Cedric and Leander stood under the moonlit sky, their wooden swords clashing in a rhythmic dance of skill and precision. The silence of the night was punctuated by the sound of their weapons striking, dodging, and reflecting each other’s blows.
Despite the years of experience Cedric had gained, Leander somehow managed to match his skill. Each swing and parry was met with equal force, and Cedric couldn't help but admire Leander's technique. He wasn't mistaken—Leander was indeed a skilled swordsman.
But as Cedric fought, a question nagged at the back of his mind. Why would someone with Leander's talents work as a personal attendant for a spoiled prince? Could he be an emperor’s knight in disguise, protecting his son?
This momentary lapse in focus did not go unnoticed. Leander sensed Cedric's mind drifting and seized the opportunity. With a swift, calculated move, he struck, knocking Cedric down onto the ground.
Cedric lay there for a moment, catching his breath and processing the unexpected turn of events. Leander extended a hand, his expression a mix of respect and concern.
"You let your guard down," Leander said simply, helping Cedric to his feet.
Cedric nodded, brushing off the dirt. "I did. Your skill is impressive, Leander. You’re more than just an attendant, aren’t you?"
Leander didn’t answer Cedric’s question. Instead, he simply raised his finger to his lips and smiled, a gesture that was both enigmatic and reassuring.
"I can see how good you are at your sword fighting skill," Leander said, "but you fight like a mercenary. Against most people, you wouldn't find any trouble winning, but to another swordsman, they can clearly see your lack of basic stance."
Leander extended his hand to Cedric. In just two weeks, these two had become good company to each other. Cedric was genuinely willing to help Alaric, and Leander had finally put his wariness of Cedric aside.
"Looks like even a tutor needs a lesson too," Leander said with a wry smile as Cedric grabbed his hand and got up.
They prepared for another round, but this time, Leander offered Cedric small hints during the fight. "Keep your feet apart," he advised, dodging a strike. "Lower your center of gravity," he added, parrying another blow.
With each hint, Cedric adjusted his stance and movements, feeling the difference it made. The rhythmic dance of their sparring continued, the sound of their wooden swords clashing in the quiet night. Cedric's respect for Leander grew with each passing moment, not just for his skill but for his willingness to teach and share his knowledge.
As the night deepened, and with every exchange, Cedric felt himself improving, refining his technique. Leander's guidance was invaluable, turning the sparring session into an impromptu lesson. They moved with a newfound rhythm, their strikes and parries becoming more fluid and precise.
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> July 29th
>
> Last night... was fun. For a long time, I've been living with a purpose solely driven by duty. It feels different to hold my sword for something other than protecting or fighting. There was a sense of camaraderie and challenge that I haven't felt in years. Sparring with Leander brought a spark of life back into me, reminding me of the simple joys of honing one’s skills with someone.
>
>
>
> Anyway, if I remember what Patricia told me correctly, I should dig the soil like this, then plant all the seeds. Watering regularly should make the crops grow in a few months' time. Her advice always had a way of sticking with me, even in the most unexpected moments. As I worked the soil, I could almost hear her voice, guiding me through each step with patience and wisdom.
>
>
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> Leander actually brought some kind of fluid used to change a person's hair color. He is indeed a wise person, always thinking ahead. This should help Alaric blends in better with the villagers.
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>
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> I think the tavern was looking for a helping hand. Maybe I could bring Alaric there to do his first job. I’m not sure how he’ll react to others ordering him around. His pride might make it difficult, but it could also be a valuable lesson in humility. The thought of Alaric washing dishes or serving drinks brings a slight smile to my face—it’s a far cry from his life of luxury, but it could be just what he needs.
>
>
>
> Or maybe we could hunt in the forest and sell the animals and monsters. Starting things slow might be better for Alaric to get used to talking to people and understanding their lives. Small steps could lead to bigger changes. He needs to see the world from their perspective, to understand their struggles and their strengths.
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As Cedric sat on the log next to the front door writing his diary, he watched Alaric yawning as he walked out of the house. Alaric rubbed his eyes, still groggy from sleep.
