Chapter Text
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Prince Gabriel, the older brother of Dan, returned to the kingdom after a long absence. He had been away, studying at a renowned academy in a neighboring realm, honing his skills and expanding his knowledge. News of Dan's proposed marriage had reached him through a letter, and he couldn't shake off the shock and concern that enveloped him.
As Gabriel entered the grand chamber where his father, King Dominic of Rosa, awaited him, he could sense an atmosphere of unease. His father's face was etched with a mix of worry and frustration, and Gabriel knew that something significant had occurred. He approached his father cautiously, his voice filled with concern.
"Father," Gabriel said, his tone gentle yet apprehensive, "I have returned as quickly as I could. What has happened? Why is Dan being pressured into a marriage he doesn't desire?"
King Dominic glanced at Gabriel, relief flickering in his eyes upon seeing his eldest son. He sighed deeply before responding, his voice tinged with a mixture of protectiveness and concern.
"Gabriel, my son," King Dominic began, "our beloved Dan has been caught in the midst of a marriage proposal from Prince Jaekyung. But both you and I know that Dan is not ready for such an arrangement. He is still young, and we want him to have the freedom to choose his own path, including his life partner."
Gabriel's eyebrows furrowed in empathy for his younger brother. He understood Dan's desire for independence and the importance of finding love on his own terms.
"I agree, Father," Gabriel said, his voice filled with conviction. "Dan deserves the freedom to make his own choices when it comes to matters of the heart. We must protect him from any undue pressure or expectations that could compromise his happiness."
King Dominic nodded, grateful for Gabriel's understanding and support. "You have always been a pillar of wisdom and compassion, my son," he said, a hint of pride in his voice. "We must find a way to shield Dan from this unwanted arrangement while ensuring the stability of our kingdom."
Gabriel's mind started formulating a plan, determined to protect his brother's happiness. "Father, I suggest we gather our advisors and strategize a diplomatic solution. We can approach Prince Jaekyung and his family, explaining Dan's wishes and emphasizing the importance of his personal freedom. Perhaps we can propose an alternate alliance or find a compromise that will satisfy both parties."
King Dominic looked at Prince Gabriel, his expression filled with concern and weariness. He took a deep breath before continuing the conversation.
"Gabriel, my son," King William began, his voice heavy with sorrow, "I understand your worries about Dan's marriage, and I share them deeply. But the truth is, I no longer possess the power to negotiate or challenge such matters without severe consequences for our entire kingdom."
Gabriel's eyes widened in disbelief, struggling to comprehend his father's words. "Father," he said, his voice trembling with a mixture of shock and concern, "how can this be? Our family has always held significant influence and authority within the realm. What has caused such a drastic shift?"
King Dominic sighed heavily, his gaze fixed on Gabriel. "Gabriel, the truth is that there are powerful factions within our court who have been plotting against our rule," he explained, his voice filled with a hint of desperation. "They have amassed enough support and influence to undermine our authority. If I were to oppose this marriage proposal openly, it would provide them with the justification they seek to challenge our reign."
A surge of anger and protectiveness welled up within Gabriel, his fists clenching involuntarily. "Father," he pleaded, his voice filled with determination, "we cannot allow them to dictate our family's fate and force Dan into a loveless marriage. There must be something we can do, some way to protect him and preserve our honor."
King Dominic's eyes glistened with a mixture of sadness and admiration as he looked at his son. "Gabriel, your love for your brother is commendable, and I share your desire to protect him. But we must tread carefully. The stability of our kingdom hangs in the balance, and any misstep could lead to exile for all of us."
Gabriel's resolve hardened, his voice tinged with determination. "Father, I refuse to accept that we are powerless in this situation," he declared, his eyes meeting King Dominic's with unwavering determination. "We must explore every possible avenue, seek counsel from trusted advisors, and find a way to navigate this treacherous path without sacrificing Dan's happiness or the well-being of our kingdom."
On the other hand Dan was behind the wall.
