Four months had passed since that pivotal council meeting that reshaped our war plans. There was still much to resolve, but the landscape was gradually transforming as our initiatives took hold. Leaves began to unfurl, the snow melted with each sunny morning, and the flowers in the garden bloomed—witnesses to my intense cries as Eriendel left my body. The pain was excruciating; the birth difficult. I felt the King by my side, his hand holding mine. I pushed with every ounce of strength as the medic urged me on. Why did it have to hurt so much? I tried in vain to steady my breath. Just yesterday—even while confined to bedrest—I was sending letters and actively participating in the council. Now, something inside me was tearing apart, killing me slowly as I brought our child into the world.
Those months had been complicated. Yet we managed to implement several intricate plans. The most vital cities of Neopolita were visited. We traveled to each sporadically, staying at least a week, distributing royal presence and propaganda. Expectant parents always moved people—so appearing in winter games, harvest festivals, and humble receptions helped shape a positive image for the reign Yurick aspired to. I urged him to be sincere in his speeches, to speak with the less fortunate and treat the privileged with kindness. To speak of Roham with the fervor he's always held for his kingdom. With my social finesse and his imposing presence, we gained ground, paving the way for our campaign against Akasia. My grandfather grew concerned—and sent two curt letters addressed to his grandson. We ignored Brizida, but kept closely watching—knowing Akasia might be stirring unrest there. I spent nights studying its geography, and exploring "magical" sites. It was a tense season, and Yurick bore the brunt of my anxiety. I discovered the ghoststone—a mineral with magical properties we could deploy—though I doubt we'd find enough for an entire army. Many were skeptical, but my performance and that of the castle's scientific team silenced all critics. If only I could have delivered the stone sooner... but my labor was imminent. Two days ago I'd gone to visit the airship engineer—and now I was screaming in this opulent room, utterly unable to escape the pain. I threw myself into my duties to distract from the thought of Yurick's departure.
I must have fainted at least twice before hearing our son's cry. The bleeding was intense. I couldn't hold him—he convulsed in my arms, and I'm not even sure what happened next. All I remember are Yurick's steady words—he'd stayed by my side since our meeting with Jamal. Even when separated, he refused to leave me. His protection spoke volumes.
I woke five days later, weakened and craving food and water. Someone handed me a drink as soon as I began stirring. I lay in bed with fresh-smelling linens. A cradle stood beside me. I tried to sit up—but failed. Yurick came to me, sat at my side, and caressed my face.
—Where is he? —I asked, exhaustion rasping my voice. With Yurick's help, I propped myself up. He retrieved our son from the cradle and placed him in my arms. I gazed at this fragile little being—dark-skinned, eyes already golden like mine, hair the same soft brown as Yurick's. I smiled at his peaceful sleeping face. But his birth also meant we'd soon cross borders and conquer a nation—a man who once threatened his grandson's life. I tried not to think of that. Instead, I traced my finger along his tiny face, cherishing the moment.
—His features are so gentle. We have a daughter, Eriendel. —Yurick said, genuine in his smile, placing a protective arm around me as we admired our daughter. I felt a joy I hadn't known before. I sensed the love I would give her—and hoped the war wouldn't take my alpha from me. A sigh escaped as that thought passed through my mind.
—Whatever you were thinking... just stop. —Yurick grasped my face to meet my eyes. —I was so worried during the birth. You know if I had to choose, I'd always choose you, right? I love you, Seyrim. Nothing will ever change that. —He pressed a gentle kiss to my lips, and I closed my eyes, savoring the soft touch. I held Eriendel carefully against me.
—I love you too. I just... fear seeing you march against my grandfather again. If there's a chance I'll lose you a second time... how will I survive? Those weeks were so hard, you know that. And now...
My words trailed off, interrupted by the sound of our daughter's cry. I fed her as soon as possible—it was a feeling unlike any other. I wished my mother had been there... I'd have asked her everything: how to calm a newborn, how to mend my anxious heart. But I had no close relatives I could trust. Lara entered quietly with a tray of light food. Yurick made a point of feeding me while tending to Eriendel. He seemed deep in thought. That day, I simply needed rest—and Lara stayed with us throughout, looking after me.
The following morning, we ventured out into the courtyard. Eriendel needed the gentle spring sun—and people needed to see the princess heiress. It was a holiday in the capital, but a week of celebration followed the birth. It was vital for the common folk to glimpse the royal line— to know Neopolita and Roham were united under one crown. I noticed the soldiers preparing—departing at the month's end. They gathered supplies, armor, and the balloons that would support them. Field medics, blacksmiths, and support staff gathered. Whenever I saw the armies, my heart tightened. I had to remember—this was my own decision. Yurick, for his part, waited for spring and the birth before plunging into war. That most important part was done.
