The training of royal successors occurs under the tutelage of the enigmatic Master Yoshihito Schneider, a legendary figure whose wisdom transcends generations. Despite his perpetually youthful appearance of 25, Master Yoshi, as he is affectionately called, has accumulated the wisdom of countless seasonal cycles. His imposing figure, standing at 1.86 meters tall, is adorned in traditional Japanese robes, white with gold details, which contrast with his long silver hair and piercing sky-blue eyes. It is said that he manipulates the positive energies that maintain the balance of the dimension itself, a subtle yet immense power.
For centuries, Master Yoshi has molded the minds of future rulers, instilling in them not only political and administrative knowledge but also a deep respect for the harmony of nature. His rigorous two-year training encompasses everything from intricate governance strategies to various martial arts and disciplines essential for the formation of a just and wise leader. He teaches the art of governing without disturbing the delicate balance of the natural world, a philosophy that resonates throughout all the kingdoms.
Endowed with magical power that defies human understanding, Master Yoshi inspires respect and, in some, a reverential awe. His word is law, his requests rarely questioned. To defy him is to invite fate to manifest in unpredictable and often devastating ways.
…
Aleph arrived at the knights' training ground, a wide-open field on the outskirts of the city. The knights present commented on his strength, but the conversation soon turned to another warrior, a legendary figure among them.
"No one here can defeat him," said one of the knights with admiration.
"It seems he's come to train today," commented another, looking towards the entrance of the field. "It's your chance, Aleph. Fight him and see what you're capable of."
"I want to see if this knight is truly strong," Aleph replied with a confident smile.
His excitement, however, turned to surprise when he saw who was approaching. It was Leticia, disguised in men's clothing, light armor protecting her chest, and a cap concealing her long hair. Aleph was impressed to discover she trained with these knights.
The leader of the knights made the introductions.
"Aleph, this is the most skilled knight in our division," he said, presenting Leticia. "Despite appearances, their strength is impressive."
Leticia addressed Aleph, her voice disguised in a deeper tone:
"I would like to test your skills, knight. Do you accept a duel?"
The surrounding knights buzzed with the prospect of a fight between the two warriors. Aleph, intrigued by Leticia's reputation, readily accepted the challenge.
"It would be an honor," he replied with a slight bow.
They took their shinais, the bamboo swords used in training, and put on their face guards. They bowed formally and began the duel. Leticia, determined to assess Aleph's true abilities, attacked fiercely. Aleph, in turn, carefully analyzed her movements.
"Should I take this fight seriously?" he thought. "But that look… she's not going to hold back."
Leticia delivered a swift and precise frontal blow, which Aleph blocked easily. He noticed the speed and refined technique of her attacks, the precision of her defense. He counterattacked, but with restrained force. Leticia blocked the blow, realizing he wasn't fighting at his full capacity.
"I detest those who don't take a fight seriously," she said with a tone of disapproval.
"Forgive my discourtesy," Aleph replied, a smile forming on his lips.
From that moment on, the fight changed. Aleph increased the speed and force of his attacks, using refined and unpredictable techniques. Leticia, though pressured, defended herself bravely, invigorated by the challenge. Aleph, however, recognized in her movements some specific techniques of the style taught by Master Yoshi. With a precise strike, he disarmed Leticia and won the duel.
Catching their breath, they both bowed, acknowledging each other's skill.
"Now I'm certain," Leticia declared. "I want you… as my knight."
Aleph, surprised by the sudden proposal, thought: "She really needs to pay more attention to what she says…"
The knights crowded around Leticia, praising her skills and lamenting her defeat, though acknowledging she had fought bravely. Aleph, sitting on the edge of the field, caught his breath. Then Leticia approached, offering him a bottle of water and an invitation to talk. Curiosity shone in Aleph's eyes.
"Why do you train here?" he asked, admiring her determination.
"I need to keep my skills sharp," Leticia replied with a smile. "I can't afford to lose the strength I've gained."
"I confess I underestimated you at first, Princess Leticia," Aleph admitted with an amused smile.
"How did you discover my identity?" Leticia asked, surprised.
"Your techniques, Princess. The strikes you used… only Master Yoshi teaches them."
"Impressive," Leticia praised. "Your perceptiveness will make this easier. Would you accept being my official knight?"
Aleph's expression closed.
"I am honored by the invitation, Princess," he replied with a tone of regret. "But there is something that prevents me from accepting."
"Is it because you wish to serve my brother? To become a Royal Knight?" Leticia asked, disappointment evident in her voice.
Aleph hesitated, unsure how to answer.
"I would very much like to help you, Princess. But I cannot reveal the reasons for my refusal."
"I understand," Leticia said with a resigned sigh. "Well, from what I've heard, you'll soon be working at the castle. I'll have other opportunities to convince you to change your mind."
With a final smile, Leticia said goodbye and left, leaving Aleph deep in thought.
…
Royal succession training is a complex and multifaceted art, adapted to the particularities of each kingdom. There are four official combat styles, each reflecting the philosophy and traditions of its respective kingdom. From the way the sword is held to the nuances of a counterattack, each style has its own peculiarities, from the position of the feet to the way the weapon is gripped.
These techniques, honed over generations by Master Yoshi, are passed down to the crown princes with rigor and precision. The Master adapts his instructions according to each student's origin, recognizing that no style is inherently superior to the others, but rather possesses unique characteristics that should be explored and developed. While tradition dictates that only royal successors have access to these teachings, in exceptional circumstances, Master Yoshi may share his knowledge with those he deems worthy, regardless of their lineage.
…
Veronica, the florist, was walking with her son when she was intercepted by some bandits. They separated her from the child.
"Call the woman who frequents your flower shop," ordered the leader of the bandits, his voice rough and menacing.
"Which one?" Veronica stammered, fear paralyzing her.
"The one with long black hair."
"The one who works at the castle? What do you want with her?"
"That's none of your business, woman. Bring her to us or your son will pay the price."
Veronica, unaware of Leticia's true identity, believed she was just a castle employee and Dagmar's colleague. Desperate, she sent a messenger with an urgent letter to Dagmar, pleading for help. Dagmar, in turn, delivered the message to Leticia. Intrigued and concerned by the desperate tone of the request, Leticia decided to answer the call, despite the strangeness of the situation.