The prophecy of a blind heiress

In a Web

As Hartson carried Princess Hazel through the dense forest, the silence between them was palpable. The only sound was the rustling of leaves and the distant howling of wolves. Hartson's thoughts were consumed by his brother's plan, the one that had driven him to rescue the blind princess. His brother, Hendrick, had always been ambitious, and his latest scheme was the most audacious yet: to take over the kingdom of Arie.

Hartson had played his part perfectly, capturing the princess and spiriting her away to their kingdom, Anik. But as he gazed down at Princess Hazel's tranquil face, he couldn't shake the feeling that he had made a terrible mistake. She was innocent, unaware of the treacherous game she had been dragged into.

As they emerged from the forest, the imposing castle of Anik loomed before them. Hartson's heart swelled with a mix of emotions: pride, loyalty, and a growing sense of unease. He knew that Hendrick's plan would stop at nothing, and that Princess Hazel was merely a pawn in their game of conquest.

As they approached the castle gates, Hartson's thoughts were interrupted by the sound of clanging steel and the murmur of voices. The castle was abuzz with activity, and Hartson knew that Hendrick would be waiting for him, eager to hear news of the princess's capture.

With a deep breath, Hartson steeled himself for what lay ahead. He carried Princess Hazel through the gates, into the heart of Anik, where Hendrick's ambition and cunning would stop at nothing to claim the throne of Arie.

As they entered the castle, Princess Hazel stirred in Hartson's arms, her blind eyes fluttering open. "Where are we?" she asked, her voice laced with confusion.

Hartson hesitated, unsure of how much to reveal. "We're in a safe place," he said finally, his voice soft. "You're protected now."

Princess Hazel's face relaxed, a small smile playing on her lips. "Thank you, Hartson," she whispered, her voice filled with gratitude.

Hartson's heart twisted with guilt, knowing that he had deceived her. But he pushed the feeling aside, focusing on the task at hand. He had to convince Hendrick that the princess was secure, and that their plan was on track.

As they made their way through the castle corridors, Hartson could feel Hendrick's eyes upon him, watching and waiting. He knew that his brother would not hesitate to use any means necessary to achieve his goal, and that Princess Hazel's fate hung precariously in the balance.

With a sense of foreboding, Hartson carried Princess Hazel to the throne room, where Hendrick awaited them, a triumphant smile spreading across his face. "Well done, Hartson," Hendrick said, his voice dripping with satisfaction. "You've brought us one step closer to claiming the throne of Arie."

Hartson's eyes locked onto Hendrick's, a spark of unease igniting within him. He knew that he had to tread carefully, to ensure that Princess Hazel did not become a casualty of their ambition. But as he gazed into Hendrick's ruthless eyes, he wondered if he had already gone too far.