Royal Pains

The king jerked, startled by the unusual calm of his suite, and peered around. He woke up to find himself in the center of his bed. He inhaled deeply as he fixed his focused gaze on the lofty ceiling.

He could feel a void within him. He was unable to express his anguish and longing. More tragic than losing his parents. He thought he had lost everything. And was unwilling to accomplish anything for the rest of the day since he felt weak and miserable.

He sensed Marlo's presence. And only his eyes glanced at the open door when he entered his premises.

"Greetings, Your Majesty. I hope you're feeling great and not sick from too many of those beverages you had on an empty stomach..."

He shrugged it off as he got up and sat on the edge of his bed. He felt himself growing old suddenly because of his softening sense of self.

"Any plans for today, My King?" He inquired why he remained standing in front of the monarch.

"No, unless you got one," he said, somewhat bored. "I'd rather bury myself un