King Ricardo
A few days later
King Ricardo, I hope this letter reaches you in time. I know you are away on business.
Unfortunately, I have to inform you that Whelsire was attacked last Friday after one of my son's graduation.
Thankfully, no one was severely hurt. However, because of the circumstances, my husband and I believe it would be wise to speed up the children's wedding.
I know you might not have agreed since you and my husband decided it was a good idea to wait. However, because of what happened, I do hope you change your mind.
The children have agreed to proceed quickly with the wedding and to set the date after Wassalia Day.
They are preparing for the wedding, and we hope that you will attend, not only this day but Wassalia Day as well since we are to be family.
The wedding will bring union to both kingdoms by expanding the growth and protection the kingdom needs.
Since we don't know who's behind the attacks or where they will strike next, I urge you to accept them for the sake of our kingdom and its people.
Sincerely,
Queen Sofia of Whelsire.
I looked at the letter that arrived a few days ago and could not help but smile and be slightly annoyed.
I was here when the letter arrived and opened it immediately, but I have yet to write back to Sofia and Hugo.
I thought making them a little longer would be better, especially since they think I am on a business trip. That is why I left Rosalie on their guard.
If I'm being honest, I should have done this sooner, especially since she really was no use to me, nothing more than a trade.
Ido hope thatshe is learning her lesson with them and doesn't make the mistake of falling for that idiot of William.
If she does, it couldpossiblyruin the plan. However, she's really off centered and likes to be quiet and private, so I doubt it.
Then again, that boy could ruin everything. I may have to visit my daughter to see how things are going there.
"Your majesty," said a familiar voice as I turned to see my steward walking in with atray of food.
I stoodupand walked to him, taking the food as he exited the door. 'Time to feed the innocent,' I thought as I smiled.
No one knew about my little plan with Duke Ben; they knew about his disappearance. However, thanks to me, everyone thought it was Hugo's doing.
I went behind my desk and pulled the carpet aside, revealing a small underground door. I pulled it to reveal small steps as I began to make my way down.
As I walked down the steps, the torchesbegan to lightup one by one, causing the rats to scurry away quickly.
Once I saw a familiar cellar, I came to a complete stop and noticed Ben sitting down with its shackles on his wrists.
"Now, don't be so sad, Ben; I give you a small amount of daylight and food," I said as I took out the keys and opened the cellar before walking in.
I walked towards him, leaving enough distance for him not to try to get at me again.
I placed the tray on the floor and slowly pushed it in his direction, causing him to look up at me, upset, as I smiled.
"Dinner time, Ben," I said, smiling. He rolled his eyes and turned to the side, annoyed.
"Now come on, Ben. You need to eat and rest. Those eye bags don't look good on you, dear friend," I said, smirking as he looked at me and raised his eyebrow.
"You are not my friend; you stopped being my friend the day you kidnapped me," he said as I chuckled.
"Oh, Ben, what can I ever do for you to forgive me?" I said, mocking him as he stared at me.
"You can start by letting me go and coming clean about what you did," he said, and Ilet out a chuckle.
"Don't make me laugh, Ben. I was just being sarcastic," I said, smirking. He raised his eyebrow and stared at me with a serious expression.
"I'm serious, Ricardo, turn yourself in. You still have time to amend your wrongdoings," he said as I rolled my eyes.
"Poor, innocent Ben. This is why you are down here and why I am up there; you are too naive," I said as he shook his head.
"What do you get out of this, Ricardo? Hugo and Sofia have done nothing to you; why are you trying to hurt them?" he asked as I smiled.
"Let's just say that if I couldn't be happy. Why should they get to be happy?" I said, smirking as he shook his head.
"You're losing yourself, Mark," he said, shaking his head as I felt a sudden rush of anger and looked at him with hatred.
"Never call me that again! He is dead! He's been dead since the entry denial!" I yelled, looking at Ben.
"They killed him, and now they will have to feel the rage!" I added as Ben looked a bit afraid before he shook his head.
"It wasn't meant for you; why are you still caught up on this?" He asked me as I took a deep breath before looking at him, smirking again.
"Funny, says the guy who was upset I didn't give my daughter to his son," I said as he began to get upset.
"She would have been well cared for with us; my son loves her," he said as I chuckled.
"And that's the problem. Love isn't what I am looking for; that is garbage," I said as he looked at me, shocked before cutting me off.
"But this is your daughter you're talking about! You should want her to be happy," he said as I beganto slightly walkaway.
