CH 16 : Raining

The conversation at the dinner table began with a small talk about the race and congratulations to the Duke's son. However, as the evening progressed, Alistair subtly shifted the topic to matters of governance and economics. The conversation became more serious, especially when he brought up the idea of implementing a new tax policy.

"The kingdom's infrastructure is in need of significant repair, and while we've managed to maintain the core, there are areas that are falling behind. One of the proposals is increasing taxes for households with higher incomes to better support these efforts."

People grew quiet. Most of the guests were wealthy landowners, merchants, or part of the nobility and individuals who would undoubtedly be affected by the policy. The tension was palpable when they exchanged uneasy glances.

"Your Highness, while we all understand the need for kingdom upkeep, targeting high-income households might stifle growth. Many of us already contribute through our businesses. If the taxes are raised, it could impact employment or investments." One of the wealthier merchants leaned forward, his face displaying obvious discomfort.

Alistair remained calm but firm, his vision clear and unmoved with the potential backlash. "I understand your concerns, but the reality is, those with more resources should bear a greater responsibility in supporting the kingdom's people."

He continued with a steady and composed voice, "It's not simply about what we personally gain from our wealth, it's about sustaining a stable future for everyone. I believe the wealthiest among us can contribute more, and it wouldn't disrupt your business nearly as much as you fear."

One of the landowners, growing more agitated, spoke up next. "But Your Highness, these taxes could drive business away from the capital, or worse, encourage those who earn less to expect more without contributing. A kingdom is only strong when all work toward its strength."

The conversation escalated, with more voices chiming in, most of them objecting to the proposed changes. Some even questioned whether such measures were necessary, implying that the kingdom's current tax system worked well enough.

"It's not just about sustaining what we have now, it's about future-proofing the kingdom. If we let wealth accumulate in the hands of the few, while the majority struggle, we're laying the groundwork for unrest." Alistair with a slight edge to his voice.

"A fairer tax on high-income households will fund education, healthcare and infrastructure, things that benefit everyone in the long run."

The debate grew more heated, with the business elites pushing back, arguing that their wealth drove economic growth and that increasing taxes on them would create unforeseen consequences. It was clear that Alistair's progressive stance, focused on reducing inequality and fostering a stronger, more balanced kingdom, was unpopular among this crowd.

Amid the rising tension, Emilia sat quietly, observing the dynamics between Alistair and the other guests. She could see that while many respected his position as Crown Prince, they were deeply uncomfortable with the direction the conversation had taken.

"In the end, the stability of our kingdom rests on fairness. I know these proposals may seem radical to some, but it's what's necessary to ensure prosperity for everyone, not just a select few." Alistair leaning back, finalizing the discussion.

The rest of the dinner continued in uneasy silence. It was clear the wealthy attendees weren't pleased, but none dared push the matter further in Alistair's presence.

The next morning, Alistair's right-hand man arrived with a message from the King. Word of the dinner's heated discussion had reached the palace quickly. It seemed the King, too, was concerned, likely not just about the reaction of the kingdom's wealthiest but about the political implications of such reforms.

The message was clear, the King requested the immediate return of Alistair and Emilia to the capital. It appeared Alistair's vision for a more equitable kingdom had stirred something within the palace, and now they were being summoned to address the concerns raised.

***

On their last day in Velaris, the couple were enjoying a peaceful picnic in the lush garden of the Velmont Palace. The sky was clear, and the air was filled with the sweet scent of blooming flowers, creating the perfect atmosphere for a quiet afternoon together. They had spread out a blanket on the soft grass, sharing wine and fruit, while they relished the serenity of their surroundings.

"What happens when all this ends?" Asked Alistair in a serious tone. "When the deal is over?"

Emilia, who lay beside him wearing small round black sunglasses to shield her eyes from the glaring sun ahead, answered softly, "I don't know."

Alistair sat up slowly and looked at the girl next to him, whose eyes were closed. "I've never been afraid of losing anyone before. You make me think about that for the first time."

The words sounded ambiguous to anyone who heard them, but for Emilia the man was referring to her mind-reading ability that proved useful for Alistair during their missions. Nothing more, nothing less.

"Don't worry, Isabella is currently meeting with Lady Seraphine to retrieve the contraceptive medicine. This puts us one step closer to our goal." Emilia reassured the man.

"Also, I have a plan on how to handle Duke Rhys. You'll see it later when we return to the palace."

Alistair listened to the girl's response, but his expression remained complicated, presumably what Emilia said wasn't what he was currently thinking about.

"What about you?" Alistair prodded, "What are your plans once we return to the Capital?"

Emilia opened her eyes but remained in her motionless position, only moving her mouth to respond to Alistair's words. However, despite their alliance, the girl already had her own plans that didn't involve him anymore, the reason why she was sent here in the first place. Once they were back at the palace, she would continue assisting the man while also carrying out her own business.

"Well, I'll do my duties as Crown Princess. And I'll help you with your mission. That hasn't changed." She paused briefly.

"As for us… we'll need to act the part of a couple who just returned from their honeymoon. A lovely couple, as expected."

Alistair raised a brow, sensing something in her words. Emilia was calm, but there was a heaviness beneath her usual composed demeanor.

"In public, we'll have to be like we are now, close and affectionate, doing everything expected of a married couple. But once we're back in our residence… we'll carry on as usual, minding our own business." 

