Eudorian Chronicles: Eudorian Fate

Chapter 1

"Azalan, you have managed to avoid this for too long, and I can no longer sit idly by while you continue to ignore this."

Azalan's hand froze in mid-turn of the page he had been reading when his father's voice rang out in the quiet peace of the study. He sighed and lowered his head, his onyx colored hair falling over his face. His crimson eyes held a minute glimmer of despair before he drew a breath and sat up straight in his chair. His hands fell to his lap and he looked up at his father as he strode up to the desk.

King Adkiel's own crimson gaze burned into his son's as he leaned over the large wooden desk. He firmly placed both hands palm down on the edge. His voice was stern and unwavering when he spoke. "It's time to set your work aside and meet your future queen."

Azalan frowned slightly in confusion. He knew there had been an arrangement made for him, but he had not realized the woman chosen for him had been at the palace. Regardless of how he felt and argued, he realized his father truly would not be ignored this time. At twenty-five years old, he had well passed the age he had been expected to marry. He knew this conversation was not about to end well for him, but he would still make sure he was heard.

"Father, I just don't feel as though I am ready for that kind of commitment, yet. I already have so much on my plate as it is. I just don't feel it would be fair for my bride-to-be if I am not able to commit my attention to her while I am trying to make sure things are ready for the upcoming diplomatic conference."

Azalan knew his reasoning was weak. Though he had spent years rehearsing this conversation in his head, this was not the reasoning he had hoped to give and he knew that it would not resolve the situation he had found himself in. Still, he would not be able to forgive himself if he never tried. "I still have to set up the talks with the Cerean and Sirenian people, as well as attempt communication with the Creperian Lord in regards to the unification of Eudora. As you are aware, past treaties are coming due for renewal and I want to make sure it goes in a way that is favorable for everyone. It would not be beneficial for me to be distracted by anything at this time. Especially something equally as important as my own wedding."

Adkiel stared down at him for a moment before his lips curled into a sympathetic smile. "I understand, my son. I do." He straightened himself so he could sit on the edge of the desk. "I once held similar concerns. The last thing I was focused on was marriage. Especially to someone I didn't even know. Unfortunately, you aren't sixteen anymore. You aren't even eighteen anymore. Most princes would have married and begun their families by now. Your mother and I have allowed you to drag your feet long enough."

Azalan stood and crossed the study. He stopped in front of the large picture window overlooking the garden and folded his arms in front of his chest. "I guess I just don't see the importance in it right now. It is important to carry on the bloodline and I understand that. It's not like I don't want to get married at all. It's just not at the top of my agenda." He looked down and swept his hand across a bronze globe that stood tall on its pedestal beside him. For a moment, he watched as it spun on its axis. He reflected on how it was a physical representation of his current mental state. He had tried to avoid it, but he knew what was coming.

The king eyed him curiously. "You are very dedicated to our people and your role in regards to them. I cannot stress how proud I am to see the strides you have taken to secure all boundaries and peace talks. You have shown a diplomacy that many have lacked at your age. In that respect, I have no doubts that you will make a fine king when your time comes." The king stepped up to his son and placed a hand on his shoulder.

Here we go, Azalan groaned inwardly as he contemplated his next words. He looked up as his father's grip on his shoulder tightened and he was silently commanded to follow the king around the room.