Tale of Vanguard

The king's announcement about the ascension and the challenge has probably set the kingdom abuzz with speculation. As the news spreads like wildfire, it's safe to assume that the neighboring kingdoms would probably knew of it sooner or later.

In the empty hallway of the castle, Kaelen was feeling the oppressive heat from his concealed robe, he lets out a sigh of relief as he finally removes it. The robe itself had been a necessary precaution to keep his identity hidden, especially since Serephira herself feared that one of her siblings might recognize him and view him with suspicion or even hostility. Even though Kaelen understands her concerns for him, he was somewhat frustrated by the need to keep his face hidden. After all, he had already committed to protecting Serephira and supporting her, regardless of the inconvenience.

As he sits there, he reflects about the challenge that has been posed by the king. The prospect of making a groundbreaking discovery that could advance one's claim to the throne is both thrilling and daunting. Kaelen knew that this will spark intense competition among the royal siblings, as each of them will likely go to great lengths to secure their position.

Serephira's footsteps echo softly in the deserted hallway as she approaches him. She was the one who ask Kaelen to meet her here, as this specific part of the castle was highly unlikely to be visited. She stops a few paces away from him.

Noticing her arrival, Kaelen shifts his gaze from the empty corridor to her and breaks the silence.

"What a day, huh?"

Serephira lets out a heavy sigh as her shoulders were sagging slightly.

"I never would have thought that my father would announce the Ascension this early. The fact that he's made me and my siblings contest for it, is... unexpected. I knew he wanted us to prove ourselves, but I thought we'd have more time before something like this came up."

Serephira's expression darkens as she reflects on the announcement.

 "This is really bad..."

"How so?"

Trying to collect her thoughts, Serephira takes a deep breath.

"I've mentioned the positions and the roles of my siblings before, right?"

Kaelen nodded to her. She then continues:

"Well, behind their great achievements and accolades, there's often a hidden agenda. You see, the stakes are higher than just proving who is the most capable or deserving of the throne. for instant... my eldest brother, do you remember him?"

Kaelen brow furrows.

"Caen Aurion right? Captain of the royal knights."

"Yes, Caen's motivations are not just about honor or duty. If he were to ascend the throne, his ambition would likely lead to more conflict and warfare. He has always been driven by the desire to expand our territories and secure our kingdom through military means."

So basically, if the eldest prince ascends to the throne, his ambition could destabilize the kingdom and lead to unnecessary conflicts.

"Then there's Prince Rylan, the plenipotentiary."

"The diplomat? What about him?"

Serephira's expression tighten

"Rylan is known for his diplomatic achievements and his ability to manage relations with other kingdoms. On the surface, he seems like the ideal choice for the throne because of his experience in negotiation and diplomacy. But there's a darker side to his ambitions."

Kaelen listens intenly as Serephira elaborates.

"His primary motive is to consolidate power by manipulating alliances and treaties to his advantage. He's adept at turning situations to his favor and controlling others through his diplomatic prowess. If he were to ascend the throne, his approach would be to secure our kingdom through covert maneuvers and political manipulation."

In Rylan's case, it appears that he is not interested in genuine progress or the welfare of the kingdom. Instead, he's focused on expanding his own influence, often at the expense of its alliances. His strategies might lead to political instability and the erosion of trust with the neighboring kingdoms.

Serephira takes a deep breath with a troubled expression showing on her face.

"And then there's the first princess, Drisana."

"The renowned scholar and mage, right?"

Serephira nodded to him.

"She is indeed a brilliant scholar and a powerful mage. Her accomplishments in magic and her contributions to the kingdom's knowledge are impressive. However, her ambitions are not as benevolent as they might seem."

Serephira pauses, as she was searching for the right words.

"Drisana's primary goal is to unlock and harness the most potent magical forces for her own ends. While her knowledge and abilities could potentially benefit the kingdom, her approach is more self-serving. She's obsessed with acquiring and controlling ancient and forbidden magic, often at great risk."

Drisana's ultimate aim was to gain dominion over the magical forces she studies. She was driven by a desire to wield power that could reshape the kingdom according to her vision. Her pursuit of forbidden magic could lead to catastrophic consequences.

Then, Kaelen's mind wanders to Seraphina, until he eventually chuckles to himself.

'No way would someone like her be interested in the Ascension.'

As he turns his attention back to the matter at hand, Kaelen considers the final sibling.

"What about Prince Raul? He also seemed to be the closest to you and Seraphina."

Serephira's expression softens slightly at the mention of his name.

"He's a complex one. Despite being close to us, he probably has zero interest in the Ascension, even though he has the highest chance of winning this challenge."

For the second prince, his thrill of discovery and his pursuit of knowledge outweigh any ambitions of ruling the kingdom. His disinterest in the Ascension is more about his preference for intellectual challenges rather than political power."

Kaelen sighed as he glanced at the ceiling above.

'What is up with this fucked up family?'

He considered himself lucky for now as he thought to himself:

'At least I met Serephira instead.'

As Kaelen and Serephira continue their conversation, a sudden presence catches them off guard. From the corner of the hallway, King Cedric steps into view.

"Mind if i join?" 

He inquired them with his voice that carried a hint of curiosity and warmth.

Both Kaelen and Serephira are taken aback. Instinctively, they drop to one knee and bow their heads as a sign of reverence for the king. Serephira addresses him with a tone of respect. 

"Your Majesty."

King Cedric's expression softens, and he offers a warm smile as he observes them.

"Please, stand up and remove the formality. There's no need for such strict adherence to protocol in a private conversation."

Serephira and Kaelen rise to their feet, they were slightly relieved but still surprised by the king's unexpected appearance.

The king turns his attention to Serephira. 

"I've just met Seraphina. She seemed to be doing well. How are you yourself, Serephira?"

Feeling more at ease, Serephira replied to him with a warm smile.

 "I'm doing very well, Father, thank you. I appreciate your concern."

"I'm glad to hear that. It's important to me that you and your siblings are all doing well."

King Cedric's gaze shifts to Kaelen, who is standing behind Serephira. With a curious look, he inquires him.

 "And who might you be, young man?"

Kaelen, unsure of the proper protocol, offers an awkward but respectful bow.

"It's nice to meet you, Your Majesty. My name is Kaelen, and I have the honor to be chosen as your daughter's vanguard."

The king's eyes widen slightly in surprise. He turns to Serephira with a look of genuine interest and pride.

"It seems you've grown up and made some important choices of your own, Serephira. I wish you the best of luck with this challenge."

As King Cedric prepares to take his leave, he pauses and looks back at Kaelen.

"Oh, and Kaelen?"

Kaelen straightens his back and responds attentively.

"Yes, Your Majesty?"

The king offers a thoughtful smile, noting Kaelen's position.

"A vanguard must always be by the princess's side, or even in front of her, not behind. Remember this: the role of a vanguard is both an honor and a significant duty."

He then took one last look at the both of them before continuing:

"I'll leave my daughter in your care."

Hearing her father's word, Serephira blinked in surprise as she misinterpreted his meaning. Her cheeks flushed slightly, though she quickly tried to compose herself, she glanced away to hide her reaction.

Unaware of her thoughts or the subtle blush creeping up her face, Kaelen responded confidently to the king.

"Yes, Your Majesty, you can count on me."

King Cedric gave a satisfied nod before walking away, leaving Serephira silently fidgeting while Kaelen remained oblivious to the moment.