BEYOND THE CROWN

Arvin 's POV

As I stood in the grand hall, surrounded by the nobles and digneshanging my cup in a toast, laughing and joking with the Lords and nobles who had come to pay their respects. The music was loud, the food was plentiful, and the wine flowed like a river. I was having a damned good time, and for a moment, I forgot about my duties and responsibilities.

But as the night wore on, a nagging sense of guilt crept up on me. I glanced around, wondering what Nailah was up to. She was probably waiting for me at Malaka Castle, expecting me to join her on our wedding night. I cursed under my breath, feeling the weight of my obligations.

I knew I had to go to her, but the thought of riding to Malaka Castle in the dead of night was unappealing. I was tired, and the wine had taken its toll. I decided to postpone our reunion until morning after a good night's rest.

I made my way to my chambers, feeling a sense of relief wash over me. I'd deal with Nailah in the morning. Tonight, I just wanted to sleep off the wine and the weariness.

The morning arrived sooner than expected. As I slowly opened my eyes, a throbbing headache greeted me. I groaned, realizing I had overslept. As I was trying to adjust to the light, my cousin, Duke Rnzo, burst into my chambers, a hint of amusement on his face.

"Shouldn't you be at Malaka Castle, enjoying your honeymoon?" Rnzo asked, chuckling.

I rubbed my temples, trying to alleviate the pain. "I'll get there eventually. But first, I need to recover from last night's celebrations."

Rnzo laughed. "You're getting old, cousin."

I grinned. "And you're next. I'll make sure to find you a suitable bride soon enough. there are plenty of noble ladies that came with Nailah." Knowing Rnzo isn't really into noble women

Rnzo raised an eyebrow. "Oh, I'm shaking in my boots."

I chuckled. "You should be. I'll find someone who can tame your wild ways."

Rnzo snorted. "I doubt it."

Our banter was cut short by Heman, my trusted right-hand man. "Your bride is waiting, sire. She looked a bit disappointed when I saw her last night and also earlier this morning."

Rnzo nodded in agreement. "You should go see her today, Arvin."

I nodded, still feeling a bit under the weather. "I'll go this evening. But first, I need some time to recover in will be in my study room. "

Rnzo clapped me on the back. "Don't get too caught up in your books and duties leave them to Heman, cousin. Your bride is waiting."

I smiled wryly. "I'll keep that in mind."

As Rnzo departed, I made my way to my study. I found my mother already waiting for me, a warm smile on her face.

"Good morning, son," she said, her eyes sparkling with amusement. "I see you're looking beat. Was the night that fun?"

I laughed, feeling a bit sheepish. "I may have overindulged last night."

My mother chuckled. "I'm sure it was a celebration to remember."

We shared a laugh, and then my mother's expression turned serious. "Arvin, don't forget to take care of Nailah. And you're always putting others before yourself, work on that too, my darling boy."

I smiled, feeling grateful for her love and wisdom. "I will, Mother. I promise."

My mother nodded, her eyes shining with warmth. "I know you will, son. You've always had a good heart."

RIANA (Queen Mother's pov)

As I pondered the weight of Arvin's responsibilities, I was interrupted by the sound of rustling silk and the soft chatter of the ladies-in-waiting. I turned to see them escorting the King Jun and Queen Hera of Bukid, Nailah's parents, into the hallway heading out.

My eyes widened as I took in the regal couple. They were even more stately and dignified than I had imagined. Hera's beauty was still radiant despite her advanced years, and the King's strong jawline and piercing eyes commanded respect.

I smiled warmly and made my way towards them, eager to greet Nailah's parents. As I approached, they bowed their heads in respect, and I could sense the warmth and kindness emanating from them.

"Your Majesties," I said, extending my hands in greeting. "It's an honour to finally meet you. I trust you enjoyed your stay."

" It was beyond lovely. Thank you again for your hospitality, Your Majesty," the King said, bowing his head.

" im glad, and I promise Nailah's safety, and I will ensured," I said, smiling warmly. "You may leave with peace of mind, knowing your daughter and her ladies are in good hands."