"What’s for breakfast?" Alaric asked, then paused, remembering Cedric's reputation for less-than-stellar cooking. He made a face, recalling the previous meal's tomato soup.
Cedric chuckled softly. Alaric still hadn't noticed that his hair color had been changed to brown while he slept. The transformation made him look like Leander's son, if Leander ever had one.
Leander emerged from the house, carrying a small tray with simple ham sandwiches. He handed one to Cedric and another to Alaric. The sandwiches were modest, just slices of ham between two pieces of bread.
Alaric frowned, clearly displeased. "Is this all we get for breakfast? This is too small and plain!"
Cedric, biting into his sandwich, looked at Alaric and replied calmly, "We have no money, Alaric."
Alaric blinked in confusion. "What are you babbling about? I'm a prince. I'm insanely rich."
Cedric shook his head. "I purposely didn't bring any money from the palace. You need to learn how to make money, or you can just stay hungry."
Alaric's face turned red with anger. "I’m too important to be working among these low-life commoners!"
Without missing a beat, Cedric used the end of the wooden sword to lightly smack Alaric on the head. "You need to be grateful for what you have," Cedric said sternly. "You have no choice but to do so."
Alaric rubbed his head, more surprised than hurt. He looked at Cedric, then at Leander, who nodded in agreement with Cedric's words. Alaric realized that they were serious about this new reality. There would be no special treatment, no luxury, and no shortcuts.
He sighed deeply, feeling the weight of his new circumstances. The simple sandwich in his hand suddenly seemed like a symbol of the hard work and humility he needed to embrace and he hated it.
Alaric scoffed, taking another bite of his sandwich. "I can just use my power, and the people in the village should come crawling to my feet like they're supposed to"
Cedric's expression hardened slightly, and he sighed. "While we're on the topic of your power, I realize I have something for you"
Before Alaric could react, Cedric reached into his pouch and quickly snapped a bracelet onto Alaric's wrist. The bracelet shrank to fit perfectly, becoming immovable. Alaric stared at it in disbelief and tried to remove it, his frustration mounting.
"What is this?" Alaric demanded, pulling at the bracelet.
Cedric didn't answer him immediately. Instead, he calmly put on his cloak, adjusting it with care. Alaric's anger surged, and he attempted to summon his power to attack Cedric. But nothing happened. He couldn't summon any of his power at all.
Leander, who had been watching quietly, put a hand to his mouth as if to cover a cough. "Sorry, Your Highness," he said, lowering his hand. "That bracelet was specifically created to nullify your power. The emperor and only a few people know how to create it. The only way to remove it is by the person who put it on you, which in this case, is Cedric."
Cedric pulled the hood of his cloak over his head and extended his hand to Alaric. "Come on," he said, his tone firm but not unkind. "I'll teach you the basics of how to hunt for food and how to set up traps for animals. It's time you learn how to survive on your own."
Alaric looked at Cedric's extended hand, his anger and disbelief warring within him. He felt a deep sense of betrayal but also a realization that this might be his only way forward. Slowly, reluctantly, he took Cedric's hand.
Cedric helped him up, his grip strong and steady. "Let's get started," he said. "The first lesson begins now."
Cedric helped Alaric up, his grip strong and steady. "Let's get started," he said. "The first lesson begins now."
Alaric glanced at the seeds Cedric had planted earlier. "We can just sell the vegetables or whatever you planted there," he suggested.
Cedric chuckled. "Sure, if you can wait for two months without eating. We can sell them then."
Alaric rolled his eyes, clearly annoyed. The thought of someone in such a high position like himself having to do something so barbaric as hunting for food was infuriating. But as much as he hated it, he had no other choices.
With a resigned sigh, Alaric took Cedric's hand, and the two of them headed into the forest together.
Leander spent the day greeting the villagers. They asked where he was from and if the people with him were his brothers. Leander played along, telling them that Alaric was his son and Cedric was his brother, and that they had come from the south to show Alaric another part of the empire.
The villagers enjoyed talking to Leander as the day continued. One of the villagers even gave Leander a beer and a loaf of bread while they chatted. Leander's easy demeanor and friendly nature quickly won them over, and he found himself immersed in their simple but warm hospitality.
