Jeim'Dal

CHAPTER 2 The Prince whose name is...

"ARTTTHHUUURR!" rang out a thunderous shout from an aged yet dashing knight on the open court's training grounds. "The boy has fled again! I cannot believe this—he is always like this!" the knight exclaimed in exasperation. "His father would surely have my head!" he thought nervously.

"In trouble once more, are we?" came a smooth voice from behind. A young and handsome prince, mounted on a steed, entered through the gates, his presence commanding attention."My Prince!" the old knight said, bowing deeply to the young noble. "It seems Arthur has run off again," Ser Gallane reported with a weary sigh.

Prince Luxian, approaches, addressed him with a knowing smile. "Arthur again, I see, Ser Gallane?" he inquired.

"Yes, my Prince," Ser Gallane answered, his tone tinged with resignation.

"He is not like you, Prince Luxian," said Ser Gallane with a sigh. "You are always eager to learn and quick-witted. I mean no offense to Prince Arthur, but he is quite the handful. I am growing older; perhaps it is time for me to retire. Yet, the Emperor's commands are clear, and I cannot fail in my duty."

Prince Luxian laughed heartily as he dismounted from his horse. "Oh, come now, Ser Gallane, you flatter me. Relax—you know well that you are the most sought-after knight in the realm! 'The Juggernaut' who crushes all his foes."

He gave Ser Gallane a reassuring smile. "But you and I both understand my brother. He merely seeks a bit of fun. Oh, gods help us with this young rascal," he added with a chuckle.

The sun flickered fiercely over the bustling streets, casting shimmering heatwaves on the busy market below. Despite it being only a few hours past sunrise, the thoroughfares were already teeming with commoners going about their daily tasks. In the midst of this lively scene, a hooded boy darted through the market, snatching up fruits and gobbling them as he ran, his pet dog trotting alongside him.

"OUT OF THE WAY!" he shouted, weaving skillfully through the crowd as the city knights pursued him.

"STOP THAT THIEF!" the knights bellowed, their armor clanging loudly as they raced after the nimble boy.

The hooded lad laughed merrily over his shoulder. "Catch me if you can, tin heads!" he taunted, his voice full of mischief.

"Come on, Brownies, after me!" he commanded, urging his loyal companion forward.

"Arf! Arrff!" barked Brownies, eagerly bounding alongside his master.

As the boy and his dog continued their daring escape, they nimbly dodged every city knight they encountered. With a series of impressive somersaults and agile climbs, the boy navigated through the city's obstacles, displaying extraordinary acrobatics and parkour skills. His movements left the knights flustered and crashing into one another, their frustration palpable.

"So long, tin heads! Here, boy!" he shouted triumphantly, waving mockingly at the disheveled knights before darting into the dark alleys. He twisted and turned through the narrow passageways with the precision of a master, until finally emerging into the chaotic expanse of Borde Mehar.