Chapter Text
Roman always knew he was to be king someday. His brother, Remus, left long ago, leaving him as the only surviving heir. Even though it felt like his parents would rule forever, he knew it would be his turn to take the crown someday.
He just hadn't expected it to happen so soon.
~0~
Just a few days before his sixteenth birthday, Roman's parents had to go on an emergency trip overseas.
"We'll be back soon," his father assured him. After all, it was just a quick sail over calm waters. There was no reason to be afraid.
Oh, how mistaken they were.
On their return home, a violent storm hit, killing them both. This devastating news reached Roman on the day of his sixteenth. Distraught, the prince ran away to the forest, hoping to leave it all behind. But the past wouldn't let go so easily. He couldn't just forget, no matter how much he wanted to. Everything just kept coming at him, however deep into the woods he ran. Eventually, he stopped running, realizing he had no idea where he was. His clothes were stained with dirt, he was tired, and he was lost.
But why should he go back? He had nothing left for him there but a kingdom he had no idea how to lead. Balling his fists, he punched one of the nearby trees. Knuckles bleeding, he felt slightly better, but it did nothing to change his situation. He would still have to go back and lead the people.
Or he could just stay out here forever. Staying here sounded like a good option. The people didn't need him. They needed someone who could lead them well. That wasn't a role he was confident he could fill. He wished he could let someone take his place, someone who knew how to rule.
Of course, his unuttered words reached someone. It was in that forest where he’d made the deal.
The prince's body for the spirit's power.