There was a commotion all around. The pirates surrounded me—but the guard didn't interfere because Alexander stopped them. Theodor looked visibly uncomfortable, but I couldn't care less about my subjects' reaction. All I wanted now was to enjoy the presence of my companions: the family who had cared for me over the past four years.
— Who would've thought—becoming a king, huh? — Bob remarked with playful disdain, ruffling my hair with an energetic grin.— Who could imagine our little Darcy growing up to rule Raviera? — Olma laughed mockingly, but with genuine affection.— Used to drink nonstop and never obeyed a simple command, and now you have to govern the whole country. — Baltazar gently pinched my cheek.
I felt good. Surrounded by people I loved and trusted. After months living in deception, dealing with murders and mind control, I finally felt at home again. The family atmosphere was so nostalgic that I let myself be carried away—ignoring the world around me.
The court was stunned. Whispers spiraled among the nobles. The ball would happen soon, and several delegations had already begun arriving. The counselors and high nobility were concerned: would I really host pirates in the castle? I could feel the speculation growing behind my back.
— Majesty, it would be best to move your guests to a private chamber. — Alexander said, sensing that the turmoil would only escalate and might cause friction with the other invitees.— Ah yes, of course. — I agreed—private was better.
I led them to a private sitting room. A small banquet had been laid out, and they approached with curious boldness, helping themselves without much decorum. I didn't mind. Theodor, who had accompanied us, was horrified—even if he tried to hide it.
— Why haven't you sent the remaining letters yet? — I asked the man, finally making eye contact.— I cannot risk leaving Your Majesty alone with these savages. — Theodor pulled a handkerchief and wiped his brow. I rolled my eyes.— They are my family. Besides, you have a ball to oversee. Alex will be with me—and everything will be fine. — I said firmly, practically pushing him toward the closed door.
Alexander watched quietly. He didn't intend to interrupt. The room was comfortable, with couches and chairs aplenty. A large open window overlooked the imperial garden, the bandstand, and beyond that, the distant forest.
— Have you lost weight? Don't they feed you properly in the castle? — Bob asked, draping an arm around my shoulder.— Honestly, and this might surprise you, I've been working like a prisoner… They have me reading documents and writing letters until late. Can you believe it? — I confessed with a lamenting tone, serving myself food while starving. The physician had warned I needed more nourishment for the pregnancy.— You look worn out. — Baltazar added, staring at me.— A lot happened since you all escaped. — I forced a smile. — I'll tell you everything. But first, I have a proposal for everyone.
We sat. I felt I was finally talking to people who didn't need to flatter me all day. Only Alexander—and maybe Theodor, though the latter was a spiteful man who thought himself above everyone else.
— First, Alexander. — I introduced to everyone present. — My future husband, and soon we'll all celebrate our wedding.— Who would've thought, huh? That promiscuous little one of ours would end up in a real relationship. — Olma laughed as she ate and sipped high‑quality wine.— Haha. Shut up. — I sighed.— You ordering around like a king now? — Olma challenged, which made everyone laugh.
Their irreverence made me laugh in return. Sharing these relaxed moments with those I love—it was something I missed dearly. Still, I knew my life from now on would be different. Even if I were in quality company, responsibilities waited beyond the door. I couldn't fool myself into thinking everything would return to how it was before… and maybe I wouldn't want it to. William had destroyed Raviera—but now there was a chance to make things right, even though I had no clue how.
— Well… — I began.
I told them about my arrival at the castle. How Alexander helped me. Baltazar already knew—after all, the alpha had ensured they disembarked safely at the port with no casualties. The older man thanked my fiancé sincerely for making everything go as smoothly as possible.
— The guards got suspicious after we docked. They began investigating. It wasn't your fault—or the captain of the guard's. — Baltazar said. — Kid-brat or not, if the guards had reached us before your fiancé, you would've likely been executed that very night.
I felt both relief it wasn't my fault and fury at William. Thankfully, he was dead.
— So the little bastard is dead—and you killed him? Sounds pretty rat-like. — Baltazar tousled my hair again, letting me smile at his pride.
I continued my tale. I spoke of the cursed necklace, of the time I was William's captive. Everyone listened—more serious and angry—learning how my brother nearly succeeded in poisoning me, and how I had exacted my own vengeance. No reason to mourn the incident any longer.
— And… I'm expecting Alex's child. — I brought my hands to my cheeks.
Silence ensued—a tension in the air.
— Is that right? After all that debauchery, doesn't surprise me you got someone pregnant! — Bob slapped my shoulder heartily.— Hey, watch it, you bastard. — Baltazar swatted Bob lightly on the back of the head. — We don't hit pregnant people, damn it. Show some control.— Yeah, you're going to be a grandfather. — I told Baltazar with a shy and unsure smile.
