Page 64 of Royal Pain
Chapter 22
Belinda
The bouquets of flowers are at least ten deep, and they surround the entry to the palace grounds. Reminds me of when Princess Diana died. I was a child, but I still remember the striking images. And now here, I’m feeling the same sense of respect for the passing of someone beloved.
When we drove through the streets this morning, we saw people had hung the colorful flag of the country. The red, black, and yellow striped background with the emblem of Mozia is outside most homes. Black ribbons are tied on each pole to honor the passing of the heir apparent.
I’m taking notes for the assignment and also for the bigger piece I’ll be writing. The queen has been very forthcoming about how the passing of the torch was to be from King Manza to Tarik. That’s as far as we’ve got up till now, and the backstory is fascinating. To hear about the advantages and disadvantages of being born Royal is eye-opening. She’s candid while being respectful of her duties.
No wonder the people love her.
This is the first meeting with her that Zan isn’t present for. He told me that’s how she wanted the interviews to be conducted. But now that she’s comfortable with me, I’ve been allowed to have private meetings. Zan was as pleased as I was when she released him from having to be here today. He respects my professionalism and doesn’t like the watchdog job.
So, today it’s simply the queen and I sitting in the garden, having coffees.
“Your Majesty, going forward, how do you see this next chapter? Is Kwai to be king?”
She looks up from her cup and sets it down on the iron table. “Please turn off your recorder.”
I immediately do as asked. “It’s off.”
“What I’m about to say is off the record, Belinda. I trust you will follow my wishes.”
“Yes, ma’am. I value your honesty and know the privilege I’m afforded by having access to you.”
“Then let me tell you something that may surprise you. It may actually change your life. At the very least it will frighten you.”
I’m a bit stunned by her words. What’s she going to say that could change my life? Or frighten me.
“You’re the first person I’m voicing this to. But I need to see and hear your reaction.”
“You’ve got my undivided attention,” I say. Truer words were never spoken.
“I understand you have lived in a democracy your entire life. And I’d guess you wouldn’t want to change that for anything.”
“That’s right.”
“That’s how the people of Mozia think about the Monarchy. It’s what is familiar. It’s worked beautifully for our country over the last few centuries. There were pockets of trouble, as there is with all forms of governance. But by in large we’ve thrived under the rule of a king.”
“Yes. I’d agree.”
“Here’s the dilemma I’m in now. The king has died. His heir has died. The next person to inherit the throne is not right for the job.”
Oh shit! I didn’t see that coming. She’s telling me about Kwai.
“I see the look on your face. Are you surprised I’m telling you that?”
“A little. But I thank you for being candid.”
“Let me say this, I love my boy Kwai. On one level he’s my favorite child. I think we mothers always love the weakest child a little more because they need us so desperately.” I stay quiet, hoping she keeps talking. “I’m telling you this, off record, because I have to tell you a greater truth.”
“Yes?”
“I’ve looked at this from every angle. I gave great thought to claiming the throne for myself. I could do that, and rule till Tarik’s son comes of age. But I know in my heart it’s not the right choice. We’re at a crucial time in our history. A crossroad. It’s going to take a younger mind and someone who has a depth of understanding about the world stage. So there’s really only one choice for king, in my opinion.”
I’m still confused. “Who, Your Majesty?”
“Zan.”
