The feeling was mortifying. I could see his body on the rocks, broken. I stepped back slightly and collapsed to the ground. I could remember my father. "He placed my body in his lap, stroked my curly hair, kissed my forehead and said I was his greatest treasure and he would always let me be as free as he could within his limits. He hugged me. His scent reminded me of field lilies." It was just a single memory. In his absurd selfishness, William had destroyed his own family. Everything I once knew had come to an end... And as bizarre as it was, I felt the emptiness of having no blood relatives left. Contradictory emotions. Relief, pain, tingling, sorrow, ecstasy, exhaustion. They were such intense feelings that I lay down on the ground, feeling the grass touch my tainted skin. I tried to clear my mind of intrusive thoughts.
Footsteps caught my attention. I couldn't move a single muscle. And luckily, it was Alexander. He was panting as he pushed the brush aside. The sound of his breathing told me how hard he had tried to find me, desperately searching until he saw me lying there. He threw himself down beside me, lowered his body, and held me tightly in his arms. His tears fell onto my neck. I could feel him sniffling, overwhelmed by my disappearance.
— You... gave me a damn scare. I thought... not again... — The alpha's words came out choked, barely intelligible.
— The only one dead is William... — I said weakly. — You're not getting rid of me that easily, darling... It didn't happen before and it won't happen now.
The alpha laughed softly against my neck, sending little tickles through me. We stayed in each other's arms for a long time, until the guards finally reached us. The captain and the soldiers were horrified to see the king's body at the bottom of the cliff. The tide was low, so they were able to retrieve what was left and prepare it for burial.
I remained the entire time in Alexander's arms, held like a princess from a fairytale. I simply rested my head against his chest and closed my eyes as we returned to the castle.
There was turmoil everywhere. From the announcement of the king's escape with his advisor, to the declaration of his death, and the possible emergency coronation of the prince. It was messy and chaotic. Many nobles — from marquises to dukes — tried to get close to me. Some foreign envoys, offering their condolences, attempted to get past the soldiers. But Alex pushed everyone back, saying he'd speak to them when the time was right. I was grateful to have someone protecting me. I felt safe. The only other time I'd felt that was aboard Baltazar's ship.
I missed my companions. Was Bob okay? Was Olma still winning games with her lies and schemes? Did my father miss me? I took a deep breath. I didn't want to hear the murmurs and the wailing. Even my fiancé's father tried to approach me but was driven away. Yet he didn't seem to mind. That man knew he had won the moment they returned the former king's body.
I spent three days in the room. I slept, ate, rested, spoke with some council members. I needed medical attention because of the pregnancy. I couldn't push myself the way I had when chasing William. It was fine. It was over. I still felt physical pain. I didn't know what was being discussed outside my room. But Alexander kept me informed when he could during that time.
William's funeral was brief. His body was cremated due to his crimes and would not be buried with our family. His ashes were thrown into the Abyss of the Drowned — the same one that had supposedly taken my life years ago. And finally, the day of the coronation had arrived.
The council had made their decision. With no blood regents remaining — and more importantly, deeming me capable of ruling — they agreed to my coronation. However, due to my memory loss and history of reckless behavior, they would hasten my marriage to Alexander. And, of course, because of the baby.
— How do I look? — I asked, without much enthusiasm. The royal attire suited me. The red fabric contrasted beautifully with the brown of my skin. My eyes sparkled beneath light makeup. My dreadlocks had been redone, adorned with golden trinkets. I was decorated from head to toe with jewels and bracelets. The signet ring bore the symbol of my family.
Layers and layers of clothing didn't suit me — I knew that. I preferred something simpler, something outrageously bold. Regardless, I made my way to Alexander, who stared at me, completely speechless.
— I prefer you without clothes, but you look incredibly pompous and handsome. — The alpha smiled, also dressed to impress. His dark and gold garments were made of the finest noble fabrics, fitting perfectly on his strong frame. I sat in his lap and wrapped my arms around his neck.
