Meanwhile at the hall where the celebration took place , the maids and other servants stayed to clean up.And during the cleaning , they couldn't help to gossip about the recent things that have been going on in the palace.“I don’t even know why she’s so happy and bragging!” a girl’s voice says, frustration evident in her tone. “Prince Arthur doesn’t even love her! He loves Madin.”“King Arthur,” another corrects her.“Whatever. The point still stands. She’s just being used, and she’s too stupid to realize it. What an idiot!”“She’s dangerous,” another chimes in, her voice dripping with unease. “I think she’s going to try and separate them. She’s hated Madin since the moment she stepped into this palace.”A boy speaks up. “Why are you so worried about her breaking them up? You should be more concerned about how she’s going to rule us like slaves! That woman doesn’t have a single ounce of kindness in her.”“King Arthur won’t let her do that!” the first girl snaps back.Another boy sig
Nine months later,,, ••••Nine months have passed, Madin sits on the edge of his bed, lost in thought. Wondering for a thousandth time... "What happened to... 'What's embarrassing? Well, get used to it because from today it'll be everyday.' "His life feels like a cruel joke, and he wonders if he’s cursed to endure endless suffering.Ever since that one night with Arthur__ the night that totally refused to exit his mind , things have been tough.And they only got worse when one celebration day of king Elias's birthday , Catherina purposefully got Arthur drunk and they ended up sleeping together .And they got even worser when Catherina got pregnant.Arthur, the man who once seemed to care so deeply, has changed beyond recognition.Since Catherina announced her pregnancy, Arthur has been devoted to her every need. He dotes on her, granting her every wish, and even moved her into his chambers—an act that crushed Madin.It meant he could no longer sleep in Arthur’s room, a privilege th
Jeremy exits the room swiftly, his footsteps echoing through the grand hallways of the palace. After some time, another figure follows, though not along the same path. Doubts plague his mind as he walks, his thoughts circling around Arthur's sudden interest.Why is Arthur looking for him now? They barely speak anymore. He isn’t even Arthur's servant, nor does he hold any position in the palace these days. No one seems to question his presence, but the void of purpose gnaws at him.His musings deepen as he walks. Staying here seems pointless, yet leaving feels impossible.The roof over his head and the meals he receives are enough for now, but what happens if those are gone? Where would he even go?Thoughts of escape often dance in his mind, particularly when Arthur’s tempers flare. If the situation worsens, perhaps Jeremy would offer him an out. Yes, that might be his fate—to wander aimlessly, clinging to whoever offers him a shred of belonging.The murmur of voices grows louder as
The laboring queen’s cries echo through the corridors as Arthur strides into her chamber. Despite the chaos surrounding him, his mind fixates on the storm that brewed earlier with Madin. His words were harsh, but seeing those marks on Madin’s body shakes something deep within him—something he can’t quite name but feels acutely. Betrayal? Pain? Or perhaps guilt?He pushes the thoughts aside as he approaches the queen. This moment requires his focus. The birth of his child—a future heir—is an event of monumental importance. But even as he sits by the queen's side, offering words of comfort, his mind betrays him, dragging him back to the confrontation in Madin’s room.As the hours pass and the child is born, Arthur forces himself to remain present, maintaining the image of a dutiful father and king. Yet, the moment he steps out of the chamber, the weight of Madin’s words crashes down on him."Are we even still together?"The bitterness in those words replays in his mind like a haunti
Arthur stares blankly at the floor of Madin’s room. The silence presses in on him, broken only by the faint creak of the walls. The scent of Madin lingers in the air, faint but enough to twist the knife already lodged in Arthur’s chest. Jeremy’s words replay in his mind, each one cutting deeper."You don’t deserve him, Arthur, and you know it."He drags a hand through his hair, frustration and confusion swirling inside him. Is that true? Has he been blind to the pain he caused? Arthur’s thoughts are chaotic, one moment consumed by rage, the next by guilt. He doesn’t want to admit it, but Jeremy’s words make him feel like he’s staring into a mirror—and he doesn’t like what he sees.He gets up, pacing the room. His eyes land on the scattered remnants of Madin’s belongings: a forgotten scarf on the bed, a worn notebook tucked under a pillow. Arthur grabs the notebook, opening it with trembling fingers.Inside are sketches and notes—small, fleeting pieces of Madin’s thoughts. Some pages
The weeks drag on, and with each passing day, Arthur’s frustration grows.Madin has disappeared as though swallowed by the earth, leaving behind only the faintest traces—an innkeeper’s vague memory, a merchant’s passing mention of a cloaked figure matching his description.Yet no sighting brings Arthur closer to him.He stands at the edge of a vast forest, his breath misting in the cold morning air. His horse paws the ground restlessly, sensing his master’s unease.The trail has gone cold again, leaving Arthur with only his doubts and Jeremy’s words echoing in his mind."You punish him for wanting it."Arthur clenches his fists, the leather of his gloves creaking under the pressure. He doesn’t want to think about Jeremy, or the accusations in his tone, but the truth is inescapable.This search isn’t just about finding Madin—it’s about confronting his own failures.“Your Majesty,” one of his knights approaches, his voice hesitant. “We’ve checked the nearby villages and taverns. There’s
