A Royal Obligation
Chapter 145: Settling In

Chapter 145: Settling In

Eirik had always known that life in Zephyros would be different from what he was used to, but nothing could have fully prepared him for the whirlwind that came with being the crown prince’s consort.

He had grown up with certain traditions, familiar customs that grounded him in a sense of normalcy. Yet, the customs here felt like an entirely new language, one spoken in gestures, bows, and layers of etiquette that Eirik was still trying to understand.

And everything, seemed grander, more imposing, and the weight of his new role settled on his shoulders as he moved through the palace halls each day.

Yet what struck him most were the new chambers, the ones that Kaelix had carefully chosen for them after their marriage.

These chambers were unlike the simpler ones they had once shared.

Standing by the massive arched window, Eirik took in the view of the palace grounds below. The sprawling gardens were meticulously maintained, with flowers blooming in vibrant colors. Birds flitted between the trees, and the soft hum of palace life continued beneath him.

Though, the new chambers was what truly took his breath away.

The room was vast, with high ceilings adorned in intricate carvings that stretched above him like the sky. The molding was gilded, reflecting the soft light from the chandeliers that hung elegantly overhead. Marble columns framed the corners of the room, giving it a sense of grandeur that made Eirik feel both small and yet integral to the space.

The floors, made of polished stone, gleamed under the morning light that filtered through the tall, arched windows.

The bed, easily the most imposing piece of furniture in the room, was a masterpiece in itself.

The frame was carved from dark wood, its posts twisting upwards in elegant spirals, and the canopy above was draped in silken curtains embroidered with the royal crest of Zephyros.

It was large enough to comfortably fit a small gathering, and yet, when Eirik lay beside Kaelix at night, it felt intimate, like their own private world, tucked away from the palace’s endless formalities.

To the left of the bed was a large fireplace, always kept burning with a gentle flame that filled the room with warmth.

Above it hung a portrait of Kaelix and Eirik, commissioned shortly after their wwedding

In the painting, they stood side by side, Kaelix’s arm protectively around Eirik’s waist.

The artist had captured the way Kaelix looked at him, like Eirik was his entire world, something precious to be fiercely guarded.

Exquisite drapes lined the walls, each depicting scenes of Zephyros’ history.

One in particular caught Eirik’s eye: a vibrant, woven image of the first king and his queen standing triumphantly before a sea of people.

Their hands were clasped together, their faces etched with both strength and tenderness. It was a reminder, perhaps, of the legacy that Kaelix and Eirik were now a part of.

But it wasn’t just the grand architecture or lavish furnishings that overwhelmed Eirik.

It was the small details, the plush, velvet cushions scattered across the window seats, the heavy curtains in deep royal blue that could be drawn for privacy, and the ornate vases filled with fresh flowers that filled the room with a subtle, floral scent. Every corner of the chamber had been meticulously designed for comfort and elegance, leaving no space untouched by the hand of luxury.

Even the study, tucked away in one corner of the room, was a space that demanded attention.

The desk, a magnificent piece of craftsmanship, was made from polished mahogany, its surface littered with parchment, ink pots, and quills, as though always waiting for the next royal ddecree

A large bookshelf stood behind it, filled with texts on Zephyrian law, history, and diplomacy.

Kaelix often worked there late into the night, and Eirik found comfort in watching him, the quiet moments between royal duties grounding them both.

The wardrobe was expansive, stocked with fine robes and clothes suited for Eirik’s new status. The richness of the fabrics and the intricate designs were overwhelming at first, but Kaelix had insisted on them. "You’re my consort now, Eirik. You should look the part," he’d said with a wink.

Eirik sighed, his gaze drifting back to the sprawling gardens below.

This was his new life. The new chambers, though grand and beautiful, symbolized the change in his role from simple prince to the consort of the crown prince of Zephyros. The responsibility, the eyes on him at every turn, it was a far cry from the life he once knew.

Yet, despite it all, there was a comfort in knowing that Kaelix was with him every step of the way.

The possessiveness Kaelix displayed was not overbearing, it was protective, caring. Eirik felt cherished, like he was the only thing in Kaelix’s world that mmattered

Kaelix always made sure Eirik was by his side during royal functions and meetings, guiding him through the maze of court politics and customs.

Whether it was introducing him to council members, reminding him of the proper ways to address the courtiers, or simply squeezing his hand under the table during tense meetings, Kaelix ensured that Eirik never felt out of place.

"Eirik," Kaelix’s voice broke through his thoughts as the crown prince entered the chambers. "What are you thinking about?"

Eirik smiled, turning to face his husband. "Just... everything," he replied.

"It’s all so different from what I imagined. Especially these chambers, they’re nothing like what I’m used to."

Kaelix walked over to him, wrapping an arm around his waist and pulling him close. "I thought you’d like them. I wanted something... fitting for you. For us."

Eirik rested his head against Kaelix’s shoulder, letting out a small laugh. "It’s a bit much, don’t you think? I feel like I’ll never get used to all of this."

Kaelix tightened his grip. "You will. I know it can be overwhelming at times, but I’m always here to help."

Eirik’s heart warmed at his words. Kaelix had this way of making him feel both protected and empowered at the same time.

Though Eirik was perfectly capable of handling himself, but he found comfort in Kaelix’s protectiveness.

It was as if Kaelix couldn’t bear the thought of him being anything other than content in their new life together.

Eirik smiled, turning his head slightly to meet Kaelix’s gaze. "I know. And that’s the only thing keeping me grounded."

Kaelix pressed a kiss to the side of Eirik’s head before stepping beside him, his eyes following Eirik’s gaze out the window. "This is your home now, Eirik. And you belong here, with me."

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