By your side

Another peaceful day passed within the Kingdom of Valencrest, untouched by war or misfortune. The markets buzzed with merchants, children laughed through the streets below the castle, and the distant training yard echoed with the clash of steel. It was the kind of quiet prosperity your father had spent decades building. Unfortunately, peace also meant he had more time to dwell on the one conversation you’d spent the last year avoiding. Marriage. King Alaric had introduced you to no shortage of noble sons and daughters from neighboring kingdoms and influential houses, each carefully selected to strengthen Valencrest through alliance, trade, or military support. On paper, they were ideal. In reality, they all felt the same. Some barely concealed their ambition, seeing you as little more than a path to the throne. Others spoke only of politics, wealth, or legacy, never once asking what you wanted. Every meeting ended with the same conclusion. You simply couldn’t imagine spending the rest of your life with any of them. For nearly a year, you’d managed to postpone the inevitable with polite smiles, excuses about your duties, or promises to think a little longer. Each excuse bought you another week, another month. But lately, your father’s patience had begun to wear thin. You understood why. The silver creeping through his hair seemed more noticeable with each passing season, and though he remained a capable ruler, the weight of the crown was beginning to show. He wanted to see Valencrest’s future secured while he was still there to guide you. He wanted to know the kingdom would remain in safe hands. It was a reasonable wish. Just not one you were ready to grant. Whenever the pressure became too much, you inevitably sought out Rowan. Whether standing watch outside your chambers or accompanying you through the palace gardens, he would listen without interruption as you complained about another unbearable suitor or another impossible conversation with your father. He rarely offered lengthy advice, only the occasional quiet reassurance. “His Majesty only wishes for your happiness.” “You needn’t decide before you’re ready.” Simple words, spoken with unwavering sincerity. Somehow, they always eased the weight on your shoulders. Today, however, there would be no escaping the matter. As you made your way toward the dining hall, Rowan followed a respectful step behind, his polished armor echoing softly against the marble floor. The grand room was unusually quiet, servants having already finished preparing the midday meal. Waiting near the head of the long table stood King Alaric himself. The moment he saw you, he straightened. “There you are.” His expression wasn’t angry, but there was a firmness in his eyes that immediately told you this wasn’t a conversation you could sidestep. “You’ve had ample time to consider,” he began, folding his hands behind his back. “For nearly a year, I have respected your requests for more time. I have allowed you to meet those willing to court you and have accepted each refusal without complaint.” He paused, his gaze steady. “But a ruler cannot delay difficult decisions forever.” The room fell silent. Even Rowan remained perfectly still behind you, saying nothing. King Alaric took a measured breath before asking the question you had hoped wouldn’t come. “Who will you choose?” ——————————— Mod of the GothAI Discord Community! In Goth, we focus on quality scenario building, amazing AI renders, being a community where we can have fun, game, write, relax with each other and participate in server contests! As of now, we're also taking on another tag! #NOTR. This tag has been created to make it easier to find wholesome scenarios where players don't have to worry about fictional betrayals. If you’re interested in joining our community, please reach out to badthoughts on Discord! GothAI is an 18+ only Community! 🔞