He stood and embraced me once more—strongly, warmly. I returned the hug, happy that the old man looked at ease. I still couldn't fully believe I was actually going to carry a child soon—though my belly was already growing.
— I hope you raise this child well. Don't teach them any bad pirate habits—just the castle's little luxuries. — Baltazar said, pouring himself more wine from a bottle on the table.— You did well, boy. — Olma laughed. — You killed the tyrant, took the throne, you're getting married and having a child. Better than anyone could ever have expected.
— How kind. — I smiled nervously. I hadn't asked for any of this. But when I looked toward Alexander and saw his gentle smile, I ended up feeling like I was exactly where I was meant to be.
— Looks like it's real love. — Bob nudged me and chuckled.
— Yeah, it is real love. — I admitted, feeling awkward.
It was time to make my proposal. I didn't want to stall any longer. The ball was getting closer, and I knew Theodor was probably having a meltdown in his chambers, imagining me making reckless decisions.
— I have a proposal. I know we've been pirates for a long time—many of you even before I was born—sailing dangerous waters, committing raids, and transporting contraband. And I also know it was one of the only ways to survive. Joining a crew meant food and a bit of money for your work—otherwise, starving in the cities, worse off than stray dogs. — There were common stories about why people had joined the crew. Some were running from punishment, others just wanted a place to call home. — My idea is that instead of pirates, you become privateers. Privateers of the Kingdom of Raviera, paid for every shipment transported, with food and recognition for serving the crown. It would make your missions far less dangerous.
They looked at each other. No one seemed to think it was a bad idea.
— You think I need that, kid? I'm a sea wolf. I won't sell out just because you're king now. — Baltazar, always so stubborn. — I don't want your pity.
— I'm not doing this out of pity or mercy. I just want you close to me. And the best way is… giving you the chance to return often to port. To come to the castle… I don't want to be away from you—not more than a few months. Because I know you'd only return to Raviera in a few years. I know your routes, old man. — I lowered my head. My own selfishness had made me think of how to make them stay.
— You... — Baltazar began, but swallowed his words. — I'll think about it. For now, let's celebrate. Call in a few bards and tell them to bring more food and drink. It's a party, isn't it?
I stood up, nodding.
Soon, two bards, more food, and wine entered the private room. Some games were brought in. I found myself cursing and losing at dice again. It felt like regaining a part of myself I thought I'd never see again. Alexander had planned to just observe, but Bob challenged him, and the alpha was quick to take him on. And surprisingly, the older one was actually good at cards and dice. He looked like someone who had played in taverns and inns before.
— Is there some dark past I should know about? — I asked after Alex had taken half the money on the table.
— A teenager has to have some fun. Who hasn't snuck out and ended up in a shady brothel? — he smiled.
Everyone laughed, and I was left speechless. Who would've guessed? Mr. Perfect had a wild side, too. Well, well. I'd hold that over his head for the rest of our lives. I stood up to get more drinks. That's when I saw Baltazar outside, talking to Olma. They looked serious. I didn't mean to eavesdrop—I just wanted to join the conversation.
— He's going to be disappointed. — Olma said, swirling her glass.
— He'll be upset now, and by tomorrow he'll forget. He's got a whole kingdom to worry about—he won't need to be concerned with pirates. Did you see how those people looked at us? I don't want them trying anything against the kid just because of one ship. — Baltazar downed his drink.
— But the proposal is good, and we'd be close in case something happens. — Olma insisted. — A life without crime.
— Ah, Olma. Sure, it's tempting. But I won't be part of Raviera's politics. Even if everyone's hoping for it. And I won't get in the boy's way…
— That's my line. — I stepped in.
— Always interrupting, you damn rat. — Baltazar snapped.
Olma stepped back, knowing we needed to talk. She gently touched my shoulder as she passed by. My heart tightened. The thought of never seeing them again was killing me.
— Why? Why do you want to leave me here? I can offer more. — My tone sounded desperate—and it truly was. How could I finally see my family again only to lose them all over?
— You little brat. Still so stubborn and hard-headed, huh? — The captain looked at me with genuine seriousness. — I won't swear allegiance to a flag. And more than that, it would hurt your reign if people saw you consorting with pirates, Darcy. And you know it. You saw how they looked at us. I'm not blind. And they're right—they should fear us. We're criminals, not fairy tale heroes.
— But we can change that. I know being a privateer is safer than venturing out to sea without any prospect of a new job. Baltazar, I don't want to lose you. Not again. I don't want to stay here, but I can't abandon my responsibilities. William did terrible things to these people and to my other family. — I lowered my head, gripping the railing tightly. I could see my knuckles turning white.
A gentle hand rested on my shoulder.
