A Mother's Worries
Queen Marianne sat in her private chamber, staring out of the window as the sun began to set. The kingdom had entered a new era under Solis' reign, but despite his growing power and control, she couldn't shake the worry in her heart.
Her son had taken the throne at fourteen, suppressed rebellious nobles, and had already gained the loyalty of the military. His strength, intelligence, and leadership were beyond his years.
But there was something missing.
Something that even the strongest kings needed—
Emotional balance.
Solis was growing into a ruler feared and respected, but his mother feared he would isolate himself completely.
He needed companionship, someone to support him, someone who could stand beside him in ruling the nation.
It was time to speak with Julius Novachrono.
A Meeting with the Wizard King
That night, Queen Marianne arrived at the Wizard King's office in secret.
Julius, as always, was buried under a mountain of documents, scanning through them with a bright expression.
When he noticed the queen entering, he smiled.
"Your Majesty, this is a rare visit. To what do I owe the honor?"
She took a seat across from him, her face unusually serious.
"Julius, I wish to speak about Solis' future."
Julius set his papers aside, leaning forward with interest.
"I assume you mean more than just his reign?"
"Yes," she nodded. "I mean his personal life… specifically, his marriage."
Julius' Perspective
Julius stroked his chin, thinking.
"I see… you're worried about how his rapid rise to power is affecting him, aren't you?"
The queen sighed.
"I've watched my son change, Julius. He is growing into a great king, but he is also becoming more distant. He spends all his time training, governing, or fighting nobles."
She paused before adding softly,
"A ruler should not bear the weight of the kingdom alone."
Julius nodded, understanding her concern.
"You believe an engagement would help anchor him?"
Queen Marianne nodded.
"Yes. If he has a partner—someone he can trust—it will ease his burden and help humanize his rule."
Choosing the Right Partner
Julius chuckled.
"Well, Solis has certainly built an image for himself. Many see him as a tyrant—a brilliant ruler, but one with overwhelming strength. Having a queen beside him could soften his reputation."
The queen smiled.
"That is precisely why I came to you. I have suggested Mereoleona Vermillion and Mimosa Vermillion. Both are strong, noble, and politically beneficial."
Julius leaned back.
"A strategic choice."
"Indeed."
But then he raised an eyebrow.
"Does Solis agree?"
The queen sighed.
"He is reluctant. He says he is only fourteen, but I reminded him that a king's duties do not wait for his age."
Julius chuckled again.
"That sounds exactly like him."
A Mother's Plea
The queen folded her hands.
"Julius, I need your support on this. If Solis sees you approve of this, he might reconsider."
Julius exhaled, deep in thought.
Solis was young, but he had already surpassed what was expected of a ruler his age. However, there was truth in what the queen said—if he continued on this path alone, he might become too rigid, too hardened.
"I understand your concern, Your Majesty. But ultimately, the choice must be Solis'. If he refuses, forcing him into it will only push him further away."
The queen sighed, rubbing her temples.
"I know… but if he keeps resisting, the nobles will eventually pressure him into a political marriage with someone far less suitable."
Julius nodded.
"Then let's give him time—but also encourage him to think about the future. I'll speak to him when the time is right."