**WARNING!** Heavy use of language and violence is present. Some scenes may not be suitable for younger readers.
This book, "Regal Rift," is a work of fiction. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, or actual events is purely coincidenta...
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Prince Lyxander and his father, King Eirian, embarked on a journey to the Eldorian Kingdom.
The sun was just beginning to rise, casting a warm glow on the procession of soldiers and carriages making their way through the dense forests and rolling hills.
Among the escort was the newly chosen Royal Warrior, Rhys Shaw, his presence adding a sense of both security and mystery to the group.
As they traveled, Lyxander rode alongside his father, engaged in light conversation about the upcoming diplomatic mission.
Rhys, riding slightly behind the royal carriage, maintained his stoic demeanor, his eyes scanning the surroundings with a watchful intensity.
After days of travel, they finally approached the grand castle of the Eldorian Kingdom.
Its towering spires and majestic walls stood proudly against the sky, a testament to its rich history and strength.
The gates opened wide as the royal entourage arrived, and a wave of servants and attendants streamed out to greet them.
"Welcome, Your Majesty," the head steward bowed deeply, his voice filled with respect.
"Welcome, Prince Lyxander. We have prepared everything for your comfort."
King Eirian nodded, stepping out of the carriage with a regal grace.
"Thank you for your hospitality," he said, his golden eyes surveying the scene with approval.
Prince Lyxander followed, feeling a mix of excitement and solemnity. As he stepped onto the cobblestone path, he turned to see Rhys dismounting his horse, his expression unreadable.
The servants quickly led them inside, where the warm, inviting interiors of the castle contrasted sharply with the cool air outside.
The walls were adorned with rich tapestries, and the scent of freshly prepared food wafted through the air.
As they settled into their quarters, King Eirian turned to Rhys.
"You've proven yourself a valuable asset, Rhys. Your presence here is reassuring."
Rhys bowed slightly. "It is an honor to serve you, Your Majesty."
As night fell, the castle buzzed with activity, preparing for the formal banquet to welcome their esteemed guests.
Prince Lyxander took in the grandeur of the castle, ready to engage in the diplomatic discussions and festivities that awaited them.
After the day's formalities and the initial welcome at the Eldorian Kingdom's castle, King Eirian requested a private meeting with Rhys.
The request was delivered with an air of urgency, hinting at the importance of the conversation.
Rhys agreed without hesitation, understanding that such meetings were part of his duties as a Royal Warrior.
He followed the king through the grand hallways of the castle, their footsteps echoing against the stone floors, until they reached the royal office.
The room was adorned with rich tapestries and shelves filled with ancient tomes, a testament to the kingdom's long and storied history.
King Eirian closed the door behind them, motioning for Rhys to take a seat. However, Rhys remained standing, his posture firm and respectful.
"Rhys," the king began, his voice steady and authoritative.
"I wanted to speak with you privately to commend your exceptional swordsmanship. Your performance during the Eldorian Match was nothing short of extraordinary, and we are grateful to have you here in our service."
Rhys listened silently, his face impassive. He acknowledged the king's praise with a dry smile, his expression revealing little of his thoughts.
"Thank you, Your Majesty," he replied.
The king nodded, appreciating Rhys's reserved demeanor.
"As a Royal Warrior, you have a great responsibility. I am entrusting you with a duty of utmost importance: to be the personal guard of my son, Prince Lyxander.
" His safety is paramount, as he is the future of the Eldorian Kingdom. I need you to ensure that he is protected at all times, no matter the circumstances."
At the mention of Prince Lyxander being the future of the Eldorian Kingdom, a flicker of dismay crossed Rhys's face, gone as quickly as it appeared. His jaw tightened slightly, but he maintained his composure.
"I will obey your command, Your Majesty. Prince Lyxander's safety will be my highest priority."
King Eirian studied Rhys for a moment, sensing the determination and resolve in the young warrior.
"Good," he said finally.
"I have faith in your abilities. You have proven your skill and loyalty, and I trust you will continue to serve our kingdom well."
Rhys nodded once more, a gesture of acknowledgment and acceptance.
"I will not fail you, Your Majesty."
With that, the king dismissed him, and Rhys exited the royal office, his mind focused on the weight of his new responsibility.
As Rhys exited the royal office, a small, fleeting smile curled the corners of his lips.
It was a smile devoid of warmth, filled instead with a sense of calculated satisfaction. The realization that he had gained the king's trust so easily fueled his resolve.
The heavy wooden door closed behind him with a soft thud, and Rhys walked down the dimly lit corridor, his footsteps echoing softly against the stone floors.
He had succeeded in his first step: ingratiating himself with the king.
Now, he was not just another Royal Warrior; he was the personal guard of Prince Lyxander, a position that offered him unprecedented access and opportunities.
His mind raced as he navigated the castle hallways, each step bringing him closer to his ultimate goal.
The king's words were replayed in his mind, particularly the trust and responsibility that had been placed upon him. It was almost laughable how easily he had earned such trust.
As he passed through the grand halls and opulent rooms of the castle, his expression returned to its usual stoic mask, concealing the dark thoughts that churned beneath.
Rhys knew he had to play his part perfectly, biding his time and waiting for the right moment to strike.
The smile reappeared briefly as he thought about the irony of it all. The very man who had given him this position, who believed in his loyalty, was the same man Rhys held a deep-seated vendetta against.
King Eirian had unknowingly placed a viper in his midst, and Rhys was determined to make him feel the sting.
Rhys thought that he had gained the king's trust too easily, a thought that only solidified his confidence in his plan.
He continued down the corridor, his smile fading back into a neutral expression as he prepared to face the rest of the castle, each step bringing him closer to the revenge he had long sought.