The Hera smiled, her eyes shining with gratitude. "Thank you, Your Majesty. We are forever in your debt."

With that, the royal couple boarded their carriages, and I watched as they departed. I turned to the ladies-in-waiting and smiled.

"Let us ensure Nailah's comfort and happiness," I said before nodding and walking away.

I, too, had a journey to undertake, returning to the Eastern Kingdom of (Kamaya). I made my way to my own carriage, ready to begin the journey back home

Meanwhile, Arvin sat in the study.

Arvin sat at my desk, pouring over the documents and reports scattered before him. Heman stood by the window, his eyes fixed on the darkness outside.

"It's getting late, sire," Heman said, his voice low and gentle.

Without looking up from his papers. "I know." Arvin responded,

Heman cleared his throat, a subtle signal that Arvin knew all too well. He was reminding Arvin of his duties and of the promises Arvin had made to Nailah.

Arvin sighed, rubbing his temples. He had promised himself he would visit Nailah tonight, but as the hours slipped away, he found himself increasingly reluctant to leave the comfort of his study.

"Heman," Arvin said finally, looking up at him. "I think it's time I sent a message to Malaka Castle."

Heman nodded, his expression neutral. "I'll see to it, sire."

Heman then headed to Malaka Castle and took the bouquet to Nailah wing of the castle, and just in time, Nailah was heading to her chambers, too.

 "Your Majesty I'm truly very sorry once again there was an urgent matter His Majesty had to attend I bring you this gesture and a token of his Majesty's sincere apologies for the distress caused and his Majesty added you could have my head if you desire Your Majesty " as Heman said as he bowed

Nailah's laughter caught him of gaurd as she reached for the roses. She looked at them as though she wanted to lift them, but obviously couldn't.

"Elara, find them a special place in the garden, please. I don't want them dying," Nailah ordered her maid

Turning her attention to Heman, Nailah said," Thank you, send my gratitude to The emperor wherever he is."

Heman bowed and left.

I woke up early the next day, feeling a sense of unease and with a slight headache. I had been avoiding Nailah for too long, and I knew I needed to make things right between us today. I got dressed and made my way to her.

As I entered the Malaka castle, I saw her sitting on a seat, looking beautiful in her floral gown. She looked up at me, a hint of surprise in her eyes.

"Arvin ," she said, her voice neutral.

I took a deep breath, feeling a sense of remorse. "I apologize for my late arrival," I said, my voice sincere. "I wasn't able to make it back yesterday, and I'm sorry for that. I realize I haven't been the husband I should be."

Nailah looked at me, her expression sceptical. I could tell she wasn't sure if she believed me. I stayed with her the entire morning and afternoon, and I could feel her aura was still doubtful. I needed to fix that.

"Let me make it up to you," I said, trying to sound as sincere as possible. "Let's take a walk in the garden. It's a beautiful day, and I'd love to spend some time with you."

Nailah hesitated for a moment, then nodded. "Okay," she said, standing up.

We walked to the garden, enjoying the warm evening sunshine and the beautiful flowers. I pointed out different blooms, explaining their meanings and significance. Nailah listened intently, asking questions and showing genuine interest.

As we walked, I could sense her scepticism slowly fading away. She was starting to relax around me, and I could see the tension in her body easing.

We reached a particularly beautiful section of the garden, filled with vibrant flowers and the soothing sound of a fountain. Nailah turned to me, a smile on her face.

"Thank you for showing me this," she said, her voice soft. "It's beautiful."

I smiled back at her, feeling a sense of relief. Maybe, just maybe, I could make things right between us.

And then, without warning, Nailah leaned in and kissed me. I was taken aback, but I kissed her back, feeling a rush of desire wash over me.

We stood there for a moment, lost in the kiss. But as the sun began to set, I knew we needed to head back to the castle.

We had dinner together, and I couldn't help but steal glances at Nalani. She looked beautiful, her eyes shining in the candlelight.

As the night wore on, I found myself feeling more and more drawn to her. I knew I needed to be careful, to not let my desire get the better of me.

