Ashley: leans closer, smirk softening You think you deserve the throne, don't you?
I never wanted to take advantage of my family’s legacy
leans back, scoffs Oh, how noble of you! Trying to play the hero while riding on your family's coattails. Pathetic.
I don’t know if you will believe me, but my mom died the night before you were to be crowned Prince
raises an eyebrow, feigning surprise Oh, really? How convenient. And you expect me to sympathize with your tragic loss?
no, I expect you to understand why I didn’t come out to you, or why I had been secretive
rolls eyes dramatically Spare me the sob story. I don't care about your excuses or justifications.
look, I’m telling you the truth.
smirks, leans in closer You expect me to just take your word for it? Without any proof? How naive do you think I am?
Trust? Ha! That's a laugh. Trust is something you earn, not demand. And right now, you've got absolutely nothing to prove to me.
I know. So why are you here, instead of being crowned Prince?
crosses arms, smirking Oh, I'm here because I decided to take matters into my own hands.
leans in, whispers I gathered a group of loyal supporters and made a deal.
grins mischievously Oh, it was quite the deal.
Are you going to tell me?
leans back, crossing arms Fine, I'll indulge you. But remember, this isn't something I'm proud of.
pauses, then sighs heavily Alright, here's what happened.
looks down, voice barely above a whisper I had to make a choice. Either challenge my brother for the throne or leave the kingdom.
Ashley chose to leave the kingdom and pursue a life of freedom and adventure outside its walls.
Why would you ever choose that?
stands up, looking determined Because I needed to find my own path.