8
After Lyra’s demise, I began a full reckoning with Rhys.
Under
my guidance, the Elder Council, citing ‘incompetence and endangering the Royal Heir,…
…officially stripped Rhys of his kingship, allowing him only the title of ‘Father of the Royal Heir!’
“From now on, the kingdom will be governed jointly by the Elder Council and the Royal Heir.”
Elder Brennus announced the verdict.
“Until the Royal Heir comes of age and formally ascends the throne.”
Rhys didn’t resist. He silently accepted the outcome.
He knew it was the punishment he deserved.
The loss of power was no longer important to him.
What he had lost was far more precious than a crown.
“I request to be sent to the Far North Front.”
Rhys presented his request to the Elder Council.
“To atone for my sins with the rest of my life.”
“And to guard the kingdom’s borders.”
I watched coldly, offering no objection.
It was his own choice, and the responsibility he should bear.
The Elder Council approved his request.
Rhys packed simple provisions, preparing to depart for the most perilous demon–infested battlegrounds.
Before leaving, he wanted to see Jasper one last time.
“Let me see him. One last glance.”
He pleaded, looking at me.
I nodded, and walked out holding Jasper.
Jasper saw Rhys, still wearing that same indifferent expression.
“Jasper, this is
I said calmly.
your father.”
“He’s leaving. He might not return for a very long time.”
Jasper tilted his little head, glanced at Rhys, then turned to bury himself in my arms, completely oblivious to Rhys’s presence.
Rhys’s heart was pierced with profound pain.
But he said nothing, only gazed deeply at my son and me before turning and walking away.
I began to govern the kingdom under the title of ‘Holy Mother!’
Demonstrating astonishing political acumen and foresight.
Under my rule, the kingdom prospered, and the people lauded my wisdom.
I meticulously nurtured Jasper, teaching him to read and write, instructing him in the ways of a king.
He was sharp and intelligent, quick to learn anything.
The bond between mother and son grew deeper day by day.
Years passed, and news continuously arrived from the Far North Front.
There was a reckless ‘Mad Lion‘.
Guarding the entire border single–handedly.
Slaughtering countless demons, he was revered as a War God by the soldiers.
I knew it was Rhys, but I never inquired.
Nor did I ever respond to any messages he sent through military dispatches.
Jasper grew older.
He heard ‘legends‘ of his father from others, and began to hesitate, wanting to speak but holding back.
“Mommy, I heard Father King is very powerful.”
He asked me cautiously one day.
“Is he truly protecting us?”
Looking at his innocent eyes, my heart softened for a moment.
“Yes, he is on the battlefield.”
“Shedding his blood and sacrificing himself for the kingdom.”
“Then why doesn’t he come back to see me?”
Jasper looked a bit downcast.
“Does he not like me?”
I stroked his head.
“No, he’s just atoning for his mistakes.”
“You’ll understand when you’re older.”
Jasper nodded, seeming to understand yet not quite.
But his eyes already held curiosity and longing for his father.
I knew that the bond of blood could not be severed.
No matter how I raised Jasper, he would eventually want to know his father.
That day would inevitably come.
And I, too, had to prepare for it.
