Chapter Ninety-Two

Chapter Ninety-Two
"Buenas tardes, damas y caballeros. En nombre de la Corona, me es un honor extenderles mi más sincera gratitud por su distinguida presencia en esta solemne asamblea. Ha transcurrido ya un tiempo considerable desde nuestra última reunión, y por ello, hoy nos sentimos profundamente honrados de poder compartir con todos ustedes asuntos de gran trascendencia y de comunicarles las novedades más relevantes que marcan el porvenir de nuestra nación.
Les rogamos, con el debido respeto y la más alta consideración, que reserven sus preguntas y comentarios hasta que Su Majestad haya concluido su discurso. Con la deferencia que merece esta ocasión, invito ahora a Su Majestad el Rey a ocupar el estrado."
Translation: Good afternoon, ladies and gentlemen. On behalf of the Crown, I extend my gratitude for your presence at this gathering. It has been some time since we last assembled, and today we are honored to share with you matters of great importance and forthcoming updates. We kindly ask that all questions and remarks be reserved until His Majesty has concluded his address.
"On behalf of the Crown, I extend to you our profound gratitude for gathering here today," the minister proclaims, his voice carrying solemn weight. "Your loyalty, and your steadfast trust in the monarchy, remain the foundation upon which this kingdom endures.
In the weeks ahead, we shall open our doors to the world. Our royal household will host a grand ball — an occasion that is not merely festivity, but a declaration of who we are. It will be a celebration of tradition and a testament to unity. It shall stand as a living symbol of our enduring heritage, and as an opportunity to welcome allies and fortify our bonds of friendship with nations both near and far.
We are also pleased to share that new initiatives in the fields of education and health are advancing with great momentum. Construction has commenced on a modern institute of learning that will shine as a beacon for generations yet to come. At the same time, the foundation stone of a new hospital wing will soon be laid, ensuring that every citizen of this realm may have access not only to care, but to dignity and compassion.
Beyond our borders, conversations with international partners are underway. Measures have been enacted to secure our economic future and to safeguard the prosperity of trade. Though we recognize that challenges lie before us, you may rest assured: the Crown remains vigilant, unwavering in its duty to protect and advance the interests of the nation.
It is no secret that whispers travel swiftly. Rumors concerning security, stability, and trust often seek to cloud judgment. But I assure you: these concerns are not taken lightly. His Majesty will soon address matters of national importance. When he does, clarity shall prevail, and truth shall be brought to light. Until then, I implore your patience, and above all, your faith.
For our strength lies not in gilded titles, nor in crowns of gold, but in the unity of our people. Together, we endure. Together, we rise.
I thank you most sincerely. And now, with the highest respect, I have the honor of inviting His Majesty the King to take the stage."
Rex steps forward onto the stage, and my heart leaps as I cheer for him. A wave of applause erupts from the assembly, the voices of the people swelling as he takes his place beneath the grand lights.
He begins in Spanish, his words firm yet gracious, before transitioning smoothly into English. "I thank you all for gathering here today, for it has indeed been some time since I last addressed you directly. It is both my solemn duty and my greatest honor to keep you informed of the course we chart together as a kingdom."
The audience breaks into applause, and Rex inclines his head with dignity. He glances at the paper in his hands, then lifts his gaze once more to meet the eyes of his people.
"First, on matters of health and care: a new wing of the Royal Hospital shall be completed within the year. This expansion will greatly increase our capacity to tend to the ill, the vulnerable, and those in need. Furthermore, we are establishing a scholarship fund that will guarantee every child, regardless of circumstance, the opportunity to pursue an education and secure their rightful place in the future of this nation."
The people applaud warmly again, their voices filled with hope. Rex pauses, nods, and then resumes in Spanish to ensure none are left behind.
"Second, in matters of commerce: trade discussions with neighboring allies are advancing steadily. Agreements are being carefully drafted, agreements that will strengthen our economy and provide new opportunities for merchants, artisans, and workers alike. These negotiations are complex, yet I assure you — I remain vigilant in safeguarding your livelihoods and your prosperity."
Every declaration he makes, Rex repeats in Spanish with measured precision, ensuring that every soul gathered understands the weight of his words.
"Third, on matters of security: recent events have, understandably, given rise to questions. I do not deny that challenges exist. Yet let it be clear — measures are already firmly in place to protect our borders, our homes, and our people. These actions, though discreet, are decisive. Those who would seek to undermine our peace will not prevail."
At that moment, I feel a sudden tug — Rex's parents pulling me aside. His voice begins to fade into the background as the King himself speaks to me in a low, commanding tone.
"Let us make an arrangement. You will not marry my son. In return, I shall give you whatever you desire. Tell me, how much do you want?"
My lips part in shock, disbelief coursing through me. Does he truly believe I am here for wealth? My eyes instinctively find Rex on stage, his words still flowing, his presence commanding the loyalty of his people.
"Speaking of which," Rex's voice rises above the clamor of my thoughts, "we strive to be known as a nation that chooses peace over violence. No act of cruelty shall go unanswered. We are determined to make this land not only a home for its citizens, but also a sanctuary for travelers and guests. To achieve this, we must work together to make this nation the safest in the world. A new law shall soon be published to ensure this vision becomes reality."
The King's words cut back in, sharp and cold. "Tell me now, before Rex declares his marriage before the world. I will not accept you into this family. I do not want you near my son. Name your price, and I shall pay it."
I shake my head, forcing strength into my trembling voice. "With all due respect, Rex is all I need. I want nothing else — not your money, not your favor."
My pulse quickens as Diego's warnings echo in my mind.
"Fourth, on matters of tradition and unity: in the coming weeks, this palace shall open its doors to a grand ball. But it shall not merely be a night of festivity. It will be a declaration of our spirit — a people bound together by history, by loyalty, and by hope for the future."
"You do not belong in this world, child," the King mutters darkly. "He requires someone of title, someone worthy. You have ruined everything we planned for him — everything."
My brows furrow, my voice unsteady. "What do you mean? What are you talking about?"
"Leave him," he commands once more, unrelenting.
"No!" I protest, my voice rising with defiance as I glance back at Rex.
"Lastly, on matters of family: the royal household stands united in its service to the people. We shoulder the burdens of responsibility together, so that none must falter alone. Citizens, I know that whispers stir — whispers of discontent, of hidden motives. But this kingdom is not ruled by shadows, nor by rumor. It is ruled by the will of its people, by the weight of its history, and by the enduring guidance of the Crown."
Rex's eyes find mine at last. He smiles softly, before his gaze shifts toward his parents. Their faces betray their disapproval for the briefest of moments, only to be masked by feigned smiles when the crowd looks their way.
"Today, before my people and before the world, I wish to speak not as your King alone, but as a man whose heart has found its home. For years, duty has guided my every step, and though I have carried it with pride, I have long believed that love was a luxury I could not afford. Yet love has found me, and it has done so with a strength that no crown, no throne, no command could deny. It is with reverence and with joy that I announce my engagement to Lady Violet. She has shown me loyalty, wisdom, and a courage of spirit that stands equal to any test of this life. From this day forth, she shall not only walk beside me as my beloved, but as the future Queen of this nation. May you welcome her with the same devotion you have given me, and may we together build a reign not only of honor and of duty, but of love that endures beyond time."
The hall erupts — cheers, applause, whispers, and jubilant gasps filling the air. My heart swells as I meet Rex's gaze, unable to hide the grin spreading across my face.
As his speech concludes, Rex descends the grand steps, striding toward me with purpose. Without hesitation, he gathers me into his arms, holding me close amidst the thunderous applause of his people.