THE ROOT OF BITTERNESS

It has been two years since the main action with Diana and during this time the kingdom only increased its territories with the help of the military genius of Arthur. His victories were followed by great demonstration, and people treated him like a hero. However, inside the royal palace life was dramatic and divided. The consequences of Arthur’s decisions were sore traces left for those he affected most, particularly Diana, who had become a recluse and was enshrouded by the affection by immediate family members excluding Arthur.

Arthur had become utterly rude and almost abusive towards Diana. He said very few things to her, and the remainder of the things he said were said through clenched teeth and with hatred. Despite all the successes in the battle, his anger appeared to grow more and more, and he tried to make any noble young man, who paid her attention, look like a fool to her. These Diana’s looks and status humiliated her to the pale silhouette of pre-cellulite beauty which she bore silently with humiliation as she found solace in the company of her brothers, especially Williams.

Still, Williams who was extremely furious at Arthur, had not lost his temper or cabin fever. He dealt with his brother civilly, but with measured content, thus never giving away what he detested with his kin. He had remained a pawn in Diana’s life but had suffered for her, and seen her situation better than most people. He hid his internal strife well, seeing Arthur get promotions in their father’s eyes day by day.

King Frederic who failed to notice or pretend not to notice the tension within the family, proceeded to celebrate Arthur’s triumphs. Similarly, the court did appear oblivious of conducting tension from destabilizing the kingdom, while concentrating on the wealth of the kingdom. However, as far as the underlying structure of the relationships was concerned, the family was wrecked and the ties that bound them were thin and shaky, stretched out in the name of responsibility and facade.

One evening, the court as usual assembled to enjoy the victory that has slain yet another man at the hands of Arthur and the air was tensed. The nobles were in the grand hall along with the sound of clinking of their goblets and low voices whispering all over the place. Arthur sat at the head of the table this time round confidently drinking in the admiration of the court. Williams sat beside him, completing apathetic not to look and Diana, placed at the end of the table, simply erased from everyone’s consciousness.

Later on, one of the most influential lords rose for a toast as well. He greed Arthur’s bravery and his performance into the battle stating that he was the best knight in the whole kingdom. Any nobleman would be pleased to have such an elegant and beautiful woman as Diana, he said, through a veiled reference. The comment was harmless but Arthur did not waste time to respond. His face contorted and he glared at Diana then at Williams – the man’s eyes locked with Williams, whose response was neutral.

It was at this point that the improving British position was suddenly spoiled when Arthur suddenly slumped forward in his chair,-white faced. Thus, when he grabs his chest and struggles to breathe, the low murmur in the hall rises to concern. Some of them immediately moved forward and the court physician was summoned. People realized that Arthur has a rather severe illness, and an unknown ailment has caused him to become emaciated and almost comatose.

Thus while Arthur was being borne away, King Frederic looked anxious; his attention was soon claimed by the pressing questions of the kingdom’s welfare. A new villain emerged on the horizon: a neighboring kingdom has started preparing for a war, to seize the opportunity of internal conflict in the kingdom. Since Arthur was not able to lead the army then there was need to identify who was going to lead the army.

This was a moment that destiny decided to interpose into the lives of the royal family, and turning to Williams, King Frederic said. “You have to command our troops, Williams.” He said it like the words had a decision sitting on them. >‘Without Arthur who can lead the armies to fight Gamorrian invaders the kingdom needs a strong figure to deal with this threat’.

Williams who was overwhelmed by the promotion looked at the fragile brother he had. Although, coming out from the big brother’s shadow was becoming a burden and at the same time a great chance. Looking at his father he felt relaxation, anger, and determination all at the same time.