A Rare Moment of Peace
For the first time in weeks, the royal palace was calm.
The fires of noble rebellion had been extinguished, and Solis had solidified his rule.
Yet, instead of dealing with politics or training, he found himself summoned by an unexpected person—
His mother, Queen Marianne Kira.
The Meeting
Solis entered the grand royal garden, where his mother sat beneath a cherry blossom tree.
She was dressed in an elegant silk gown, her regal presence undiminished by time.
Despite her beauty, Solis knew—
His mother was as sharp as any noble schemer.
"You wished to speak with me, Mother?" he asked, standing before her.
She gestured for him to sit.
"Yes, my son. It's time we discussed something important… your engagement."
An Unexpected Proposal
Solis froze.
"Engagement?" he repeated, frowning. "Mother, I am only fourteen."
His mother smiled knowingly.
"And yet, you are already a king. A ruler's responsibilities do not wait for his age to catch up."
Solis sighed.
"I am busy securing the kingdom's future, not entertaining marriage negotiations."
"But marriage is part of securing the future," she countered.
She picked up a cup of tea, her voice calm but firm.
"A kingdom does not only need a ruler—it needs stability, heirs, and a mother figure for the people."
Solis narrowed his eyes.
"Are you saying I should marry for political gain?"
His mother tilted her head.
"I am saying that marriage is more than love, Solis. It is about alliances, unity, and ensuring your reign is secure."
The Candidates
Queen Marianne continued.
"There are two noblewomen that would be ideal choices."
Solis crossed his arms.
"Who?"
His mother smiled.
"Mereoleona Vermillion and Mimosa Vermillion."
Solis blinked.
"You expect me to marry my own cousin?"
Queen Marianne laughed softly.
"Distant cousin," she corrected. "Royal families have done far worse."
Solis sighed, pinching the bridge of his nose.
"Mereoleona despises politics. And Mimosa is still too young to handle the weight of ruling."
His mother nodded.
"True. But they are both powerful, intelligent, and most importantly, they are from noble families that support you."
"Mereoleona's strength ensures your rule is respected."
"Mimosa's kindness softens your image and connects you to the people."
She met his gaze.
"One is your sword. The other is your heart."
A King's Hesitation
Solis leaned back against the bench, looking at the sky.
"This feels… forced."
His mother sighed.
"You were never going to have a normal life, Solis."
"You chose to change this kingdom. To do that, you must make sacrifices."
"And this? This is one of them."
Solis remained silent for a moment.
He knew she was right.
This was not about love—this was about securing his kingdom's future.
He exhaled.
"I will consider it. But not now."
His mother smiled, placing a hand on his shoulder.
"That is all I ask, my son."
"Just remember—being a king does not mean walking alone."
Solis said nothing as he watched the cherry blossoms fall.
For the first time, he wondered…
Was this truly the path he wanted?