I sat in one of the garden's pavilions, eating quietly while Lara walked Eriendel nearby. Guards stood watch—it was necessary. We'd intercepted fifteen spies over recent months. Every precaution was taken with the royal family. Still, I couldn't shake the thought that I only had two weeks of Yurick's company left. He was busy leading the army and organizing troops—so our time together was limited. I needed to govern, to fulfill my role too.
I picked up Eriendel and returned to my chambers. Lara stayed close—always ready to assist, knowing Yurick wouldn't want me exhausted.
As I'd known, the King remained preoccupied all week. I cared for our daughter nearly alone, with Lara's help. I needed Yurick by my side—but each night he collapsed in slumber, utterly fatigued from the day. Each morning he was gone again, gone early to see the troops. Usually, lunch was our only shared meal—and even then, I spent most of it with Eriendel. The load was becoming heavy. Yet the night before, the King held a public parade. It was a beautiful display, and the entire city celebrated the heiress. Even amid war, there was hope—and joy to be found in such moments.
Upon returning to the castle, Yurick took our child in his arms and handed her to Lara, instructing her to take her to the bedroom and help her sleep. Though it was time for her rest, I never spent so long away from our daughter—and the sudden separation stirred a strange unease in me. Being apart from her at this time of day?
Yurick noticed the discomfort in my expression and gently touched my shoulder.
—We'll only talk for a few minutes. Then we'll return to the room. We need to go over strategy and discuss tomorrow's journey. — His voice was calm and reassuring. I looked toward Lara's back as she carried Eriendel away, my hands unconsciously tightening into fists. Still, I followed Yurick into the war council room.
—Just don't take too long. I don't feel safe leaving Erien alone. — I sighed, trying to release the tension from my chest. Inside, Arien was already waiting, her imposing stance emanating respect without the need for words.
—When I first led the troops in Roham, it was a risky move. If not for Arien's brother and his sharp mind—along with her unwavering loyalty—I might have faced a coup the moment I stepped into Neopolita. I had to inspire the troops, so I chose to move forward with trust. There were many factors that helped us overcome the obstacles, of course. But it's rare for a king to act as a general on the front lines. — Yurick paused, his gaze scanning the papers before him. — I've left everything prepared. The strategies we worked on for months are fully outlined. The training has gone remarkably well. Arien will lead the forces—five thousand strong—toward Akasia. She will take the front lines, securing each territory. Our goal remains the same: to unite Roham and Neopolita as one strong nation. I am no longer a man who can afford to risk his life on the battlefield. I have a family now. And I must choose wisdom over recklessness.
I stood there in stunned silence.
Since when had Yurick decided to stay behind? Why hadn't he told me sooner? My breath quickened with the surprise—and a swelling relief I couldn't quite hide.
—Since when have you been making all these plans without consulting me? — I asked, my tone sharp with irritation, even as the corners of my lips betrayed the beginning of a smile.
—I've been thinking about it for weeks. But I needed to be cautious. Only Arien knew. At first, I did intend to go. But I realized I can't keep gambling with what I've built. Not when you and our daughter are my world. — The alpha stepped closer, cupping my face with gentle hands. — I'll stay by your side until the very end.
—You could've told me. — I leaned into him, still wondering if this was all a dream. I glanced at Arien, who simply nodded with assurance. My heart softened, and I embraced Yurick fully.
—Yurick had been weighing the decision carefully. But he needed to trust me, too. I can lead the troops without issue. I'll follow the plan and manage the resources. There's no need for two generals. — Arien's words carried confidence and calm. It made me smile. I rested my head against Yurick's chest, breathing in his scent. Relief surged through me. I needed him more than I could say—so did the kingdom. The fear of losing him again had haunted me for too long.
—I trust you, Arien. — Yurick said, without hesitation. — And that's why you'll lead the march at the end of the month. But right now, I have something else I want to do.
Without warning, the alpha swept me into his arms.
I blinked in surprise, my cheeks heating instantly as he carried me through the castle halls. I could guess his intent, but that didn't stop the flush of embarrassment—and anticipation—that warmed my skin.
—I could've walked. — I murmured shyly.
—And tire those beautiful feet? — he teased with a knowing grin. His scent was enveloping me, the familiar pull between us impossible to ignore. After months of restraint, our longing had grown unbearable—fueled by lingering touches and desperate kisses. We were both at our limit.
He carried me into my old chambers, and as soon as the door closed, he kissed me with an intensity that stole my breath. I melted into it, surrendering to the familiar rhythm of his lips, the way he claimed my attention so effortlessly. His clothes fell away in haste, and I followed suit, exposing us both to the air between us. There was no more need for patience.
