Chapter 23 — The King Hears Rumors

The grand hall of the castle was filled with the low murmur of nobles, knights, and advisors. Golden chandeliers cast warm light on polished marble floors, reflecting the weight of the kingdom’s history and authority.

King Alaric, a stern man with sharp eyes and silver-streaked hair, listened intently as his advisors whispered hurriedly. The calm authority of the throne belied the unease that had settled over the kingdom.

“Your Majesty,” one advisor began, bowing slightly, “there are troubling rumors from the outer villages. Witnesses speak of a masked swordsman… appearing in the northern territories, defending villagers from Abyssal creatures. They say his skill rivals the legendary champions of the colosseum.”

King Alaric raised an eyebrow. “A masked swordsman? Do you mean the Mirrorblade?”

The advisor hesitated. “Yes… some claim he is still alive, though he disappeared years ago. Others insist it is an entirely new warrior with unmatched technique. The reports are… consistent, Your Majesty. Villagers describe movements and skills identical to those once attributed to the colosseum champion.”

The king’s fingers drummed against the armrest. “If the Mirrorblade has returned… it could shift the balance of power. His reputation alone is enough to inspire loyalty—or fear. And yet, why now? Why appear only to defend villages quietly?”

Another advisor chimed in, “Sire, there are whispers that he has taken up residence near the castle, teaching Prince Aric in secret. Some knights claim to have witnessed incredible training feats, but none can see his face or discern his identity. It seems he wishes to remain… hidden.”

King Alaric’s eyes narrowed, a mixture of curiosity and concern crossing his face. “Hidden… and yet influencing my son’s training? If these rumors are true, he may be preparing Aric for something beyond the ordinary. Or… he may be manipulating him. We cannot ignore this.”

A court knight stepped forward, voice firm. “Your Majesty, with all due respect, the boy’s skill has grown immensely under this master. If he truly is the Mirrorblade… then having him guide Aric could be the kingdom’s greatest asset. His skill is unmatched, and his knowledge of combat and strategy is unparalleled.”

The king leaned back, pondering. “We must verify these rumors carefully. If he is the Mirrorblade, he is a powerful ally—or a dangerous unknown. Summon reports from scouts, check with the Silver Wyverns, and keep Prince Aric’s training under discreet observation. I want to know everything about this masked master before he becomes… more than just a teacher.”

As the advisors and knights nodded and dispersed to carry out orders, King Alaric’s mind raced. The return of the Mirrorblade—or someone claiming his identity—could be both a blessing and a threat. The kingdom faced monsters, Abyssal forces, and now the shadow of a legend walking among them once more.

Meanwhile, Kaelen remained unaware of the stir he had caused within the castle walls. Patient, silent, and vigilant, he continued guiding Aric and observing Princess Lysandra, his focus on preparation rather than politics. Yet the whispers of his name were spreading—curiosity, awe, and uncertainty trailing in his wake.

And soon, the kingdom itself would come to realize that the Mirrorblade was not a myth, and that his presence—hidden, yet undeniable—would shape the battles, the politics, and the destiny of all who lived within its walls.