Kael felt nervous as he walked beside King Ignacius, who had personally offered to escort him to Prince Hecarim's chambers.
They walked through the palace, passing by halls and rooms that dazzled Kael with their splendor and beauty. He saw paintings and sculptures, mirrors and chandeliers, gold and marble. He saw people in fine clothes and jewels, bowing and curtsying to the king. He felt out of place in his simple tunic and cloak, but he tried to act confident and respectful
They reached a staircase that led to the upper floor, where the royal family's chambers were located. As they climbed the stairs, Kael heard a voice behind them.
"Father, wait for me!"
Kael turned and saw a young woman running towards them. She had long blonde hair that cascaded over her shoulders, blue eyes that sparkled with mischief, and a smile that lit up her face. She wore a dress of green silk that matched her eyes, and a necklace of pearls that adorned her neck. She was Princess Guinivere, the king's only daughter.
She reached them and hugged the king, who smiled warmly at her.
Kael glanced at her as they walked, and caught her eye.
She looked at him with interest and then smiled.
"Hello," she said. "Who are you?"
Kael felt his face heat up.
"Uh... hello," he said. "I'm Kael."
"Kael? What a nice name. Not very common. In fact I've never heard if it. Where are you from?"
She was interrupted by the king.
"Guiniviere, stop interrogating him," he said sternly. "He's here on my invitation. He's going to meet your brother."
"My brother? Why?"
The king smiled. "He's going to restore your brother's arm."
"That I would like to see."
"You'll see soon enough."
They reached the end of the corridor, where a door with a phoenix emblem stood.
The king opened the door and entered.
Kael followed him nervously.
Princess Guiniviere followed him eagerly.
Entering the prince's room, they found him staring blankly at the ceiling, his face a mask of indifference. King Ignacius spoke with a mixture of hope and desperation. "My son, this healer possesses the power to restore your arm," he announced, his voice filled with anticipation.
The prince scoffed, his voice heavy with bitterness. "Another grifter seeking to profit from my misfortune," he retorted, his words laced with pride and self-pity. "This is the gods' punishment for my arrogance and pride."
Kael's eyes met the prince's, reflecting a depth of understanding and empathy. "You have paid enough of a price," he declared, his voice firm yet compassionate. Moving closer, he uttered his incantation, channeling his healing powers. A surge of energy enveloped the prince's arm, and in an instant, it was restored, his limb whole once more.
The prince sobbed loudly, his tears wetting Kael's shoulder. He hugged him close and said, "I'm sorry, Kael. I'm sorry for everything. You saved my life, and from now on, you're my friend. I promise I'll change. I promise I'll be a better person. I promise I'll be kind to everyone." King Ignacius smiled with joy.
The king's voice echoed through the room, loud and clear. "Today is a glorious day, for my son has been healed by the grace of the gods and the skill of this brave healer. Let us celebrate this miracle with a grand feast in his honor. In a few days, I will throw a grand feast in the banquet hall, let us rejoice together!"
Kael bowed his head and said, "Your Majesty, I thank you for your kindness, but I don't deserve such praise. I only did what I had to do. All I need is a Royal pardon for me and my friends and I will be on my way."
Princess Guinevere grabbed his arm. "No, you can't go. You have to stay," she said. When she noticed the King staring at her with curiosity, she released him and tried to deflect. "You need to enjoy yourself and have some fun."
The king looked at his daughter then back at Kael and smiled. "Forgive my daughter's manners. She usually stays in her room and doesn't talk to outsiders. I will grant you a full pardon during the feast, to show you how much we appreciate your service."
Kael sighed and said, "All right, I accept." King Ignacius clapped his hands with a smile and Princess Guinevere sighed in relief.