Adventures in the Sacred Forest

Chapter 5: Pranks on the Road

The journey to Jaspen continued, and the prank wars between Almas and Creetan showed no signs of slowing down. Their mischievous spirits seemed to infect even their father, High Lord Gidon Aguerius, who found great amusement in their antics.

As they rode through quaint villages and picturesque countryside, the brothers seized every opportunity to outdo each other. Almas carefully placed a frog in Creetan's saddlebag, causing a comical commotion when Creetan discovered the unexpected visitor. In retaliation, Creetan managed to discreetly tie a fake spider to the back of Almas' saddle, resulting in a wild dance as Almas swatted at the imaginary arachnid.

Crusty, the loyal wolf cub, observed the ongoing pranks with curiosity and amusement, occasionally joining in the fun in his own unique way. He playfully nipped at Creetan's boots or hid Almas' belongings, adding a touch of furry mischief to the mix.

As they neared Jaspen, the anticipation grew. The brothers realized that their time for pranks was coming to an end as they approached the solemnity of the capital city. They reluctantly agreed to one final prank as a grand finale before their meeting with the King.

Late in the evening, they arrived at Jaspen, weary but exhilarated from their journey. They sought refuge in a cozy inn, their laughter echoing through the corridors as they settled into their rooms. Almas and Creetan exchanged mischievous glances, knowing this would be their last chance for a prank before the morning.

The inn had a large bath, a luxury they gladly indulged in, but little did they know the misadventure that awaited them.

As the two brothers entered the bath, their playful spirits took hold once again. The large space offered plenty of opportunities for splashing and mischief. Almas couldn't resist dunking Creetan under the water, and in retaliation, Creetan unleashed a cascade of water on Almas. Laughter filled the air as they playfully wrestled and made quite the mess of the bath area.

By the time they were finished, the bath resembled a wild sea, with water splashed across every surface and bubbles floating in the air. The innkeeper's eyes widened in shock as he surveyed the aftermath of their aquatic escapades. Almas and Creetan sheepishly gathered their belongings, apologizing profusely as they left the now-drenched bath area.

As he returned to his room and under the cover of darkness, Almas thought up a plan that involved Creetan's boots and a jar of harmless but smelly ink. With silent precision, he executed the prank, leaving Creetan's boots stained a vibrant shade of blue.

As he retired for the night, Almas couldn't help but chuckle at all the mischievous escapades. He knew that the following day would bring a different atmosphere, one of formality and respect in the presence of the King.

Almas woke up early, feeling a rush of adrenaline as he remembered that today was the day he would meet the King. He jumped out of bed and got dressed, eager to start the day.

He also remembered that today was the day he would see Creetan's reaction to his final prank.

He grinned as he recalled how he had snuck into Creetan's room last night and stained his boots with blue ink. He had been careful not to wake him up, and had left the boots in their usual spot, ready for Creetan to put them on in the morning.

He couldn't wait to see Creetan's face when he saw his boots.

He left his room and waited in the hallway, pretending to be casual. He heard Creetan's door open and saw him walk out, carrying his saddlebag and wearing his blue boots.

Almas felt a surge of satisfaction as he saw Creetan's expression. He looked shocked, angry, and embarrassed all at once. His blue boots contrasted sharply with his otherwise elegant outfit, making him look ridiculous.

Almas greeted him cheerfully, trying to act innocent.

"Good morning, brother," he said. "You look...blue."

Creetan glared at him, knowing that Almas was behind this prank.

"This is not funny, Almas. This is the worst prank you've ever pulled. How could you do this to me on such an important day?"

Almas shrugged, enjoying Creetan's discomfort.

"It's just a harmless joke, Creetan. Don't be so uptight. Besides, blue suits you. It brings out your eyes."

Creetan snorted, not falling for Almas' flattery.

"You know what else brings out my eyes? Rage. And you're about to see it if you don't apologize right now."

Almas shook his head, still smiling.

"I'm sorry, Creetan, but I can't do that. This is our last prank, remember? We agreed to go out with a bang. And I think I've achieved that."

Creetan opened his mouth to argue, but was interrupted by their father's voice.

"Boys, are you ready? We have to leave soon."

They turned to see High Lord Gidon Aguerius walking towards them, dressed in his finest clothes and looking dignified and regal.

He stopped in front of them and scanned them with a critical eye.

"You both look very handsome," he said approvingly. "But Creetan...what's with the blue boots?"

Almas felt a surge of amusement as he saw his father's expression change from pride to confusion.

He quickly came up with a lie to cover for Creetan.

"He likes them, father," he said innocently. "He thinks they make him stand out."

High Lord Gidon raised an eyebrow, not buying Almas' explanation.

"Is that so?" he asked Creetan.

Creetan hesitated, not wanting to admit that he had been pranked by his brother.

He looked at Almas, hoping for some mercy or sympathy.

But all he saw was a wicked gleam in his brother's eyes.

He sighed and nodded reluctantly.

"Yes, father," he lied. "I like them."

High Lord Gidon shrugged and smiled.

"Well, then, I suppose they do make you stand out," he said kindly. "But I hope you don't mind if I stand a little further away from you when we meet the King."

He chuckled and patted Creetan on the shoulder.

"Come on, boys," he said warmly. "Let's go."

He led them towards the palace, leaving Almas feeling triumphant and proud.

He had pulled off the best prank ever, and had made Creetan wear blue boots in front of the King.

He hoped that the King would have a sense of humor.

Or at least poor taste.