— After the ceremony we can...
— We can't. The doctor said no sex until the third month of pregnancy. Just pheromone exchanges. — Though he said that, I could tell he wasn't thrilled about it.
I simply huffed in frustration and kissed him feverishly.
We headed toward the ceremony hall — the grand hall I had once stormed into. Numerous nobles had gathered to pay homage. The stage was set, and its main character had arrived. Everyone admired my appearance. With my head held high, I walked to the throne. If you show weakness, you'll be devoured by lions. I had to show strength and demand respect.
The five council members, including Theodor, were already waiting. Markus held the crown in his hands. I approached the three men and two women who, convinced of a new era, were more than ready to place a collar around my neck. They hadn't even considered judging William's death. There were no longer any allies willing to challenge my blood claim. Political, economic, and diplomatic interests ruled the game. If they had to crown an omega, they would — knowing full well that Alexander would be the one truly reigning.
I knelt, and the crown's weight settled upon my head. Markus placed gold and silver upon my hair.
— May a new era of peace begin. — Markus declared. — Long live King Albertin Gracy August of Raviera, first of his name.
Everyone hailed the king. They knelt. A sense of discomfort hung in the air. I had stepped into a box — the very prison that had accidentally freed me — only to now become part of a petty and corrupt political machine again. I ascended the steps, the council giving way, until I sat on the throne.
— I am the King of Raviera. — I said, and everyone seemed to listen attentively. — William was a tyrant for four long years. He committed countless crimes: murdering political opponents, promoting unlawful imprisonments, subjugating and mistreating his own people. He forgot the diplomacy that had always been so important to my father. — My voice projected clearly. I was serious. Rage stirred in my chest.— There has been a political scheme in place since the death of my family, orchestrated by William and his advisor, Felder Belian, and it still lingers. I'm glad... — Yes, it was lucky my blade didn't condemn the man whose mind had planned the August family's downfall.
— Felder Belian shall be condemned. But before that, he will confess to his crimes. And everyone — I repeat, everyone who took part in the massacre of my family, including the soldiers who fought against us, will be judged and condemned. I will cleanse this kingdom myself. — Many were shocked, some impressed.
The councilors didn't seem pleased — their surprise and doubt made them begin to question if they had made the right choice.
— However, I am merciful. The families that collaborated with William may come forward and ask the King for forgiveness. I will grant them mercy. They may be demoted, lose some land, and pay reparations. Those who do not confess and are later discovered shall be sentenced to capital punishment — for lèse-majesté.
I rose. Whispers and murmurs erupted instantly. The council couldn't stop me — not unless there was a legal exception. At that moment, I was the absolute sovereign. Unless my sister were to appear alive once again, the council had no grounds to intervene.
I walked the length of the red carpet, exiting the hall and stepping outside. The people of Raviera were gathered. The black banners, which had symbolized William's death, were taken down, and new red flags bearing my crest were raised.
"It's the lost prince!"
Everyone was whispering. I waved my hands.
— Today, I take the throne — not only of the capital, Seraphim, but of the entire kingdom of Raviera. — The words flowed so naturally, it was as if they were already part of me. — And I promise you a kingdom built on peace and prosperity. You may doubt me because of my gender, but I am committed to continuing my father's legacy — a man known for his mercy and diplomacy. I will restore ties with old kingdoms and reopen trade. Taxes will be lowered, and small landowners will once again receive support. This is a new era, and I count on all of you to help build it.
The crowd erupted in cheers at the mention of lowered taxes. That would weaken the opposition — something crucial at the moment.
— Today is a holiday. Celebrate, and live one more day knowing the next will be better.
I left under the protection of the royal guard — handpicked by Alexander. They were men and women I could trust, all betas, and that was all that mattered. I didn't want anyone who had once served my brother near me. It didn't take long before the council summoned me for a private meeting.
