After I have found you

Chapter 1

The clashing of swords could be heard from a far distance as soldiers sharpened every metallic weapon in sight. Eric took it upon himself to supervise the activities of the royal army. He had been on different war journeys, but this time, he had a strange feeling. It wasn't the feeling of failure or downfall, it was a feeling of something bizarre, something he quite couldn't place his hands on.

        As he strode along the castle walls, maids drooled over him and he could hear their giggles. He indeed was s beauty. Some giggled as they whisperer to one another, while others made gestures at him, but he cared least. He was already used to getting much attention from females.

     Notwithstanding his good outer looks, Eric also had a good heart, contrary to the rumours heard about him.

    He had this friendly aura that spoke harmless about him, but his skills and strategies on the battle field scared people away. He killed readily, without remorse.

     With every step he took, more thoughts filled hos mind. He was not worried, he thought. He was nervous and it seemed quite strange to him. He felt as though something peculiar was about to be unveiled.

        "Eric!!, Someone called stirring him up from his many thoughts. He turned to see who it was. As figure approached him, but its face was hidden in the sun. Eric used his hands to cover eyes slightly from the rays of the sun and as the figure drew closer, he was excited to see who it was.

      "Rodrigo!!!", He shouted in excitement and embraced him tightly. He had been worried sick over the safety of his friend ever since he went spying on Eledeen, their opponent kingdom.

      "You fool! What took you so long", he kicked him with a frown, but it didn't reach his eyes and soon it faded. Rodrigo jerked.

       "I bet there were too many pretty maidens to resist", he joked and they both laughed. "You need to try one soon Eric".

       "Well they'll be more than just one to try", Eric glanced around to make sure no one was near. " By the time we take over Eledeen", he grinned. Rodrigo shook his head I'm amusement. His friend was obviously a  clown.

      "It's been three months, Eric continued. "Any news?". Rodrigo nodded.

        " The kingdom is prepared, they plan on attacking first, so we have to hurry as soon as possible. We can't risk them entering Jangua. Also, they plan on playing a fast one on you", Rodrigo said.

       "How?, Eric raised a brow, yet still has that smile on his face.

       "They plan on using some slaves, but how they intend to, that which I don't know".

       "Some slaves?, Eric was confused. "Which slaves would be willing to help their captors?". He was obviously amused as he laughed. "That's incredible of them!".

      "It's no joke Eric, those people are bound on taking over Jangua", Rodrigo said with concern written all over his face. Eric chuckled.

     "That won't happen my friend", he said placing a hand on Rodrigo's shoulder with a reassuring smile.

    Rodrigo's eyes twitched; this was a matter of life and death and here was Eric, who happened to be their prince, undistracted. He felt stupid, he had been trying to make Eric see the danger ahead, but as usual, he always kept that smile, that which could melt one's heart and at the same time, stir up anger inside of another.

       "Any more news?', Eric asked as he began strolling with Rodrigo.

        "I'm not sure, but I think Eledeen is joining forces with Posari kingdom", Rodrigo said. Eric stopped abruptly and turned to Rodrigo. This time, the smile was gone and he clenched his fists. "This is going to be a really tough one", he thought.