I stopped inside the cell and turned towards Ben, smiling as he looked at me in confusion.
"I don't care about her; I never did. All I care about is power and revenge. Rosalie is simply a piece thatis going tohelp me gain my revenge," I said as he stared in horror.
"You're…. You're a monster,"he said as I smiled at him and walked out of his cell before locking it.
"Some may say that; others say it's revenge. I like to think it's justice. I'm the karma they need,"I said as he looked at me with widened eyes.
"Mark my words, Ricardo. Karma will get you,"he said as I raised my eyebrows.
"Threatening me, are we, Benny? I guess being down here made you grow a pair,"I said, smirking as he shook his head.
"It's a warning, Rick, because unlike you, I don't want to see you or other people get hurt,"he said, and I smirked and shook my head before walking away.
"Silly fool, until next time, Ben,"I said as I stopped walking and turned to see him one last time.
"And for the record, try to eat something; I don't need you dying yet,"I said as his eyes widened, and I continued to walk away.
Once I reached the stairs again, I walked up and pushed the door up before continuing my steps above.
I immediately closed the door once I was out and placed the mat on top of it again before sitting in my chair.
'Should I send them a letter or make a surprise visit?'I thought before I shook my head.
No, it wouldn't be a good idea to go there—not yet, at least. Instead,I could send a letter and make a surprise visit on Wassalia Day.
I quickly took a piece of paper, grabbed my pen, and wrote a letter to the queen or the king.
There was no doubt that Hugo was feeling much better, so the letter had to be for him. However, I ensured it was addressed to either, just in case.
As I finished the letter, I was about to call for my steward when I heard a knock at the door, which made me frown.
"Come in,"I said as my steward came in.
"Your majesty,"he said as I cut him off, grabbed the letter, and handed it to his reach.
"Send this letter out immediately; it needs to be sent to the king and queen of Whelsire by this afternoon,"I said as he nodded.
"Of course, Your Majesty, I will have this sent out immediately,"he said as I cut him off.
"And remember, no one must know I am here yet, so tell that coachman to zip it or else,"I said sternly as he nodded.
Yes, Your Majesty,"he said as I nodded before looking at him slightly off.
"Is there something else?"I said as he slightly nodded. I raised my eyebrow, gesturing for him to speak.
"You have a visitor, Your Highness,"he said as I raised my eyebrow, confused.
'Visitor? Me? I don't ever receive visitors unless they are my allies' friends, and heck, I don't even allow them to visit me much,'I thought momentarily.
"Send them in,"I said as he nodded and walked out with the letter as I tried to fix my office slightly.
'Who could it be?'I thought as I heard a knock at my door again; I cleared my throat before speaking.
"Come in,"I said as the door opened to reveal Lyvot and Bailey walking in, smiling, and I stood up surprised.
"Ricardo! How are you, my friend?"Asked Lyvot as he offered me his hand to shake.
"I can't complain, I guess,"I said, shaking his hand and smiling.
"Heard you were out of town?"Asked Bailey as I nodded.
"Indeed, I was for a few weeks; I just got back today,"I said as they nodded.
"So, I'm taking you heard?"Said Bailey as I looked at him, confused.
"What are you talking about?"I asked, confused as they looked confused.
"Is it about Ben? Have they found him?"I asked as Bailey shook his head.
"No, but as we all know, I am pretty sure this was King Hugo's doing,"said Bailey as Lyvot and I nodded.
"He was the last to see him,"said Lyvot as I nodded.
"But did you really have to send your army to him?"Asked Bailey as Lyvot nodded.
"He took our friend, I know it; he is keeping him hostage and deserves to die,"said Lyvot as I nodded my head.
"I agree, but we need to do this correctly. Ben's life is in danger here,"said Bailey, and I nodded.
"That is true; my friend's life cannot be risked in any way,"I said as Lyvot nodded.
"Besides, Lady Malorie is a mess. We both want justice, and since we don't see it happening, we decided to do it ourselves,"said Lyvot as Bailey shook his head.
"Idiot! Do you know what you've done? How I have to question you and bring you to trial,"said Bailey, annoyed as he began to pace around.
"Wait! You actually send your army to attack Whelsire?"I asked as Lyvot smiled.
"No one can prove it,"said Lyvot as I raised my eyebrow.
"The flag and the soldiers were different; no one would know who truly attacked,"said Lyvot as I nodded.
"Smart move,"I said, smiling as he smirked and nodded.
