Disclaimer: I do not own or have the rights to He-Man, so don't sue me. I make no profit from this story.
Author's Note: This is my first fanfic ever, so be gentle and let me know what you think. Thanks to my beta jadesymphony for her help.
Adam dragged himself out of bed, dreading the morning. Life at the castle had been busy for everyone. Defenses were spread thin around the castle, with both Man-At-Arms and Teela stuck in extended battle against one of the neighboring kingdoms, Elias. Adam's father had been involved in a series of discussions concerning a possible alliance with Elias that would be to the benefit of both countries, but thus far Elias had proved to be determinedly neutral. Their recent turn as an enemy came as a surprise, forcing Adam to take a more serious role to support his father in the dispute. With Adam's duties as Prince taking up most of his day, along with his responsibilities as He-Man against Skeletor's relentless and suspicious night attacks, Adam was left with very little time for rest, let alone free time for himself.
"It looks like it's going to be one of those days, Cringer," Adam yawned.
Cringer buried his face in the covers, ignoring Adam's response. Despite the lack of sleep and free time, Adam was almost enjoying the situation. Everyone's renewed faith in Adam, specifically from his parents, allowed him to be more true to himself. The secrets he was forced to keep were a constant burden on him; he was almost ashamed at having to tarnish his name in order to keep He-Man's identity a secret. Despite the warnings from both Man-At-Arms and the Sorceress, Adam wanted to take a larger role in the situation, both as Prince and as He-Man. He had a gut feeling there was some sort of deal between Skeletor and Elias.
As Adam went to meet his father for the daily schedule, he contemplated his improved relationship with his father. Although their relationship was usually strained, his 'renewed' interest in his role as Prince and less on slacking off definitely eased the tension. Working so closely on the current issue with both Elias and Skeletor's attacks brought them closer together. It became increasingly harder to keep his identity as He-Man a secret from him, with it playing such a large and important role in his life. As he was lost in thought, he bumped into his father in the hallway.
"Ready for another long day, Adam?" King Randor boomed as he approached.
Adam hesitated, avoiding eye contact. Every time he saw that look of pride in his father's eyes, he would falter and had to resist the temptation to tell him everything. Then he would think of the harsh, brutal, and unforgiving nature of Skeletor if the truth was ever discovered. Once again, Adam repressed those feelings and displayed a more business-like tone.
"What's the latest update on the situation, Father?"
That look of pride never leaving his eyes, King Randor walked down the hallway side-by-side with his son, discussing the new information that had just come to light.