A Royal Obligation
Chapter 219: Bittersweet Relief

Chapter 219: Bittersweet Relief

The sitting area of Valeidio’s royal palace was a place of quiet elegance, designed to reflect the dignity and power of its rulers. It was a spacious room, bathed in the soft glow of sunlight filtering through tall arched windows draped with silken curtains.

A large hearth dominated one side, its flickering flames casting golden patterns on the marble floor.

In the center, an oval-shaped table of dark wood was flanked by plush chairs upholstered in deep royal blue, the Valeidio family crest embroidered into each.

King Xavian sat near the window, his back straight, his posture commanding even in the casual setting. He rested one arm on the armrest of his chair, fingers drumming lightly, betraying the undercurrent of concern that simmered beneath his calm facade.

Queen Morgana sat opposite him, her hands folded neatly in her lap, her gaze fixed on the floral centerpiece as if willing herself to find calm in its symmetry.

Theron stood by the hearth, his broad shoulders outlined by the glow of the fire. His arms were crossed, and his sharp eyes observed the elders in silence, a quiet witness to the conversation.

Queen Elena was seated beside Morgana, her regal composure softened by a faint smile. Though she had regained much of her strength, her face still bore traces of the struggle she had endured.

The conversation was centered on Elena’s decision to return to Zephyros, a topic that had stirred mixed feelings among the group.

"Are you certain it’s not too early?" Xavian’s deep voice filled the room, his brows furrowing as he looked at Elena. "You’ve only just begun to recover. Perhaps staying a little longer would be wiser."

Elena met his gaze steadily, her voice calm but firm. "I appreciate your concern, Your Majesty, but I assure you, I’m strong enough to travel.

My people need me, and my husband..." She paused, a flicker of pain crossing her features. "My husband needs me too. I’ve stayed away far longer, it’s time I return home."

Morgana sighed, her hands gripping the fabric of her gown. "I’ve tried to convince her to stay longer," she said, glancing at her husband. "I’ve reminded her that she still needs time to regain her full strength, but she has made up her mind."

Theron shifted slightly, his keen eyes darting between the elders.

He respected Queen Elena’s resolve but couldn’t help but question whether it was truly the right decision. But he remained silent, keeping his thought to himself, though his expression betrayed a hint of skepticism.

Xavian leaned back in his chair, exhaling deeply. "And when do you plan to leave?" he asked, his tone carrying both resignation and concern.

"This afternoon," Elena replied without hesitation.

The statement hung in the air like a thunderclap. Morgana’s eyes widened, and Xavian straightened in his chair, his disbelief evident.

"This afternoon?" Morgana echoed, her voice laced with shock. "Elena, surely you can wait until tomorrow. Just one more day wouldn’t make a difference."

Elena shook her head gently, her determination unwavering. "I’ve already delayed too long. My heart aches to be with my husband during this time. I am ready to leave today."

The royal couple exchanged a glance, a silent conversation passing between them. Finally, Xavian sighed, nodding reluctantly. "If you’re certain, then we won’t stand in your way," he said, his voice heavy.

"Thank you," Elena said, her voice soft with gratitude. "Your kindness and hospitality have meant more to me than I can express. You saved my life, and for that, I will forever be in your debt."

"Nonsense," Morgana interjected, shaking her head. "We’re family, Elena. That’s what family does."

Xavian nodded in agreement. "You owe us nothing. Your presence here has been a blessing, and we are glad to see you well enough to make this journey."

Turning to Theron, Xavian gestured toward his son. "Theron, see to it that Queen Elena’s travel preparations are handled smoothly. I want nothing overlooked."

Theron nodded sharply, his expression serious. "I’ll take care of everything myself, Father."

Elena began to rise from her chair, intending to prepare for her journey. As she pushed herself to her feet, a knock at the door interrupted her movement, and she paused, her hands gripping the arms of the chair.

All heads turned toward the door.

"Enter," Xavian commanded.

The door opened to reveal a guard leading a messenger into the room. The messenger, dressed in the formal attire of Neomenia, stepped forward and bowed deeply.

"Your Majesties, I bring word from Queen Aveline of Neomenia," he announced, his voice steady. "Prince Eirik has regained consciousness."

For a moment, the room was still, the weight of the words sinking into the hearts of everyone present.

Morgana was the first to react, her breath catching in her throat as her hands flew to her mouth. Tears welled in her eyes, spilling over as relief and gratitude overwhelmed her. "He’s awake..." she whispered, her voice breaking.

Xavian stood abruptly, his hands gripping the back of his chair for support. "Thank the gods," he murmured, his voice thick with emotion. Relief washed over him.

Elena, who had sat back down as the guard and messenger entered, leaned forward, her voice trembling. "He’s awake? Truly awake?"

The messenger nodded solemnly. "Yes, Your Majesty. He is conscious, though still recovering."

Xavian exhaled slowly, his jaw tightening as his mind raced. "How is my son?" he asked urgently. "Did they say anything about his condition?"

"I was not told anything about his condition, Your Majesty," the messenger replied.

Morgana’s fragile composure cracked further, her hands trembling as she clutched at her gown. "What about his health? Did they mention how he’s coping?"

"No, Your Majesty," the messenger said gently. "I was only instructed to inform you that he has regained consciousness."

Theron ran a hand through his dark hair, exhaling sharply. His normally stoic expression giving way to a mix of relief and apprehension.

Unlike his parents, Theron was more pragmatic. He worried less about Eirik’s physical recovery and more about the emotional toll of losing his child. How could his little brother, already so sensitive, bear such grief? Theron clenched his fists..

Elena let out a soft sigh of relief, her lips curved into a faint smile, though it was tinged with sorrow. "That is wonderful news," she said, her voice steady. Yet, like the others, her heart was heavy.

Her heart ached for Eirik and Kaelix, but also for herself. She had come to care deeply for Eirik, and the news of his awakening brought bittersweet relief.

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