But as we retired to our chambers, I couldn't help but feel a sense of desire. I took Nailah in my arms, and we consummated our marriage.

Soft, gentle was all i could think about as i slowly caressed her. i didn't want her hating intimacy,

Not long i could feel her quivering as she was reaching her climax once she was done, I gently pulled out and held her close to my chest, stroking her hair as her breathing slowly even.

As I lay there afterwards, feeling Nailah's warmth beside me, I couldn't help but feel a sense of disconnection. It wasn't that I didn't enjoy the physical act, but it felt...empty. Unemotional.

I looked over at Nailah, seeing the peaceful expression on her face. She was happy, I could tell. But I couldn't relate.

I got out of bed, careful not to disturb Nailah. I got dressed and left the room and spent the rest of my night my chambers, feeling a sense of guilt. I knew I shouldn't be feeling this way, not after what we had just shared. i went to sleep with many thoughts run through my mind.

The following morning, I made my way back to the Imperial castle, I couldn't shake off the feeling of guilt. I ordered flowers to be sent to Nailah, hoping to make up for my sudden departure.

As I arrived at the castle, I was greeted by Duke Rnzo, one of my cousins and closest friends. He was sitting in my office, looking relaxed and at ease.

"Arvin , my friend," he said, standing up. "What brings you back to the castle so early?"

I shrugged, feeling a sense of unease. "Just needed to take care of some business," I said, trying to sound nonchalant.

Rnzo raised an eyebrow, but he didn't press the issue. Instead, he changed the subject.

"I've been thinking," he said, leaning back in his chair. "I'm in the market for a mistress. Someone beautiful, intelligent, and charming."

I raised an eyebrow, feeling a sense of discomfort. I didn't really enjoy talking about women, not like Rnzo did.

"Good luck with that," I said, trying to sound nonchalant. It sounds skeptical, Rnzo isn't really the type to take commitment to anything , let alone a marriage.

Rnzo grinned. "I think I've found the perfect place to look. The southern kingdom, where your wife is from. I've heard the women there are beyond beautiful."

I felt a surge of guilt at the mention of Nailah, but I pushed it aside. Rnzo was just talking.

"I've actually seen one of the ladies before," Rnzo continued. " Lady Kanha and the daughter of the Southern governor Lady Kiara.

I leaned back in my chair, a plan forming in my mind. "Instead of going to the South, why don't you attend a ball here?" I suggested, a smile spreading across my face. "You can introduce yourself to the ladies-in-waiting. They're already here, and I'm sure they would be delighted to meet you."

Rnzo raised an eyebrow, clearly intrigued. "A ball, you say? That's not a bad idea. But I want a cultured girl, someone with refinement and elegance."

I chuckled. "You'll find that the ladies-in-waiting are more than qualified to meet your standards. They're from the same region as Nailah, and they have all the qualities you're looking for. Plus, they're already familiar with the customs and etiquette of the royal court."

Rnzo nodded thoughtfully, clearly considering my proposal. "I must say, I am not really intrigued by any that i have met. These ladies-in-waiting are more...royal than loving, shall we say, than the women from the South. And they don't have that...distinctive accent that the Southerners have."

I smiled, knowing that I had won him over. "Exactly. So, what do you say? Shall we host a ball and introduce you to the ladies-in-waiting?"

Rnzo was about to respond when my secretary, Heman, burst into the room. "Your Majesty, I apologize for interrupting, but I have just returned from a meeting in the capital. There is news that requires your immediate attention."

I nodded, my expression serious. "Very well, Heman. Tell me what's happening."

Rnzo stood up, a look of understanding on his face. "I'll leave you to attend to your duties, Arvin . But I expect you to reconsider following through with that ball of yours. I really don't want to be thrown into a cage of hungry ladies-in-waiting."

I nodded, smiling. " Don't forget to get a lovely suit for the ball, Rnzo.

Now, Heman, tell me what's happening in the capital."

As the meeting at the court in the capital came to a close, I turned to Heman, my trusted right-handman. "I'm going to slip out through the garden entry," I said, my voice low. "I need some time to myself."

