Chapter 1 — Last Night of Freedom

Kael walked through the bustling night streets of Elario, hands in his pockets, his dark hair blowing in the night breeze.

He sighed as he recalled what Prince Julius had said about needing a haircut. Kael muttered to himself, “I don’t need a haircut. My hair’s fine the way it is.”

Kael was on his way to a tavern to enjoy his last night of freedom before attending the academy. He preferred to nap rather than attend lectures.

He entered the tavern and made his way to his usual corner. A waitress he had never seen before approached him to take his order. She was an elf.

Kael thought to himself: Elves don’t normally mingle with humans or other races. Why is she here? She seems like a forest elf, maybe exiled… Kael pondered the possibilities but found it tedious and exhausting. He ordered his meal anyway.

Kael requested some ale, a main dish, and a side of beef skewers.

Back at the castle, the royal family was having dinner. King Reynard looked around the table and couldn’t find Kael. “Where’s Kael?” he asked.

Prince Julius replied, “He went to eat at a tavern.”

Prince Cedric added smugly, “Perfect. Commoners shouldn’t dine with royalty.”

King Reynard sighed. “What are we going to do with that boy? Tomorrow is the academy entrance ceremony, and I wanted to congratulate all three of you.”

Kael finished his meal in peace and returned to the castle. At the gate, he was met with a stern look from Roland.

Roland stepped forward. Kael smiled nervously and greeted him. Roland lightly bopped him on the head, knowing Kael could handle it. Kael held his head in slight pain.

Then Sophia walked from behind Roland. “Take it easy on him, Roland, would you?”

“Kael, you brat,” Roland scolded.

Kael tried to escape, but Roland grabbed him, tied him up, and placed him over his shoulder. Kael begged Sophia for help. The guards watched with confusion and concern.

Roland took Kael to the throne room to apologize to King Reynard. Kael glanced at Julius, who was laughing. Kael was annoyed that Julius didn’t help him.

King Reynard asked what was going on. Roland explained that Kael should apologize for not attending dinner with the royal family. Kael was eventually released thanks to the king.

“Roland, you are too hard on Kael,” King Reynard told him.

“Forgive me, King,” Roland said, bowing his head. “But you’re too lenient with the boy.”

King Reynard laughed.

The next morning was the academy ceremony. Kael, Prince Julius, and Prince Cedric stepped out of the royal carriage. Everyone stared at them.

“Aren’t you excited?” Julius asked.

Kael simply replied, “No. I don’t want to be here.”