Tales des Révélateurs

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Amour Contre Raison
an article by Claire Armand, 22 October 605 A.G.S.

We are shocked by the news that came from New Paris today. Prince Henri DeFrance, Duke de Belfort, has announced his intention of marriage. This news would have been met with joy (except for the noble ladies who had their hopes up), if it weren't for one thing: Prince Henri's lady of choice is a commoner. This could deprive the favourite son of Palais Royal, and his descendants, of any chance to take the throne.

Being the third son of His Majesty Richard V, Prince Henri had wasn't expected to ever become the King. This has allowed him to defy the protocol at times, in favor of following his heart. Combined with his outgoing personality and handsome looks, this made Prince Henri one of the most popular members of the Royal Family, especially among the common folk of the Kingdom. His popularity is eclipsed only by his father's.

Despite being far down the succession line, Henri DeFrance still remained an eligible bachelor. Not only due to his title of Duke de Belfort and the wealth that came with it — he also demonstrated potential in the military disciplines. Some residents of Palais Royal speculated that he could eventually become Amiral de Gaule. For the time being, Henri serves as Capitaine of battleship Lance Royale stationed in the Burgundy system.

His bright career is now in question, as Henri has also announced his plans to retire from service and spend more time with the family, away from the public eye. He didn't announce the name of his fiancee, but our sources confirm that she is not of noble descent. If that is so, Prince Henri DeFrance could become Duke Henri de Belfort, as per the rules of inheritance he wouldn't be eligible for taking the throne. He would also have to assume his wife's surname, or any other surname of his choice.

"Le Héraut du Roi" hopes that this announcement turns out to be another jest of the young prince. It would be unfortunate for one of Gallia's brightest sons to turn into a prodigal one. We will keep you up to date as the story develops.