King Leonte's health began to falter, and the issue of succession became pressing. The once mighty monarch, who had guided the kingdom through its darkest times, was now frail. It was time to choose the next ruler, and the king had no shortage of heirs. He had seven sons, each with their own claim to the throne, each hoping to ascend to the throne that would mark their legacy. But none of the princes seemed without flaw.
Prince Orlan, the firstborn, was a master of military strategy. Brave and tactically gifted, he had proven his worth in countless battles. Yet his single-minded ambition for power made him blind to the needs of the common people.
Prince Halvard, the second son, was intelligent and a gifted diplomat. He knew the art of negotiation and had the potential to unite factions, but his ambition often veiled his true intentions, and some suspected he would do anything to secure the throne.
Prince Lyren, the third son, was more an artist than a warrior. Known for his poetry, his diplomacy, and his gentleness, he had earned the love of the people. However, he was seen as weak by his brothers and unprepared for the harsh realities of leadership.
Prince Caelum, the fourth, was loved for his kindness and compassion for the people. He had ruled territories during his father's absence, showing a natural ability to lead. But his naïveté and hesitation in crucial matters were his downfall.
Prince Davian, the fifth, was charismatic and fearless. His charm made him well-liked, yet his impulsiveness and rash decisions brought the kingdom close to disaster on more than one occasion.
Prince Malek, the sixth son, was a philosopher, often speaking of peace and moral justice. Though wise, he lacked the ruthless edge needed to make hard decisions.
Prince Virek, the youngest, was full of potential. Idealistic and visionary, he sought a utopia where all people lived in harmony. But his idealism clashed with the kingdom's brutal realities.
Faced with these choices, Aeris found himself torn. Each of the seven princes had potential, yet each was deeply flawed. He couldn't simply pick the strongest or the most charismatic. A kingdom required more than strength—it needed a ruler with the wisdom to lead, the compassion to unite, and the courage to face difficult choices.