Heartstring of a Mad king

CHAPTER 5:Silvermore kingdom

KINGDOM SILVERMORE

PRINCESS ALVIRA P.O.V.

After spending the afternoon chatting with my friends, I received a message that my presence was urgently required by my father. Accompanied by my trusted maid, Rose, I made my way to the palace, unaware of the significance of the gathering that awaited me.

Upon entering my father's chamber, I was surprised to see not only my father but also my mother and my three brothers. It was evident that this was not just an ordinary meeting; something important was about to be discussed. I greeted everyone respectfully and took my seat, awaiting the revelation.

My father began to speak, holding a letter in his hand. "This is a letter from the Novan Kingdom, and it brings promising news," he announced. My mother interjected, her face beaming with excitement. "Prince Luke, the heir to the throne, is searching for a bride. All eligible ladies are invited to his palace tomorrow, and one of them will be chosen," she explained, her eyes fixed on me.

Silence filled the room, and I felt the weight of everyone's expectations resting upon me. It was clear that they all anticipated my consent. However, my mind raced with objections. I didn't want to enter into a marriage with someone I hardly knew, and I longed for a say in the matter.

Voicing my concerns, I spoke up, "Father, I don't wish to go. I don't want to marry someone I hardly know." I objected, hoping to make them understand my perspective.

My elder brother, always the practical one, chimed in, "That's precisely why you should go—to get to know him." I glanced at him, knowing he would support this plan.

"But don't I have a say in this?" I asked, searching for any glimmer of support.

"You don't. Our kingdom is in dire need of support, and we haven't found a viable solution thus far. This opportunity may be the answer we've been waiting for," my other brother interjected, his words emphasizing the gravity of the situation.

"So you're selling me off in marriage to gain financial support for our kingdom? Am I merely a pawn to be wedded for the sake of the entire kingdom's welfare?" Shock and disbelief colored my voice as the reality of the situation sank in.

"Marriage isn't solely about love, Alvira. It is a commitment, and Prince Luke could prove to be a dedicated partner. You may find happiness in this union," my mother said, attempting to assuage my concerns.

"I don't want to go," I stated firmly, tears welling up in my eyes.

"You will go, and you will depart first thing tomorrow morning," my father declared with authority, his voice resolute.

Unable to contain the emotions flooding within me I stole a glance at my immediate elder brother, Smith, hoping to find a glimmer of hope. But from the look in his eyes, I realized there was nothing he could do to save me from this impending fate. Overwhelmed, I let the tears flow freely and turned away fleeing to my room. Rose, who had faithfully stood outside throughout the ordeal, followed me, her own confusion evident.

I sought solace in the privacy of my chambers, uncertain of what awaited me in the days to come

CHARLOTTE P.O.V.

As I observed the bustling activity in the palace and the busy maids, confusion clouded my mind. Something significant was happening, and I was determined to find out what it was. Venturing out for a walk, I stumbled upon the notice posted on the walls—a proclamation of Prince Luke's search for a bride. Shock washed over me, and I hurriedly made my way back to my chambers within the palace.

In my room, I paced back and forth, feeling increasingly frustrated that Derek was not present during this critical moment. I summoned the maid assigned to him and demanded to know his whereabouts. She was unaware, and in my exasperation, I scolded her, urging her to find Derek immediately.

After a few minutes, Derek stumbled into the room, slightly intoxicated. I glared at him, incredulous that he would resort to drinking in the afternoon. Although relieved that he was not completely inebriated, my frustration still lingered.

Seating myself beside him, I divulged the astonishing news I had discovered about Prince Luke's search for a bride. "Weren't you with my father yesterday? How could he not inform you about this matter?" he exclaimed, attempting to shift blame onto me. While his accusation held some truth, it only served to fuel my growing resentment.

How could the king keep such important matters from me? Did his affections no longer lie with me?

"We must take action swiftly to prevent Luke from gaining an advantage over you," I declared, my voice filled with determination.

Derek's words had struck a chord within me, reminding me of the urgency and importance of the situation. Together, we needed to devise a plan to ensure that Luke's pursuit of a bride did not threaten Derek's position and aspirations. Time was of the essence, and we had to act swiftly