"Either way, as the treaty director, I now have to investigate all of this and question both of you and Lady Malorie,"said Bailey, annoyed, as Lyvot and I rolled our eyes.
"The treaty is essentially broken. No one trusts each other, andthere is no law that wasbroken here for you to investigate,"I said as Bailey rolled his eyes.
"You don't get it, do you? Because my family created it, now the law falls into me. I have to investigate this or at least try to,"said Bailey.
"I even have to interrogate Hugo with what he's being accused of,"said Bailey as we nodded.
"Wouldn't it be easier to throw him in the slammer?"I asked as Lyvot nodded.
"Not with enough cause; we need to plan this accordingly,"said Bailey as we nodded.
"Whelsire has the most resources; the sooner we take them, the better,"said Bailey as I nodded.
"Ricardo, even got the bag secured. His daughter is engaged to the idiot heir of the throne,"said Lyvot as I smirked.
"Guess you should have gotten a daughter,"I said as he rolled his eyes.
"That's not how it works, jackass,"he said as I smirked at him.
"Now, Lyvot, if you're not nice, I will go back on what we agreed,"I said as Bailey looked at us confused.
"What did you agree on?"Asked Bailey as I smirked and shook my head.
"Nothing Bailey, so what brings you guys here?"I ask as they smile.
"Came to tell you how everything is going,"said Lyvot as I nodded.
"And that I need to call you to testify and cooperate with the interrogation,"said Bailey as I rolled my eyes.
"Just me?"I said as he nodded.
"Just you, unless we can't reach an agreement, we will have a court date,"said Bailey as I nodded.
"Alright, when?"I asked.
"Tomorrow,"he said as my eyes widened.
"Tomorrow? But…. But I just got back. Surely you could give me some T-time…"I started, but he cut me off.
"There's no time, thanks to Lyvot. We have to do this quickly, or they will start to get suspicious,"said Bailey as I looked at Lyvot, rolling eyes, annoyed.
"What do I have to do?"I asked him as he sighed.
"You will attend a meeting with the Royal council members of the Ever Realms and be asked questions,"said Bailey as I smirked.
"That's it? Doesn't seem so hard,"I said as he smiled.
"It's not. Your real problem is convincing us that he is guilty. The rest of the council members will decide whether he is guiltyor notand proceed from there,"he said as I nodded.
"What if he is found innocent?"Asked Lyvot as I raised my eyebrow and nodded.
That was the last thing I wanted to happen to Hugo, and Imade sure to hideenough evidence to support that he did it.
"Then everything will be dropped,"said Bailey as I looked at Lyvot, who shook his head, upset.
"But he killed our friend; he deserves to rot in the dungeons,"said Lyvot as I nodded.
"And if he is found guilty, he will, my friends and I can assure you,"said Bailey as Lyvot and I nodded.
I looked at Lyvot and couldn't help but see him trying to gesture me to see something, but with Bailey here, I couldn't determine what that was.
"Well, I did my work here, friends. I came and told you about it, and now I must go and tell Hugo about his date tomorrow,"he said as we nodded.
"Won't you stay for lunch?"I asked as he shook his head.
"I can't; I won't make it in time if I don't leave now. Besides, I still have to set up and confirm with the council members,"he said as we nodded.
"Next time, then,"I said as he nodded before shaking our hands before leaving.
Once he was close to the door, it opened to reveal my steward. I told him to escort Bailey out, and he nodded and listened.
After the door closed, we waited acouple ofseconds for themto fully move away from it before I looked at Lyvot.
"They better find him guilty,"said Lyvot as I nodded and walked over to filluptwo glasses of wine.
"If you don't worry, they will, Lyvot, and he will pay for this,"I said before handing him a glass.
"He will pay for what he did to our friend,"I said as Lyvot took his glass and smiled as wetook a sip.
"I am a bit worried, though. What if they find him innocent before the wedding?"I asked Lyvot as I smiled and shook my head.
"The trial will last a couple of days, which I am sure of,"I said as he frowned, confused.
"How are you so sure?"He asked as I smiled.
"As Bailey said, no one trusts each other right now. The council is split into two, and it will take a while to make up their minds,"I said as he thought.
"Besides, I just received something,"I said, smirking. I swung the letter the queen had written to me back and forth.
"What's this?"asked Lyvot as he took the letter and began to read it while I took a seat and sipped the wine.
"This… Ricardo! This is excellent news!"He exclaimed as I smiled and nodded.
