Prologue

Saint's Price, Hugeland –1645

Difficult times mark the arrival of a new era across the vast region of the Hugeland continent. Challenging for large and powerful kingdoms, especially smaller monarchies disadvantaged by time and countless lost battles. At Le'Blanc Castle – present in the center of the kingdom of Sain't Price – the soft chirping of birds, the buzz and the characteristic sounds of the servants handling items in order to prepare the bath for the members of the royal family, reverberates through the corners of their respective quarters. Accompanied by the whispers of the maids – in another place in the palace, well below the upper wing where the bedrooms are located – came the noise of the silverware and crockery being moved by the kitchen maids, in the daily rush to ensure that everything was perfectly ready at the correct time, and to the liking of the King and the Princess.

The usual movement inside the sumptuous ancestral building began to come to life along with the first rays of sunlight that appeared timidly on the cold autumn morning. The armed troops began a new wave of training exercises at the first cockcrow in preparation for whatever challenge they might face in the name of the king, in favor of honoring the flag supported by his flag. Already in the city, traders of different specialties open their shops hoping for their sales, after all, the kingdom has been prosperous for some time, and there are many customers coming from different locations across the continent, to buy and sell with the famous Prices, known as its excellent products and its unchanging sense of justice.

Aside from the rituals of their subjects, King Joseph I and Princess Marie Isabelle Le'Blanc enjoyed their richly prepared breakfast, before departing for their official engagements. Joseph did not give up a meal with his daughter, nor the company of the princess during her visit to her subjects, and audiences with the entire court. The king's intention was always to keep her informed of the situation in which they lived, and to bring his heiress closer to the people as much as possible. In the monarch's view, Isabelle should be concerned about those who trust and depend on them, in addition to closely granting the affection and respect they are given – out of merit – not out of fear or fear, as normally occurs in many kingdoms. Sain't Price, despite extensive lands, is peaceful thanks to all the monarch's hard work in creating harmony and peace in the territory of his domain, aiming for the well-being of his countless collaborators. This was a philosophy passed down from generation to generation to members of the royal family. “Generosity and nobility” are the precepts that have governed them for centuries.

The leaves darkening and falling periodically, made it clear that autumn was in its final phase, and then gave way to a harsh winter as was usual at that time of year. Soon a thick layer of snow would cover the fields, like a shaggy woolen carpet forcing everyone to retreat inside their homes and enjoy the fruits of the past harvest.

Joseph and Isabelle bundled up in suitable clothing to face the intense cold. And following protocol, they headed towards the shopping center in order to guide the progress of the work, aware of the visits to noble houses, scheduled for that date. The Princess enjoyed these occasions very much, since appreciating the uniqueness and beauty of the kingdom was her main source of joy and knowledge. She loved being in contact with the people, and receiving the sincere affection of her subjects, in addition to confirming with her own eyes everything that she would have to take care of in the future, when one day she was crowned queen.

North of Hughland – Mountain Kingdom

While the servants of the Black royal palace hurried to carry out their tasks efficiently and quickly, eager to please the demanding monarch – nearby – In the lush lands of the waterfalls, The Prince remained entertained wrapped in the soft and attractive sheets of his lover Lady Vivian, Viscountess of Waterfalls County. The hostess, a very beautiful and young redhead, although unqualified in the standards of youth required at that time for a wedding, showed all her apparent loving feelings for the heir to the throne, using the most effective weapons of female seduction, sweet words and flourishes, by giving himself without restrictions or modesty, leading him to the delirium of libertine pleasure.

Duke Oliver, upon reaching the height of his pleasure, heard the three words that took him there: “I love you!” And he smiled satisfied, kissing her fervently, and beginning to say goodbye. He would take her one last time before leaving, knowing that it would take a while to return to the arms of the fiery Lady, since he was aware of a trip requested by his father, which he still didn't know the destination, nor the intention.

. . .

