Rock Valley

Marcus had prayed in the chapel for hours.

Hours had become a day.

The day had become a day and a night.

Finally he had left the chapel and entered the castle, claiming to look for food and water but actually trying to figure out what to say to his wife.

He had just entered the great hall as his father approached him.

“Son?” he spoke, concern sounding through his voice. “Marcus, you need to speak to the lords. But most of all you need to speak to your wife..”

“I know. But how do I explain to a mother that she is about to lose her child? How am I going to tell her that I’ll probably need to replace her with someone who can give me a son?”

“Don’t. Tell her of the risk, yes, but don’t speak about ending your marriage. Let her recover. Perhaps there is still hope, as long as the child still lives. If she rests, who knows? Your mother and I…” Gawen lowered his head. “Your mother is expecting again son, she will give birth in only a few months. I don’t know how to handle this boy, I never had to. We’ve been lucky, your mother and I.” he spoke softly, as if losing one of his children before even getting to know them was his greatest fear.
“I lost children Marcus, every man must, but never have I had a chance of losing your mother along. I will never force you to take another wife boy, if all else fails, one of your brothers can be raised to follow after you.”

Marcus looked away. He had been raised to take the throne and pass it to his own offspring. The idea that he would never have a son or a daughter made him feel empty, incomplete, as if he couldn’t do his duty to his kingdom. It felt reassuring to know he would not be passed by because of his wife, but still… Marcus wanted children, not just to have an heir, he wanted to be a father and he probably never would be.

“I’ll speak to her now.” He said softly and left the hall towards his lady’s chambers.