"With this, it basically secures our deal,"he said as I nodded.
"The wedding will continue and be sooner rather than later, and when all this happens, we'll be able to join forces,"said Lyvot as I nodded.
"If you continue to be good, we will,"I said, smirking. He looked at me concerned before his eyes widened.
"You wouldn't dare Ricky?"He asked as I smiled.
"Oh, couldn't I? I am not the one who wants this union; it's you, Lyvot,"I said as he sighed.
"Your son has a thing for my daughter, not the other way around,"I said as he stood silent.
"So, I suggest you behave and don't talk about it with Bailey around,"I said as he raised his eyebrow, confused.
"Why not?"He asked, confused as he sighed.
"We don't need him knowing our business,"I said as he looked at me confused.
"Are you sure that's why?"Asked Lyvot as I nodded.
"I have no reason not to trust him, but this is only between you and me,"I said as he nodded.
"Alright then,"he said as I nodded.
It was true; it wasn't that I didn't trust Bailey since he has proved to us many times that he deserves our trust.
I didn't want him to know because I didn't know what would happen with Lyvot.
He's my friend and everything, but I'm unsure if we will end this deal together. If I'm being honest, I would rather have Rosalie, a widower, and Rich.
Rather than have her remarry his son and inherit the lands of Whelsire. Of course, I am not going to tell him that right now.
It's better that I debate that later, but for now, I will let him believe that our children will marry as soon as possible.
"To our children,"I said, smiling, raising my wine glass as he lifted his glass and smiled.
"To our children,"he said as I smiled before we tapped our glasses together.
'To my revenge,'I thought, smiling as Itook a sip ofmy glass.
King Hugo
I looked out the window and couldn't help but sigh. Today had been a very interesting day until I was called upon during dinner.
Flashback
"Your majesty, King Bailey is here to see you,"said Isaac. I looked at Sofia, who seemed slightly alarmed as I smiled at her.
"He's here? Why?"Asked Sofia, confused and worried.
"Don't worry about it, Sof. It will be alright,"I said as she smiled nervously.
"I should come with you,"she said, getting up as I shook my head and stopped her.
"Don't worry about it Sof, it might be quick. I'll be right back,"I said as she thought for a moment before she sighed.
"Alright, dear,"she said, uneasy, as I stood up and followed Isaac to the throne room.
Once we arrived, I saw him standing there slightly off, which confused me.
"King Bailey, to what do I owe this honor?"I asked, confused as he sighed.
"Hugo, I am so sorry to have to bring this news to you, but as you know, things aren't going easy right now,"he said as I frowned, confused.
"With the kingdom trade allies dropping and no one trusting each other, it's a bit hard to avoid the obvious,"he said as I nodded.
I knew exactly what he meant. Apart from the kingdoms being a mess, they were accusing me of being a murderer.
I have yet to clear my name for Duke Ben's disappearance. We have tried to reach Lady Malorie without success.
All was lost until a while ago when Sofia told me that she agreed to meet us in a few weeks. At first, I was confused because it didn't seem like she would.
I mean, she, of all people, blames me for her husband's disappearance, which is why she sent her army to my kingdom that nearly killed us.
However, after careful consideration, we concluded that maybe Lady Malorie didn't send them. She might have been used by the man who sent them, King Lyvot since he was friends with them.
But then again, it didn't add up at all. Why would he care about all this? And why would she agree to meet us?
I know for a fact that she doesn't feel well. Imean, I rememberedwhen I was gone and how that was for Sofia and me.
We were separated for a long time, and I don't know how she managed. Thankfully, she wasn't alone or in charge of a kingdom like Lady Malorie.
Since her husband's disappearance, she has had to step up the role; she's everywhere and barely alone.
But Sofia told me that she doesn't know she's meeting us; she is to be meeting her long-relative Lucinda in Enchancia.
We will go and meet her; there, she will have no choice but to hear us, as well as ask her why she accuses me of killing or kidnapping her husband.
"Is there a date set up?"I asked as he nodded.
"Tomorrow, the council will meet up, and we will briefly discuss what is going on,"he said as I nodded.
"Am I going to be interrogated?"I asked as he shook his head.
"Not this time. We are all going to meet and discuss its terms, the members on board, and the time frame,"he said as I nodded.
"We will ask you to start collecting your witnesses and bring them tomorrow for them to declare on your behavior,"he said as my eyes widened.
"I thought it was a gathering, not the trial,"I said as he sighed.
