NOW!
Except magic.
Magic never listened to Valerius’s kind. It was bestowed upon Halflings instead—human-like creatures born with unique powers, and the ability to master magic, if they wish it so.
Because of his thirst for power, Valerius decides his heir must be borne by a Halfling, and sets out on a hunt to find his future child’s mother. However, when Valerius finds Forrest—one of the only Halflings in the land who could be a match—Forrest refuses to bear Valerius’s child, and is captured by Valerius as a result.
Although the King hopes he can ease Forrest into accepting his offer once and for all, Forrest takes more of an interest in Valerius’s guard, William, another Halfing who recognizes Forrest as a man, and may be willing to help Forrest escape, if Forrest lies, and pretends to go along with Valerius’s plan.