A cold breeze coming from the immensity of the ocean blew constantly, swaying the flag of the royal house that was attached to the center pole, in the main courtyard of the Black palace. The Lewis coat of arms stood out in the shadow of a wolf curled around a globe, its paws holding it possessively, symbolizing the merciless strength and lethality that the descendants of the first Lewis inherited from their patriarch. The animal with sharp claws and furious expression conveys to those who see it all the implacability and grandeur characteristic of Oliver Lewis.

From a very early age, the King dictated countless orders to his immediate staff, preparing everything prior to his departure, which would be accompanied by his heir. There were many protocols to be followed, since the main leaders would be absent from the throne. The second in the line of succession, Duke of Trench, who holds the post of Chief of the Guard, and Commander of the Mountain Army, Ethan Armstrong, would assume the role of temporary – or permanent – leadership in the event of an eventual fatality. The nobleman is the King's nephew, the only son of Michael's sister, Princess Rose, who married the late Duke of Trench. Ethan – as a result of his position – never left the kingdom's domains in the absence of the leaders. And present in the throne room in audience with the Sovereign since long before the sun came up, the nobleman guided the men handpicked by him, who would be responsible for escorting and protecting the monarchs to their destination. Ethan was aware of his nephew's absence in the palace, something the King himself was unaware of until now.

The young heir had left at dusk the previous day to reach his mistress's lands, on the outskirts of the royal residence. At that point, Ethan knew that Duke would already be returning, however, he was not surprised by the king's lack of control when inquiring about his son's whereabouts and finding out about his recent exploit.

Upon learning what happened to Duke, Michael shouted furiously!

— Cursed be this son of mine, who thinks with his pants, but with his head! – rising, and punched his fists against the armrest of the throne. The king was furious, and cursed his firstborn's salacious behavior. Duke was from his youth – when he wielded his first sword – his father's right-hand man, helping him to govern with intelligent and effective strategies, but in personal matters he left something to be desired, especially regarding his passions. The main one, the latent desire for Lady Vivian. The widow of the Viscount of Waterfalls was the "apple of the prince's eye", a fact that was common knowledge throughout the kingdom. And yet, in this regard, both King Michael and the friendly Queen Marilynn disapprove of this relationship.

The young heir had left at dusk the previous day to reach his mistress's lands, on the outskirts of the royal residence. At that point, Ethan knew that Duke would already be returning, however, he was not surprised by the king's lack of control when inquiring about his son's whereabouts and finding out about his recent exploit.

Upon learning what happened to Duke, Michael shouted furiously! — Cursed be this son of mine, who thinks with his pants, but with his head! – rising, and punched his fists against the armrest of the throne. The king was furious, and cursed his firstborn's salacious behavior. Duke was from his youth – when he wielded his first sword – his father's right-hand man, helping him to govern with intelligent and effective strategies, but in personal matters he left something to be desired, especially regarding his passions. The main one, the latent desire for Lady Vivian. The widow of the Viscount of Waterfalls was the "apple of the prince's eye", a fact that was common knowledge throughout the kingdom. And yet, in this regard, both King Michael and the friendly Queen Marilynn disapprove of this relationship.

The laws in Mountains are strict regarding the participation of women in diplomatic matters – considered men's matters – and few activities are allowed, even for women who make up the royal family, like the queen herself. Lady Marilyn is not allowed to interfere in the Sovereign's decisions, nor the heir to the throne, even if he is her son. The queen watches helplessly the dangerous path that her firstborn is taking in his relationship with the infamous lady, and there were many rumors that swirled around the said lady, who many say is a sorceress. As far as Michael is concerned, the monarch does not get involved in the boy's intimate issues – although he could or should – because he simply thinks that the young man, at the height of his twenty-four years, is more than capable of handling it.