"It's the introduction to set a date for the hearing. It might be a while before we get an official date, but we must start somewhere,"he said as I nodded.
"Trust me, Hugo. Everything will be alright. I believe in your innocence,"he said as he sighed.
"I doubt the council will,"I said as he shook his head.
"Hugo, you must not think like that. Many people respect you, and you have the biggest trade system in the realm,"he said as I shrugged.
"What good is it if no one will believe? They'll say whatever they want to get me out of the way,"I said as he shook his head.
"I will never let that happen to you; remember what I said,"he said as I nodded.
"It's a game of power,"I said as he shook his head.
"It's a game of power, and only the strongest will emerge alive, and the liars will be exposed,"he said as I nodded.
"I can't say for sure what will happen, but I do know you're not a murderer here, Hugo; someone is trying to frame you. Someone who hates you very much,"he said as I nodded.
"Any luck?"He asked as I shook my head, upset.
"No, I can't figure out who will want to harm me. What about you?"I asked as he shook his head.
"Nothing much except that King Lyvot really hates you,"he said as I rolled my eyes.
'What a surprise,'I thought, shaking my head before smiling.
"Tell me again, why does he hate you so much?"Asked Bailey as I shrugged.
"It beats me. The only reason could be that he wanted me to betrothed my daughter to his son, and I said no,"I said as he nodded.
"That could be a motive, Hugo. It would explain the army he sent,"said Bailey as I nodded.
"Could be, but we aren't sure. Remember, it's all confusing because of the flag and the men,"I said as he nodded.
"True, plus I don't think that's a big motive,"he said as I nodded.
"Possibly power?"He said as I shrugged.
"At this point, I'm not surprised, but no. I think there's something more here, Bailey. I think there's something we're not seeing,"I said as he nodded.
"The only thing is that I don't see anyone else acting on his behalf,"said Bailey as I nodded.
"What about Ricardo?"I asked as he thought momentarily.
"He was concerned about his friend but was rather quiet all the time,"he said as I frowned, confused.
"What do you mean?"I asked him, confused.
"When I went to him this morning and told him about tomorrow's meeting, he quickly tried to find an excuse,"he said as my eyes widened.
"He's back?"I asked as Bailey looked at me confused before nodding slightly.
"Y-yes, he's back. Did you not know?"He asked me as I shook my head.
"My wife and I haven't heard anything from him. He sent him a letter about pushing the wedding forward, and we haven't heard anything yet,"I said as he nodded.
"Might receive news today then, and if not tomorrow when you see him,"he said as I nodded.
What I wouldn't give to not have him show up; I don't know why, but somethingis tellingme he should not be on my side.
'I do hope his testimony doesn't try to hurt me in either way.'I thought before remembering what Rosalie told me earlier.
'My Father will stop at nothing. He will find your weakness and use it against you,'she said as I shook my head.
"What should I do?"I asked Bailey as he smiled at me.
"Act like everything is alright, Hugo. Try to get as close to Ricardo asyou can, and I'll do the same,"he said as I nodded.
"Like you said, Hugo, something isn't right with Ricardo; I'm just not sure of it,"he said as I nodded.
"Asfar as I know, I have never heard of him, and neither has my wife, and she went to Ever Realm Academy,"I said as he nodded.
"The kingdom isn't very known either,"added Bailey as I nodded.
"When was it founded again?"I asked as he thought for a moment and shrugged.
"You know, I can't remember. I think it was 20 or 21 years ago,"he said as I nodded.
"The same time Sofia and I have been the new rulers of Whelsire?"I asked as Bailey's eyes widened.
"Listen to me very carefully, Hugo; I need you to retrace your steps,"he said as my eyes widened.
"Go back 20 years ago and try to remember anyone who was your enemy at the time,"he said as I nodded.
"The only enemies I had during that time were the former king and princess of Alcazar, Frederick, and Victoria,"I said as he nodded.
"And you're sure his son couldn't be behind this?"He asked as I shook my head.
"It's not Louis that I know. Why would he do it?"I asked as Bailey shrugged.
"Revenge, perhaps?"Asked Bailey as I shook my head.
"Louis is the trade system with Whelsire. We helped him grow, and if we fail, he fails,"I said as he nodded.
"You're right; he wouldn't want to harm his own kingdom,"said Bailey as I nodded.
"What about the queen?"He asked as my eyes widened.
"That I am not sure, but who would want to harm her?"I asked as he shrugged.
"Who wouldn't?"He said as this got me slightly worried.
