautiful as you."