Later that day, Cedric and Alaric returned from the forest. Cedric carried a deer on his shoulders. Alaric trailed behind, covered in dirt and mud, complaining loudly all the way from the forest to the house.
A nearby butcher lady greeted them with a friendly wave. "Hello there!" she called out cheerfully.
Alaric angrily snapped back, "Don't talk to me, you old hag!"
The butcher frowned, crossing her arms. "You shouldn't talk like that to people older than you, young man. You should act more nicely, like your brother over there," she said, nodding toward Cedric.
Alaric looked confused, thinking the butcher had lost her mind. Before he could retort, Leander swooped in, picking him up with ease. "I'll take him back for a bath," Leander said, his tone calm but firm.
The butcher waved goodbye to them. "Take care now, and young man," she called after Alaric, "you should at least behave for your doting father."
As they walked away, Alaric muttered under his breath, still fuming from the encounter. Leander set him down once they were out of earshot and looked him in the eyes.
"Your Highness, please don’t hate the villagers too much," Leander said quietly but firmly. "These people are good, and they are also your citizens. They deserve your respect, not your anger."
Alaric huffed but didn't argue further. He is too tired to say anything. For now, he reluctantly accepted yet another lesson being thrust upon him.
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> August 5th
>
> Slowly and subtly, even if it doesn't look like much, Alaric has improved.
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>
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> Alaric doesn't curse at the villagers anymore, but he still has a hatred expression on his face. However, the villagers seem to adore him. If anything, they view him as a feisty cat more than anything.
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>
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> But still, I've seen him trying to remove the bracelet in secret many times. So for now, nothing is sure about his behavior towards these people. He might be planning something that I need to look out for.
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> My night routine with Leander still continues. For some reason, he seems to care about Alaric very much, perhaps even more than the emperor himself. I guess that's what royalty calls loyalty?
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>
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> August 10th
>
> Caught Alaric trying to take off his bracelet again. He was so focused on it that he didn’t even notice me approaching. When I confronted him, he lashed out.
>
> Unauthorized use: this story is on Amazon without permission from the author. Report any sightings.
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>
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> For a grown man, he sure acts like a child sometimes. It’s almost endearing in a way, though it can be exhausting. He’s really struggling with this new reality, and it's painfully obvious.
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> Today’s hunt was something else. We stumbled upon a monster that looked like a boar—bigger and meaner than anything we've faced so far. As usual, Alaric's temper got the best of him. Instead of listening to my instructions, he charged at it head-on, leading us on a long, unnecessary chase through the forest. He ended up falling into the river, soaked and shivering, a consequence of his own impulsiveness.
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> But there was a moment during the hunt that caught my attention. Alaric looked at the monster with a different expression. There was a movement full of excitement, maybe even enjoyment. He seemed genuinely engaged, almost like he found a thrill in the activity.
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> Maybe he likes these kinds of activities, even if he won’t admit it. It’s a small glimmer of hope. If he can find something he enjoys, something that can channel his energy and temper, it might help him grow. It’s a long road, but today, I saw a hint of potential in Alaric that I hadn’t seen before.
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> He’s got so much bottled-up anger and frustration, but if we can find a way to channel that, there’s a chance he might start to change. I just have to keep pushing, keep guiding him, even when he fights me every step of the way. Today was tough, but it also felt like a small victory. We’ll see what tomorrow brings.
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> Maybe, just maybe, there's more to him than the spoiled prince he appears to be.
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> August 17th
>
> We are becoming kind of popular among the villagers, seeing how we're the only ones that seem to be actually hunting the monsters, which makes this area a lot more peaceful. It's nice to see the relief on their faces, knowing they're a bit safer because of our efforts.
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> There are soldiers roaming occasionally—or should I say rarely—and they don't seem to be doing much other than inspecting unrelated stuff, like how the children are growing, instead of checking the surrounding area for safety measures. The villagers seem to be quieter and more reserved when the soldiers are around.