I didn't care if it was me they were after, but if they were to mess with my wife or children, I was going to kill them for this.
"The good thing is that it's only you they're after since they are trying to frame you,"said Bailey as I nodded.
"For now,"I said as he nodded.
"I will do my best to help you, Hugo. I believe you are innocent, and they are just trying to frame you,"he said as I nodded.
"How is Ricardo's daughter, by the way?"He asked as I nodded.
"She's doing better,"I said as he nodded.
"Take her tomorrow with you to the meeting,"he said as my eyes widened.
"Why?"I asked, confused.
"Ricardo needs to be tested, and I'd like to know where her loyalty stands,"he said as I nodded.
"Alright,"I said, knowing that William wasn't going to like this at all.
"Lyvot will be there for sure,"he said as I rolled my eyes and sighed.
"Great,"I said as he nodded.
"How is he towards you in public?"Asked Bailey as though momentarily.
"He barely says anything to me, doesn't really acknowledge me. Why?"I asked as he nodded.
"He seems to have convinced himself you did it, and it's very odd for him to say that when he barely talks to you,"he said as I nodded.
"Rosalie told me he usually talks to her Father and no one else,"I said as he nodded.
"You know what is a bit odd?"He asked as I shook my head.
"BothRicardo and Lyvot seem to have made a deal but haven't told me about it,"he said as I frowned, confused.
"How do you know?"I asked as he thought.
"Ricardo told Lyvot, 'Now, now Lyvot; if you're not nice, I will go back on what we agreed,'"he said as my eyes widened.
"Rosalie did tell me to watch out for him,"I said as he nodded.
"I wonder what his interaction with Rosalie will be like?"He asked as I shook my head.
"He knows her but barely talks to her,"I said as he nodded.
"Still, it's worth a try, Hugo,"he said as I nodded.
"Hugo, listen to me. Keep your ears open and retrace your steps. Do this, and the answer will come,"
End of flashback
'Hugo, listen to me. Keep your ears open and retrace your steps, dothis, and the answer will come.'
'What did King Bailey mean?'I thought as I stood outside on the balcony doors one cold evening.
The snow had just fallen on Whelsire, and the whole land was covered with a beautiful white blanket.
I wasn't surprised since Wassalia Day wasn't that far away —in two weeks, I believed, and this was going to be a Wassalia no one would forget.
If I'm being honest, I should be inside since I just showered, and the cool breeze could potentially make me sick.
And I mean potentially because I don't believe that, but knowing Sofia, she would hang me if she caught me outside.
When I was making my way back to our room after King Bailey had left, I asked Izzie where she was.
She told me that she had retreated to our room to shower; however, once I arrived, she was nowhere in sight.
She must have taken a shower and then was called for something,which is whyI took the opportunity to shower and come outside to think for a while.
"There you are,"said a familiar voice as I turned around to see a pair of beautiful blue eyes staring at me.
'Busted.'I thought, and I smiled nervously at her. She raised her eyebrow at me.
"I was looking everywhere for you,"said Sofia as I smiled and pulled in for a hug.
"And you found me, my dear wife,"I said, smiling as I hugged her and inhaled the beautiful and calm aroma she always carried with her.
"Care to explain to me, husband, why you are outside with this cold breeze after you showered?"she asked me, and I smiled nervously.
"Umm… why are you out here?"I asked as she smiled before crossing her arms.
"1. I didn't just barely shower, you did. 2. I have my long robe on, so if anything, I'm all warm, and you're not,"she said as I smiled.
"I have my robe on, too, dear,"I said, extending my arms so that she would see that I had on my black robe.
"But your hair is still yet, darling,"she said, smirking. I smiled nervously as she rolled hers and shook her head before embracing me.
"If you get sick, my dear husband, don't say I didn't warn you,"she said as I chuckled while hugging her.
"Yes, dear,"I said as I continued to hug her before she slightly pulled away, enough for me to see her blue eyes again.
"What did he say?"She asked as I slowly pulled away and led her back inside our room.
"He came to inform me about tomorrow's formal meeting with the council,"I said as she swallowed hard.
"Is it the date setting for the trial?"She asked as I nodded.
"Based on tomorrow, we will know if this will need to be carried for days or if the charges can be dropped,"I said as she nodded nervously.
"How are our chances looking?"She asked as I sighed and shrugged.
"It's hard to say, Sof, especially with what's going on with the trade treaty alliances,"I said as she nodded.
