Behind the Royal Mask

Cedric and Elara

"What do you think about the Kings of Eastern Lands?" Alaric asked Duke Rowan, who was sitting across the table. Duke Rowan used to be Alaric's father's close friend and confidant, and had proved his loyalty in various battles. He was one of the few who had supported Alaric's visions regarding the kingdom and thus, Alaric believed him to be trustworthy.

"The Kings of Eastern Lands..." Duke Rowan began, his voice measured. "They are quite different than our own kingdoms. Though they too often form alliances to strengthen themselves, they aren't bound by any pacts."

"From what I have heard," He continued, swirling the wine in his goblet. "They are relatively peaceful though there have been some fierce battles some years ago. They have been known for maintaining stability within their lands by committing to the welfare of the citizens."

"So can they be trusted?" Alaric asked, eyeing the letters that laid on his table.

Duke Rowan paused, considering the question thoughtfully. "Trust is a delicate subject, Your Highness. They are men of honor. If they have sent you letters of prospective alliance, it must mean that they see strength and purpose in you. I believe we should consider these all alliances but there is the..."

"Pact of the Four Kingdoms," Alaric completed, nodding grimly.

"It is not going to be easy to get out of the Pact without support of the nobles. And even if we do, there is no guarantee that other three kingdoms won't declare war on us, seeing us as a threat," Duke Rowan stated. 

"But we will have to withdraw ourselves from the pact. As long as we're tied to it, my hands will remain tied as well," Alaric said. 

"Caelon's influence is increasing," Rowan eyed him carefully, thinking if he was aware of its consequences.

Alaric's jaw tightened. "I know. I am looking into it... I hope the situation doesn't escalate."

"That's what I hope too," Duke Rowan said quietly. "But if it does, my house will support you, Your Highness."

"I am grateful for that," Alaric replied, his voice soft but filled with genuine appreciation. "Your loyalty means more than you know, Duke Rowan."

"I shall look into other possible alliances, Your Highness," Duke Rowan said, getting up. "If we do get out of the Pact, we will need help to stand on our own feet once again, without relying on other kingdoms for basic necessities.

"I will begin reaching out to those who may be swayed to our side. But it's not just about alliances; we'll need to secure resources. Food, military supplies, and trade routes—without them, we'll be sitting ducks."

"You're right," Alaric agreed. "I shall start making arrangements as well. But we will have to do it quietly."

***

Cedric walked down the long, polished hallway, his boots clicking sharply against the stone floor. A young knight named Kellen, was trailing behind him, speaking about the recent training drills.

As they passed the hall leading to the library, Cedric's eyes flicked over to the figure exiting, and he recognized her immediately—Elara. She was carrying a stack of books, her brow furrowed in concentration as she carefully adjusted the load in her arms.

Kellen, noticing Cedric's gaze, grinned slightly. "You know, a lot of the knights have been talking about her lately," he remarked casually.

Cedric raised an eyebrow, his expression unreadable. "Talking about who?"