Contracted To The Uncrowned King Novels & Stories

Before Zoriana could answer, the King signaled for him to sit down. “Beta Karel, the Crown Prince has not even been crowned yet, so he cannot be overthrown as he is not the King,” King Arthur’s voice boomed, his authority undeniable. “As long as I wear the crown on my head, I hold absolute power. I order you to sit down and remain silent until you are requested to speak.” Karel sank back into his seat, utterly shocked, just as a contingent of Royal Guards marched into the room. “Zoriana, what the hell is going on?” Gael frowned, slamming his fist onto the table. He could feel the control slipping from his fingers. What had she agreed to with the King behind his back?

Seraphine, when consulted, did not fully approve of the plan, citing the political risk of an unproven king leaving his own capital so soon after a contested coronation, but she also did not attempt to talk him out of it once she understood the alternative, a border crisis handled entirely by messenger while the crown remained conspicuously absent from a treaty it had just renewed under considerable strain. "I will manage the court in your absence," she said finally, "and I will keep a close watch on anything moving through Lord Malachi's remaining contacts here in the capital. But you should understand, Your Majesty, that leaving now hands your uncle an opportunity as well as a risk. An abs

“And I certainly understand the important role that Arden Retis plays in holding this border, but the agreement is one hundred and fifty trained knight units from Arden Retis.” I saw his eyes flicker. He, of course, knew the agreement to which I referred. “Liera,” Lord Anterton tried a smile as he looked to Leongrad. My friend was frowning at me, as taken aback by my unexpected confidence as his father. “That agreement is with the reigning monarch. My offer is generous, in light of the current political situation, and one you would be wise to accept.” “I am the reigning monarch,” I replied firmly, steeling myself. This lamb would roar, in its own way. “Clareath might have married my brother,

“Bryce, go to House Silvercrest and retrieve their lost wager. They should learn the consequences of their failure.” Bryce, a loyal servant, nodded obediently. “As you command, Your Majesty. I shall ensure the wager is collected and added to your purse.” With a swift bow, Bryce departed to carry out the king’s command, leaving the defeated members of House Silvercrest to contemplate their loss. King Edward leaned back in his throne, a satisfied smirk gracing his features. His son’s victory had further solidified their dominance, and he reveled in the power and authority it brought.

"The King and the ex-crown prince are to duel for the throne." The words struck like a physical blow. My heart skipped a beat. "What?" I whispered, my voice barely audible. Then louder, sharper, "Why would Lucius agree to something so reckless? He's only just regained control of his energy. He's not ready for this!" Tae sighed, her hands clasped tightly before her. "The council and nobles of Decresh have agreed to it. They believe His Majesty's prolonged absence of power has left the kingdom vulnerable. Some even think he's unfit to rule."

In fact, he arranged for their marriage contract to be drawn up, much to the horror of the other elder council members. Romanus had become king after the death of his uncle, the king. Since the only other heirs had been killed in the war, Romanus was crowned the new king, and he had made Beatrice his royal consort. He always said that he had worked long and hard to win her love and admiration, not to mention her obedience—well, he wouldn’t mention her obedience, because Romanus still didn’t believe he had it, even after all their years together.

Lance’s voice was strong as it echoed through the room. “Then with this crown, I leave my throne and my people in your care, my son.” The King removed his staff and picked up the crown with both hands and set it gently on top of Lancelin’s head. “Bow, Lancelin Eustein, servant of the Gods above, and rise King Lancelin Eustein, the new ruler of the Incubi Kingdom.”

It was as if my suspicions had somehow struck a nerve. “I’ve lost a brother, I’m in pain, but I’m trying to help you—and these foolish statements will only put our kingdom in danger!” Uncle lashed out, his voice trembling with anger. I swallowed my breath. As long as I was not coronated, my words held no weight. Everyone knew only a married, coronated king, would be taken seriously. Even Grayson Stunnard knew. That was the reason why he had decided to talk to Audrey without my knowledge and why that man had the audacity to disrespect me.

​Brandon tossed the parchment into the mud at Seraphina’s feet, his sneer widening as he turned his gaze to Kaelor. "And to the High King... the lords have stripped you of your crown. You are no longer our monarch. You are just another traitor waiting to hang."

"You were tangled up with your best friend the whole time, and you're questioning me? And that wasn't a fight. I dumped you! I told you then, we were done." Vincent slipped an arm around me, looking entirely satisfied. "You heard her," he said. "Stay out of our way. Don't be an eyesore." Hendrick looked toward his parents again, searching for help. Neither of them responded. To them, a successor could be flawed, even foolish, but not someone who let himself be played so easily. Someone like that would only ruin everything. Cutting him off early was the safer choice. In the end, with Vincent by my side, I picked out a new wedding dress.