A/N:

Hey guys! I hope you're enjoying the story so far-any ideas as to how it will end? Anyway, I have a favor to ask. I know it's not Jelsa, but could you take a look at my new story and tell me what you think? It involves the Miraculous Ladybug fandom, but it would mean so much if you would read the first part of it and tell me if its worth writing. Please do that-it would mean so much to me if you do, and it also means I update faster on these next chapters. Anyway, enjoy the chap!

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   •Jack's POV•

     Two weeks have come and gone, and I have not eliminated anyone. Well, I didn't want to eliminate any of the Elite yet, but my father insisted that I do.

      I had stepped into the office early that morning, going to get my share of work for the day. Father was already in there, of course, looking over the trade agreement from New Asia.

    "I swear, these damn Asians are trying to abuse their power. All they want is our natural resources, yet what do they offer in return? Nothing worth my time or concern for."

     I cleared my throat. "Well, maybe you can ask for a few more things in return? Since the rebels have come in and are getting worse by the day, why don't we ask for their military help?"

     Dad sighs, rubbing his forehead in annoyance. "You're so dimwitted you can't even understand the simplicities of this job. Jackson, you should already know this. If we ask for New Asia's help with the rebels, it would make us look weak. They would also take the opportunity to try and invade our lands. They have always wanted to, and if these rebels eradicate us, they'll come in and take everything. Our people would suffer-is that what you want?"

    "They suffer plenty now," I mutter under my breath, but of course, my father hears anyway. He gets up, walking over to me and grabbing my wrist so hard it feels like it's about to snap. "Don't you dare speak like that to me. I am your king, as well as your father. Learn to keep your trap shut, or I'll silence you once again. Are we clear?" I nod once, and he lets me go. I see a form of where his hand was, and I shudder in fear. I was so tired of this...but I would have to bear it much longer. And besides, he is my father. Even if he does sometimes...

     He sat back down, reading over it once more. I collect my papers, attempting to head to my room. Of course, Dad questions my intentions.

    "Stay in here so I can see what you'll mess up this time." He mutters, and I sigh, plopping into my own desk. He looks over his shoulder at me, saying,"By the way, you need to eliminate someone. This is going way too slow."

     I hate when he treats the Selection like its nothing more than something to push himself ahead; like it's not my life we're talking about. Then again, when did he ever care about my life if it didn't involve the crown itself?

    I pushed away those thoughts. He was my father; I shouldn't be thinking such things.

     "We just had a mass elimination over two weeks ago. And besides, I haven't been on a date with all of them."

    "I don't care. As Prince, you should learn how to prioritize anyway. It's about time you learned something."

    I sigh once more, tears coming to my eyes. I was never one to cry-but I was so done with being treated this way. But what could I do? He's always one step ahead, he's always stronger.

      "I'll get on it."

     He also made the excuse that the people want to get this over with and it would make me look weak if I didn't take control. Of course.

     So, I eliminated Lady Diana. The last thing she said to me though wasn't too kind, and for once I was glad Dad had made me eliminate someone. She had such a temper.

     "What the hell?" She had said. "You eliminate half the girls in a month, and now me. How long until you slow down and actually get to know us, know me?" But she was right. I've tried telling Dad that, but any time I interrupt him...it turns bad. And I've already caused enough with him. Also, it's my fault, anyway. I can't blame him.

     "Hi, ladies." I smile at them as I head to the breakfast table, and I catch many of them giggling and blushing. I lean down and kiss Mom on the cheek as I sit down.

     Her ice blue eyes lock on mine, and there's worry in her gaze. "Honey, are you okay?" She asks.

     "Yeah, I'm fine. Just a little sore from working out, that's all," I lie. She frowns, but continues eating. I can see Elsa glance at me, and she looks concerned. She mouths,'Are you okay? What did your father do?' I only shake my head, letting her know that she shouldn't worry. I would be fine. Maybe...

     We're all enjoying a peaceful meal. I know I am without Father's presence for the time being.

      That is, until the rebel alarm sounds. "Rebels in the palace! Find the safe rooms quickly!" One of the guards shout, and I share a glance with my mother as she looks up at me in shock. I clutch her arm, going to head to the safe room until I turn around in the chaos and see Elsa still siting there, frozen in place. I thrash past the guards, trying to reach her. When I do, I clutch her arm, and it seems to snap out of her thoughts.

     "Jack," she whispers as I lift her up bridal style,"I'm scared. What if...what if they find the diary I was reading?" I shake my head. "They won't. If you hid it very well, they won't."

     That doesn't seem to ease her. Her eyes widen as she whispers,"I hid it inside the mattress. Will they find it?"

    "I don't know, but I would rather them find the diary instead of them find us. Now come on, let's get you somewhere safe."