As Prince Dan stood behind the wall, eavesdropping on the conversation between King Dominic and Prince Gabriel, a mix of emotions overwhelmed him. Excitement and relief at his brother's return collided with a deep sense of sorrow and guilt as he listened to their discussion.
His heart ached as he realized the burden their family carried and the sacrifices they had to make to protect the kingdom. The weight of his own desires and aspirations seemed selfish in comparison to the struggles they faced.
Tears welled up in Dan's eyes as he silently berated himself for causing such turmoil within their family. He longed for his brother's happiness and support, and now he understood the precarious situation they were all in.
As the conversation continued, Dan's determination grew. He knew deep down that he couldn't allow his own desires to put his family and the kingdom at risk. He needed to find a way to reconcile his own happiness with the needs of the greater good.
Taking a deep breath, Dan wiped away his tears and composed himself. He decided to confront his family, to express his love and gratitude for their sacrifices, and to offer his support in any way he could. He would seek a compromise, a solution that would honor his own desires while ensuring the stability of the kingdom.
As Dan emerged from behind the wall, a smile graced his face, concealing the inner turmoil he had just experienced. He approached his father, King Dominic, and Prince Gabriel with a determined yet composed demeanor.
"Father, Gabriel," Dan said, his voice steady and resolute, "I have overheard your conversation, and I understand the challenges we face. I am ready to embrace my duty and marry for the sake of our family and the kingdom."
King Dominic and Gabriel exchanged glances, a mixture of surprise and concern flickering in their eyes.
"Dan my son, you don't have to !"
"Father, actually I do have admirations for Prince Jaekyung!"
Dan nodded, a glimmer of gratitude shining through his smile. "Thank you, both of you," he replied, his voice filled with genuine appreciation. "I trust in your wisdom and guidance. And this is my final decision. After mother left this world, you guys are everything to me. I love you both."
As Dan expressed his heartfelt gratitude and love for his father and brother, a profound silence enveloped them. The weight of their shared bond and the magnitude of the challenges they faced hung in the air, but so did a deep sense of love and unity.
Tears welled up in King Dominic's eyes as he embraced Dan tightly, his voice choked with emotion. "My son," he whispered, his words filled with a mixture of grief and pride, "your words touch my heart deeply. Your mother would be proud of the man you have become, and I am honored to call you my son."
~~~
Upon receiving the letter from the Kingdom of Rosa, announcing Prince Dan's readiness for marriage, King William of the Kingdom of Raven couldn't contain his joy. A wide smile spread across his face as he read the news.
King William immediately summoned his advisors and close confidants to share the joyous tidings. They gathered in the grand hall, their faces filled with anticipation and curiosity. The King, still beaming, stood before them and announced, "Prince Dan of the Kingdom of Rosa is ready for marriage!"
A wave of excitement swept through the hall as the news echoed among the courtiers. The King's joy was infectious, and the atmosphere was one of hope and celebration. The Kingdom of Raven had long sought an alliance with the beautiful and prosperous Kingdom of Rosa, and this opportunity seemed like a perfect match.
Messages were swiftly sent back to the Kingdom of Rosa, expressing the King's delight and his eagerness to discuss the marriage proposal further. The Kingdom of Raven prepared a grand reception, with festivities and feasts planned to honor the occasion.
As the preparations for the wedding between Prince Dan and the Princess of Raven were underway, both the Kingdom of Raven and the Kingdom of Rosa spared no expense to ensure a grand celebration. The air was abuzz with excitement and anticipation, and every detail was meticulously attended to.
King William of Raven, eager to showcase his kingdom's generosity and hospitality, insisted on taking care of all the expenses related to the wedding. He believed it was his duty to provide a lavish ceremony befitting the union of their kingdoms.
However, King Gabriel of Rosa, deeply invested in his son's happiness, expressed his desire to contribute to the wedding preparations. He understood the significance of this event for Prince Dan's future and wanted nothing but the best for him.
In a heartfelt conversation between the two kings, King Gabriel expressed his gratitude for King William's generosity but insisted on sharing the financial responsibility. He believed that by contributing to the wedding expenses, it would not only demonstrate the Kingdom of Rosa's commitment but also ensure that Prince Dan's happiness was prioritized above all else.