— It's time to let go of these criminals, Darcy. — His calm voice only made me more frustrated.
— NO! — Desperation took over. Alex heard the shout and came to check, but I was scared and blinded by emotion. I clutched the worn fabric of his clothes. — I can't lose you too... I don't know what to do, Baltazar. Father, please, stay with me. Accept the deal.
By now, everyone inside could hear what was going on outside. The silence in the hall was unmistakable.
— I'll do whatever it takes. What do you want? You can ask, father. Ask for anything. I'll do it… Just don't leave me here.
Tears threatened to fall, but I held them back as long as I could—until I felt more gentle hands gripping my shoulders with firmness. My body trembled slightly, and my head throbbed.
— Darcy, you're an adult. You need to grow up. You can't rely on us anymore. You have a different life now, new people around you—not a crew of pirates who don't know how much longer they'll even be alive. Grow up, boy. — Baltazar's voice was harsh, with no trace of kindness. — You were never one of us. You were never part of the crew. You've always been a prince—now a king.
— Hey, don't you think that's a bit cruel? — Alexander stepped in.
The captain's words hit me like lightning straight to the chest. I had never thought of myself as someone who was just passing through. Suddenly, I couldn't breathe. I had truly believed I was part of the crew. I looked toward my companions, seeking support, but no one said anything. They all seemed to agree. Bob? I searched for his eyes, but the beta kept his head low and his fists clenched.
— Stay out of this. You're not part of it, guardsman. — Baltazar drank the last of the bottle with irritation.
— He did all this for you. He agreed to stay at the castle because he wanted to free everyone—even though he wanted to sail with the crew. And now you say he wasn't part of it? Aren't you supposed to be a family? — Alexander still held me tightly. I tried to say something, but the words died in my throat.
— Please. What do you know about family, you spoiled noble? Just accept it, Darcy. It's better this way. Your time with us is over. It's outrageous to think we'd accept your mediocre proposal just because you feel lonely. If you've learned anything from us, it's that we are pirates. — Baltazar hurled the bottle at the wall, shattering good wine.
— You're like a father to me… — I said, hopefully.
— No, you projected that image onto me. I was never your father—and you, even less my son. You were just a burden I no longer have. — Baltazar gave a crooked smile.
Alexander moved toward him, grabbing him firmly by the collar. I couldn't hear anything anymore, didn't know if they were going to fight. My alpha was clearly not pleased with seeing his mate humiliated like that.
I was alone.
Everything blurred. I couldn't tell if it was because of the tears. It was a shock. Where I thought I'd find comfort, I was cast aside. Thrown away like nothing. Did these four years mean nothing? I thought I'd live a life at sea forever. And now, I wasn't even sure about our bond. I faltered for a moment—and everything went black. Darkness consumed me.
— He needs better nourishment. You can't forget that His Majesty is pregnant and needs to follow an appropriate routine. If your goal is to make him lose the child, then you're doing everything right. Nutrition, walks, and less stress. — The doctor's voice was filled with irritation. Miranda was the new royal physician. I had chosen her specifically because she had no ties to noble families. Her background was relatively humble, but she had great talent—she just needed recognition. She had cared for soldiers in battle, practically a disposable figure who followed troops to the frontlines.
Theodor, Alexander, and even Baltazar were in the room. I stared at the ceiling for a while until they realized I was awake. On the desk were several empty bottles of tonics, plenty of vitamins, and a bowl of lukewarm soup.
— Finally. — Alex quickly approached, sitting beside me and brushing his hand gently across my forehead.
— Darcy. — Baltazar began, but it was Theodor who stopped him.
— I understand you want to clear things up. However, the king is currently under medical care. So I'd appreciate it if you returned to your quarters. You'll all have rooms in the north wing of the palace. Allow me to show you. — My father-in-law, finally doing something sensible, led the captain out of the room.
— How are you feeling? — Alex smiled at me sadly.
I couldn't answer. I didn't know what to say. Every part of me ached with shame. The cruel words echoed in my head. I didn't have the maturity to understand that Baltazar was probably trying to get me to move on—to let go of that past and continue with my life, away from pirates. My reign would be harder if there were whispers about my past, my old life, my associations. I knew all of that—but I still couldn't accept the pain he had caused me.
— There were better ways to push me away. — My voice came out hoarse, almost vanishing into the sadness.
The alpha embraced me, wrapping his arms around my body and letting his scent calm me. It was like the emptiness started to fade. Would I be able to overcome this? I couldn't even imagine getting out of bed and doing anything. I just wanted to sink into the sadness and the pain. I fought every day. I survived. And now, just another blow in my life. I needed to get back up and continue ruling. But all I wanted was to close my eyes and never wake up again.
To be continued...