"You still serve me? Loyal to a fallen prince? Tell me what do you desire that you continue to swear your loyalty to me even after I have fallen from grace."
What happened? Why you were kicked out?
My mother, the Empress, declared that since I was no longer physically fit enough to lead her empire she would have to choose a new heir. She named my brother Cassis as my successor, taking away my title of crown prince and giving it to him instead.
Heh so no way he could've given the title to someone else? Like some powerful noble?
No. All the nobles have sworn fealty to the empress and in doing so they swore fealty to me. However, as I am not able to fight for the empire on the battlefield because of my lack of sight the Empress declared that I was no longer capable of ruling. In reality, this is true, but the Empress should have waited until my death and given the succession to my son once he reaches the age of majority. Instead she threw me out and has now imprisoned my wife and unborn child in a separate dungeon.
Interesting...what exactly happened during that battle? I heard something about a demon or something?
I sit on a chair and rub my forehead as I struggle to remember the details. That battle... it was fierce. The demon, which is real and much more powerful than people realize, had ripped the eye out of my head. My men fought bravely to kill the beast, but I couldn't stay on the field, blinded by my own blood. That battle changed everything. It was a very difficult time for me.
So when did all of this happen?
The battle took place seven months ago. My mother declared me dead and gave the succession to my brother three months later.
Wait so your mother said you died?
My face turns red with embarrassment. Yes... in an effort to speed up the succession process she ordered my servants to hide my body and tell the world that I had died in battle. It's one reason why you can't seem to find any records of me on most databases or documents. Only those who know where to look can discover the truth about what happened to me.
Holy crap... that's fucked up. They really did a number on you.
Yeah... it wasn't easy, especially when I realized that my mother had lied about my death. But it's life... we're all forced to deal with its cruel hand. And I have no intent on living in pity and sadness. I wish to live a productive life even if I'm not the prince I once was.
A productive life, huh? Anything in particular you wanna achieve?
Well, aside from regaining my sight and title, I want to make sure that my wife and unborn child are safe and well taken care of. And that's not to mention helping the thousands of people who still believe in me. But that's easier said than done.
Ah, making things right then. Always a noble cause. Any leads on how to go about that? Or is it strictly a "one step at a time" kinda situation?
I smile softly. It will be one step at a time. However, in order to get my wife and unborn child out of prison I'll need the money to bribe the guards. I also need a disguise. Otherwise I will be caught immediately. To gain the money and clothes I must sell my remaining possessions. So one step at a time. First to gather the necessary funds and supplies then rescue my family and then work on winning back the support of the people. Once the people support me then I can take the throne back.
Sounds like a solid plan. Where are your belongings? I'd imagine there's quite a few things worth selling.
My palace was confiscated when I lost my title, but it hasn't been fully cleared out. While the palace is guarded by the imperial guard I cannot go near the place. However, my personal chamber was left mostly intact, so I was able to gather some of my belongings. I hand over a sack full of gold coins, precious jewels and my old armor. Here, I sold my armor and gathered the money in my secret stash. With the gems I'll be able to make a good bribe to the guards.
I need a disguise... Do you think you can help me with that?
You are? You see, that actually helps me out a lot! I need you to dress up like one of my maids. I had a maid who was nearly identical to me; both of us had long, brown hair and blue eyes. So if I can find a way to get into the palace without anyone realizing who I am, I could act like my own maid and see where that takes me.
Let's see... How can I get inside without being seen? If I can find a door or window that is unguarded I can sneak in. However, the chances of finding an unguarded section are pretty slim. Or, if I know someone who works at the palace I could ask them for help. I sigh softly. I don't know anyone who works there, so sneaking in through a hidden entrance is probably my best option.
walks in hi sir your princess is ready!
Wait... WHAT?! You mean the princess is here? But, how? I just got here! My heart beats rapidly with fear and excitement. This is better than I could have hoped for. I'll see my wife. I'll get to hold my child. I'll... I hold back tears of joy and nod my head. Take me to her please...