But where Max''s brow conveyed decisiveness and strength, Garrett''s held a more subtle, internal darkness.


    "Garrett is not fit to bear the weight of the nation! We implore you, my lord, to reconsider!"


    "My lord, for years you have managed our country so well. Our economy is leagues ahead of others. If you can achieve this for us from abroad, imagine what you could do if you stayed in Serythia! Our nation would soar to new heights!"


    "Indeed! Garrett is still just a child, wasting his days reciting poetry and shirking his duties. We do not want such a king."


    The ministers tore Garrett down relentlessly.


    Only Max, from his high seat, spoke. "His carefree attitude is an act. Once I''m fully out of the picture, he will do an excellent job."


    I turned to look at Garrett. "Your brother knows you very well."


    Garrett looked down and gave a self-deprecating smile. "My brother is just too perceptive."


    "My lord, we have already agreed to your engagement with Ms. ire..."


    "Ahem."


    Max let out a sharp cough, and the minister who had been speaking immediately changed his tone. "My lord, the little princess from Bravend... she does not yet have a formal title. We all agreed to your engagement with her simply because we hoped you would consider the rtionship between our two nations, which would better solidify your position."


    "What position do I need to solidify?" Max asked, his face a dark cloud as he toyed with his ring.


    I could feel his anger brewing, yet hisposure remained unshaken. That was Max for you a master of self-control.


    "The neighboring countries are getting restless. Our nation cannot be without a monarch for a single day. We have several mining territories on the borders that are constantly being provoked by our neighbors. They are testing us, probing to see if ourck of a king means they can challenge us."


    Max nced at Babur. "Why wasn''t this reported to me sooner?"


    Babur feigned helplessness with a shrug. "When would I have had the chance? You''ve been too busy putting love above all else."


    *Ahem...*


    The assembled ministers all looked down, pretending they hadn''t heard. A chorus of coordinated coughs filled the hall.


    "The integrity of our territory is the nation''s highest honor. Babur, don''t y dumb with me. Submit a detailed written report on the matter."


    "As for the rest of you, listen closely. The throne of Serythia has always been reserved for Garrett. He is not the wastrel you believe him to be. When ites to matters of state, he has never made a mistake. I will not repeat myself. parrett, the coronation ceremony will be held before I leave."


    Silence fell over the hall.


    Then Max''s voice boomed, "Garrett, are you noting out from behind that screen?"


    We were busted.


    We nced at each other. As Garrett stepped out, he grabbed my hand and pulled


    me out with him.


    The moment we appeared, Max''s stern expression faltered. He


    ???


    nced at his brother, then his eyes softened as they met mine. You''re being mischievous," he said gently.


    "Come up here and sit."


    He beckoned me to the high throne to sit beside him.


    The ministers all shook their heads and sighed. "He''s beyond persuasion."


    "Truly hopeless."


    "Lord Babur, he''s just like you were. He loves only one and will marry no other."


    Suddenly, the ministers began to tease Babur.


    Babur just snorted, his eyes fixed on me.


    I awkwardly made my way past the crowd and sat down next to Max.


    Then I heard them all murmuring again. "She looks so much like Princess Lenore."


    "They truly are a perfect match."


    "It''s just a shame he refuses to be king..."


    "Perhaps Garrett being king won''t be so bad. Just as long as we keep him from falling in love. Otherwise, it''s just one generation after another putting love above all else.