As Arthur sits in the dimly lit chamber, his head heavy with exhaustion. He remembers the night that he spent with Madin, the unforgettable night.The night he never wanted to end , he wanted to spend all his nights like that, but he doesn't know how that never even came to happen.Catherina enters without knocking, her movements graceful and deliberate. Arthur barely glances at her, his jaw tightening.“Leave,” he says flatly, his voice devoid of warmth.“Arthur—”“I said, leave!” His tone sharpens, and she hesitates before retreating, her skirts rustling as she disappears into the corridor.Ever since she gave birth to the twins, none of them breastfeed, the royal servant and family wonders why such little innocent Soul would refuse to breastfeed on their own mother.While Catherina doesn't even care about that, she doesn't even go to see her babys , she's been busy conducting secrete searches for Madin because, the more Arthur ignores her , the more hatred for Madin grows , now she
Arthur rubs his temples, the memories crashing over him like waves.Catherina had been methodical, planting seeds of doubt and turning him against Madin one calculated move at a time.She had claimed innocence while subtly stoking Arthur’s guilt over Madin’s jealousy.She had played the role of the victim flawlessly, making Arthur believe he was protecting her and their unborn child.His hands tremble as he recalls it all. He had been a fool, blinded by guilt and the weight of his responsibilities.Catherina had played him masterfully, using his love for their unborn child as a weapon.And now, as he sits alone in the darkness, the realization cuts deeper than any blade. He had failed Madin—not just as a king, but as a man who once swore to protect him.The search must go on, not only to find Madin but to seek redemption for the mistakes that haunt him.He tries to push away the memories , but they force their way back in his head uncontrollably.More memories,,,••••Another time ,,T
Arthur freezes, his breath caught in his throat, his heart stopping momentarily. Overwhelmed, he stumbles back, collapsing onto the bed, tears streaming down his face.Madin, equally shaken, moves toward him. He wraps his arms around Arthur tightly, holding him as though afraid to let go.Arthur clings to him, his own arms encircling Madin in silence. There are no words—only the shared weight of emotions, the years of pain and longing expressed through their embrace.A knock at the door shatters the moment. A guard’s voice filters through. “My lord, King Harris of the Bugada Kingdom wishes to speak with you before he departs.”Arthur struggles to steady his voice. “Tell him I’m unwell. I’ll visit him tomorrow.” he says.“Maybe you should see him. It might be importan__,” Madin begins, trying to pull away, but Arthur tightens his grip.“No, just... ” Arthur murmurs firmly, unable to even say what he wants to say. Burying his face into Madin’s shoulder."Madin, I don't know where to sta
"Speak again," Arthur commands, stepping further into the room, his piercing gaze locked on Madin, who is frozen in place, staring back at him.Madin remains silent, his mind racing. Why does Arthur want him to speak again? Surely, he couldn’t have recognized his voice.Madin lowers his head, unable to meet Arthur's eyes again. By now, little Prince Adriana had already slipped out of the room, with the lady following close behind."Who are you? What are you doing in my son’s room?" Arthur asks, suspicion thick in his voice.His initial shock at hearing a familiar voice that he has been longing to hear has faded, replaced by guarded curiosity.Madin adjusts his voice, letting a trembling tone creep in. "My lord, I didn’t mean to intrude. I was brought here to assist.""Do you work in the palace?" Arthur presses."No, Your Highness," Madin replies, his head still bowed.Arthur exhales sharply, his irritation evident. "Ugh, whatever. You can leave." He strides toward the little one’s be
The palace is teeming with people. Usually, events of such grandeur—especially ones involving the royal family—are strictly regulated, but today is an exception. The grief-stricken faces of Sabia's people reflect their collective sorrow as they gather to pay their respects to their beloved former king.Madin stands in the crowd, lost in the sea of mourners. From his position in the middle of the throng, he can barely see the front where the ceremony is taking place. Yet, when Arthur's voice carries through the air, even without seeing him, Madin’s knees nearly give out.The raw emotion in Arthur’s voice cuts through him like a blade. Every word spoken resonates with pain, and it’s unbearable for Madin.His heart screams to rush to Arthur’s side, to hold him, to offer comfort. But he knows he can’t."I have lost two men who meant the world to me , both without a chance to say goodbye. I don't know how to move on from that. Perhaps one day I might be lucky enough to meet with the one
