Soren’s POV:
"Soren, you need to stop being so careless! Where the hell were you?" My father's rage radiated through the room, his footsteps pounding into the floor of his office as if he intended to leave a crater in his wake. "In just over a year, you’ll be king, and I've got to say, I genuinely believe you were prepared for this role, for the overwhelming commitment it requires of you for our kingdom. But now? Now I seriously doubt your readiness!"
His scowl was piercing, and I felt Xaroth stir violently within me, displeased with my father's condescending tone.
"What exactly are you uncertain about, Father? I’ve poured my blood, sweat, and tears into this kingdom for the last eight years! I've been out there engaging with the leaders of the realm, trying to forge alliances—what m