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> Alaric still complains about the quality of the food, despite Leander's cooking, which is delicious. I guess it's not up to the palace's standards with meals prepared by actual chefs. Still, it's not like he can just spawn money out of thin air.
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> Speaking of money, the crops are growing nicely. I do get some peace time looking after them, and I guess I picked up that habit from spending time with Patricia. It’s a simple pleasure, watching something grow from the ground up, knowing that your care and effort make a difference.
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> Although selling animals and monsters has earned us enough money to get by, it wouldn't be enough to move up in life if you were a regular folk trying to climb the social ladder. The economy in this empire really is expensive. It's eye-opening to see how hard it is for the common people to save up and improve their lives.
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Cedric stopped writing when he heard Alaric complaining from inside the house. "Why can't we just go to the city and eat there since we have some money?" Alaric's voice was filled with frustration.
Cedric thought to himself, doesn't he know how the economy works? Has he ever looked at how things function during his time on the throne? He put down his journal and walked inside.
Alaric yelled "I don't like it here, and I don't like how these people live their lives either."
Cedric grabbed Alaric's arm and pulled him to the window. "Look around," he commanded. "These are your people. Whether you like it or not, the crown comes with the responsibility to care for its citizens. Even with the current emperor, your father's management, everyone still barely manages to improve their lives. What do you think is going to happen to these people when you are on the throne?"
Alaric couldn't answer. He knew well what would happen since he was experiencing it firsthand right now. He turned his head away from Cedric, choosing to stay silent.
Cedric sighed, seeing Alaric's reaction. "This week, there will be no hunting in the forest," he declared. "Instead, we will work with the people and do their jobs. It's time for you to start interacting more with these people and understanding their lives."
Alaric's eyes widened in surprise. "You can't be serious," he said, his voice barely a whisper.
Cedric's expression softened, but his resolve remained. "I am serious. This is necessary, Alaric. You need to see and understand the lives of your people if you are ever to lead them properly."
Alaric looked down, contemplating Cedric's words. The weight of his responsibilities was becoming more apparent with each passing day. He nodded slowly, realizing that this was another step in his journey, one he couldn't avoid.
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> September 25th
>
> It was hard trying to make Alaric work among people, but his anger seems to have died down a bit. Small victories, I suppose.
>
>
>
> We tried getting him to take on different jobs by helping the villagers. Helping the butcher lady with her work seems to be the best fit for him.
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>
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> He doesn't swear at everyone anymore, and his expression has softened slightly. Though he still gets clearly annoyed when people talk to him, it's progress.
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> The butcher lady's daughter seems to be the only one who manages to get close to him, or at least the only one he doesn't chase away as much. He could definitely use less harsh words when talking to her, but it's a start.
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> Leander also pitches in with the butchering. We even get some meat to bring home on top of the money we earn. It’s nice to see us contributing to the village in a tangible way. The local animal farmer has also become more friendly now that we've stopped hunting and selling wildlife. He saw us as competitors before.
>
>
>
> I guess Alaric really is getting better. He hasn't tried to remove the bracelet in a while, which is a relief. Seeing him slowly adapt gives me hope that he can change.
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> On a personal note, my sword fighting skills have massively improved with Leander's guidance. His insights and corrections have refined my technique more than I thought possible.
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> October 12th
>
> Would you look at that, Alaric just saved Elenor, The butcher's daughter from getting injured by a falling knife. That was a massive improvement. He's showing his human side, even if it's just for one person. It was quick thinking and genuine concern that made him act. I didn't expect to see that from him so soon.
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> Leander seems to be proud of him too. I caught a glimpse of a rare smile on his face. I guess if we're not careful, we might end up with a little sister added to our group. Elenor certainly seems to bring out a softer side of Alaric. It's almost amusing to see the way he interacts with her—awkward and rough around the edges, but there's something genuine there.
>
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> He’s still not opening up to other people as much, but he seems to be able to communicate with the butcher lady without making an annoyed face now. That’s a big step forward. The villagers have noticed too. They see him differently now, not just as a stranger but as someone who is becoming part of their community.
