Chapter 3, Part 2:
Wandering through the city, I stumbled upon a narrow street, and being the curious cat I am, I strolled right in. A group of ten shady characters caught my eye, huddled together like they were planning the next big heist. I tried to play the silent observer, lurking in the shadows, but these folks had a sixth sense for nosy passersby.
One of them barked, "Who are you?" I responded with my best innocent act, "Just a passerby, folks. Nothing to see here." Of course, they weren't buying it. Suddenly, Mr. Ambush-from-Behind decided to try his luck. Quick dodge to the left, and I'm still standing, folks.
"I don't want any trouble," I said, playing the sympathy card. They weren't in the mood for a heart-to-heart, though. It turned into a full-blown brawl. No weapons on my end, just good ol' dodging skills. But hey, guess what? Got myself a complimentary stab wound. Score.
As the chaos unfolded, someone had the brilliant idea to cover my mouth. Not exactly the spa treatment I was hoping for. Thoughts of impending doom danced in my head. These bandits were serious about their craft.
Lo and behold, just when I thought the credits were about to roll, a mysterious figure in black appeared. Cue suspenseful music. Was it my guardian angel? Grim Reaper on a smoke break? Couldn't tell, because everything went black.
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Waking up, I half-expected a choir of angels or a fiery pit. Instead, it's the same street where I was shish kebabed. Shirt's in tatters, but no scars. It's like a really bad magic show. Without waiting for the encore, I hightail it back to Duke Corcus's guest house.
Changed into fresh clothes and still in a state of bewilderment, there's a knock on the door. Cedric's butler, messenger of breakfast, no less. Time to get my act together.
Heading to Cedric's room, he greets me with, "Good morning, but why do you look like you've seen a ghost?" Quick-witted Cedric. "It's nothing," I mutter, deflecting the attention.
Over breakfast, Cedric drops the bomb about ten bodies found in the river. Casually drops it, as if we're discussing the weather. My mind races back to the tattooed bandits from last night.
Lost in thought, Cedric pulls me back, asking, "What are you daydreaming about?" Snap back to reality, and I go, "Nothing at all," with a poker face that could rival a pro.
He decides it's time to prep for the academy, with a pit stop at the tailor. Opting for a non-uniform look for the opening ceremony, I borrow a jacket, because, why not?
Returning to Cedric's place, a carriage awaits to whisk us off to the Royal Academy. Duke Corcus, my brother, all part of the entourage. Since they have appointment with someone.
"Why the royal guard parade?" I quiz Cedric. He spills the beans about the royal prince, princess, emperor, and empress attending. Oh, and let's not forget the Grand Duke's son and daughter. High society in the house.
Approaching the Royal Academy, the anticipation of rubbing shoulders with the elite builds. Cedric reassures me, but I'm not letting him play the overprotective dad.
"Thanks, but no thanks. Save the fatherly vibes for someone else,"