Rebirth of a dragon

The wagon's wheels dug into the dusty road, each turn marking the distance between Kamarani and everything familiar to him. The sun rose higher in the sky, roasting the land with a heat that shimmered off the dry fields beside the path. The only sounds breaking the silence were the rhythmic creak of the wagon and the steady thud of hooves, a sharp contrast to the noisy life at the palace that Kamarani had left behind. 

He sat stiffly on the wooden bench, feeling the rough fabric of his plain tunic rub against his skin. The enchanted bangle on his wrist felt like a hot brand, constantly reminding him of his uncle's treachery and how it stifled his natural gifts.He nothing but a warrior stripped of his weapons, he felt like a king without a crown. But deep down, beneath his forced composure, a fire burned within him. He would survive all of this, he will wait for his time, and come back stronger. 

The small procession had three wagons, one was filled with supplies, another carrying the maidservants and important staff, and the last for Kamarani and Jarek, who sat across from him with his hand resting on the pommel of his sword, his own abilities where limited to speed and wind but compared to Kamarani's lack of, they would come in quite handy.

Jarek had served Kamarani faithfully for so many years and had chose to go into exile with him despite having family and duties back in the capital. Kamarani felt thankful for Jarek's steadfast loyalty, it brought a tiny spark of warmth to his cold heart. 

Ten guards rode alongside the wagons, their expressions serious and watchful. They were experienced veterans chosen by Shekel because they understood Kamarani's worth. They knew that if anything happened to him, they could lose their lives as well as those of their families. 

"We should arrive at the Hallowed Woods by nightfall, my Lord," Jarek said in a deep voice. "We'll set up camp there and leave by sunrise." 

Kamarani nodded, his eyes locked on the horizon. The Hallowed Woods were famous for their thick trees and tricky paths, making them a hideout for bandits and outlaws. He felt a wave of unease, sensing that something was about to occur. 

As the sun began to lower, coloring the sky with shades of orange and purple, the group entered a tight passage surrounded by tall cliffs. The air became still and heavy, broken only by the sound of the horses' hooves. 

Suddenly, a horn sounded loudly, interrupting the calm. Arrows fell from the cliffs, hitting the ground around the wagons and thudding against their wooden sides. Chaos broke out. 

"Ambush!" Jarek shouted as he drew his sword. "Protect the wagons!" 

The guards quickly sprang into action, creating a protective circle around the vehicles. They lifted their shields to block the arrows while drawing their own weapons. The air filled with clashing steel and shouts from men. 

Kamarani's heart raced as he ducked down in the wagon, hiding behind its sturdy frame. He had to stay hidden. He couldn't risk showing off his fighting skills or revealing that he still had some of his abilities left, especially with his uncle's spy likely watching him closely. 

Jarek held his ground like a storm of blades and anger. He dodged attacks with his sword, moving fast and skillfully. He was an impressive fighter, but there were too many bandits coming at them relentlessly. 

From his position, Kamarani watched as the bandits came down from the cliffs. Their faces were hidden by masks, and their eyes showed a cold determination. They wore mismatched armor and carried a variety of weapons including swords, axes, and daggers. What impressed Kamarani the most was their skill. They weren't just common thieves; they moved with a teamwork that indicated military training. 

The fighting grew fiercer. Even though the guards were outnumbered, they fought bravely, using their shields and swords to block the bandits' attacks. However, the assault was unyielding, and one by one, the guards began to fall. 

The maids and other staff screamed in fear from the second wagon, their cries adding to the noise of battle. Kamarani felt a wave of guilt wash over him. He was responsible for putting them in danger. He was the one who had been banished, and now innocent people were suffering because of it. 

In the midst of the chaos, three bandits broke away from the main group and headed toward Kamarani's wagon. They moved with a predatory grace, their eyes locked on their target. 

"Damn it," Jarek muttered as he took down one of the bandits trying to sneak up on him. He looked back at the wagon, worry written all over his face. "Stay down, my Lord! I'll take care of this." 

Jarek charged at the approaching bandits, his sword moving quickly through the air. He faced them directly, using his strength and skill to keep them away from the wagon. But he was outnumbered and tired, while the bandits kept coming at him relentlessly. 

One bandit pretended to move left before delivering a quick right hook that caught Jarek off guard. The blow hit him on his temple and made him stagger. The other two bandits took advantage of this moment and lunged forward with their swords drawn. 

Jarek succeeded in blocking one attack, but the other blade hit him, cutting his arm. He grunted in pain and felt his grip on the sword loosen. 

Kamarani watched in fear as Jarek fought hard against the three bandits. He realized he needed to act, but he felt trapped, unable to move. He couldn't risk revealing himself or his hidden abilities; he just felt… powerless. 

While Jarek struggled, one of the bandits spotted an opening. He briefly stepped away from the fight and swung the blunt end of his sword, hitting Kamarani on the head. 

A sharp pain shot through Kamarani's skull, and everything around him spun wildly. He reached up to feel the painful wound, noticing his fingers were sticky with blood. Then, darkness engulfed him completely.