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> Small steps, but they are steps in the right direction. It’s heartening to see these changes, however small. They give me hope that Alaric can grow into a compassionate leader.
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> There’s still a long way to go, but today, I feel a bit more optimistic. Watching him save Elenor reminded me that there's more to Alaric than his anger and frustration. He has the potential to care, to protect, and to connect with others. I just need to keep guiding him, helping him see that side of himself more clearly.
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> October 17th
>
> I guess I could say that not only has Alaric become a bit better, he's becoming a bit happier too. He doesn't act like he's walking on eggshells around me now. Though, I don't know if I like this new way he's talking to me. I guess he's changed his profession from a tyrant to a mischievous child?
>
>
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> And Leander, too, is more open with me. There's a sense of camaraderie growing between us. It feels good to have someone to share the burden with, someone who understands the challenges we're facing with Alaric.
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>
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> Alaric even got into an argument with some people in the tavern who were looking down on the villagers. Maybe he's seeing his old self in them, recognizing the arrogance and disdain he once held. It’s a sign that he’s starting to empathize with the people around him, seeing their worth and standing up for them.
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> These changes, though small, are significant. They show that Alaric is capable of growth and understanding. There’s still a long road ahead, but for now, I’m grateful for these little victories. They remind me that our efforts are not in vain.
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> October 31st
>
> We've overstayed out here for long enough; it's time to go back to the palace. Alaric doesn't seem to want to go back, and honestly, I can't blame him. If this world had that recording device... I can't remember what it's called, something like CDO? DDO? VDO? I can't think of its name.
>
>
>
> Anyway, if this world had that modern equipment, I would've captured Alaric during his first day here and shown it to him now. The difference is remarkable. He's changed so much, grown in ways I didn't think were possible when we first arrived. The boy who couldn't stand the sight of commoners now defends them and even cares for them.
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> I'm proud of him.
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> Leander seems to be proud of him too. We've decided to go back next week, giving us time to say farewell to everyone before we leave. The villagers have become a significant part of our lives, and it’s only right to give proper goodbyes. This small community has done wonders for Alaric, and for me too, if I'm honest.
>
>
>
> But a nagging doubt still creeps in. Have I done enough in this short time? Is three and a half months truly enough to ensure this change sticks? Sometimes, I feel like a mere cog in a machine, sent to nudge these "protagonists" in the right direction, but is it enough? Will Alaric truly be different when I'm gone? These are questions I don't have answers to. All I can do is keep pushing forward, hoping these changes have taken root and Alaric can continue on this new path.
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> November 2nd
>
> Most of the stuff is packed now, and we're ready to leave when the time comes. It’s strange to see our little house so bare, the walls echoing with memories of our time here.
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> After Leander broke the news of us leaving to the villagers, everyone seemed sad. We've become a part of their lives, and they’ve become a part of ours. It’s touching to see how much we've come to mean to them.
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> To keep everyone's spirits high, it’s been decided that this entire week will be filled with nightly parties. It’s a wonderful gesture, a way to celebrate the time we've had together. But even with all the festivities, I can’t deny that I’ll miss this simple lifestyle. The rhythm of the days here, the honest work, the sense of community—it’s all been so grounding.
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> It’s getting very late now. Time to go to sleep.
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Alaric woke up to the noise outside. The village was in a state of panic. He rubbed his eyes and walked out of the house, trying to understand what was happening.
The butcher lady was crying, her voice breaking as she spoke. "The soldiers came to take my daughter, along with other children, to the baron. They said if 'his imperial highness' doesn't come alone, he'll kill everyone."
"Cedric, we have to do something!" Alaric turns to ask Cedric who is walking out of the house.
Cedric approached Alaric, his expression hard and focused. He removed the bracelet from Alaric's wrist. "We're going to get them back," he said, his voice filled with a calm fury.
Alaric nodded, his anger mirrored in Cedric's eyes. He had never seen Cedric this angry before, and he knew better than to hesitate. They both got on the horses they had brought with the carriage and rode towards the baron's castle, following the directions the villagers had given them.