—I'm not letting you rest tonight. — he whispered against my ear, his voice low and rough with longing. His fingers trailed down my chest, teasing the sensitive skin with purpose. My breath hitched, caught between pleasure and anticipation.
—Then I'd better be ready to please my husband. — I replied, my voice trembling with desire.
Though his movements grew more intense, there was care in every touch, every glance. He understood me—my body, my silence, the way I reached for him not only out of need but out of trust. His kisses were not just hungry—they were grounding. And in this moment, I needed nothing more than that connection.
—You make it impossible to hold back. — Yurick breathed, his voice now soft and reverent, as if he too understood that what passed between us was more than longing—it was love reaffirmed.
Returning to the castle, Yurick took our child in his arms and handed her to Lara, instructing her to take her to the bedroom and help her sleep. Though it was time for rest, I was unaccustomed to being apart from our daughter for so long, and an unfamiliar unease settled in me. To be separated from her at this hour?
My husband noticed my discomfort and gently touched my shoulder.
—We'll only talk for a few minutes, then we'll return to the room. We need to review strategies and discuss tomorrow's journey. — His voice was calm. I watched Lara's back as she carried Eriendel away, quietly clenching my fists, but I followed Yurick to the war council room.
—Just don't take too long. I don't feel safe leaving Erien alone. — I sighed, the weight of my worries pressing on me. Inside, Arien awaited with her commanding presence, radiating the respect she always did.
—When I first led the troops in Roham, it was a risky move. Without Arien's brother and his sharp mind, along with her unwavering loyalty, I might have faced a coup the moment I stepped into Neopolita. But I had to inspire the troops, so I chose to trust and move forward. Many factors helped us overcome obstacles, but it's rare for a king to lead as a general on the front lines. — Yurick paused, his eyes scanning documents. — I've prepared everything—the strategies we've discussed over these months are fully outlined. Training has been satisfactory. Arien will lead the troops—five thousand strong—against Akasia. She will take the front lines, securing each territory. Our goal is to unite Roham and Neopolita into one strong nation. I am no longer a man who can risk his life on the battlefield. I have a family now. I must choose wisdom and caution.
I could hardly believe what I was hearing. Since when had Yurick made these plans? Why hadn't he told me sooner? My breath caught in surprise and relief.
—Since when have you been planning all this without consulting me? — I asked, irritation in my voice but a smile already forming.
—I've been considering it for weeks, but I kept it quiet. Only Arien knew. It was necessary to be cautious. I intended to lead the battle, but I can't keep risking my family and what I've built. — The alpha stepped closer, gently holding my face. — I'll stay by your side until the end.
—You could have told me. — I leaned into him, half in disbelief, glancing at Arien, who nodded reassuringly. I smiled, relieved, and embraced Yurick tightly.
—Yurick had been weighing this decision carefully. He needed to trust me too. I can lead the troops competently, follow the plan, and manage resources. There's no need for two generals. — Arien's confidence was steady, and it reassured me. I rested my head on Yurick's chest, breathing in his scent, feeling the weight lift from my shoulders. I needed him. Neopolita needed its king. The fear of losing him again had haunted me long enough.
—I trust you, Arien. — Yurick declared without hesitation. — That's why you will lead the march at the end of this month. But for now, there's something else I want to do.
Suddenly, Yurick lifted me into his arms.
I blinked, cheeks flushing as he carried me through the castle halls. I knew what he intended, yet the warmth of his touch sent a shiver of excitement through me.
—I could have walked. — I murmured shyly.
—And tire those beautiful feet? — he teased with a sly smile. His scent surrounded us, the magnetic pull between us impossible to resist. After months of restraint, our longing was overwhelming.
He carried me to my old chambers, closing the door behind us. His kiss stole my breath, drawing me deep into that familiar rhythm of lips and warmth. Clothes slipped away quickly, and soon we were bare beneath the soft light. There was no need for patience anymore.
—I won't let you rest tonight. — He whispered close to my ear, his voice low and filled with desire. His hands traced my chest, teasing sensitive skin with care. I gasped, caught between anticipation and pleasure.
—Then I'd better be ready to please my husband. — I replied, voice soft and inviting.
Though his movements grew stronger, there was tenderness in every touch, every glance. He knew me—my body, my silences, the way I reached for him not just out of need but trust. His kisses were grounding, a connection that went beyond desire.
—You make it impossible to hold back. — Yurick breathed, voice thick with feeling, as if recognizing that what we shared was more than longing—it was love reaffirmed.