— Don't you think that was a radical decision, Your Majesty? — Markus asked with his usual austere and neutral expression, his political frown unchanging.
— William killed my family and tried to murder me. That was radical, don't you think? Wiping out your own blood just because some fool wants a piece of gold on his head. — I sat in the chair my brother used to occupy. The feeling of revulsion didn't subside. I'd get rid of everything connected to that bastard. Could I change the throne itself too?
— We could deliberate on alternative punishments and... — said Magnolia, a socially respected noblewoman, dazzling in her sixties with her brilliant white curls.
— No. They will face the same punishment my brother imposed on his own blood. And I want to speak to the accused kingdom — reestablish diplomatic bridges. — I stared at Theodor for a few moments. He remained completely silent. His expression unreadable, but tense.
We began discussing the next steps. My political knowledge was limited — I truly needed more guidance. I didn't know much about economics, and the council members weren't thrilled about lowering taxes during the leadership transition. Honestly, the boring conversation was draining me. I wanted Alexander, but I knew the newly promoted general of the armies was busy reorganizing the guard and arresting those who aided William's escape.
— They have two days after the ball to come forward. No noble is allowed to leave the capital. — I told Markus, who was to deliver the message. — You may go.
It was already night, and I was starving. I'd been trapped in that huge room all day. It was always remarkable to realize that this meeting room was worth more than Baltazar's entire ship.
— You stay, Theodor. — I said, toying with the tiny flags of the nations. — And ask a servant to bring food!
Soon it was just the two of us. The silence was heavy and uncomfortable. I stood, grabbed a scroll, an inkwell, and a cup, placed them in front of the man, and leaned against the table beside him.
— Write the names of all the families involved in the insurrection. I want every noble who stood by William written on that paper. — I spoke with authority. Perhaps it was the first time the alpha truly saw me as a ruler — not just some brat raised by pirates.
— Remember your promise, Your Majesty. I hope you intend to keep it. — Theodor spoke carefully. — If not for me, you would never have that crown on your head.
— I acknowledge that. But I'm a pirate, you know? We don't keep our promises.
I noticed the tension in his shoulders, the narrowing of his eyes.
— But don't worry. I love your son. We are destined mates, after all. — I lifted my gaze toward the bookshelf. — Even though I haven't forgotten what you did, your cooperation, Duke, still earns you a place close to me — under the promise that nothing will happen to you as long as I have your loyalty. I want you to be my personal advisor. You understand politics and economics better than I do, and I don't want to turn this kingdom into chaos... And there's something else I want you to do.
Theodor looked more curious now. The tension had eased. He knew I wouldn't do anything to harm Alexander. And it was true. I would keep the snake close — and if it ever tried to strike, I'd cut off its head.
— Baltazar, my captain, my father — he's a criminal. I need you to grant him amnesty. A full pardon. And I want you to summon him here — not as a pirate, but as a guest... — I was overwhelmed with longing. I wanted to see him alive and well again.
— That can be arranged. It'll take about a week for the document to be ready, and another for it to be distributed to every free city in Raviera. Everyone will know that Captain Baltazar is a free man, with no crimes on his name. And Your Majesty can write him a letter inviting him to come — a messenger mage can deliver it, as long as you have something that belonged to your captain. — Theodor didn't like the idea, but he didn't seem in a position to deny my request.
I gently placed a hand on his shoulder.
— Do that. And turn in your former companions.
Theodor hesitated, but he knew he couldn't protect those who made William a king. He began writing. I didn't recognize all the surnames, but I could learn later. I still hoped some sensible minds would confess their crimes. That would be easier. They were just as vile as my brother.
It was late. The servants had prepared the royal chambers. William had stayed in a special room he'd built in the castle's most extravagant wing. At my request, I stayed in the former king's room. It was large, luxurious, and had a portrait of my family. The memories were faint, but I could hear my father's voice, gifting me small trinkets. I could feel the anticipation of waiting for him after a long journey. It was a mix of emotions I couldn't fully identify.
