Besotted (The Fairest Maidens #3) - Jody Hedlund Page 0,37
Lagting decided upon Father’s successor, the arrangements for our brides would be finalized and we would soon be married. That meant we had no right to choose for ourselves or to wed without permission.
Why had my brothers defied tradition? Especially the two of them, who were so much more careful than I was about following the rules. I didn’t understand it. Almost didn’t believe it. Except the seriousness of Jorg’s expression told me ’twas true.
“They also both left behind their Testing,” Jorg whispered.
“They may yet return to their assignments.”
“With but a month to go? I don’t see how it’s possible.”
The rules of the Testing stated that if we left our location for any reason, we must go back and finish. Moreover, if we abandoned our duty entirely, we would forfeit any claim to the throne.
“Your brothers have eliminated themselves from the kingship. And now you must consider yourself the next king of Scania.”
“Me? The next king?” I almost laughed, but Jorg wasn’t smiling. This was no jest.
“You will be the only prince to complete the Testing and, in so doing, prove your worthiness to take the throne.”
Was Jorg right? Would I have the chance to prove I was worthy? After living in my brothers’ shadows for so long, would my father finally value me?
“I don’t know, Jorg.” Uncertainty rushed in to taunt me with all my weaknesses. I wasn’t responsible or levelheaded like Mikkel. And people didn’t trust and like me the same way they did Vilmar. I was too lighthearted to be taken seriously, and people at court only looked to me when they needed fun or adventure or parties.
“You have less than four weeks,” Jorg whispered. “Finish strong and show the Lagting you are ready.”
I’d never imagined becoming king was within my grasp. But if both Mikkel and Vilmar had taken themselves out of the running, then I was the only one left. If I completed my Testing, it was very possible the Lagting would honor me with the crown of succession.
“There is one more thing.” Jorg shifted closer. “Your brothers want to arrange a meeting with you.”
“What? Why?” Of course, my brothers knew I was here in the forest doing my Testing. But why would they seek me out?
“They’ve been asking around for you. Walter and several other laborers in Birchwood made a point of informing me.”
“Then the townspeople know of my true identity?”
Jorg nodded. “Aye, word of it is spreading.”
“What did you tell Walter and the others?”
“I let them know you were injured by a boar and unable to see your brothers.”
“Let’s arrange a meeting.” I’d already taken some steps earlier that morning, and Aunt Idony had predicted I’d regain full use of my leg within the week.
Jorg’s expression remained grave. “Until we know your brothers’ intentions, I don’t think we can risk an encounter.”
“What kind of intentions might they have?”
“Since they have failed the Testing, what if they wish to eliminate you?”
I shook my head. “No. They wouldn’t—”
“It’s possible.”
While I could admit I’d been jealous of the ease with which my brothers accomplished whatever they set out to do and for earning our father’s affection, I didn’t believe they were capable of treachery against me. Then again, I’d never believed either of them would disregard the Lagting and the Testing.
Whatever the case, I couldn’t ignore them, not if they were in need. If they were running from danger, I could do nothing less than come to their aid the same way they would rush to mine. In doing so, however, I didn’t want to involve Rory or her aunts.
Hitherto, I’d bided my time at the cottage. Though I hadn’t liked burdening them, Aunt Idony had given me little choice but to remain. I’d determined to make the best of it, especially with Rory. But now that people knew who I was, I risked bringing attention to her, something that would happen if anyone suspected I’d spent time at her cottage. People would assume the worst, and any connection to me as a prince would surely ruin her reputation.
That meant I had to put aside my own desires and stop spending time with Rory.
Protest roiled through my stomach, but I scooted to the edge and swung my legs over. “Help me up.”
“Aunt Idony said—”
“It doesn’t matter. I need to start strengthening my leg. Now.”
Jorg assisted me to my feet. At the full weight of my body upon my injured limb, pain jarred me so that I wanted to cry out.