Chapter 47: "I'll take my responsibility"

"Whaoh, what a tragic existence. I've heard you have no heir to carry forth your legacy," the head of Ida's clan cruelly taunted the Archduke, who clenched his fists, battling the urge to retaliate. "This is just the beginning!" the Archduke declared with a fierce determination, even as the guards forcibly escorted him away, leaving behind a tumultuous air of unresolved confrontation.

...

"Permit me entry," the third prince's voice commanded with a hint of desperation. "The king's orders were clear: no one is to enter," replied the guards, their resolve unwavering.

"Do you even know who I am?" he questioned, a hint of desperation seeping into his tone.

"Allow him to enter," the king's voice finally broke through the standoff.

He stepped into the room, where the king lay on his bed, worn down and burdened. A solitary wave signaled for everyone to leave, shrouding the room in an unsettling quiet.

"There is no insignificance in a lion, just as an elephant is not to be underestimated. If we claim to see an elephant, then we have seen it. It grieves me that your offspring didn't inherit your nobility—a royal child tarnished, sullying the Silver Throne. Who are you?" the king spoke, frustration lacing his words.

"I am the son of a lion, offspring of the mighty mountain, and heir to the Silver Throne," the third prince responded, his voice tinged with fear. The king studied him, disappointment etched across his face.

"You shouldn't be here, for I doubted my capacity to forgive you," the king asserted.

The third prince fell to his knees, desperately clutching the king's leg. "The great lion, father of all, forgive me. I am deeply remorseful for my transgressions. None of it was intentional; it was a grievous mistake," he implored. "A mistake, to assault a maid and order your son's death?" the king pressed, a bitter sting in his words. Trembling with fear, the third prince struggled to respond. "Forgive me, Father. I repent deeply. I swear it will never happen again. I am prepared to face the consequences, to bear the weight of my responsibilities," he stammered.

"You believe you can bear it? Should anything go awry thereafter, I shall hold you accountable. Embrace this newfound fatherhood and ready yourself," the king warned, helping him stand.

"Son, look into my eyes. You are the great son of a lion. I love all my sons equally, provided you are ready to obey and shoulder your responsibilities," the king whispered, his embrace tinged with both love and trepidation.

In this room, beneath a heavy cloak of destiny, a profound transformation was set into motion. The third prince's acceptance of his duty marked a turning point, where the weight of the past bore down on them both. A palpable tension hung in the air as they stood embraced, this might be his opportunity to gain his father trust.