I used to fear those memories. I didn't care to know. I had the family I'd asked for on the sea — I had Baltazar and my brother Bob. But now, I wanted to honor my past.
I walked to the bath and laid back, sinking into the gentle warmth of the water. After a whole day of political discussions and weighty decisions, it was everything I needed. Yeah. I needed to be responsible now.
— Darcy? — Alex entered the enormous bathroom and approached me.
— You don't need to call me that anymore... My name is Albertin. — I lowered my head, letting my hair fall over my face.
— Hmm. — Alex knelt beside the tub, gently brushing my hair behind my ear. — I think Darcy suits you… You know that? And I know you prefer to be called that. I want to respect the name you chose… and preserve your identity as someone free.
I smiled genuinely, staring into his face for a few moments, then reached out to touch his cheek, tracing his features.
— I was afraid I'd forget my pirate days. I know they're over now — because of my new responsibilities — but I want to cherish them. And I prefer you call me Darcy. — I spoke with honesty.
— It's a sudden change, really. Now you carry the weight of an entire kingdom on your shoulders. And I feel guilty for...
— No. Don't feel that way. You had to endure the pain of losing your fated mate. If I had remembered, I would've suffered just as much from the separation. I don't want you to feel sorry for us being together... — I understood the guilt that lingered in his heart. — Come. Join me.
He had clearly been waiting for the invitation. He removed his clothes completely, and I never tired of admiring every line and muscle beneath his skin. He slipped into the tub and pulled me against him, cradling me in his arms. I simply laid my head on his chest, breathing in his scent and relaxing completely.
— I remembered... some things, but nothing is very clear yet. It's like I can't hold onto the memories. — I played with his hair as it floated in the water. — ... My father talking to me about the future. My mother saying she was ashamed of my existence. Holding a wooden sword, trying to strike a dummy and missing completely.
— The memories will come, little by little. The routines and the castle will help. — Alex ran his fingers softly along my neck.
— Sometimes I don't know if I want to remember... and feel the pain of not having my father by my side anymore. — The thought stirred anxiety inside me. — I'm going to invite Baltazar to the castle.
— Of course. Your captain took care of you, kept you alive — even if your actions were suicidal at times. — Alex smiled, gently pinching my cheeks. — And he deserves to know he's going to be a grandfather.
— It's still hard to believe. — I placed a hand on my belly. Something was growing inside me. A child. At what point did I ever imagine I'd actually be pregnant? Then again, they say compatibility with your fated mate helps conception. — I… I'm really insecure. I don't think I'll be a good parent.
— You're a good person! That's what matters. And when you pass on your values...
— I've got plenty of values. I can teach our child how to pick pockets! — I laughed, but I think Alex didn't appreciate the joke — he pinched my cheeks again.
— We'll raise this child together, okay? We'll give them our best qualities and be understanding. We'll manage. — The older man held me close as I rubbed my reddened cheeks.
The alpha made me feel safe. I didn't know what would happen from now on. But I was willing to do my best. Not for me. Not even for the child. But for people I didn't even know, and never thought I'd care to protect. I had to fix the mess William had made. I rested fully against his chest.
— Tell me about my father, about his reign... about my mother and my sister. About the kingdom too, and what the people need right now… I want to understand them.
And to understand my past, so I can decide what kind of king I want to become.
Alexander began to share all the knowledge he had — both public and private. All I could think was how much there was to do, after William turned this country into a brothel. It was unbelievable how every one of that alpha's decisions served only himself. Fear stirred in me. What had I truly learned? How to be a pirate? How to survive at sea, navigate by stars, steal magic artifacts and trick people? Many hated me — and now I was king. And soon, many more would know.
Would this work?
At least his pheromones were starting to calm me. So I just closed my eyes and let the warmth soothe me...
To be continued...