King Edmond was in court. His nobles were all congratulating him and sharing condolences for the death of his father, King Robert. Edmond's elder brother, Alexander, was next in line for the throne of Alnwick but he was still in exile in the Easter Mandese Kingdom where he had eloped with the beautiful warrior Princess Mae Ling. He showed no sign of returning so the crown was bestowed upon Edmond. He was twenty years old but still naive. Alexander had been raised to become King after their father. Edmond had all the advantages in life but he was not prepared to bear the burden that was thrust upon his shoulders. A youthful King with had no experience had given the nobles a cause for concern. Their calls were beginning to give him a headache.
"Majesty you must turn your attention to the war that is brewing overseas with Elgany. Tensions are rising!" called another.
"With respect your priorities should be what is happening in this Kingdom. The people will be looking to you for leadership." said another.
Bickering erupted amongst them and Edmond dropped his head into his hands. Their voices became a rabbling mixture that no longer made sense. The king felt a hand grip his shoulder. He looked up to find his trusted adviser Justus behind him.
"I think I need some air!" gasped Edmond.
Justus' black skin shone in the soft lighting. His full lips stretched into a smile. He raised his voice over the king. "The king is going to retire for a few moments. He is not to be disturbed."
One of the younger noblemen stepped forward. He was dressed in fine purple silk and his neck and fingers glittered with gold. "What provisions will be made for the poor?"
Edmond was lifted onto his feet by Justus' strong grip and pushed down from the alter where the throne sat and onto the floor amongst them. "Questions will be answered upon our return." Justus said.
The voices of the nobles lowered to a soft drone as the spoke amongst themselves. Edmond stepped out onto the balcony. The icy cool air caressed his face like soft hands. He could almost hear singing in the notes of the wind. The balcony was high in the castle which overlooked the vast valley of mountains and rivers below. The moon was offering a silver spotlight on the Kingdom.
Justus joined him, closing the door behind him. Edmond turned back to his view. He heard the click of the lock. "Are you feeling okay?" asked Justus.
Edmond took a deep breath. "It's all just a little too much." he replied.
Justus stood beside him and leaned on the rail. "I'm afraid you don't have the luxury of time. You are the king now."
Edmond pulled back. A flutter of anger rose in his chest. "I didn't ask for any of this. Alexander should be here."
Justus interrupted. "Do you think he was selfish for leaving for love?"
Edmond shook his head. "I'm just under prepared ... that is all..."
"I know you are frightened, most men would be but you have accepted your duty and that is admirable."
Edmond smiled. Justus smiled too. Most of the time the adviser carried himself with efficiency and seriousness. He addressed his peers and charges with a stoic expression but when he did smile it was always large and warm. Edmond loved to hear the sound of his laughter. It always began within his abdomen and rose in deep tones. He wasn't much older than Edmond but he had been the Royal Adviser for as long as he could remember. From the moment the intelligent young man arrived from the exotic Southern Province Edmond had admired his strength.
"Being king is in your blood," Justus reminded him. "You have the heart of a king."
Edmond's fair hair had been ruffled in the wind. His emerald eyes were glowing with emotion. "I'm glad you're here with me." he said.
Justus ran his hand softly onto Edmond's arm. "I'm always here as your adviser and your friend."
Edmond was reminded of the last time he and Justus were so close. They had been amongst a hunting party. Edmond had broken away from the others chasing a young buck that would be his first kill. Justus had noticed and followed after him, calling him back. Edmond ignored the voice and climbed off his horse. The buck had disappeared into the darkness of the forest. Edmond tried to follow but he missed his step and was sent tumbling down a muddy hill. Justus tried to catch him but he too tripped. He landed on top of the young prince. Edmond's milky skin was dirty giving him a rugged appearance. They stared at each other without separating. Edmond could feel Justus' growing arousal pressing against his thigh. Alexander called from above causing them to finally draw apart.