"The good thing is that there's no actual proof, which means it could easily be dismissed or be considered a rumor,"she said as I nodded.
"It's a rumor that can be investigated and is causing us trouble,"I said as she sighed and bit her lip nervously.
"What's the worst that could happen?"She asked as I smiled nervously as she looked at me confused.
"They take my title during the investigation and name an apprentice to rule over Whelsire,"I said as her eyes widened.
"Can they do that?"She asked, confused as I nodded.
"In Whelsire, you can. A king being charged with an offense is a serious thing. The council will step in and name an apprentice, and it can be anyone,"I said as she frowned, confused.
"Shouldn't it be me since I am the queen?"She asked as I nodded.
"I hope it is you, my dear, but remember that most of our chair members don't like it when you are left in charge alone," I said as she sighed, upset.
Which, if you ask me, is totally ridiculous. I mean, this is their queen. Who knows more about Whelsire than my own wife?
"Could they appoint William since he is the heir to the throne?"She asked as I shook my head.
"It should be, but because of the alliance and the possibility of unfairness, they will not want him,"I said as she thought.
"What about Edward?"She asked as this caught me by surprise.
"They have no reason not to want him. He's a prince, a knight, in fact, and isn't the heir to the throne. Where could there possibly be a threat there?"she asked as I nodded.
"It's not a bad idea. Besides, I don't want to give William too much to handle. He already has enough on his plate,"I said as Sofia nodded.
"Hugo, I've been thinking…."She said but hesitated to tell me the next part.
"I'm a bit worried,"she added as I frowned at her, confused.
"At what, darling?"I asked as she sighed.
"Rosalie,"she said as I nodded.
I knew exactly what she meant, but from the beginning, I didn't know if we could trust her. I'm still not sure if I'm being honest.
"And trusting her?"I said as she looked at me confused before shaking her head.
"No, no, it's not that I worry about…. You don't think we should trust her?"She asked as I shrugged.
"I don't know Sof. Should we?"I asked her as she thought for a moment.
"She hasn't given me a reason not to; every time I talk to her, I see the honesty in her eyes,"she said as I nodded.
"Then what is it about her,"I asked, confused.
"Her father,"she said as my eyes widened, and she gave me a look.
"What is it?"She asked as I sighed.
"Bailey told me to bring her tomorrow to the hearing because her father might be there,"I said as she looked shocked.
"Have you told William yet?"She asked as I shook my head.
"Nope,"I said as she sighed before slightly chuckling.
"William is not going to like this,"she said as I nodded.
Ever since Rosalie showed up, I have noticed a slight change in William; he seems different.
As Sofia would say, our boy has taken a very special liken to Rosalie, and that worries me slightly because he doesn't know her well.
We know for now that she's an innocent girl who her Father has abused for years, but that's it. We know nothing more.
"Why does he want her there?"Asked Sofia as I shrugged.
"Honestly, Sof, I am not 100% sure. However, I think it might have to be because she can help us with something,"I said as she nodded.
"Well, if there is anyone who knows King Ricardo, it has to be her, right?"She asked as I shrugged.
"You would think so, but I'm not sure,"I said as she smiled, slightly upset.
I was about to say something when I heard a knock at the door, making Sofia and I turn.
"Come in?"I said as the door opened to reveal William and Edward, causing me to frown. It was as if I had called them with my thoughts.
"Mom, Dad, can we come in?"Asked Edward as Sofia and I nodded.
"Of course, sweetheart, come in," Sofia said as they opened the door a bit wider and came in before closing it.
"We just wanted to know what happened with King Bailey,"said William as I nodded at Sofia.
"Well, it went a bit complicated,"I said as they looked confused.
"What do you mean?"Asked Edward, confused.
"Tomorrow, I will accompany your Father to the council meeting they are holding regarding this misunderstanding," said Sofia as I nodded.
"So, they are going to question you then?"Said William as I nodded.
"The four of us will leave tomorrow,"I said as both boys looked at me confused.
"Four?"Asked William, confused as I nodded.
"Me, your Mom, William, and Rosalie,"I said as William's eyes widened, surprised.
"Why us?"He asked, confused, as I bit my lip slightly.
"Because you and her are the heirs and should be there,"said Edward as I nodded.
"And King Bailey wants Rosalie to be there,"I added as he frowned, confused.
"Why?"He asked, raising his eyebrow as I shrugged.
"Your Father and I were talking about it and aren't sure why,"said Sofia as I cut her off.