Duke has direct participation in numerous battles and conquests during his patriarch's reign. These achievements were due to the excellent ability to make productive alliances and use its military power when necessary. In terms of insight and intelligence, in addition to a good vision of how the kingdom should be run, the young man will be a great successor to his father, even if his temperament is untimely in many cases and occasions. The Mountains kingdom is considered the largest in the entire northern part of the continent, and its lands are of inestimable wealth and fertility. Something that arouses the interest of many others, bringing danger of invasion and conquest attempts by opposing forces that for the most part do not pose a real danger to the Lewis reign.

After fulfilling some of the most important commitments, as soon as he learned of his son's return, King Michael ordered him to be left alone with his heir. He would have to address the matter that had become extremely urgent, due to the increasing movement of enemy troops to the east of the continent. This army was notorious, becoming increasingly numerous and threatening.

— Did you send for me, Your Majesty? – He asked upon entering the private room, where strategic meetings take place.

—Sit down, Duke– he ordered, pointing to the chair in front of him.

A sumptuous mahogany table carved and carved in arabesques, covered with a thick layer of varnish, separated them by long centimeters.

— What I have to tell you is very important, and involves the entire kingdom and the future that awaits us – he said, taking his place at the head of the table.

— What is this about, Majesty? Whatever I can do, I certainly won't hesitate to do it – he replied, pulling out the chair and sitting down.

Although he found such formality with his own father unnecessary, the prince knew that this was the correct protocol when it came to his Sovereign.

— Dispense with the formality son, we don't need it now – he declared, removing his crown and placing it on the surface of the furniture, watching the boy do the same as a sign of respect.

Michael explained to him everything that was happening on the edges of the kingdom, the movement that the enemy army was reproducing – and was worrying him – as well as possible alliances with rival kingdoms. The prince was aware of some things about it, except for the details that were told to him by his father. Certain events were only reported to the king in person, under penalty of execution for anyone who discovered and reported His Majesty's confidential matters.

— My father, this is very serious! – he exclaimed, standing up in amazement — We must seek support from our closest friends, as soon as possible – he pondered cautiously. —...Maybe, even with some impartial kingdoms?!

Michael let out a subtle smile. This was the point the king wanted to get to. And taking advantage of the opportunity, he spoke to the boy, who was walking restlessly from one side to the other.

— Deliberating on this was the first measure I took, and I believe I have found a solution that will be extremely favorable to everyone involved – I told him, attracting Duke's immediate attention.

— Which one? – He asked anxiously, approaching and tilting his body, eager for the answer.

Michael sighed! The time had come.

— The Sovereign of Saint' Price, Joseph I, has as his heir a princess, Lady Marie Isabelle. – He detailed, following the curious expression of the younger man – And from what was told to me, this girl is of marriageable age, so we can inform him about what is going on, if he doesn't know, and suggest an alliance through his wife's marriage. daughter… – He explained, and finding no hesitation, he continued, however, something intriguing like disbelief, took on his son's appearance, and Michael stopped speaking, waiting for the questioning.

— Do you wish to marry the princess? – he interrupted, stunned by the possibility.

— Oh! Duke! What do you take me for?! Are you crazy? – he told him, indignant. The deep voice rising a few octaves — Do you know that this girl is old enough to even be my granddaughter? And her mother would never accept such nonsense! – He scolded uncomfortably.

The Prince remained silent, defensive for the mistake he had made.

—I'm talking about you!– continued the king. — You are an excellent match for the princess, in addition to being able to protect her from profiteers... I am aware of the zeal that King Joseph I has for his only son, and he would certainly not hand her over to just anyone.

— Not to be disrespectful, my father, but what makes you think that King Joseph will give his daughter in marriage to a theoretically rival kingdom?

— We are not considered rivals, in fact – he replied promptly — And you, my son, among all the possible candidates, even in the case of some sovereigns who showed interest, are the best for many reasons. Joseph will certainly be happy, or even, I dare say, flattered by the proposal.

— It was taking a while for you to want to put the collar on me, my father – he murmured, resigned — For myself, I wouldn't have the slightest idea of walking down the aisle, if you want to know.

