Queen Seraphina's demeanor changed.
"So you mean this Liora girl is bringing a change in Kealan?
Let's watch them for a while. In the meantime I will hasten your coronation as crown prince, I will bring elders on your side and princes from other kingdom to support your quest as the crown prince."
Now all you need to do is control and improve on your mind manipulation, and I know the best tool for that. An evil smirk formed on her face".
Kealan, entering his chamber, sighed in annoyance. The mini castle belonging to him had never been lonely. He last felt that when he lost his mother, but now what was this strange feeling? It's not like he is already married to Liora.
Love… he called out in a whisper.
"Will this be a strength or my weakness?"
"I will vouch for both your highness."
His eyes snapped to the voice that intruded, giving a deadly glare; his face soon got calm, realizing it was Lord Varek.
Kealan looked away nonchalantly as he inspected his sword while speaking.
"You are the only one who has the audacity to intrude in my castle without permission, but rest assured all that will change when I get married; you can't barge into my chambers anymore, Lord Varek, his tone held an edge of happiness".
"It seems his highness is captivated with the young lady. You almost had my head when I introduced you to a marriage proposal with a beautiful princess, but here you are willingly entering the marriage yourself. It's too bad I didn't get to see the healer's face. Though I heard she was a beauty."
Kealan gave him a deadly glare. "She's a beauty, that's for sure, but I don't think I'm quite comfortable with you calling her that. See with your eyes and take it off."
Lord Varek let out a little cough at the indirect threat Prince Kealan gave. Talking in a low whisper, which was still loud enough to be heard.
"Look at you acting all jealous. How many eyes and mouths are you going to pluck, lover boy?"
Kealan sighed, dropping his sword, which made a loud clang. Lord Varek
"I have known you since I was young, as you have been close to my mother, but why on earth aren't you married? That's a shame."
Lord Varek was at a loss for words. Did this little brat just insult him? He chuckled. "You sure have a way of hitting the nail on the right spot."
Your Highness, Lord Varek's voice turned serious, and Kealan knew what he was about to say.
"How long will you keep your powers hidden, have you considered fighting for the throne? You have equal rights as Gavin. Your mother is from the kingdom of Florindial, and your grandparents will fully support your claim." Lord Vareks's eyes pleaded.
"I don't have any interest in the throne just to find out who murdered my mother and ruined my happiness, however now I suddenly want the throne too."
Really, lord varek's eyes lit up. "Why? What made you change your mind?
Well, let's say a special someone...
Lord Varek opened his mouth in awe, blurting out, You crazy prince!
"I convinced you for nineteen years of your life , and she just comes all of a sudden you want to take the throne."
Dorian stared at Lord Varek with a look that said, He is dead , while Kealen looked at him in astonishment at the insult, though he found it funny.
Realizing his words, he gave an apology, laughing nervously.
Kealan let out a little smile before laughing; it warmed both Lord Varek's and Dorian's hearts to see him smile.
"Lord Varek, save your energy; we have a wedding to prepare, remember?"
An authoritative voice stood out.
"Why is a wedding being planned and I, the king, your father, am not involved or part of the preparations?"
Noticing the presence of the king, they bowed, with Kealen being the last to bow.
"What's with people entering my castle without proper invitation? Kealan mumbled".
King Aldric laughed, stretching his arms out for a hug.
"You have always been a feisty little brat.Come give your father a hug. Congratulations to you, son."
Kealan moved reluctantly but returned the hug.
Everyone leave us, the king commanded. Soon the chamber was left with only King Aldric and Kealan.
King Aldric stared at his son. He wasn't wearing a mask this time. He never knew the reason why he started wearing a mask, but he knew his trauma, anger, and distance started from the day his beloved and favorite wife died.
He stared at Kealan, who was a mixture of him and his late wife Flora. He never got to miss her too much because he could see a part of her face in Kealen.
He had to admit his son was extremely handsome and had grown to be a great prince. He just wished Kealan would give him more chances to be in his life.
King Aldric's voice was laced with sadness. Do you still blame me for your mother's, my wife death?
Kealan saw the pain in his eyes; maybe he had been too hard on his father. Clenching his fist , I no longer blame you, Father. Hearing the word father warmed King Aldric's heart.
"I was being childish, and I needed someone to blame. I admit I resented you for not protecting her properly. Even with all the love, money, and power you had, you couldn't save her. But she's your wife, and I saw how much you grieved even till now. I am sure Mother will want you to move on now."
King Aldric's heart melted, drawing his son in for another hug. Please give me the chance to make it right, Kealan. I miss our closeness.
Kealan gave a smile; he felt extremely happy. I already did a long time ago, Father. I just didn't know how to show it or get back on track with you since I haven't done it in a while.
King Aldric let out a laugh. "Then what better chance than making my son's wedding the event of the season?"
Do you love Liora, son? King Aldric asked, wanting to confirm from his son personally again.
I do, Father. I feel... I don't know how to explain it, Father, but she's the one.
King Aldric laughed out loud. "I guess I should have paired her with you a long time ago then."
Kealan gave a smirk. Good thing Gavin rejected her; if not, I might just have kidnapped and married her myself despite the consequences that might come with it.
King Aldric smiled, flattered a little. Kealen was obviously in love with her; it would have caused a disaster if both brothers were to be in love with her. He sighed internally. Everything is for the best then.
"Would you like me to tell you the story of how I met you mother and how she captivated my heart ,who knows it might give you some tips on how to deepen your relationship with Liora."
Loving this new relationship with his father, he smiled. Liora sure might have unknowngly brought the father and son together after a long time of distance and pain.