An hour later, they arrived at the castle, surrounded by high wooden walls. Alaric didn't need any instructions. He knew what needed to be done. Gathering his strength, he unleashed his power, and the gate exploded into splinters. The gate crashed down, leaving an open path into the castle.
Cedric drew his sword and walked in, but soldiers were already lying there dead. He didn't seem to care much and continued walking towards the castle. Alaric followed closely, his mind racing with questions but staying silent. His anger simmered, thinking that even at his worst, he would never go as far as hurting children.
They entered the castle, seeing maids and butlers crying and trembling in fear in the corners. Cedric's expression remained hard and focused as he kept walking.
Reaching the top floor, Cedric opened the door to find Leander with a sword at a man's neck. Leander's voice was cold as he demanded, "How do you know about Alaric's identity?" The man trembled in fear but did not answer the question.
Cedric walked in, grabbed the man by the neck, and threw him onto a nearby chair. With a swift motion, he stabbed his sword through the man's hand, pinning it to the table. The man screamed in pain, his eyes wide with terror.
Cedric leaned in close, his voice low and menacing. "You are only allowed to say one thing: Tell me where the children are."
The man's eyes darted around the room, desperately seeking an escape that didn't exist. He was trapped, both physically and by the sheer force of Cedric's presence. "They're... they're in the dungeons!" he gasped out, the pain making his voice tremble. "Please, don't hurt me anymore!"
Cedric's grip tightened on the man's face for a moment before he released him. "Leander, secure him. Alaric, come with me," he ordered, his voice leaving no room for hesitation.
Leander nodded, his eyes briefly meeting Cedric's in silent communication. He kept his sword ready, ensuring the man wouldn't try anything foolish.
Cedric and Alaric made their way to the dungeons, the sense of urgency propelling them forward. The castle was eerily silent, save for their hurried footsteps echoing off the stone walls. They reached the heavy door of the dungeon, and with a swift kick, Cedric forced it open.
Inside, the dim light revealed the terrified faces of the children, huddled together in fear. Cedric's heart ached at the sight, but he quickly scanned the room to ensure there were no immediate threats.
"Alaric, help me get them out of here," Cedric said, his voice softer now, trying to comfort the frightened children.
They brought all the children out and saw Leander dragging the baron down from upstairs, the man still clutching his hand and grunting in pain from Cedric's earlier attack.
As they moved towards the front door, they were greeted by a group of soldiers. One of them shouted, "That's him!" while pointing at Alaric "The child in the prophecy! He is here just like The Seer said!"
"Alaric, get everyone back inside," Cedric ordered, his voice sharp and decisive.
Leander threw the baron onto the ground. The baron yelled at the soldiers, "Quickly, kill them and save me already!"
Alaric quickly ushered the children back inside, closing the door behind them. The last thing he saw before the door shut completely was a bunch of soldiers charging at Cedric and Leander, their swords drawn and faces set in determination.
The sounds of battle echoed through the thick wooden door. Alaric stood with the children, trying to keep them calm despite the chaos outside. Every clash of steel and shout made his heart race, but he held his ground, determined to protect them.
Five minutes later, the door creaked open, and Leander stood there, his sword bloodied but his expression calm. "You can go back to the village now," he said.
As they walked outside, they saw Cedric standing over the baron, who was on his knees, a look of terror etched on his face. Once everyone was outside, Cedric knocked the baron unconscious with a swift blow to the head.
"Let's get everyone back to the village," Cedric said, his voice softer now as he addressed the children and Alaric.
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They arrived back at the village with the children in tow. The relief on the villagers' faces was palpable as they rushed forward to embrace their kids. Alaric took it upon himself to personally ensure that all the children, including Elenor, were safely reunited with their parents. The gratitude and relief from the villagers were overwhelming, and for a moment, Alaric felt a deep sense of connection and responsibility.
Meanwhile, Cedric and Leander dragged the baron to a secluded spot behind their home. The man was covered in bruises from being dragged all the way back to the village, his fear and exhaustion evident.
"Why did you kidnap the children? How do you know about Alaric?" Cedric demanded, his voice hard and unyielding.
