The Rise Of Australasia

Chapter 20: Beach Conversation

Translator: 549690339 |

Arthur wanted to ask more questions, but he wisely closed his mouth when he saw Queen Victoria, assisted by Princess Beatrice, slowly approaching in a specially-made wheelchair.

Although it was an open secret within the British Empire that Queen Victoria’s health was failing, discussing her condition in her presence might make her upset and even worsen her condition.

“Let’s go, Arthur. The weather is perfect for enjoying the sea view,” Queen Victoria seemed in a good mood, as she was pushed by Princess Beatrice toward Arthur with a smile.

“Yes, Grandmother.” Arthur obediently followed.

Queen Victoria had not yet fully experienced the beauty of the sea on White Island since her arrival, due to the cold weather. She had only caught a glimpse of it before staying at the Manor House for an extended period.

Although the Manor House was once inhabited by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert’s family, Queen Victoria still felt more nostalgia for the beach.

The setting sun illuminated the waves that lashed against the rocks, creating a beautiful rainbow. It was on such a beach that Queen Victoria and Prince Albert, along with their children, had spent the happiest days of their lives.

Perhaps it was the result of revisiting old memories. Queen Victoria looked healthier and more vibrant than when she was in bed, her complexion much improved.

“Arthur, walk with me,” Queen Victoria said as she stood up from her wheelchair, gesturing for Arthur to join her while she walked towards the sandy beach.

As Queen Victoria approached the beach, her feet began to sink into the sand. It should have become more difficult for her to walk, but she seemed to be getting more and more at ease.

Arthur hurried to follow and support Queen Victoria.

A grandmother and grandson strolled aimlessly along the beach, without the assistance or presence of servants or guards.

“Arthur, there’s something I’ve kept from you for a long time. I’ve given it much thought and believe it’s time I tell you,” Queen Victoria finally broke the silence.

“Please tell me, Grandmother. I am listening,” Arthur responded respectfully, with a smile.

Arthur knew that whatever Queen Victoria had concealed from him was for his own good.

“I found out long ago who was responsible for the assassination of your father, Arthur. However, the royal family’s secrets must not be disclosed, so the results were not made public. In fact, no one else besides me knows the truth,” Queen Victoria stopped walking and turned to Arthur, looking very solemn, “Do you know why?”

Arthur shook his head. Aside from the inheritance he had received from his father, Arthur had no influence in Britain and would not be able to find out who had carried out the assassination.

“Ah!” Seeing Arthur shake his head as she had anticipated, Queen Victoria sighed heavily and then, with regret, said, “Your father was assassinated by the forces of your own uncle, Edward. I didn’t tell you this before, worried that you would lose your sense and perhaps be targeted as well. I had no choice but to keep it from you. You don’t blame me for that, do you?”

Arthur was momentarily taken aback, but quickly regained his composure and decisively replied, “Of course not, Grandmother. Why would I blame you? I know that everything you do is for my well-being. Knowing the truth earlier would have only been detrimental.”

Seeing that Arthur held no grudge against her, Queen Victoria affectionately touched his forehead, then said, “When I first learned the truth, I was ready to strip Edward of his title immediately and make you the Crown Prince. But reason told me that would not be wise. Deposing the Crown Prince without cause would only reduce the prestige of the royal family and potentially threaten its existence. Besides, Edward’s influence in Britain is deeply entrenched, and I cannot eliminate it completely for you. Under such circumstances, even if you were to inherit the throne, you wouldn’t be secure after my death. Fortunately, you proposed going to Australia, which has removed you from the danger and put my mind at ease.”

Moved by Queen Victoria’s words, Arthur understood that removing a Crown Prince would never be easy, even for someone as influential as Queen Victoria.

That she had considered it demonstrated the depth of her love for Arthur.

“Ah, the cursed throne is to blame. I remember my father once said that he had no interest in it,” Arthur sighed, his voice tinged with helplessness.

Arthur had vague memories of his father, Duke Arthur, expressing no interest in the throne on numerous occasions, both publicly and privately.

It was clear that Crown Prince Edward’s vision had been clouded by power and profit, causing him to turn against his own kin.

However, it could not be denied that if Duke Arthur had not died, Arthur would only have been able to inherit the title upon his father’s abdication or by earning it in battle.

Either way, it would have been too late to develop his territories once obtained.

“Arthur, I want you to let go of your hatred and focus on developing Australia instead. As it stands, Edward has already gained the support of numerous nobles and interests across Britain, making his ascension as king all but certain. Comparatively, Australia seems like a ripe target for the British Empire, both now and in the future. Edward will face his punishment, but I hope you won’t become trapped in a vortex of hatred. The most important thing now is to take care of your mother and your two sisters,” said Queen Victoria with a sigh, her face grave.

Seeing Arthur, who looked so much like her favorite son, Queen Victoria did not want him to become consumed by hatred. She did not want him to provoke Edward further, knowing full well that rebelling against the British Empire was impossible.

“I understand, Grandmother. I won’t do anything irrational. My focus now is to develop Australia as its Duke,” Arthur nodded and replied.