Alexei-19 / Gustav-17 / Victor-16 /

"But father please!-" The second prince of Westertyde stood before his father

"I said No, Gustav, You won't abandon your birth-right for some petty dream" the king didn't bother to look at his son

"It is not a petty dream-" the seventeen years-old prince protested "-I know I can do great things if you just give me the chance"

The king glanced at him, a stern frown on his stoic face "I won't have my son work like a mere commoner" Gustav's hands were clenched in fists of pure rage

"It is our family's tradition, father… every Westergaard has-"

"Every Westergaard has the obligation to join the Navy for two years, but that does not mean they belong amongst the peasants" the king roared above the prince's voice, Gustav shrunk before his father, incapable of voicing his opinion

"It is a noble duty father, you'll need someone you can trust inside their high command"

The king sneered at his son "Exactly-" he answered with disdain "-we won't discuss this any further" Gustav remained in silence, powerless to defend his dreams, his father left the room without another word.

.

It was only hours later that Victor found Gustav, sitting on the docks and sadly staring at the sea

"...Gustav? You've been gone for hours, are you alright?" the prince didn't bother to look at his younger brother

"Father doesn't understand, I don't need the crown, my place has never been on the throne… I am no king..."

Victor shrugged "Then, what are you?"

Gustav hesitated for a moment "I- I am a brother, my place is by your side, by Alexei's side... I know that I can be useful to the twelve of you if I join the navy"

Victor smiled "I think so too... You are one of the best sailors there is" the eldest chuckled

"Well... Apparently I am not, I have no idea what father wants me to do... Alexei is the heir to the throne, why can't I do whatever I think it's best?"

Victor nudged at his brother "Well, Alexei is talking to father about your position"

Gustav's face lit up "R-really?" the youngest nodded

"He was furious with father, he is now trying to explain to him that you are the best the navy has seen in decades"

Gustav jumped to his feet "Then I have to go! I can't let Alexei fix all my troubles" he said full of energy, Victor nodded and followed his brother back to the castle.