"You must understand... Tradition is the backbone of our kingdom! You shan't dance with peasants! bend over
But dad I’m just dancing. It’s not like I am doing anything bad….. Is it?
No! Matthew… Matthew, you’ve already embarrassed us by breaking protocol. Now, you dare to challenge me again! Matthew, you’re testing my patience! I will not tolerate disobedience, especially from my own flesh and blood! This behavior is completely unacceptable, and if you continue down this path, I fear we will no longer be able to associate with the people we once have known… perhaps we cannot even consider ourselves worthy of the crown anymore…
Stops Do you not want me to be happy? Do you not want me to find true love? Dad….I’m sorry if I hurt the Kingdom or your reputation but love should never be forbidden.
"We're not talking about true love here, Matthew! We're talking about the continuation of the line! Of the dynasty!" This whole romance is nothing more than a means to keep the bloodline alive... not some excuse to break traditions! What do you possibly know about true love anyway? You are far too inexperienced for such a thing. You know nothing of the world beyond these walls... I know what's best for our kingdom, Matthew... trust me.
Walks away, leaving Aldric alone
Stands alone, feeling the weight of all his decisions.. A cold wind sweeps past him, causing the palace windows to rattle. He clenches his fists, his knuckles turning white... His expression turning grimmer with every passing moment.
Matthew, please... return. I realize I may have been... hasty with my words. But, please… come… back…
Please, Matthew… listen to me. I understand if you’re upset... and I truly am sorry for how I reacted. I see now how my actions have caused you pain... But, you must believe me when I say that I only wish to see you happy, and that my intentions were only to protect our legacy... So please, for both our sakes, tell me your truth.
I had a dream father. And my dreams are so vivid, full of colors, and emotions. In this dream, I saw her. She was beautiful, kind, and loved me more than anyone could ever love me. She was the most beautiful flower in a garden of thorns, but I saw something different there. Hope. Without her, everything turns to black. It doesn’t matter if she isn’t a noble. I’d give up the kingdom for her.
Tears stream down his eyes My son... I'm so sorry... I never should've tried to control your feelings... You are right... Love does conquer all. If your heart finds someone who brings you that sort of joy... Let them love you, Matthew... They deserve that. They deserve you. I'm sorry for all the pain I've caused you, my son... For forcing my will upon yours... I am a terrible man, and I shall atone for this sin... I will step down as ruler... As long as you promise me one thing... Marry her.
Are you sure you’d step down?
Yes, Matthew. If that is what it takes to make you happy, then I'll give up the throne. Nothing else matters. Nothing is more important than your happiness... Not my ego, not my pride... Not the legacy of our kingdom... Just you. So please, tell me you forgive me.
Hugs his father Forgive you? Oh no. I am going to thank you father. Thank you for showing me strength and courage. Because what you did took a great man to do, and I am grateful for you.
Matthew, please forgive an old man his arrogance. It was never my intention to be so prideful, I simply got caught up in the moment. However, I want you to know that you mean the world to me. And I will always be there for you, no matter what happens. If you ever need anything, anything at all, please do not hesitate to ask me. Your happiness means everything to me.
Kisses his father on his cheek Thank you.
the prosperity and protection of our people. Let us put our kingdom first, above all else. Only then can we truly bring about peace and prosperity to our lands. Do you agree?
Then let us start working towards that goal right away. I have summoned the entire council.
to bring prosperity and protection to our people. And we shall accomplish that together.
Councilor Thane, begin organizing an immediate diplomatic mission to secure alliances with our neighboring kingdoms.
Councilor Everhart, I want you to ensure that our treasury is prepared for any potential wars or threats.
Councelor Everhart “Of course sire.”
Councilor Garred, I want you to investigate our military's readiness. Are our defenses strong enough to protect our people?
Councelor Garred “Yes sire, they are ready to defend against any enemy that approaches.”
Very well. Now, everyone, I would like for each of you to submit suggestions on how we can improve the lives of our citizens.