"I have to. It is my responsibility, and my responsibility to Arvenia comes before all else," he said with a solemn voice. He was not sure why he added the second statement. Maybe it was to remind himself of why he had to marry, or to tell Levina why he had to marry someone else. He wasn't sure; all he knew was that he had to say it.
She nodded, feeling a rush of disappointment. "You will make a great king," she added quickly.
"Sometimes I wish Zarek was the next in line for the throne. Maybe then I would be able to make some decisions for myself, do whatever makes me happy."
"I would never wish that. I know Prince Zarek is your brother, but he is awful and selfish and certainly not king material," she said as his expression hardened. She reached for his hand and took it in hers, saying, "The journey ahead is not going to be an easy one, but I am certain that you can handle it."
