“No point in hiding it… My full name is Sien Alk…” Sien asked with his head down, expecting questions or insults toward his family.

As Sien said, the old man suddenly stood up like someone barged into the room and he was about to grab his sword but then he fell to his knees and held his head low. Samuel only smiled at the sight, while Sien was still scared after the sudden movement of an old man.

“My apologies that I didn’t greet the members of the royal family with proper respect.” The old man said with his face close to the ground.

“I’m no longer a member of the royal family… Haven’t you heard-”

“For me, house Alk is and will be the royal family as long as I live.” The man interrupted Sien.

“But… Why? My father is a thief…”

“Do you truly believe that? Because I don’t.” The man finally looked at Sien to see his expression.

“Of course I don’t. But why don’t you believe the official announcement?”

“Boy. You looked all around my apartment and haven’t noticed one thing above the door?” The old man slowly said, waiting for Sien to see the thing he mentioned.

“That is… Our emblem…” Sien whispered as he saw a blue emblem with a deer on it above the door.

“I once served your father in the war. I know what kind of man he is. The war shows the true face and I saw a kind man thinking first about his own man. That certainly wasn’t the face of a thief.” The old man explained as Sam helped him stand up.

“Wait. Sam, did you know about my identity?”

“Only when we left the shop. The shopkeeper whispered your house name. I’m from a village and I don’t know much about ruling families.”

“What are you doing here, Sien? So far from the north?” The old man asked.

“I’m going south for my brother. Only he can help my father.” Sien explained with a serious face.

“For your brother? Young Lance?”

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“Yes! Do you know him too?”

“I’ve seen him once when he was four years old. And recently heard a few things about him before I lost my leg.” The old man tapped the place where his leg once was. “So you’re going down south to the border…”

“Yes. That’s the only way.”

“I’d love to accompany you, my Lord. But this crippled old man won’t be of much use.” The man said as he looked at Sam with dead eyes awaiting his response.

“Agh… I had a hunch it’ll come to that…” Sam growled as he scratched his head.

“Samuel. Would you escort the boy to the south?”

“Looks like the only way to repay you… But I want you to ask knights to cross by the Dalir from time to time.”

“I can do that. You won’t have to worry about the village while you’re away. Thank you for accepting my request.”

“It’s no problem. You heard that kid. I’m escorting you to the south. Looks like you’ll have your own master for the journey.” Proudly announced Samuel.

“You would really help me? Thank you very much!” The boy said with his head down to show appreciation for the kindness they showed him.

They ended up staying for the night to continue the trip in the morning. Sien listened to stories of an old man and his connection to his father. He explained that the painting with the knights depicted him and Lord Zimowit. They were the ones talking and reading close to each other.

“While I’m not proud of that suggestion I recommend that you should wear this to cover the family symbol and something to cover your marks. Not many people trust your family after the announcement. This should help you stay out of sight.” The old man gave Sien a coat to cover his back.

“Thank you very much. I’m sorry if I’m asking too late but could you tell me your name? I didn’t catch it while we were talking.”

“My name is Oswald Saned. Once you rescue your father, try to visit me with him.”

“I’ll remember that Sir Saned.” Those words brought a smile to the old man’s face.

“See you in a few months, master.” Said Sam before they left.

Before leaving the town Sien bought makeup to cover his mark. The lady selling them was surprised that a young boy was interested in buying them and explained step by step how he should put the makeup on.

“Sam. I know my main goal is to reach my brother but I’d like to accomplish something along the way. I want to make the name Alk a good name throughout the whole country.” Explained Sien, looking at his saber and remembering the kindness his family showed to the people around them.

“Master.”

“What?”

“As of today, call me Master. It does have a good ring to it. Master Samuel.” Said Sam with a smirk on his face thinking of the times when people would admire him after hearing him being called a master.

“Fine. Master. Will you help me with making Alk a good name that everyone would trust?”

“Of course, I’ll help you. After all, I am your master.” Sam assured the boy that he would remain by his side.