[Legionas]

The Palace of Verdesia

Royal Garden

1500 hours

Time is not on King Alexander II's side. At 76 years old and having suffered a stroke only a month ago, it was glaringly clear that the Old Guard was to bow out soon. His spirit, although, was as strong as ever. During his tenure he has seen Legionas develop into a powerful force in every aspect. With the passing of his wife, Queen Isabella, he became more devoted to his work and his son, Prince Paul. How will my son handle everything when I'm gone? With the ever-increasing issues the world faces, being a leader is like walking blindfolded n a minefield.Damn it, when will he get here?

At the edge of his view, he spotted him. Prince Paul walked with the confidence and swagger that reminded King Alex of his youth. Paul resembled his father, from the copper-brown mane to the six-foot physique. King Alex remembered the escapades of his son's youth and looked at him now, age having refined the young man's rough edges.You cannot tell the character of a man from the character of his youth, King Alex thought.

"You summoned me, father,"Prince Paul said while getting on one knee

"Come on, Paul. I'm your old man, you don't have to do that." King Alex said, laboring to stand up.

"Let me help you up," Prince Paul said while rising and offering his hand the aging King,"Did you miss me or something, I'm supposed to be in Lititudinem with Nick and the others," he added

"Firstly, give me a hug you little devil," King Alex laughed, "And why do you have a beard, It's not royal protocol."

"No one will notice, and I think it looks good on me." Paul said while embracing his father.

"You look like a lumberjack, but you can keep it as long as you maintain it. Sit down, we need to talk." King Alex said while gesturing to an empty chair.

"I see you've brought out the Eirian liquor, what's wrong?" Prince Paul asked jokingly.

"I'm afraid recent events in the South Xiomeran Sea has led to a lot of tensions in the world today. For that reason I will need you to head the delegation that will be attending the Maivers Conference in Laeral. You will be leaving in a few hours, your plane is almost ready. I will have Ambassador Von Hoyt arrange your accommodation as the conference doesn't start until after a few days. You will also be going with Leonard Michaels, The Defense Minister, and President Muller." King Alex said while filling two glasses with the Eirian Liquor and sliding one to his son.

"Are you sure,dad? I'm not really the most qualified person to lead a delegation, especially one that would be dealing with so much." Prince Paul said,confused.

"Oh come off it, son. You are one of the most intelligent people in the world. You are a problem solver, and I need you to start being seen by the media doing important things. Lets face it, I won't be here soon. You are my only son, and the heir to the throne. You must start your duties early so that my death will not be a serious issue. I will remain behind and host Empress Yahumi when she visits." King Alex said while taking periodical swigs from his glass.

"If you believe in me, I will do it! I love you dad." Prince Paul said, tears in his eyes. "I can't believe that one day, I won't have you to tell me what to do."

"I love you too, but remember that we are human. I've made mistakes, you have as well. In my old age I have learned the importance of learning from mistakes and never repeating them. I have seen many fall because of their ignorance and stubbornness. This world is changing, son. We can either adapt, or perish like many others in history. All this... this palace, this title, this life I have led, you will lead. Responsibility is important in this line of work, so is honor. I want you to always remember that. Now drink your whisky, give your old man a hug, pack your bags and catch your plane. Don't forget to call me when you get there."

"You old bastard, you always know how to make me shed a tear or two with your lectures. I have a few hours, how about we spend some time together before I go."

"Do you have anything in mind, son?"

"How about hunting."

"Tell Eliza to get us two hunting rifles, I'll go put on a coat and we can get on with it."

"OK, father. See you in a few." With that, Prince Paul dashed to the servants quarters.

King Alexander II, King of Kings, Sovereign on Mount Rosmana, watched him leave. He then knew that Legionas was in safe hands. Cane in hand, he began to move towards his Chamber