The Rightful Queen

Chapter 5 – His Decision

He thought long and hard. He was initially excited by the thought of being a good ruler and was told he would need his queen to achieve it. He was looking forward to meeting her, but he was somewhat disappointed. He doesn’t like her but he must.

He tried picturing her face, but what appears is that of Laura’s. He sighed. Don’t think of that one. Well, he could still select her as part of his consorts. That feels some sort of consolation.

He supposed he would eventually like her if he spends more time with her. If she’s as wise as the Seer made her out to be, then he would most probably like her. His fate depends on their relationship.

The next day, he visited his father to consult him. He told him everything he thought about the previous day.

“What do you think?”

“Why are you asking me? This is your life. It is your decision. You already know what you must do, don’t you?”

Well, he’s right. But why is he feeling troubled?

On the second day of the celebration, he merely looked around to select individuals. He needed to complete his list of consorts for tomorrow’s announcement.

He felt an odd sense of sadness when he didn’t see Laura. He shook himself. He should really stop thinking of that woman. She’s no one to him. Just a pretty face he could use and enjoy later.

During the third night, everyone who attended were sporting their best. The King is making an appearance to confer the prince his official title and his succession to the throne.

The atmosphere was very solemn in the beginning as the King thanked his people and all the noble families for their support during his reign.

“But now, I must step down. As you know, my health hasn’t been well. I’ve been sickly these last few months. I would now pass the responsibility to rule the kingdom to my son and heir, your prince, Samuel.”

As his name was mentioned, the prince walked towards his father for the conferment. He kneeled in front of him and everyone watched this historical moment. Most have loved the current king and could not easily accept the reality. Still, as a display of their respect and loyalty, they would support the young prince as he becomes the new king of the land.

Prince Samuel has a lot to prove. He has been prepared but his achievements are not exactly stellar. As the sole heir of the king, he was highly guarded and protected from any danger. Even the elders are feeling uneasy, but they needed to accept it.

King Harold would remain an advisor to his son.

When the crown and scepter were placed in his possession, the gathered audience bursts into an applause. He stood up, with the heavy crown atop his head, and faced the people.

The chanting of “Long live the king!” began and echoed through the walls of the celebration hall.

He’s starting to feel the weight of responsibility. He’s nervous about being held accountable for the situation of the kingdom, for the prosperity of the land, for the plight of the people, for the services and protection they provide to those inside the territory…

There are many things to do and his busy days would soon begin in earnest.

But before that…

After the ascension ceremony, it was time to announce who the next queen will be. The young ladies couldn’t hide their excitement and tittered amongst themselves.

The names of the consorts were announced first and hearing her name, Laura’s face paled. How could he? She clearly implied that she doesn’t want… that she wants something else.

Being pushed from behind by her aunt, she moved forward. She couldn’t even plaster a fake smile to show the others.

The young women who envied her are now laughing at her situation. She wasn’t chosen as queen, which is what most of them expected. They thought she looked uncomfortable because of it. They couldn’t fathom that it was because she doesn’t want to have anything to do with the prince.

They’re now wondering who has been chosen as queen… it could be any one them, right?

Her uncle had high hopes for her, but being a consort to the new king isn’t too bad.

After everyone was called and has stepped forward, they faced the king and kneeled. It was customary. The process was known as part of history. They knew about it. The elders trailed after the prince as he handed them with gifts. Royal gifts. The boxes normally contain keys to their new residences just outside the palace and some chosen jewelry.

Laura really couldn’t bring herself to be happy with this

She merely looked up when it was time to recognize the queen. The unselected women remained excited at the prospect of being named. Her cousin, who hasn’t been called to be a consort, looked doubtful of her chance. Well, at least, she acknowledges that her chances are slim.

But to everyone’s surprise, her name was called. Lady Cristina of Thistle.

There was an initial rush of whispers, but remembering that she is the chosen queen, they quickly shut their mouths and gave her proper respects. Even the woman in question was stunned and felt that she must be hearing things. What if she steps forward and it wasn’t her after all? She was frozen in place until her mother nudged her.

“What are you doing? Get over there. Smile, and mind your manners.” The older woman hissed at her and not so gently pushed her in the back. 

She walked unsteadily. Is this what it feels like to walk on clouds? She should be elated, but she has her doubts. Though she boasted a lot that the prince might choose her, she would never admit that she hadn’t really believed it herself. Now, though…

The prince, or rather the new king, acknowledged her curtsy with a short bow and took her hand in his. She was presented to the people and again, there was applause. The chant was given, too. Long live the Queen!

All the women who were selected are escorted towards the direction of the palace. Only the queen would reside inside the palace, with the king. The rest would be given residences outside the palace, but within its gates. Majority of them are in the back, while a few are situation on one side.

Their families would have to send their stuff in the coming days. Not that they would need it. All their necessities will be provided. They would even have servants of their own and a budget to spend every year. It’s such an expensive thing, keeping women for the king’s pleasure.

Cristina behaved herself. She doesn’t want to embarrass her family. Though she was already recognized as the queen, would the new king change his mind if he doesn’t like her? Their wedding and her coronation are scheduled a week from today. Essentially, they have a very short engagement but she’s expected to be in his quarters already.

They have separate rooms but he can visit hers any time he wants. She can’t do the same. She would have to get his permission before she can take a step inside his private room. She supposed it has something to do with confidential documents. She couldn’t care less. She’s not that interested about the kingdom’s affairs anyway. The queen isn’t responsible for that. Her responsibility is to keep the females of the noble families occupied and happy, with various events and parties. 

Officially, her main goal is to give the king an heir.