King William, moved by King Gabriel's sincerity and love for his son, eventually agreed to accept the Kingdom of Rosa's assistance. Recognizing the mutual respect and shared goals between their kingdoms, he understood the importance of allowing King Gabriel to contribute.
Together, the two kings collaborated closely, overseeing the wedding preparations with utmost care. They considered every detail, from the selection of exquisite clothing to the creation of a delectable menu that would showcase the culinary delights of both kingdoms.
The wedding planners, appointed by both kings, worked tirelessly to create a harmonious blend of traditions and aesthetics that would reflect the union of their kingdoms. Artists, musicians, and performers from both realms were brought together to showcase the richness of their cultures.
In the end, the wedding preparations became a symbol of unity and harmony between the Kingdom of Raven and the Kingdom of Rosa. The combined efforts of both kingdoms ensured that the wedding would be a spectacular affair, encompassing the values and aspirations of both Prince Dan and his bride.
As the wedding day approached, the excitement grew, not only among the royal families but also among the citizens. The union of Prince Dan and the Princess of Raven represented a moment of hope and promise, a beacon of unity that would shape the future of both kingdoms.
Amidst the flurry of preparations, King William and King Gabriel stood side by side, their friendship and shared purpose strengthening with each passing day. Together, they knew that this wedding would mark the beginning of a new chapter in their kingdoms' histories, one built on love, respect, and a shared vision for a prosperous future.
The Wedding Day finally arrived, and the atmosphere was filled with a mixture of excitement and nervous anticipation. As Prince Dan stood before the mirror, his heart weighed heavy with conflicting emotions. Kate, his beloved maid and confidant, stood by his side, carefully fixing his hair before they entered the grand hall.
"Prince Dan, are you happy with your decision?" Kate asked, her voice filled with genuine concern. She knew Prince Dan better than anyone else and could sense the hidden sadness and anxiety behind his smile.
Prince Dan paused, his eyes meeting Kate's in the mirror. He took a deep breath, gathering his thoughts before answering honestly, "Yeah, I am."
His voice carried a hint of melancholy, revealing the complexity of his emotions. He knew this marriage was not solely based on his personal desires but held a greater purpose for their kingdom and the people they served.
Kate's eyes welled up with tears as she gazed at the young prince she had cared for since his birth. To her, he was not just a prince; he was like her own son. She had witnessed his joys, his sorrows, and the weight of responsibility he carried on his shoulders.
"Sir, I have served you since you were born," Kate said, her voice filled with deep affection. "And I can see that you are doing this for us. Your decision to go through with this marriage is a testament to your selflessness and commitment to our people."
Prince Dan's eyes met Kate's, gratitude shining through the veil of sadness. He understood the sacrifices he was making and the responsibility he bore as a prince. But in that moment, as he looked into Kate's eyes, he also felt a surge of strength and reassurance. He knew he was not alone in this journey.
"Kate," he said, his voice filled with warmth and gratitude, "you have been like a mother to me, guiding me with your wisdom and unwavering support. Your love and dedication have shaped me into the person I am today. I am forever grateful for your presence in my life."
Tears streamed down Kate's cheeks as she embraced Prince Dan tightly, her love and pride for him overwhelming her. "My dear prince, your happiness means the world to me. As you embark on this new chapter, please know that I will always be here for you, standing by your side through thick and thin."
With their hearts connected by a bond of love and loyalty, Prince Dan and Kate shared a moment of profound understanding. Together, they gathered their strength and prepared to enter the hall, where the fate of their kingdom would be sealed.
As they walked arm in arm towards the grand hall, Prince Dan found solace in Kate's unwavering support.
With Kate by his side, Prince Dan stepped into the grand hall, ready to face his future and fulfill his responsibilities as a prince. In that moment, he drew strength from the love and support that surrounded him, knowing that his actions were motivated by a genuine desire to serve his kingdom and honor the legacy of those who had come before him.
At the end of the room, was there standing his fiance and future husband, Prince Jaekyung.
~~~