"But we think it might be because King Bailey is trying to get her to expose something,"I said as he listened.
"To see if she can provoke the beast,"said William as I nodded.
"And I don't think you'll be willing to let her come with us alone, so… " Sofia started as William nodded.
"I will let him know then, but who will be in charge while we are gone?"Asked William as I looked over at Edward, who raised his eyebrow, confused.
"No, What? Really?"He asked as Sofia and I nodded.
"We trust you and know you can do this, darling,"said Sofia, smiling as I nodded.
"But… But, I have no training,"he said, slightly afraid as I chuckled slightly.
"Trust me, Edward, there's no wrong way to do this,"I said as he looked at me worriedly.
"Remember, son, I went to Corinthia Sports Academy too, and yet I am a king,"I said as he smiled nervously.
"Yes, but no offense, Dad, that's because you have Mom, and she keeps tabs on you,"said Edward as Sofia giggled as I rolled my eyes.
"Will you do it?"Asked Sofia as he looked at her and nodded.
"I can't say no to you, Mom,"he said, smiling as she giggled. I looked at him, shocked.
"Wow…."I said as he smirked at me before I chuckled.
"Your biggest challenge will be Liz,"said William as Mom nodded and Edward smiled.
"Liz is usually calm with me. I think I'll manage fine,"he said as I chuckled.
"Good luck; your sister can be a wild horse most of the time,"I said as we all chuckled.
She is my princess, my joy, but damn it, sometimes this girl pushes the limits and will give me a heart attack.
"She'slike Charlotte, though, free-spirited,"said Sofia as I smiled.
"Very free-spirited,"added William as we chuckled.
"I do have a question, though, Dad,"said William. I nodded but couldn't help but worry.
"Yes?"I asked, nervous.
"Edward is going to do this for a while, isn't he?"He asked asEdwardlooked confused as I nodded.
"What? What are you talking about?"Asked Edward, confused as I looked at William, and he nodded.
"In Whelsire, when a king is accused of something terrible and is going to be investigated, he cannot rule until the council has decided on a verdict,"said William.
I looked over at Edward, who looked shocked as I nodded, making him wide in surprise.
"What about Mom? Can't she or William do it? Mom is the queen, and William is the heir to the throne,"said Edward as I shook my head.
"If I do it, they will say it's fake. Since I am shadowing Dad, people could think Dad is still ruling, and I am the one showing my face,"said William.
"Even though he's the heir, they don't want to take that chance of it being fake,"Sofia said as I nodded.
"Your Mother can't do it because they don't even like that I appointed her in all the meetings,"I said as Edward nodded.
"Since you are not the heir, they do not see any connection or problem with this,"I said as he nodded slightly.
"So, they're willing to let me, me, rule with no experience, knowing I could mess up anything in Whelsire just tomake sureit's not fake?"he said, upset, as I looked at Sofia, who looked at him concerned.
"Sweetie, you're not going to mess up, you'llhave me and your GrandDad here supporting you,"said Sofia as I nodded.
"You're my son, and I know you can do this,"I said, smiling as he smiled slightly at me.
"You sure can, baby-brother. Besides, it's nothing hard. You've seen and heard me talking about scenarios, and you're the one who actually helped me solve some,"Said William as I smiled.
"See, you're going to be great,"I said as he sighed and nodded.
"Alright, I'll do it. But don't you dare leave me alone,"he said as Sofia and I smiled at him.
"Never,"we said as he smiled.
"Who knows, you might like it,"said William as he chuckled.
"Not likely,"he said as we all chuckled.
Soon enough, when the boys felt a bit calmer, they left and bid us goodnight, leaving Sofia and me alone again.
"He reminds me so much of you,"I said to Sofia as we were getting in bed as she looked at me confused.
"Me? How?"She asked, smiling as I smiled at her.
"Like him, you always doubted you would do a wonderful job, even though we all believed you could do it,"I said as she smiled.
"It wasn't easy, though,"she added as I nodded.
"Nope, but you did 'rean excellent queen, darling, and everyone knows it,"I said as she slightly blushed.
Even though we had been married for quite some time, I still loved that I could make her blush.
"I thank my lucky stars you came back alive, darling,"she said as she kissed my cheek, and I smiled at her.
"I thank you for agreeing to be my wife, Sof,"I said as she giggled, and I pulled her in for a hug.
"Forever,"She said as I nodded and hugged her tighter.
"Forever," I said, pulling her in for a kiss before drifting off in each other's arms.