Disguised in plain civilian clothes, I walked alongside eight palace guards, cleverly disguised as companions rather than their usual guard attire. Apparently it is not safe for the king out here and I could see why. The people are suffering. Majority of them looked frail and weak, they looked desperate. Most of the stalls of the market are practically empty and many more abandoned. The kingdom is more than in shambles; it is in utter ruins,and most of the kingdom's officials have either switched allegiance or just completely abandoned the kingdom. I don't particularly blame them, the kingdom truly do look hopeless. Most of its lands are infertile for agriculture, the fertile ones have already been sold or taken over from. I thought I could take advantage of introducing soap in this era, to inject some coins into the kingdom, but apparently they already have soaps. I'm a high school drop out who managed to survive as a low level drug dealer, I may not know much about anything but the few I know could be very helpful. I already have an idea or two about industries to introduce. Simple things that could make huge amount of money, at least in the short term, enough to get the kingdom's economy back and running, but that's only possible if I'm not dead.
"Let's head back"
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The morning sun shone weakly upon the capital square of Drakoria, casting a somber light on the thousands of soldiers who gathered there, their armor worn and spirits low. Among them, a few frail citizens stood by the side, curious yet fearful of the proceedings. The kingdom had seen better days, but now it stood on the brink of collapse.
The square itself, once a bustling hub of activity, now seemed desolate and forlorn. Cracks marred the once pristine stone ground, and faded banners fluttered in the gentle breeze, a stark contrast to the grandeur it once boasted. The stalls that used to line the square were mostly empty, their owners having given up hope of making a living. The few citizens who dared to come out of their homes appeared weak and desperate, struggling to eke out a living in a failing kingdom.
As the soldiers gathered, there was an air of tension and uncertainty among them. They whispered to each other, speculating on the reason for this unexpected summons from the king. The King's inability to lead is well known and many, without a doubt are certain of him been incapable of saving the kingdom from its impending doom.
One soldier, filled with a mix of fear and frustration, voiced his discontent with the current state of affairs. "Maybe he is finally dissolving the kingdom and going under the leadership of Cremia," he said, his voice bitter with resentment.
"At this point I don't even mind" replied another, his tone weary. "It's a surprise he is still alive."
The air fell silent as the young soldier who spoke felt a pang of fear, worried that his reckless words might have reached the wrong ears. He anxiously looked around until his gaze met the distant king's balcony, where the king had appeared, and a sense of relief washed over him.
The balcony, once a symbol of authority and power, now bore signs of neglect and decay. Its once-gleaming marble was stained, and the intricate carvings were chipped and fading. The young king stood there, a mere shadow of the regal figure his father had been.
"Greetings" the King began, his words coming out different than they were used to. "It is no surprise that we are in a dire situation. Our country has been going through dark times, our market stalls stand empty, our children hungry and the parents helpless to fate. As your king I failed you. I will admit that. I deserve whatsoever animosity you may bear towards me, and I won't blame you for it but our kingdom deserves a second chance, the people of Drakoria deserves a second chance and I promise to make that happen."
His words hung heavy in the air, met with disbelief and skepticism from the soldiers, who exchanged doubtful, and even more confused glances.
"...of course I can't do that without you but I won't enslave you to your duty. As we speak, arrangements are being made to clear my debt to you. Every dime you are owed will be paid, and you are permitted to leave the kingdom's army if you so choose, with no harm done to you. You won't be allowed to rejoin later on, but you will face no punishment and will be allowed the freedom of a free citizen of Drakoria."
The soldiers, taken aback by the unexpected offer looked at each other again, unsure of how to react.
"Drakoria needs soldiers who will hold swords for her sake, not for the amount they could be paid. You have till nightfall to decide because by tommorow those who remain will be off to mission of great importance. There are jobs to be done. Dismiss."
As the soldiers dispersed, the capital square buzzed with uncertainty and apprehension. Some soldiers departed, their minds filled with the king's offer and the opportunity to escape this decaying kingdom. Others remained, loyal yet disheartened, uncertain of what the future held for them and their homeland.
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"That was a careless thing to do, my king," a voice said, and I turned to see the head of the palace guards, the royal knights, approaching. The knight stood tall in cool armor of silver and streaks of gold, with an intimidating cape of blood red
"It is necessary" I replied, my gaze following the soldiers as they left the square.
"The kingdom can't afford to lose any soldier, your majesty," the knight insisted.
Of course I understand where he is coming from, but my survival comes first. I can't afford to keep disgruntled soldiers, I risk a revolution or a coup. Doesn't mean I'm in the clear yet with the few that might stay but at least it will buy me time. Enough to show them what I'm worth. Hopefully.
"How many do you think we will lose?"
"...half, if I'm being too optimistic."
"That would do."
"We can't protect the kingdom with half of our forces" he said, trying but failing to keep disappointment out of his tone.
"We don't need to protect the kingdom right now" I said. "Just the capital"
Confusion clouded the knight's face as he asked, "...What are you planning?"
"Patience" I said, "it is almost time."