The baron, trembling, stammered out his confession. "I don't know much. The soldiers... they are part of a rebellion. They told me to bring that kid out of the village by any means necessary."
Alaric, who had just returned from reuniting the children with their families, overheard this and stepped closer. He leaned in and whispered to Cedric, "Rebellion? Against what? I thought the people rebelled against me because of my tyranny. Why would there still be a rebellion now?"
Cedric's eyes narrowed slightly as he absorbed Alaric's words, understanding the deeper implications of his confusion. He nodded subtly, acknowledging the complexity of their situation while keeping his focus on the baron.
Cedric continued, his tone cold and precise. "Do you know where the rebels gather?"
The baron shook his head, wincing in pain. "No, I don't. They only told me what to do. They communicate through whistling, so I never understood their full plans.. I swear, I don't know anything else."
"They communicate through whistling," Leander noted, his mind already working on this new piece of information.
Cedric sighed, his frustration evident. They had some pieces of the puzzle, but many questions remained unanswered. He looked at Alaric, who seemed lost in thought, trying to process the implications of what they had learned.
"We'll keep an ear out for the whistling," Cedric said, his tone softer now. "For now, we need to stay vigilant. Alaric, this is another reason why understanding and connecting with your people is so important. We need to be aware of what's happening around us."
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The villagers gathered in front of the house, looking uneasy. They exchanged glances and looked back and forth between each other and the house, clearly having something on their minds.
One of the villagers finally stepped forward, his voice hesitant. "We heard the soldiers refer to you as 'His Imperial Highness.' Is it true? Are you really the prince?"
Alaric felt the pressure and, taking a deep breath, walked around the house to face the villagers. He bowed deeply. "Yes, it's true," he said, his voice steady despite the nerves. "I'm not a kid from down south. I am the prince, and I apologize for deceiving you."
He paused, looking at the concerned faces around him. "I also want to apologize for getting your children into danger because of my status. It was never my intention to bring harm to this village."
The villagers stayed silent for a moment, processing his words. The weight of his confession hung in the air. Then, Elenor ran out from the crowd and hugged him tightly.
The farmer stepped forward and tapped Alaric on the shoulder. "It doesn't matter if you're the kid Alaric or His Highness," he said warmly. "If you ever get bored of living in the palace, we'll welcome you back with open arms, your highness"
Alaric's eyes filled with tears. "Thank you," he said, his voice choked with emotion. "I promise to make this empire a better place for everyone."
Meanwhile, Leander, sensing the moment, had already packed everything. He knew what needed to be done.
They said their farewells to the villagers, heartfelt and sincere, and then set off to return to the capital. The journey back was filled with a mix of emotions—gratitude for the time spent in the village, determination to face the challenges ahead, and a renewed sense of purpose.
As they rode away, Alaric looked back one last time, the village growing smaller in the distance. The memories of the people, their kindness, and their acceptance would stay with him, fueling his resolve to be a better leader.
A few days later, they arrived back at the capital. The familiar sight of the city walls and bustling streets greeted them as they made their way through the gates.
Cedric turned to Leander. "Go ahead back to the palace," he instructed. "Take the baron to the dungeon. Alaric and I have something to do first."
Leander nodded and rode off towards the palace, the unconscious baron securely bound to his horse. Alaric watched him go, then turned to Cedric with curiosity. "What are we going to do here?" he asked.
Cedric looked around, his eyes sharp and focused. "I heard something when we passed the gate," he said, his voice low. "I want to check it out. Come with me."
Alaric nodded, his curiosity piqued. He followed Cedric through the bustling streets, the noise and activity of the capital all around them. They moved through the crowd as Cedric led the way.
The sun was beginning to set, casting long shadows across the city. Cedric and Alaric walked side by side, their steps quick and determined. Whatever Cedric had heard, it was important enough to delay their return to the palace.
As they turned down a narrow alley, the sounds of the main street faded behind them. Cedric stopped and looked at Alaric, a serious expression on his face. "Stay close and be ready for anything," he said.
Alaric nodded, feeling a mix of excitement and apprehension. He could sense that this was the beginning of something significant, something that would challenge them both.