The parade began, and the streets were filled with cheering crowds. Elias and Alice waved to the people, their faces breaking into genuine smiles as they saw the joy and admiration on the faces of those they passed. It was humbling and overwhelming to be the center of attention at such a grand event.
As they moved through the city, Elias couldn't help but feel a sense of disconnection. The grandeur of the occasion clashed with the simplicity of his past life. But he knew that this was part of their duty. He was the Sword Master to the hero, a role that he was determined to fulfill.
As the parade reached its climax at the city's central square, Elias and Alice were invited to join the king on a raised platform. From there, they addressed the gathered citizens, expressing their gratitude for the warm welcome and their commitment to serving the kingdom. The cheers that erupted from the crowd were deafening, and Elias couldn't help but be moved by the genuine affection of the people. They smiled and waved, eager to see and be part of something that would bring a new era to the city.
Elias watched from the raised platform. The central square gleamed in the light. He looked over to Alice and then to Cedric. The man’s demeanor had changed. His once easy smile had transformed into a tight-lipped grimace, eyes flickering with a trace of bitterness. It was then that the king started to speak.
King Zachariah stood at the center of the platform, his regal robes billowing in the gentle breeze, his voice carrying with authority. The people fell silent, their eyes fixed on their beloved monarch.
"Noble citizens of our esteemed city," the King began, his voice resonating through the square, "This day we convene not merely to pay tribute to the valorous Alice, who has returned to us after her valiant deeds far beyond our borders but also to initiate a new chapter in her heroic journey."
The crowd erupted in cheers once more, their enthusiasm unbridled. Alice stood beside Elias, her heart swelling with pride and gratitude. She had never imagined such a grand reception.
The King continued, With profound honor, I bestow upon Alice and her esteemed Sword Master Elias, the sovereign blessings of our realm. Let the valor, wisdom, and fortitude they've shown be a beacon of light as they continue their guardianship of our lands.”
As he spoke these words, the King dipped a golden scepter into a goblet filled with fragrant oils and anointed both Alice and Elias on their foreheads. The crowd watched in awe as the sacred oil glistened on their skin, a symbol of their divine calling.
But the grand ceremony was far from over. King Edmund turned to the side and signaled for someone to step forward. The crowd's curiosity swelled as a young man, dressed in fine attire, and matching the king’s colors, walked up the steps to join the anointing process.
"Sir Thompson, son of Lord Tiberius," the King said, "after a week of rigorous trials and tests, you have proven yourself worthy of a unique honor. You have been chosen by me to join our hero Alice and her loyal Sword Master Elias on their noble journey. With your skills as a crossbowman and your noble lineage, you shall be a valuable addition to their team."
Alice looked intrigued but not surprised at the announcement. Elias looked over to Thompson and then back to Lord Cedric. The shadows of his frown deepened, casting a more inscrutable expression. While Elias waited he considered what he remembered of old noble politics. It had been almost 20 years since he had been in the capital, but some things didn’t change. The growing corrupted lands had brought on new rivalries and emboldened others. Land and resources were more important than ever. His gaze returned to the crowd looking for the insignias of the nobles. Near the front row that had been set up for the parade and event stood a young man of similar age to Thompson. His features were a stunning recreation of Cedric’s unhappy smile plastered on his face.
Elias realized then why Cedric had been so unhappy. It wasn’t anything toward Elias or Alice but toward the King and the looming announcement that had just been made. He had learned the results or suspected them before it was publicly known. His son had been in the running to join them on their journey, but the king had looked elsewhere and picked the son of Cedric’s rival.
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Alice seemed to have noted the pair’s disappointment as well but had moved on to other matters. He realized that he should too. She was playing to the crowd now that most of the ceremony was over. Thompson shook her hands and those of the king. Elias followed suit. Both Elias and Alice were given time to speak. He kept his short while noting the eyes on him both in the crowd and the ones behind him. Alice’s speech was much more grand and longer. Elias considered as it went on that she likely had prepared for the speech and had it ready for her return to the capital. When they both finished Thompson stepped up to make a succinct speech. In it, he declared his love for the city and all of Temora. He ended by stating that he hoped to make them all proud.
The parade came to a close with the king leading the procession back to the castle. As the parade made its way back to the castle, the atmosphere was electric with a mixture of excitement, curiosity, and a hint of tension. Alice, Elias, and Thompson walked side by side, acknowledging the cheers and well-wishes of the crowd. The people of Temora were proud of their heroes and their new addition, Sir Thompson.
Elias couldn't help but feel a sense of responsibility. He knew that the journey ahead would be fraught with danger, and having another skilled member like Thompson would undoubtedly be an asset. But there was still much he needed to learn about their new companion.
As they entered the castle, King Edmund led them to a grand hall where a feast was prepared in their honor. The hall was adorned with banners representing the various regions of the kingdom, and long tables were laden with a sumptuous spread of food and drink. The nobles and courtiers who had gathered for the ceremony now mingled with the trio, offering congratulations, and making polite conversation.
Thompson's presence seemed to have ignited a spark of curiosity among the nobility. Elias observed as nobles and their children approached him, trying to glean information about his strengths and interests. It was clear that the young noble had already become a subject of intrigue and speculation.
Meanwhile, Alice spoke at a separate table, surrounded by admirers and well-wishers. She animatedly discussed their upcoming mission, sharing tales of their past adventures and the challenges they had faced. Her charisma and confidence were evident, and she captivated everyone with her stories. Ladies and men surrounded her table while she orated.
Elias engaged in a discussion with Lord Cedric, whose thinly veiled disappointment over Thompson's role was apparent. Cedric's expression was a mixture of forced politeness and lingering frustration, but he engaged in the conversation, nonetheless.
"Elias, I confess," Cedric began, "there were aspirations for my son to be part of your esteemed journey. It would have been a great honor for our family."
Elias nodded respectfully. "I understand your disappointment, Lord Cedric. Thompson is a fine addition to our team, and his skills as a crossbowman will undoubtedly prove valuable."
Cedric's eyes narrowed slightly, but he maintained his composure. "I hope you understand the significance of this mission, Elias. The fate of our kingdom rests on your shoulders, and I only wish to see it succeed." Cedric paused seeming to want to say more but stopped. “I’ll leave you to speak to other guests of the court. Good day to you.” Cedric sat up from his seat at the table and slid out of the dining hall.
Deciding to take a moment to collect his thoughts, Elias scanned the room once more. Alice was still engrossed in conversation with her audience, her laughter and the animated gestures of her admirers filling the air. She seemed to thrive in the spotlight, effortlessly connecting with people.
Thompson, on the other hand, had attracted the attention of several seasoned warriors, who were engaged in a discussion about combat techniques and strategy. Elias couldn't help but smile at the sight. It was clear that Thompson was in his element, sharing his expertise and soaking up the wisdom of those more experienced.
Taking a deep breath, Elias decided to leave the grand hall. He needed some fresh air and solitude to clear his mind. He made his way through the castle's corridors, which were adorned with tapestries depicting the kingdom's history and heroes.
As Elias stepped out into the castle's courtyard, he was greeted by the soft glow of the sun. The courtyard was a serene oasis compared to the bustling hall. He found a quiet corner and leaned against the cold stone wall, gazing up at the clear afternoon sky. His eyes watched the people walking down the street. To his right was the edge of Elder’s Rock which preceded a long drop down the cliff face. Jumping over the shirt stone wall, Elias threw off his overcoat and followed the direction of people.