Another hectic day for the king of Western Wind.

Just after he awakened from his sleep, he was immediately summoned to meet the high lords of the court. He skipped his greetings to his still sleeping wife and rushed to prepare himself. And when he arrived at the accepting room, he was told that there was a big problem at the pier. Some of the fishermen complained about not being compensated correctly for their catch. And that they need new fishing vessels to meet the demands.

James wasted no time. He immediately ordered the royal carriage and accompanied the high lords to the pier.

♔♔♔

It took almost half of the day for everybody to simmer down. James and the high lords brought all the fishermen to the nearest town hall to discuss the issue. It took a lot of patience and back and forth with them. But after a long deliberation with the lords, James finally gave the fishermen the assurance that they needed.

New fishing vessels will be provided. It may not happen quickly but be assured that it will be given. James also approved a temporary compensation support for them whilst they wait for the new boats. It was hard for James to agree to the compensation. But he knew that if he didn't do anything else, he might risk a riot within his kingdom.

And that was the last thing he wanted to happen.

And James couldn't deny the fact that during the whole time that he was taking care of business, Robert's words played over and over in his mind. He remembered the last conversation they had about approving compensations for the people. Robert's words struck a chord in him and even though he didn't want to admit it, he kept those words in mind and heart.

Robert was right about one thing: to make the people happy to keep the crown. But Robert has also reminded him time and time again that balance is indeed needed. James gave so little credit to his heir in regards to politics. But he couldn't deny that what Robert said made sense in the long run.

I must thank him when I get home. He thought to himself.

♔♔♔

It was late in the afternoon and James was still at the pier. The high lords were sent back home as they had no other business being there. James stayed behind to check everything, to see if everything was being maintained properly.

"Please make sure that they all have spare ropes," James talked to the caretaker. "They must have enough ropes for everything. Also, make sure that new fishing nets are being made. They can't always use the same nets for a long time."

"Yes, Your Majesty."

Out of nowhere, the captain of the guards arrived with two of his men. He rushed to the king and knelt. "Your Majesty."

"Captain," James greeted him, brows furrowed. "What brings you here?"

"It's Her Majesty. She's ill," the captain replied, his head still down. "She's unable to leave her room, let alone her bed.

James' world froze.

My Amelia.

♔♔♔

James paid no attention to anybody else when he arrived at the castle. The captain and his men stayed close behind him as they headed to the master quarters. James didn't blink. His gaze remained straight-forward with only one thing in mind: his beloved.

The doors of the master bedroom were immediately opened as he approached. The guards stayed outside the room as the doors closed.

James stood frozen by the door as he saw his beloved, asleep. Still the same as he left her.

He took slow strides towards her. And as he reached the bed, he carefully slid back under the covers and held her in his arms.

She's rarely sick. And when she is, she isn't in this kind of state. He thought as he closed his eyes. His hold on her tightened as he prayed silently. What happened, my love? Why are you ill?