The castle courtyard was a scene of chaos. Jay and Celia pressed through the throng of soldiers, their swords flashing as they fought off Malakai's minions. The enemy seemed endless, but Jay's determination grew with each swing of his blade.
As they fought, a deep rumbling shook the ground. From the castle walls, a large catapult launched a boulder into Malakai's advancing troops, scattering them and buying the defenders some time. The battle was far from over, but this small victory breathed new life into the kingdom's forces.
Jay's heart raced as he looked around. He had never seen anything like this—soldiers fighting, arrows flying, and the clash of steel echoing through the courtyard. It was both exhilarating and terrifying.
"Jay, over here!" Celia shouted, pointing toward a group of soldiers in the distance. "We need to regroup!"
They rushed toward the gathering point, where King Garrick stood with his trusted generals. The king's armor was dented and blood-streaked, but his resolve remained unshaken. He looked at Jay with a mix of pride and concern.
"Son, I'm glad you're here, but this is no place for you," the king said, his voice firm but not unkind.
Jay shook his head. "I'm not leaving. This is my fight too, and I'm not going to hide while everyone else defends the kingdom."
King Garrick sighed but nodded. "Very well. Then you must stay close and listen to my orders. This battle is far from over, and we can't afford any mistakes."
One of the generals, a grizzled veteran named Marcus, stepped forward. "Sire, we need a new strategy. Malakai's forces are stronger than we anticipated, and they have powerful allies."
"Agreed," the king replied. "We need to divide our forces and take them by surprise. If we can break their lines, we might have a chance."
Jay listened intently, absorbing every word. He had never been part of a battle strategy before, but he felt a surge of excitement. This was his chance to prove himself, to show that he was more than just an orphan.
As the king and his generals discussed the plan, a figure emerged from the shadows. It was Aric, a mysterious rogue who had a reputation for being both a skilled fighter and a cunning strategist. He had a smirk on his lips as he approached.
"Your Majesty," Aric said with a bow, "I couldn't help but overhear your conversation. If you're looking for a way to break their lines, I might have a solution."
King Garrick raised an eyebrow. "I'm listening."
Aric explained his plan, which involved using the castle's hidden tunnels to flank Malakai's forces. It was risky, but it could give the defenders a much-needed advantage.
"It's dangerous," King Garrick said, considering the proposal. "But it might be our best chance. We need to move quickly and catch them off guard."
Jay stepped forward, his eyes gleaming with determination. "I'll go with Aric. I know the castle's tunnels, and I can help guide the way."
Aric chuckled. "I like this kid. He's got guts. But you sure you're up for it, Your Highness?"
Jay nodded without hesitation. "I'm sure. Let's do this."
King Garrick gave his approval, and the plan was set in motion. As they prepared to enter the tunnels, Jay felt a sense of camaraderie with the soldiers around him. He was no longer just an outsider—he was part of something bigger, a force fighting for the kingdom's survival.
Celia gave him a nod of encouragement. "Good luck, Jay. We'll hold the front line while you do your thing."
With that, Jay and Aric entered the tunnels, the dim light casting eerie shadows on the stone walls. The air was cool and damp, and the sounds of battle grew distant as they ventured deeper into the castle's underground labyrinth.
Jay's heart raced with anticipation. He knew the risks, but he also knew that this was his chance to make a difference. He wasn't just fighting for himself—he was fighting for the kingdom, for his father, and for a future that was worth defending.