"Yes," Kaelio nodded, acknowledging the connection. His fear was still evident, but there was a glimmer of something else in his eyes – a hint of hope and opportunity.
Riz observed Kael, sensing there was more to his story than initially met the eye. "Why are you here, Kaelio?" Riz inquired, using the young man's full name.
ραΠdαsΝοvεl.cοm Kaelio took a deep breath, gathering his thoughts before responding politely. Perhaps the kick from Riz had humbled him down. "I am the son of the emperor's favourite concubine," he began.
"Being close to the emperor, I was sent to the war front by my father to gain experience and increase my worth. However, going to battlefield as a prince would expose me as a target for political enemies who sought to eliminate any potential threats to the throne. And as you can see, I had to conceal my identity to reduce the risk of assassination attempts."
Riz listened intently, now understanding the reason the imperial prince was among the captives. He knew the complexities of royalty and the struggles of having to navigate treacherous political waters since Riz was in a similar situation a few years ago.
"I see," Riz said, his voice measured and thoughtful. "Anyway, you're still going to prison."
Kaelio's eyes widened in disbelief, his voice trembling as he stammered, "W-What?"
Riz remained firm, his expression unwavering. "Do you think I'll let you go or give you special treatment simply because of your identity?" he snorted.
"No, not a chance. You may be the son of the emperor's favourite concubine, but that does not exempt you from the consequences of your actions. You participated in this war, and you will face the same judgment as any other prisoner of war."
"But... but I am—" Kaelio protested, desperation creeping into his voice.
However, his protest was cut down by Riz, who raised a firm hand to silence him. "No buts! Soldiers, take him away," he commanded, his tone resolute.
The soldiers moved forward to take Kaelio and the rest of the prisoners away, their grip firm but not unkind.
Despite Kaelio's protests, there was little he could do to resist the orders.
Riz watched the scene unfold, his expression remaining stoic. After gathering his thought, he turned away from the scene and made his way back to the mansion.
....
Inside one of the living rooms in Ryntum mansion, Riz approached King Naharog, who had sought refuge in the city after the fall of Mezorin.
Surrounded by his advisors and courtiers who managed to escape, King Naharog greeted Riz with a warm smile.
"Riz, my friend," King Naharog said kindly to his saviour. "Please, do come in and have a seat. You came home earlier today. I assume there's not much work to do at the office."
King Nelson of Naharog had sought refuge in Ryntum's mansion since the day of his arrival in Bideford.
It had been some time now, and he couldn't help but notice the differences in life and society between Ryntum and his own kingdom.
In Bideford, the atmosphere was vibrant and bustling, with merchants trading their variety of goods in busy markets, and artisans showcasing their skills in quaint workshops.
The city was alive with a mix of elegant carriages and bustling pedestrians.
Unlike his kingdom, where strict social status and formality reigned supreme, Ryntum embraced a more progressive and lenient approach toward his citizens.
Here, ideas and innovation flourished, and individuals were encouraged to explore their talents and contribute to society.
Although some formalities remained, mainly when it comes to the royal family, it was still a stark contrast to the strict and hierarchical society of King Nelson's homeland. It was no wonder that his children rarely came home and instead preferred to stay in Ryntum.
"You're right, Nelson," Riz replied, taking a seat as he appreciated the chance to relax. "Things were relatively calm today, which allowed me to return earlier than usual. However, I'm here today to tell you about something."
Nelson's curiosity was piqued, and he leaned forward attentively. "What is it?" he asked, his tone eager to hear the news.
Riz glanced at the courtiers and advisors surrounding them, silently conveying that the matter he wished to discuss required privacy.
Nelson caught the meaning behind Riz's gaze and promptly ordered them to get out, leaving the two kings alone.
With the courtiers and advisors dismissed, Riz leaned forward slightly, his expression was calm as ever. "There have been significant developments in the ongoing conflict with Barlia," he began.
Nelson's eyes narrowed the moment he heard about the principality that has captured his capital, Mezorin. "Go on," he urged, his voice steady.