"Are you serious?! Please, take back what you just said. The former king cannot be dead! He was strong, full of life." Madin exclaims, his legs nearly buckling under the weight of the news. Removing his apron, he sinks into a chair, his mind reeling.Thoughts of Arthur flood his mind, piercing his heart. He imagines the grief Arthur must be enduring and longs to be by his side, to hold him and reassure him that he is not alone."Marsel, do you really think I would spread false news about something as serious as the former king’s death? I value my life too much to risk execution." Paul responds gravely, setting down the tray he had just cleared from a customer’s table, his expression clouded with sorrow.Everyone in the kingdom had loved King Elias. He was a ruler who placed the needs of his people above his own, a king who earned their hearts through kindness and fairness.Madin strokes his fake long beard, his fingers trembling slightly as they brush against the disguise he has worn
"Tell me everything!" Arthur’s voice booms, unrelenting and charged with fury. "And don’t even think about lying or skirting the truth! If you do, I’ll make you regret every breath you take. You’ll suffer, day by day, feeling the agony you’ve caused, and when you can no longer bear it, I’ll ensure there’s no escape! Speak!"Catherina trembles violently, her knees threatening to give way under the force of his wrath. Her throat feels constricted, and her mind races, but no words come. She knows there’s nothing she can say to absolve herself in the eyes of everyone present."Are you waiting for someone to give you permission?!" Arthur’s voice slices through the heavy silence."I… I didn’t ki—" Catherina begins, but Arthur cuts her off with a sharp, menacing glare."Is that where the story starts? Jona, does it begin there? ' by I... I didn't ki__'!?" Arthur’s tone is dangerously calm, an ominous contrast to his earlier shouting.Jona, pale and shaking, whispers, "No." He looks down, gu
When Jona arrives at his men’s camp, the news he receives crushes the flicker of hope he had carried. The person they believed to be Madin was not him.Fury burns in his chest, and he punishes his men harshly for their mistake, venting all his frustration. "I cannot do this anymore!" he roars, his voice cracking under the weight of his emotions. "I’m tired of this endless chase! Let it be! Maybe I was just never meant to have this throne after all! Maybe my brother truly belongs there!"He paces in frustration, muttering to himself, "So what if Father doesn’t trust me? That’s his problem. I believe in myself. I’ll make myself proud by taking responsibility for something else, something meaningful. Maybe then he’ll see that I’m not worthless!"Mounting his horse, Jona takes a deep, steadying breath. He has made up his mind. The past three years of schemes and failures have drained him, and he refuses to continue down this path of destruction.As his horse trots back toward the palace,
Three years later...The grand hall is alive with laughter, music, and lively conversations. Guests swirl across the floor in exuberant dances, while entertainers captivate the crowd with their skill and artistry.At the head of the hall, the royal family sits in regal prominence, observing the festivities with a composed air of pride and celebration.Former King Elias stands, his face glowing with joy as he raises a golden chalice. His warm, commanding voice cuts through the lively din of the room."Thank you all for joining me in celebrating my son's exceptional leadership. Arthur has proven himself to be a ruler who deeply cares for his people." He turns to Arthur, his eyes shining with pride. "Son, would you like to say a few words to your people?"Arthur rises from his seat, his movements measured but tense. Forcing a faint smile, he speaks briefly. "Thank you all," he says, raising a hand in a quick wave.Without waiting for applause or acknowledgment, he excuses himself and str
In the palace the activities are muted. Servants hurry about, their movements brisk and quiet, as though trying not to disturb the tension simmering among the royal family.In the grand dining hall, former King , Elias sits at the head of the long table, his imposing figure a reminder of the authority he commands.Arthur enters, his steps slower than usual, his face set in a mask of calm that betrays the storm within. He bows slightly to his father before taking his seat.“Arthur,” Elias says without lifting his eyes from his plate. His voice carries a tone of quiet reproach.“Father,” Arthur replies, his voice steady but lacking its usual conviction.The silence stretches between them, a heavy weight neither seems willing to lift. Arthur’s thoughts drift, unbidden, to Madin. He spent the night tossing and turning, haunted by memories of the one he drove away.No matter how hard he tries to focus on his duties, the ache of Madin’s absence claws at him, relentless and unforgiving.“You
Elsewhere...In Jona’s room, tension hangs heavy in the air. As soon as Jona stormed out of the grand hall, Catherina trailed after him, her steps purposeful. She’s seen the cracks in his resolve and knows this is the perfect moment to strike.She doesn’t bother to knock, pushing the door open and stepping inside without hesitation.Jona is pacing furiously, his clenched fists trembling with suppressed rage. Tears glisten on his cheeks, though he quickly wipes them away when he hears her enter.“What kind of man are you?” Catherina’s voice cuts through the room, sharp and disdainful. “Crying instead of fighting? Pathetic.”Jona freezes, then whirls around, glaring at her. “What are you doing here?”She steps further in, closing the door behind her with a soft thud. “You think everything you want is just going to fall into your lap while you sulk?”Jona’s scowl deepens. “What are you talking about?”Catherina crosses her arms, her expression cool and calculating. “Oh, come on, Jona. Ev