The mention of their private life brought a shift in the air, but it was Emilia's next words that caught Alistair's attention.

"I know things will be different when we return. I'm aware we can't be as intimate as we are now. Not when I still need to maintain appearances and protect the relationship between you two."

Alistair frowned, the mention of two people bringing tension into his expression. Before he could respond, Emilia continued, her voice more measured this time.

"There's one thing I want to ask, though. About the divorce, we should postpone it until things settle down, at least until the Queen's position is secure."

Alistair's confusion was evident. His eyes narrowed slightly while he waited for Emilia to elaborate.

"I know you plan to marry Selene eventually, and I've agreed to that. But we need to wait until everything cools down. After all, I still have to maintain my position as Crown Princess, because it allows me access to the palace easily."

The tranquilness in Emilia's explanation only seemed to irritate Alistair further. His response was laced with sarcasm, even though his words didn't outwardly disagree. "I appreciate your… consideration."

Emilia, straightening her back, adjusted herself on the blanket and took off her sunglasses, placing them beside her. She thought for a moment, sensing Alistair growing frustration, before answering with her practical tone.

"Look, when we divorce, and you marry Selene, it'll be your second marriage. But for Selene, it'll be her first. And as a woman finally marrying the love of her life, of course, she won't want to share your attention with anyone else." Emilia tried to clarify.

"That's understandable. People will support her in that. That's why we have to get a divorce first before you two get married."

Alistair's eyes seemed to bore into her, sharp with an emotion Emilia couldn't quite place, his voice is calm but cold. "After that, what will you do?" 

Emilia hesitated, her gaze drifting to a distant spot in the garden. "I don't know… maybe I'll explore the world outside the palace."

There was a flicker of Alistair's expression, something she couldn't quite decipher. Emilia tried to reassure him, sensing his unease. "But until then, I'll help you. I'll make sure everything goes according to plan. You don't need to worry about that."

In Emilia's mind, she thought Alistair's concern was about losing her help, someone to assist him in his responsibilities. She couldn't quite grasp that his anxiety stemmed from something deeper.

"Do you really think that day will come?"

Emilia nodded, her tone firm. "I do. I can feel it. It won't be long now."

There was a long silence between them, broken only by the sound of the wind rustling through the trees. Emilia finally asked Alistair the same question he'd posed to her.

"What about you? What's your plan when we return to the palace?"

The man's eyes softened, though there was still a trace of tension in his posture. Alistair's voice was quieter, more reflective now.

"My plan is to make sure you keep your promise. That you'll only leave once everything is secure. For both of us."

His words hung in the air, heavy with meaning. Emilia could sense there was more behind them than just the political responsibilities they were discussing, but she chose not to push further.

The couple both knew that once they returned to the capital, the delicate balance of their relationship would shift. For now, the two could still enjoy the last remnants of their time in Velaris, but soon, reality would catch up with them.

As the afternoon wore on, clouds began to gather, and before they knew it, a light drizzle turned into a heavy downpour. The sudden rain caught the couple by surprise, but instead of rushing inside, they stayed. There was something magical about the rain, the serene drops felt refreshing against the warmth of the day.

Alistair stood up, holding out his hand to Emilia, smiling in a way that made her heart flutter. "Dance with me?"

Emilia blinked, giggling faintly at his unexpected suggestion. The rain poured harder, soaking them both, but the gleam in his eyes was irresistible. She took Alistair's hand, letting him pull to her feet, the laughter mixing with the sound of the drizzle pattering on the leaves.

They danced barefoot on the wet grass, twirling and spinning under the rain as if the world had disappeared around them. Alistair wrapped his arms around Emilia, pulling her close. The cold drops mix with the heat of the couple's bodies making everything feel more intimate, the tightness of their embrace chasing away the chill.

There was no music, only the sound of the downpour and their soft chuckle. The moment felt timeless, like something out of a dream. When the rain continued to fall, Alistair gently cupped Emilia's face, his thumb brushing raindrops from her cheek.

"Next time it rains and we're together, let's have a dance." Alistair said softly, gazing into Emilia's eyes. 

He understood what the girl was thinking, even if it sounded childish, nevertheless, Emilia still agreed with him. "Yes, my husband."

"Let's seal it."

Alistair's lips found hers, and they kissed, the garden became a blur around them. The kiss was slow and deep, the rain making their connection feel even more vivid, every touch heightened by the sensation of the downpour. It wasn't just the kiss, it was the vulnerability and openness.

When they finally pulled apart, breathless, Emilia smiled affectionately, brushing her wet hair out of the face. "Next time, we'll bring an umbrella." 

"Or maybe not." Alistair grinning. 

Later, when they returned to the capital, it rained again. The memory of that day in Velaris was fresh in both their minds, and the couple exchanged a look, knowing exactly what they wanted to do. Without a word, the two found themselves outside in the garden of the palace, reliving that moment and dancing, sharing kisses and laughter like they had that magical afternoon in there.

It became the couple's secret tradition, a way to escape from the pressures of court life, a reminder of the simplicity they found in each other. Whenever the downpour, it was their cue to slip away and create another memory together, one the two would treasure in their lives. Until, a storm and thunder joined forces, erasing any trace of commemoration just like it were mere smoke.

***