Love & Duty

Chapter 13

Following their Captain's orders, a group of men set out to Greenwind. In their previous 'missions' to Greenwind, it was just on the outskirts of the country. 

It was challenging to enter and cause trouble or be anywhere near suspicious after the King and Queen died. Anyone like that was suspected of being the murderer of their Majesties.

Now that things have settled and the older son has taken control, they can pass as mercenaries for hire or just everyday thieves or thugs. It was not wise to challenge the Prince, though; as long as they were not near him, things should be fine.

If Greenwind becomes a place they can't succeed in, like Whitestone, their Captain will really have their heads this time. Just the thought of it sends shivers down their spine. 

The members have become close to each other over time, seeing as they only have each other to stick with. Their Captain, although in some way, is correct that without him, they would be dead... But they would still be dead if they somehow slipped up or disappointed him.

Either way, their life is in danger.

Some joined because they had no choice; others chose this path to continue their evil deeds with a bigger group supporting them. Not knowing there is a rule, 'No one is to be saved. You get caught; that is your problem for being dumb and reckless.'

That is the first thing the Captain tells a new recruit. Plus, the merchandise is more valuable than your life. If he had to choose, he would kill you to save the merchandise.

Many newer and younger members realized that it would have been better to take a chance on life on their own than to join the Black Cobra, but it was a little too late.

Once you have the tattoo, the only way out is by death.

They get to the outskirts of Greenwind and plan out their route. The more places they find, the happier the Captain will be. They split up into teams of two and scattered to different areas and towns of Greenwind. 

"Remember, we are only observing this time. If you find something suitable, make sure to memorize the place and their description. Once the Captain approves, we will be sent back again for retrieval. Don't attract attention to yourself." the team leader reminds everyone, and they set out on their way.

~~~~~~

Meanwhile, back at the castle in Whitestone. "Get him cleaned up and dressed; bring him to the conference room when he's ready." Eric gives out the order to a soldier standing by.

"Huh? W-What are you planning?" Sam, the prisoner who agreed to share whatever information he had with the Prince, asks. 

"I'm rewarding you for your cooperation. But first, I need you to share your information properly. I'll be waiting for you."

"W-Wait! You're just going to leave me? How do you know I won't escape?" 

"Sam, you wouldn't have given me your name and compromised your identity if you were planning to betray me." he stops and looks at him with a smirk. "Plus, I'm sure you would enjoy a tour of the castle more than escaping." Eric leaves Sam speechless and confused about how he is being treated.

After an hour, Sam was brought to meet Eric outside the conference room. "Your Highness, he is ready." the soldier reports and shows off how Sam turned out.

Sam was standing there, with his short ginger hair slicked back and a clean face showing his amber-like eyes. Wearing a white blouse with a black vest on top of it, with black tight riding pants and brand new riding boots. Sam looked like a whole different person.