Kingdom Come

Kingdom Come, a Tale of Unexpected News  (392 words)

General Roland: Your Majesty, there is a matter of utmost importance that requires your immediate attention.

King Harold: What is it, Roland? Speak, and do not mince words.

General Roland: Your Majesty, it is with a heavy heart that I must inform you that your son, Prince Edward, has defected to the enemy.

King Harold: What? Edward? How can this be?

General Roland: It appears, Your Majesty, that he has joined forces with our archenemy, General Aric, just as we were preparing to launch our assault on their capital city.

King Harold: But he is my son, Roland. He loves me, and I have always known him to abhor violence and force. How could he turn his back on his own people?

General Roland: It is a perplexing turn of events, Your Majesty. It appears that Prince Edward has become convinced that our cause is unjust, that the path of violence and conquest is not one he can follow.

King Harold: What are Edward's demands? What does he want?

General Roland: Prince Edward has sent a message, Your Majesty, he demands an audience with you and wishes to discuss terms of a peaceful resolution. He believes that there is an alternative to war.

King Harold: And what of General Aric? What does he intend to do with my son?

General Roland: General Aric has given his word that Prince Edward will not come to harm. He values Edward's strategic insight and hopes to use his knowledge to secure an advantage in the impending conflict.

King Harold: I need time to think, Roland. This is an impossible decision to make in haste.

General Roland: Of course, Your Majesty. I will give you the time you need. But the hour is growing late, and we must consider the implications of delaying our attack on the enemy's capital.

King Harold: Tell me, Roland, what are our chances of success if we proceed with the attack without Edward's knowledge?

General Roland: Your Majesty, without Prince Edward's insights, our path to victory becomes uncertain. It will undoubtedly cost us more in terms of lives and resources, and there is no guarantee of success.

King Harold: Very well, Roland. Send word to Prince Edward that I will meet with him. We will discuss his terms for a peaceful resolution.

 

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