Chapter 3

THREE

T he rest of Zak's day passed in a whirlwind of activity. Council meetings blurred together, each one seeming to bring a new challenge or conflict. As the afternoon sun reached its peak, Zak found himself in yet another heated debate with his advisors.

"Your Majesty, with all due respect, these progressive policies you're proposing are too radical," Rickon Kynon, his chief advisor, argued. The older man's lean frame was tense, his dark eyes glinting with barely concealed frustration. "They go against centuries of tradition and could destabilize the very foundations of our society."

Zak fought to keep his voice level, his hands clasped tightly behind his back to hide their clenching. "Traditions evolve, Rickon. We cannot cling to the past at the expense of our future. The world is changing, and we must change with it."

"Change is one thing, Your Majesty," another advisor chimed in, "but to suggest allowing commoners a voice in government decisions? It's unheard of!"

"Perhaps that's precisely why it needs to be heard," Zak countered. "How can we truly serve our people if we don't listen to their needs and concerns?"

The debate raged on, voices rising and falling like stormy waves. By the time the council finally adjourned, Zak's head was pounding, and his patience was wearing thin.

As the advisors filed out, Rickon lingered behind. "Your Majesty," he began, his tone carefully neutral, "I hope you understand that our concerns come from a place of loyalty to the kingdom. We only want what's best for our people."

Zak met the older man's gaze, searching for sincerity in those dark depths. "I understand, Rickon. But what's best for our people isn't always what's most comfortable for us. We must be willing to adapt, to grow."

Rickon's lips tightened into a thin line. "Of course, Your Majesty. If you'll excuse me." With a stiff bow, he turned and left the chamber.

Zak watched him go, a nagging sense of unease settling in his gut. He trusted Rickon's experience and dedication, but lately, it seemed as though every new idea was met with resistance and skepticism. The growing tension between them was becoming a constant source of stress, adding to the already heavy burden of leadership.

With a weary sigh, Zak made his way to his private study. The room was a sanctuary of sorts, filled with books from both Nova Aurora and Earth, maps of the kingdom, and artifacts that spoke to the rich history of his people. He moved to the large window overlooking the forest, losing himself in the sea of green that stretched to the horizon.

A soft knock at the door pulled him from his reverie. "Enter," he called, turning to see his mother gliding into the room.

Astra took one look at his face and frowned. "Another difficult council meeting?"

Zak nodded, running a hand through his short hair. "Sometimes I wonder if I'm doing the right thing, Mother. Pushing for these changes, going against centuries of tradition..."

Astra moved to his side, placing a comforting hand on his arm. "Your father faced similar challenges when he first took the throne. Change is never easy, Zak. But it's necessary for growth."

"I know," Zak sighed. "But the constant opposition, the doubt... it wears on me."

"Which is precisely why you need someone by your side," Astra said gently. "A partner to share the burden, to offer a fresh perspective."

Zak turned to face her, a wry smile tugging at his lips. "You're not going to let this go, are you?"

Astra's eyes twinkled with mischief. "Not a chance, my son. Now, about that idea I mentioned earlier..."

As Astra outlined her plan to contact Gerri Wilder, the renowned interplanetary matchmaker, Zak found himself warming to the idea despite his initial skepticism. The thought of bringing an Earth educator to Nova Aurora was intriguing, offering potential benefits that extended far beyond his personal life.

"It could be an opportunity to bridge our worlds," he mused aloud. "To help our people understand and embrace their dual heritage."

Astra nodded enthusiastically. "Exactly! And this might bring about a fun new adventure for you too."

Zak chuckled, shaking his head. "You're incorrigible, Mother. But... I admit, the idea has merit."

With a sense of excitement he hadn't felt in years, Zak moved to his desk and began drafting a formal invitation to Geraldine Wilder. As he wrote, he found his mind wandering, imagining the possibilities that this decision might bring. An Earth educator in Nova Aurora... it was a bold move, one that would likely face opposition from his more traditional advisors. But as he penned the words, Zak felt a spark of hope ignite in his chest.

Perhaps this was exactly the kind of change his kingdom needed. And maybe, just maybe, it would bring the personal fulfillment he'd been unconsciously yearning for.

As he finished the letter, Zak read it over one last time:

"Dear Ms. Wilder,

I hope this message finds you well. I am writing to you at the recommendation of my mother, Queen Astra Larkana, who speaks highly of your unique talents and connections.

Our planet has seen an increasing number of Earthlings in recent years. In light of this, we are seeking an educator from Earth to help bridge the cultural gap and provide our youth with a deeper understanding of the other residents on our planet and possible future mates.

I understand that you have connections to the educational community on Earth, as well as experience in interplanetary relations. We would be honored if you could assist us in finding a suitable candidate for this position.

The ideal educator would be someone with a strong background in history and cultural studies, a passion for teaching, and an open mind to new experiences. They should be adaptable, creative, and eager to learn about our world even as they teach about theirs.

While the primary purpose of this invitation is educational, I must admit that my mother has also suggested that this might be an opportunity for me to meet someone... special. As a king, finding a suitable mate has been challenging, and the idea of meeting someone from a different world is intriguing.

I understand this is an unusual request, combining professional and personal matters. However, I trust in your discretion and expertise to handle this delicate situation.

If you are willing to assist us in this endeavor, please respond at your earliest convenience. We would be happy to provide any additional information you might need.

Thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely, Zakhar Larkana, King of the Larkana Forest Kingdom, Nova Aurora"

Zak then pressed on a corner of the paper which sent a holographic image of the letter through a secure interplanetary communication device that would show up in Ms. Wilder's phone as an email.

The message sent, its digital signature streaking across the vast expanse of space toward Earth. Zak stood at the window once more, gazing out at his kingdom. The orange and purple forest stretched before him, lush and vibrant, a testament to the strength and resilience of his people. Yet even as he admired its beauty, he found himself wondering about the world beyond – about Earth with its diverse landscapes and rich history.

As the twin suns of Nova Aurora began to set, painting the sky in brilliant hues of orange and purple, Zak allowed himself a moment of quiet hope. Whatever challenges lay ahead, whatever opposition he might face from his advisors or his own doubts, he couldn't shake the feeling that this decision was the first step toward the change he wanted for his kingdom.