Lazarus

The Admin-mobile, armor bright in the sun, finally pulled into Lazarus. It seemed peaceful, just like we thought. People were selling stuff in the streets, kids were chasing birds in the square, and you could smell fresh bread everywhere.

Finally, civilization, Tundra said, her screen showing a smiley face. I'm starving!

Admin parked near the market, and we all got out to stretch after the rough ride.

First, food, Admin said. Then, a place to sleep. After that, we find out what's going on around here.

We walked through the busy streets, trying different foods and getting what we needed. Mirai was great at bargaining and got us good deals on everything from dried meat to bandages. Eyrie was amazed by all the sweets and tried them all, which Tundra thought was hilarious.

After we ate, Admin found a decent-looking inn near the edge of the market. It was called The Golden Slumber and looked clean and quiet – just what we needed after all the fighting we'd been doing.

We got two rooms – one for Admin and one for the rest of us – and started to relax. But not for long.

There was a big commotion outside. A loud, annoying voice shouted something in the street.

Hear ye, hear ye! the voice yelled. Prince Dukren of Lazarus is here! See the royal family's greatness! Look at all the money we bring to this little town!

Admin, trying to read a map on his phone, frowned. He looked out the window and saw a guy dressed in fancy clothes standing on a decorated carriage, surrounded by guards. It was Prince Dukren, showing off for the townspeople and bragging about how rich and powerful his family was.

Ugh, what a showoff, Tundra said, her screen showing an eye roll.

I can't stand him already, Mirai said, sharpening her axe.

Even Eyrie, who likes watching things, didn't seem to care.

Admin had had enough. He was done with the noise and bragging. He went to his phone and got out his taser, which appeared in his hand.

He walked out of the inn and went up to the carriage.

Greetings, your highness, Admin said, not sounding friendly at all.

Prince Dukren, surprised, turned to him, looking annoyed. Who are you, peasant?

Someone who wants some peace, Admin said, holding up the taser.

ZAP!

The electricity went through Prince Dukren, and he started shaking and screaming. He fell off the carriage and landed on the street.

The crowd gasped. The guards were shocked for a moment and then reached for their weapons.

Admin didn't even flinch. He walked over to the prince and pointed the taser at his head.

Shut up, Admin said, his voice cold.

The crowd cheered. The villagers were tired of the prince showing off and were glad to see him get what he deserved.

Prince Dukren tried to get up, still in pain. You'll pay for this! he yelled, trying to punch Admin.

Admin moved out of the way and kicked the prince where it hurts.

Prince Dukren screamed, holding himself. Admin didn't stop and zapped him again with the taser.

ZAP! ZAP! ZAP!

Prince Dukren screamed and struggled.

Maybe next time, think about being less… annoying, Admin said, sounding sarcastic.

Finally, Prince Dukren gave up and ran away, his guards following him. He ran back towards the castle, crying.

The crowd cheered even louder, thanking Admin.

Admin just nodded and went back inside the inn, leaving the villagers to celebrate.

Well, Tundra said, her screen showing a smile. That was… unexpected.

I liked it, Mirai said, cleaning her axe.

Eyrie looked worried. Are we going to get in trouble, Admin?

Maybe, Admin said, not showing any feelings. But sometimes, it's worth it. Besides, I don't think the prince will be back soon.

He went back to his map, ignoring the noise outside. He knew there would be problems because of what they did. They had made the royal family angry, which would make things harder. But for now, they had made the villagers happy, and that was something.

Back at Lazarus Castle, Prince Dukren ran into the throne room, crying. His clothes were dirty, and he didn't look like a prince at all.

Father! Mother! he cried. That guy hurt me! In town! With magic!

King Lazarus, a fat man who looked bored all the time, sighed. Queen Lazarus, a tall, strong woman with a crown on her head, raised her eyebrow.

Dukren, please, the Queen said, sounding annoyed. Do you have to tell us about every little thing? We have important things to do.

But Mother, he shocked me! Dukren said, pointing to his burned clothes. And he kicked me! Right there!

King Lazarus laughed. Magic, you say? And a kick? Looks like you lost to a smart person, son.

It's not funny, Father! Dukren yelled, turning red. He made me look bad in front of everyone! He told me to shut up!

The Queen frowned. He talked to a royal that way? What's his name?

He said his name was… Admin, Dukren said, sounding angry. Admin! Can you believe it? What kind of name is Admin?

King Lazarus laughed harder. Admin! Oh, Dukren, you always find the weirdest people. Admin! What a name!

Dukren was furious Stop laughing, Father! This is important! He's dangerous! He's strong, and he doesn't respect anyone! You have to arrest him!

The King wiped his eye, still laughing. Dukren, are you sure you want to arrest him? Maybe he just thought you were being annoying.

No, Father! He's a threat! I know it! He's here to cause problems! You have to do something! Dukren begged.

Queen Lazarus put her hand on his shoulder. Enough, Dukren, she said. We understand. We think this Admin sounds funny, but we can't let him disrespect us.

She looked at the King. Lazarus, we have to make our son happy. Tell them to arrest Admin.

The King sighed. Fine, my dear. If it makes you feel better, Dukren, I'll tell them to arrest him. But I won't be happy about it. This Admin sounds more interesting than anyone we've had in the dungeons for years.

He spoke to a guard. Get General Sylo and tell him to find this Admin and bring him here. Alive, if possible. And don't hurt him. I want to talk to him.

The guard bowed and left, and Dukren smiled.

Thank you, Father! Thank you, Mother! You won't be sorry! Admin will pay! Dukren said, looking happy.

As Dukren kept talking about how he would get revenge, King Lazarus rolled his eyes, and the Queen glared at him. They knew that arresting Admin would cause problems, but it was easier than dealing with Dukren.

So, General Sylo, a good soldier that was seemingly working for Lazarus, was told to arrest Admin. And Admin, not knowing what was coming, was about to get into big trouble.