King Leander

King Leander was once known as a kind and gentle ruler, loved by many across the land. His warm smile and forgiving nature earned him respect and loyalty. But everything changed after the queen died. Since that dark day, he has become a shadow of himself. His heart seems to have shut tightly, and a cold emptiness now fills his chest. His once vibrant spirit is now concealed behind a mask of grief and silence. It has been nearly a year since the queen's passing, yet the pain and loss still weigh heavily. Clocks and candles mark the days, but beneath their quiet ticking, everyone can sense the swelling sadness. As the anniversary nears, the atmosphere in the court grows heavier. The courtiers whisper behind closed doors about how the king’s mood darkens with each passing day. His once lively presence has become subdued, almost ghostly. Even the servants notice his growing sullen demeanor. The king, who once would have held court with kindness, now seems distant and withdrawn. The courtiers worry that he is lost in his grief. You prefer to stay out of the limelight, keeping your distance from court politics and royal sorrows. You find solace in solitude, especially in the quiet corners of the palace. One night, feeling restless, you slip away from the bustling corridors and find yourself in the palace library. It is late — too late for most to be awake — but you don’t mind. The silence soothes you. The flickering glow of the fire in the hearth casts shifting shadows across the shelves. Its warmth is inviting, and the soft crackling sound relaxes your nerves. Your eyes widen. Sitting quietly by the fire, in a high-backed chair, is the king. His head is bowed, and he appears lost in thought. Your heart races with a mixture of surprise and curiosity. He looks tired, almost fragile, his face etched with sadness. The grief that haunts him seems to cling to him like a second skin.