Heman nodded understandingly. He knew that being the Emperor could be overwhelming at times and that I needed a break from the pressures of royal life. "I'll make sure to inform the guards that you're out," he said, handing me a set of commoner's clothes. "Enjoy your evening, Your Majesty."

I smiled wryly as I took the clothes from him. Heman had known me since I was a child, and he was one of the few people who truly understood me. I changed quickly, feeling a sense of freedom as I shed my royal attire.

As I mounted my horse, Heman handed me the reins. "Be safe, Arvin ," he said, his voice serious.

I nodded, smiling. "I will, Heman. Thank you." times like this he doesn't call me any title

With that, I set off into the city, feeling a sense of exhilaration as I rode through the crowded streets. I passed through the market, taking in the sights and sounds of the bustling stalls. Feeling amoung, enjoying the anonymity of being a commoner.

As I rode along the riverbank, I saw a group of Markan children playing ball. I reined in my horse, watching them with a smile. They were laughing and shouting, completely carefree.

I dismounted my horse and approached them. "Mind if I join in?" I asked, in Madhist, so the kids will understand me

The children looked up at me in surprise, but then their faces broke out into wide smiles. "Yeah, you can be the referee!" one of them exclaimed.

But as the sun began to set, I realized that I had kept the children out for too long. "I'm sorry, kids," I said, feeling a pang of guilt. "I should probably get you home. Your parents will be worried about you."

The children looked at each other uncertainly, but then one of them spoke up. "It's okay, we're waiting for our moms. They're fetching water from the river."

I nodded, feeling a sense of relief. "Well, in that case, I hope u guys get home safely, but I should probably get going myself."

"Wait for our moms with us!" One shouted

I hesitated, feeling a pang of regret. But I knew that if the adults saw me, they would recognize me as the Emperor, and I didn't want that. So I smiled and waved and set off back towards the castle.

As I entered the garden, I saw a group of men sneaking away, carrying some of the castle's rabbits. I shouted in after them, but they stopped when they realised i was speaking Madish, "we are sorry, sir, but we need this," one shouted as they ran into the darkness

I cursed under my breath, feeling a sense of annoyance. But as I turned to head back to my horse, I heard a feminine voice shouting for help.

I spun around, my heart racing. Where was the voice coming from? And who was in trouble?

I looked behind the rocks there it was a fawn in a hole

She looked cute as the moonlight was directly beaming into the hole. I doubt she could see me. But we don't really live with any Markans,so I began and asked, "Who goes there?"

The intruder explained her situation,"I'm Mirha, one of Her Majesty's ladies-in-waiting. I was walking in the garden and got lost. I fell into this well by accident."

I asked sceptically. "What are you doing here? This isn't a place for the queen's ladies."

She proceeded to explain. "I told you, I got lost. I was just exploring the garden and stumbled upon this well."

I couldn't tell if she might be telling the truth but i wanted know more like why is her Madish so perfect even better than last time i checked its not a language taught to any nobles so i pressed on "I don't believe you. You're not even supposed to be here. The Markans aren't fond of this place. Why are you here?" I asked.

I could tell that this girl's patience was wearing thin, but she tried to remain calm. Cute. "My name is Mira, but in the Southern region, I'm referred to as Mirha. I'm with the new Empress, I'm one of her ladies-in-waiting. I learned how to speak Madish because my mom was a blind farmer at the border of the South East border. She would usually call some of our neighbours who were Markan to take care of me, see we lived alone, and mom would go to the main market to sell the goods, hence my fluency in Madish." She said

Not a noble? That's a first, but why would Nailah give the position of lady-in-waiting to a commoner? Well, I wasn't complaining, but I didn't expect it. Maybe she is just as kind as that. I then decided to cut this encounter short and get her out of there. She looked tired and injured.

"Hmmm, enough of your life story. Let me get a rope." I said, sounding un interested

Just as i was about to fetch a rope, i heard the sound of guards calling out her name. I decided to leave it to them and leave Mirha to wonder what had just happened.

Mirha, I think Rnzo is gonna like her, I thought to myself as I was heading to my chambers..