Shrinking Guts

Hosh, who heard all these words from Wilona's lips, felt so sad and immediately his guts sank. Again, he couldn't blame the princess because he believed that even a ordinary woman would refuse to marry him. How is it possible that Wilona, ​​a beautiful and honorable princess, will accept it gracefully.

Hosh stared into the distance where the beautiful scenery of the night indeed conjured his eyes quickly. Zenith clan is the richest clan among others. The houses he could see were all luxurious and had bright lights. It consists of tall buildings where Hosh can see lots of vehicles passing by. Very different from the Crosby clan.

Being away from home made Hosh miss his home a little. The house is simple but warm. Activities that are boring but also fun. In two days, he will be married and his life will probably be better. It's just that, he had to leave the two people he cared about the most at this time. Grandfather and grandmother.

Hosh actually wanted to just go back inside, but was so surprised when he turned around he could see the king standing behind him. Smiling warm and dignified, the man looked at Hosh as if he understood what the young man was thinking. No doubt King Alaric brought Hosh back to the balcony feeling the breeze where they could see the majestic Zenith.

“You can see what I see right? This Zenith clan that is so majestic and beautiful before our eyes.” King Alaric pointed into the distance.

"Yes, Your Majesty."

“This all did not happen in the blink of an eye. Have you heard that the Zenith clan also used to be a clan that was looked down upon because of its land lacking natural resources? Or is it looked down upon because of its lazy human resources?” asked the king.

“No, Your Majesty. I've never heard of it."

“Yeah, I didn't feel for sure that time either. It happened hundreds of years ago in the time of our ancestors. In the past… the Zenith clan also had nothing. We then proved to the people that we could rule. We didn't do anything at that time except dig. We keep digging because we believe there is something hidden and valuable in our soil. Until as you know, we managed to find gold and diamonds which are now the source of our wealth.

Hosh just nodded in understanding.

“Then what do you think, everything stops there? Not. We don't know how to process the gold and diamonds. We sold it and they cheated us with a low price. We again had to think of ways to make the gold and diamonds valuable. We learn, find out, try, and keep trying. Up to this point we are. And it honestly reminds me of you.”

"To me?" asked Hosh this time in disbelief.

"I became king not without reason. If they think I became king only because of bloodline, then I can assure them they are wrong. I have the ability to think well and I can see how the men around Wilona are only holding out for an important position in this clan. They hope to become companions and of course become kings in the future.”

King Alaric turned his body around where he could see several people partying inside.

“Maintaining good relations with other clan leaders is indeed a responsibility. It's just that for marriage, I don't really agree with it. Emillio, he may be strong, but he is a very stupid man. I firmly believe he will destroy this clan in an instant if he becomes the leader. Whereas Lionel may be smart and seem to really love Wilona, ​​but he is very ambitious which can make him act evil and heinous. In the end, it would also bring down the Zenith clan. Then you… you are different.”

Hosh glanced at the king briefly. "Sorry, Your Majesty. We've never even had a special conversation before. How can you say such nice things to me?”

"Of course I can't be careless in marrying off my daughter. I'm still finding out about you as well as your family background. I understand your parents used to be leaders of the Crosby clan before they died. I also really know how they become good and wise leaders. You should be the one to replace them, but since you are still young it is your uncle who will continue the throne. You are very likely to be the successor, but it was your illness that forced you to be removed from the list of successors."

“Yes… and I was struck off the list of successors, Your Majesty. Isn't that the point of everything?" Hosh asked confused.

“Yeah… you might not pass on in that position, but I can see you're being stoic and even supporting your uncle. I saw how you always tried to protect your grandparents even though you were sick yourself. Yes, even though I know this condition is difficult for you, you don't give up. Plus how you helped Wilona selflessly before. I see a quality in you.”

“I see. Thank you very much, Your Majesty. I frankly had no idea you had such thoughts. Everyone around me, without exception, they all hate me because of my condition. I'm not as strong as you say, Your Majesty. So many dots, so many gaps, I want to just stop. I'm not too sure I can lead my household properly, let alone a kingdom. Even I don't know how long I'll live.”

“You don't need to think about that. I will continue to try to find a cure for your disease. You know the Lazarus clan can do it and they must have helped me with this. And regarding Wilona, ​​she might be stubborn. It won't be easy for her to fully accept you, but I hope you'll be patient and give her time.”

"I will try, Your Majesty."

“Deep down, she's a good girl. She's just being blinded by the wrong man's love. I hope that with you by her side, she will slowly open her eyes. I really expected that from you.”

"Very well, Your Majesty."

“Now, relax. Come inside and party together. Show them that you deserve to be Wilona's groom.”

King Alaric smiled and patted Hosh on the shoulder casually. The king went inside first and then greeted the other invitees. Hosh looked at the grandparents who looked a little awkward. Hosh quickly approached them. It was not right for him to weep. He should be there and accompany his family with a happy smile.