"After the fall of Mezorin, my army successfully recapture it back. Then, we manage to push Barlia back to the Eikadir region. Just now, I have received news that Ryntum managed to secure a victory in the city of Eikadir," Riz explained.
"Their forces have been defeated, and the city is now under our control. This last Barlian city marked the end of their campaign in Middle Jozia."
King Naharog's face lit up with genuine joy upon hearing the news of Barlia's defeat. A wide smile spread across his features, and his eyes sparkled with excitement and relief.
He couldn't contain his happiness. In his elation, King Naharog rose from his seat, a burst of energy surging through him.
He clapped his hands together, unable to suppress his excitement. "That's incredible news, Riz!" he exclaimed, his voice filled with genuine enthusiasm. "Well done! You and your army have achieved a remarkable victory!"
He couldn't help but pace back and forth, his regal robes billowing with each stride. "Finally, the threat of Barlia's invasion has been vanquished!" King Naharog continued, "I can finally return to my capital."
"Well, about that...not so fast," Riz interjected, his tone now serious and composed.
King Naharog's expression shifted from pure elation to a mix of surprise and concern as he sensed the change in Riz's demeanour. "What's wrong? Is there some sort of problem?" he inquired, trying to make sense of the sudden shift.
"It's time to talk about payment," Riz stated plainly, cutting to the heart of the matter.
Riz's tone and demeanour took on a more serious and assertive edge.
"P-Payment?" King Naharog repeated, trying to comprehend Riz's intentions. He was taken aback by the sudden change in the atmosphere and the mention of payment. "What do you mean?"
"I didn't offer my help out of good grace," Riz continued, his polite smile now tinged with a hint of insincerity that King Naharog couldn't ignore.
The atmosphere in the room grew tense as Riz's sharp gaze locked onto King Naharog's like a dagger.
King Naharog slowly sat down. A worried expression visible on his face, "W-what do you mean?" he stammered.
Riz remained composed as he continued to fix his sharp gaze on King Naharog, the tension in the room palpable. "All the manpower, weaponry, ammunition, food supplies, and others required money to procure," Riz explained firmly. "You can't possibly think I would write it off like that, right?"
King Naharog's expression shifted from happy to uncertain, "B-but, you said you're gonna help." he said, almost pleadingly.
"Because I know your army wouldn't stand a chance on your own. There are still new and hadn't fight much in war before," Riz replied.
King Naharog nodded solemnly, understanding the truth in Riz's words. "How much do you want?" he asked, acknowledging the debt that his kingdom owed to Ryntum for its crucial support.
Riz reached into his pocket and pulled out a carefully prepared document. He handed it to King Naharog, who took it with a sense of both curiosity and trepidation.
The paper was meticulously detailed, listing the various expenses incurred during the military campaign, including the costs of manpower, weaponry, provisions, and other necessary resources provided by Ryntum.
It was as if the receipt was prepared a long time ago.
As Nelson scanned the document, his eyes widened slightly at the substantial sum indicated.
It was a significant debt, one that would undoubtedly place a strain on his kingdom's treasury.
Nelson looked uneasy, realizing that Riz wasn't going to let this matter slide easily.
He hesitated before finally speaking, "This is quite a considerable amount! It will take time to pay this off. Our treasury is not as abundant as Ryntum's."
Riz leaned back in his chair, maintaining his piercing gaze. "I am well aware of your kingdom's circumstances," he said. "However, that doesn't change the fact that you owe a debt for the assistance you've received. I expect a fair payment in return for our help."
He continued, "I know it won't be easy and I don't expect an immediate payment," he said. "We can work out a repayment plan that suits your kingdom's capabilities. "
"I thank you for your understanding," Nelson replied with a sense of relief. "Rest assured, we will do everything in our power to pay this."
Riz smiled, relieved that Naharog was willing to cooperate. "I have faith in your commitment, Nelson," he said. "However, I'm not finished talking yet."
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