Cenij

THE WAR

By the ocean's edge, I stood, trailing my fingers through the bioluminescent waves, accompanied by Beatrix at my side, urging, "Let's head back."

"Just sit, Beatrix, look at the beautiful scene, and let's just wait until the sun rises."

"However, you're aware I'm not permitted to stay out late at night, and Dad could show up looking for us at any moment. Why don't we head back on our own?"

In a soothing tone, "Shh, let it be..."I whispered, just as the flashlight revealed us, accompanied by the hooves of horses and Charles's desperate cry, "Ezra, get back here with Beatrix!"

Guiding the boat back, we sailed towards the coast where Charles awaited us with our horses, ready to take us back. Just as we got back, Charles breathed a sigh of relief, expressing his concern, "Don't leave at midnight without informing. I've told you many times; it worries me."

Extending my hand to Beatrix, I led her to the horse. Once she was settled, I mounted my own horse, and together, we made our way back to the palace. She went to her room while Charles took me to the library for a conversation...

"The moment you went out, the people of Marcus came to the palace, issuing threats to compel everyone within to abandon the kingdom, warning of dire consequences if they refused. "We must take action, Ezra. They've been silent for too long, but now they're attempting to seize control of the kingdoms of Abrigenta and Zetzia as well."

"Of course, this day wasn't far. I knew they would take such action, and now it's time. Charles, inform everyone to assemble at the arena; I have an announcement to make."

"What's the announcement?"

"You'll find out tomorrow."

The next day, as everyone gathered at the arena, Charles took to the platform and announced, "The king is here." A hush fell over the crowd, an awkward silence prevailing as all eyes turned to me, anticipation hanging in the air with no inkling of what I was about to say. Clearing my throat, I declared, "I've learned that when I left the palace, the people of Marcus came and threatened all of you to vacate, or they would harm you. However, there's no need to worry. I've made a decision—we will not live under their threats. This is our kingdom, and we will defend it. Not only will we protect our kingdom, but we will also fight for the liberation of Linard and Kizelmet, which they have captured. These lands were ours, and they will be ours again."

The specter of war cast a pallor on everyone's faces, the formidable strength of the opposing team evoking fear. However, a glimmer of hope and happiness appeared in their expressions as they contemplated the prospect of life after the conflict—free from threats and the promise of a peaceful existence with our entire Cinej restored.

An hour later, another announcement resonated through the kingdom—a message urging everyone to prepare for the impending war. All servants were tasked with readying rifles, special swords, and cannons in preparation for the upcoming conflict.

A missive was conveyed to Marcus by King Ezra.

The letter

 NIJIN OFFICE, JUNE 22, 1623

DECLARATION OF WAR!!!

EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM ABRIGENTA, RECEIVED IN KIZELMET, DATED JUNE 22,1623.

"Faced with the threat of harm to our people, who are being forced to leave the kingdom, we have resolved to engage in war. This is in pursuit of reclaiming our captured territories, Kizelmet and Linard, and restoring the freedom that has been unjustly taken from us."