After my audience with father, I rushed away to Hedrick’s home. He stayed at the school dorms and was close by. When I reached the school, I saw a carriage outside with him by it. He was packing his stuff to leave. “Hedrick!” I called. Seeing me, he waved as if nothing happened. When I reached him we hugged.

“I won’t apologize for this, Hedrick. I won’t apologize to you.” I said.

He knew the meaning of those words. No explanation was necessary. I would not take blame for something that was not my fault, nor would he blame me for it.

“I know, that I know. You were never one to be considerate even in bad times.”

He jokingly said as we released each other from our hug.

“You do know me well then, it seems.”

Our words were the same as always. There were no tears, no sadness. We needed it not. That wasn’t the point.

“Hedrick. Never forget, you are my brother. I love you as so and I know you do too. My words are not needed, but don’t let anyone look down on you for who you are. If I am royalty, so are you.”

He smiled and said,

“Of course. Those words were truly unneeded. I would never let someone demean me.”

I chuckled before shaking his hand.

“You will make it anywhere you go. Whether it be here or the depths of hell, I’m certain you could make it work.”

I said as my final parting words. The Farlands was a new continent discovered two centuries ago. We had large colonies along the coast, although the mainland interfered with them little. From what I’ve heard, over there anyone could make it. Hedrick was smart, and I knew he could adapt. I couldn’t say I didn’t worry, but I trusted. He would become someone great, this I knew. Nothing could stop him.

“SEND THEM AWAY!”

King Johann III screamed incorrigibly towards the men who came to officiate between him and parliament.

He had begun to consolidate his power and shut down parliament completely. When tried to be reasoned with he denounced parliament and refused their messengers. He desired to reign as a despot, not willing to share his absolute power with anyone. I watched as the dignitaries stomped out of the hall in frustration. He was writing his own will at this current rate. Sure, he could enforce his tyranny now, but it wouldn’t last. Resentment was building and the people were losing trust in our dynasty’s rule. How long could we last I began to wonder. When would we reach the breaking point? I began to fear. Would they only put my father’s head to the block? Would they even keep our line in place? I realized that I was in danger, that I needed to work to save my life or else. I wished for Hedrick to be here. I could consult with him; he’d know what I need to do.

No. He was away, I needed to think. I would live no matter what. Even if everyone else around me falls, I shall live. My life has been meaningless for the most part, but all the more reason why I must find it: a purpose for this shallow existence. There was no reason to miss him now, I’d just have to think on my own. The question I first needed to ask was if they wanted to remove our dynasty. I can only hope they still wish to preserve the order in our nation. Eliminating the dynasty which had lasted for centuries would cause a chasm of power and internal struggle. If they thought so as well, I could live. There was no knowing, but it was my only hope. If they desired eradication, my chance might only be to escape. Still, it seemed safe to assume that they did not seek such a thing. First, the dynasty while being held under a lens of suspicion was still generally supported by the populous. Secondly, they were still trying to amicably communicate with the King, even through his unreasonableness. And finally, they had kept the dynasty once before. My grandfather had only been forced to abdicate. My father will surely be executed, but if I convey willingness to compromise, they might be lenient on me. Besides, I’ve never cared for that old fool. His death would be a boon to my life if anything.

Setting off with a newly instilled determination, I began to write letters. Each one of utmost secrecy; if father discovered them, I would be slain for high treason, son or not. The thought made me shudder, but inaction would be far worse. Tensions were rising and father was only being more unreasonable by the day. The first set of letters were meant for the members of parliament.

Dear honorable parliamentarians,

It is with the utmost concern that I am writing this to the respected members. My father, King Johann III has greatly disgraced our long-held tradition of coexistence. I deeply regret the present state of affairs and offer my deepest sympathies for your terrible plight. My elder brothers have become deluded by the Kings false beliefs, but if it appeases your minds even a fraction, I’ll let my affiliation be known. I stand with the dutiful members of parliament who fight to keep the balance of governance we once had. I hope that my sincerity is well understood, and my regret in being unable to communicate this in person can’t be described. Rather, I am sure my probity may be shown through the actions I have taken. This one has taken a mortal risk in even writing this. If caught one can only imagine the severity of my punishment.

Sincerely your deepest ally,

Prince Emil Johann Renauld

I stared at the second set of letters with doubt. Addressed to foreign leaders they were requests for asylum. It was insurance. I began to doubt, though. If I sent these and they were discovered, it would antagonize both sides. Parliament would think I had backed down on my promise and father would think I was trying to undermine him. Taking the candle lit on my desk, I held the letters above it. There was no going back. If parliament refused me this palace would be my grave. I must not provoke them. There was nothing else to do but wait.