— I know you better than I know myself, Duke – he retorted astutely — Since you were a boy, you've been running away from romantic commitments, even if you're always hidden between some lady's skirts – he pointed out, arching his thick eyebrow — You wish you could continue like this , however, whether or not the kingdom that will inherit comes first?

— Of course yes, there is no doubt about that! – He confirmed, nodding firmly.

— Excellent. So be it! – agreed the monarch.

— And what will we do? Do you want this to happen immediately? As far as I know, I have never met the princess and I believe that in relation to her, it is the same thing. – He deliberated, pouring himself a shot of liquor, taking a cup and offering it to his father.

— In fact. – he agreed, taking a sip of the drink — It is true that the princess does not attend balls or general gatherings during diplomatic events that we are used to – he stated, returning to sip the yellowish liquid with the sweet peach flavor — However, we don't have time to lose with these romantic trivialities—he gestured, in an act that considered the matter banal — We will leave as soon as possible, I will personally speak to the king about this profitable alliance.

Duke drank the rest of the liquid, and taking a deep breath, he turned his back to the wall, contemplating the richly detailed painting of his grandfather, the great conqueror Andrew Lewis. There was no way around it, he would have to say what was between the lines since the beginning of the matter. — How is my relationship with Lady Vivian? I imagine you know that I don't intend to give it up.

Michael pressed his temples, feeling unnerved, and then stood up, facing his son's grandiose frame. The boy, who was six feet tall, was even bigger and more corpulent than his father, who was already considered a big man. When looking at Duke, Michael felt proud of him in every way, yet, in specific moments like that, the nobleman questioned whether the strict upbringing he had given the heir had had the desired effect.

— Tell me if there is a plausible reason to want to put everything we have achieved at risk, for a... Argh! – He hissed between his teeth — Miss, a lady like her? – he said ironically, getting angry. Michael emphasized the word, making it clear that he would like to say something much less respectable about the Viscountess.

— Aren't my feelings enough?! – he challenged, petulantly — But, my father is wrong... I never told him that I wouldn't agree to marry the Princess of Price, what I asked was how is our relationship?

— Duke… – he murmured, seeking calm — What is the purpose of continuing to have a relationship with this woman, since it will never be more than an affair? A frivolous matter like this should not even be mentioned! – he exclaimed seriously — I believe that you are not aware of how the laws in Saint Price work, so I will let you know – he dictated in a false calmness — King, queen, Prince or princess in no way have a relationship with third parties having this commitment to someone, be it marriage or engagement, it doesn't matter. It is against the law to do so!

The Prince shrugged, indifferently.

— See, there would only be problems if I were caught in the act, but I don't intend to let such a thing happen – he argued, calmly — Calm down, my father, I will maintain complete discretion!

Michael let out a deeply mocking laugh.

— You, my son, are as subtle as a peacock wanting to mate – he accused, convinced — Forget her, Duke!

— I'm sorry, my father – he shook his head — I won't do it.

— I'm beginning to believe that the rumors circulating around her are true, there's no other reason – he commented, defiantly.

— Why, my father! You know that popular beliefs revolve around pretty redheads, don't take into consideration a mistake like that – he replied good-naturedly – I just like the girl, are you going to say that such charm didn't occur to her in her youth?

Michael said nothing. It was true that at his son's age, he also had his moments with women as interesting as the infamous redhead, whom the young man loved so much.

There, black as night, the eyes of father and son met determinedly, and the looks full of meaning made each other understand.

— Right, if that's what you want, so be it! – said the king finally — But under no circumstances, mind you, no circumstances – he said, and emphasized — Let this harm your relationship with the Princess, and therefore hence our alliance. - he determined, seeing the youngest nod - And that - he took the crown in his hands, returning the object to his head, waiting for the boy to do the same with his - That's an order, Your Highness!

—Understood, Your Majesty! – He nodded, bowing his forehead.

From then on, his life would never be the same, and Duke didn't know, however, once he accepted the proposal to marry the Princess of Price, his certainties would never change so much.