Chapter 8: Freedom

Raiden sat alone in his room, the weight of recent events heavy on his mind. His thoughts drifted back six years ago, to the day his youngest brother, Alex, met his untimely end. Raiden, then 19 years old, wasn't present when it happened. He felt neither sadness nor joy at his brother's passing. To Raiden, Alex was simply another member of the family, not as significant as his beloved parents, whom he cherished deeply.

Nina, his first sibling with a two-year age gap, had always been somewhat of a rival, yet someone he cared for deeply. They shared fond memories of their childhood, although Raiden's rigorous training began at a young age, preparing him to inherit the throne of Unity Nation. Nina followed suit at the age of 10. Alex, on the other hand, was different. He possessed incredible fighting abilities, inherited from generations of Kings, despite his lacklustre academic performance. His rare gift, known as "Copy," made him a formidable opponent, even besting seasoned royal guards at the tender age of 13.

Raiden couldn't help but feel envious of Alex's prowess. He longed for the freedom Alex enjoyed, free from the burdens of monarchy. Unlike his grandparents and parents, who were determined to see him ascend to the throne, Raiden yearned for a life of autonomy. Nina shared similar sentiments, harbouring no desire to become queen, a role that had never been filled by a woman in Kings' history.

As Raiden pondered his predicament, a servant interrupted his thoughts, announcing that his grandparents wished to speak with him.

Raiden entered the meeting room to find his grandparents, Arnold I and Sara, already seated and waiting for him.

"Take a seat, Raiden. We need to have a chat," Arnold beckoned him to sit down.

"Explain what happened, and don't you dare lie to us like you did to your mother," Sara's voice held a stern command as she addressed Raiden.

Raiden understood there was no point in avoiding the truth this time. He recounted the events from start to finish, leaving no detail or falsehood behind.

"Your actions mirror those of my grandfather, but even he knew his limits and took responsibility. Yet, since that day, you've done nothing. I know you're not grieving for Alex, so why persist in this foolishness?" Arnold's tone was grave as he posed the question to Raiden.

"I don't wish to become king," Raiden admitted, knowing that deceiving them would only lead to further consequences.

"That's not for you to decide," Sara's response was swift and unequivocal.

"You must accept your responsibility," Arnold added firmly.

"I apologize, but I don't believe I'm suited for the role," Raiden persisted, hoping to sway their decision.

"Raiden, enough. Do not provoke us. We won't tolerate any further foolishness. You're no longer a child or a teenager; it's time you started acting like an adult," Arnold's warning carried weight, emphasizing the seriousness of the situation.

Feeling the weight of their disapproval, Raiden rose from his seat, eager to leave the room.

"Sit down. We're not finished," Sara's firm command halted his departure, compelling him to remain seated.

"Do you think you can get away with this? You need to face the consequences of your actions," Arnold's voice held a stern admonition as he addressed Raiden.

"What do you want me to do?" Raiden inquired, meeting Arnold's gaze with a mixture of defiance and resignation.

"First and foremost, you need to issue a public statement. You must address the situation directly, providing a detailed explanation of what transpired. If you fail to do so, the media will undoubtedly exploit the situation. Secondly, you must personally visit both families involved and offer compensation and apologies. Whatever they demand, you must comply. As it stands, we are on the brink of calling off your engagement with Kate. You must rectify this situation immediately. And if Kara is indeed pregnant, you will be obligated to marry into the Burns family. However, I fervently hope it doesn't come to that. You have one week to accomplish all of this, Raiden. Fail, and the consequences will be severe," Arnold's instructions were clear and unwavering, leaving no room for negotiation.

"Understood, your Highnesses," Raiden replied, his tone subdued as he absorbed the weight of Arnold's words. With a respectful nod, he turned on his heel and exited the room, fully aware of the daunting task that lay ahead of him.

"Arnold, I can't shake this feeling that this generation of the Kings family will mark the end of our legacy," Sara expressed her apprehensions to her husband, her voice tinged with worry.

"I share your concern, but perhaps this will serve as the wake-up call Raiden needs. However, the future remains uncertain," Arnold confided to his wife, acknowledging the gravity of the situation.

Meanwhile, Raiden made his way to his room, where his father awaited him outside.

"Have you spoken to them?" Arnold II inquired as Raiden approached.

"Yes, Father," Raiden replied somberly.

"Good. Once you've completed your tasks, you must attend the meeting we have scheduled. Furthermore, you are not to leave the premises without our permission until you assume the throne," Arnold II instructed his son, outlining the expectations following the completion of Raiden's assigned duties.

"Understood, Father," Raiden replied, his voice tinged with remorse.

"In addition, make amends with your mother and sister; you've deeply upset them. Attend your brother's funeral ceremony tomorrow, and then proceed to the capital to address the public about your actions," Arnold instructed firmly, his disappointment palpable.

As he turned to leave, Arnold paused and added with a note of warning, "Do not repeat these mistakes." With that, he walked away, leaving Raiden standing alone in the corridor, grappling with the consequences of his choices.