As the three horsemen galloped toward the entrance of Essed State, Prince Eyrin halted abruptly, his reins grasped firmly in his gloved hand. His piercing gaze swept across the surroundings, scrutinizing every detail with calculated caution. The late afternoon sun cast long shadows, accentuating the tension etched on his face.
Palov, seated atop his own horse, leaned forward with an air of urgency, his eyes locked onto Prince Eyrin's profile. "Your Highness, I think we should not enter Essed State," he cautioned, his voice low and measured. "Essed State is one of the states that does not support your father's reign.
If the emperor had not employed stealth and cunning to seize the throne, he would not have succeeded.
Essed is a formidable state, boasting numerous talented individuals, both young and old. If they discover your true identity, they will not hesitate to kill you."
Prince Eyrin's expression darkened, his eyes flashing with suppressed ire as he turned to face Palov. His jaw clenched, the muscle twitching beneath his skin.
His voice, however, remained eerily calm. "Palov," he said, the single word dripping with restrained emotion.
Palov's gaze faltered, his eyes dipping momentarily before returning to meet Prince Eyrin's intense stare. "Your Highness," he replied, his voice laced with deference as he inclined his head slightly.
Prince Eyrin's eyes narrowed, boring into Palov's. "Is it amusing to you to see my reaction whenever you remind me that my father, the emperor, was a traitor? he asked.
Palov's face paled, his features taut with concern. "Replying to your Highness, forgive me for overstepping. I simply care about your safety," he explained, his words tumbling forth in a rush.
Prince Eyrin's lips curled into a skeptical smile, his eyes glinting with muted anger. "Palov, do you think I am incapable of protecting myself and must rely on your assistance?" The question hung, sharp as a blade.
Palov's response was immediate, his voice firm. "No, Your Highness," he said, his eyes locked onto Prince Eyrin's, his expression resolute.
"Do not worry, Palov," Prince Eyrin said with a calculated smile, his eyes glinting in the fading light. "When you cross my bottom line, I'll eliminate you to prove your insignificance. But for now..." He guided his horse forward, Lourix and Palov following closely.
"Don't entertain any foolish notions here, like sending unnecessary letters to the emperor," Prince Eyrin cautioned, his voice low and even.
Palov's eyes widened, shock etched on his face. How did Prince Eyrin know about the letter? His mind racing, Palov thought, "If he's aware of the letter, he must know its contents.
That means the letter didn't reach the emperor... This must have happened when he rode back, and when he came back, he spoke strangely. I sensed something was amiss."
Prince Eyrin's gaze seemed to pierce through Palov, as if reading his thoughts. "You're wondering how I discovered your secret, but don't bother.
Next time, you won't have the chance to think."
"I require the Essence Growing Pill from an alchemist here, and I have the means to pay." Prince Eyrin dismounted his horse, fatigue evident in his movements. He was tired of sitting down on the horse.
Lourix and Palov followed suit, walking alongside Prince Eyrin. As they strolled, a couple approached from the opposite direction.
"I saw him, Nameless," the man said to his companion, disappointment lacing his voice. "I thought I had a chance this time, but it seems I've missed my opportunity. He usually arrives before this month, so I assumed he wouldn't come this year."
Prince Eyrin halted as the couple passed him.
"Leave these matters to the youths," the woman advised, unaware of Prince Eyrin's interest.
"Stop," Prince Eyrin commanded, his voice calm and authoritative.
The woman turned, her brow furrowed. "Is he addressing us?" she asked her companion.
"I am," Prince Eyrin replied, his gaze steady.
The woman spun back, her expression disdainful. "What? Stop? This youngster is arrogant. Is this how you were raised?
Your attire suggests you're a young master of a wealthy lord. Young masters are always spoiled." Her words dripped with contempt.
Prince Eyrin ignored her jibe, his focus unwavering. "Where is Nameless?" he asked.
The man stepped forward, his face reddening. "Young man, use respectful language. Say, 'Please excuse me.' Do we look like your servants?" His hands rested on his hips, his stance challenging.
"Oh well." Prince Eyrin scoffed, a hint of amusement dancing on his lips. He reached for his money pouch, extracting a gold coin.
And with a fluid motion, he approached the man and opened his hand, revealing the coin. "A gold coin for the information."
The man's eyes widened, his gaze darting to the woman. Her eyes mirrored his surprise, and she nodded almost imperceptibly.
The man turned back to Prince Eyrin, incredulous. "A gold coin... just for information?" His voice trailed off, awe and greed warring on his face.
The man spoke, his voice laced with caution, "Nameless is at the Central Inn, just up ahead. I saw him enter with a young lady with white hair and three young men. I sensed trouble brewing, and as I did, chaos erupted. I wisely chose to leave."
Prince Eyrin's thoughts whispered, "The young lady must be Lady Pherna, that ugly little thing. My suspicions were correct, after all."
"Is that all?" Prince Eyrin asked aloud, his gaze piercing.
"Yes," the man replied, extending his hand expectantly.
"Alright," Prince Eyrin said, a mischievous glint in his eye. With a deliberate flick, he turned his hand upside down, and the coin tumbled to the ground.
"Pick it up yourself!. He thought as his smile twisting with amusement.
"You dared ask if you were my slave? and imply I'm spoilt? .Yes, I'm spoilt, and you are my slave. Now, you'll grovel for the coin." He thought to himself.
"You did that on purpose!" the man bellowed, his finger jabbing accusingly at Prince Eyrin.
Prince Eyrin strolled away calmly, flanked by Palov and Lourix, towards the Central Inn. Glancing over his shoulder, he caught the man bending to retrieve the coin, a fleeting smile dancing on his lips.
As they approached the inn, Prince Eyrin noticed the owner conversing with his two bodyguards. "Place a'stay away' poster for Nameless," the owner instructed.
Just then, a panicked man burst out of the inn, and the doors slammed shut behind him.
"What's happening?" the inn owner demanded.
"A fight is brewing—many against Nameless. I don't want trouble," the fleeing man replied.
Prince Eyrin's thoughts whispered, "Khane lost his essence and memories, but with his friends, can he still protect himself?"
Palov's voice broke the silence. "Your Highness, should we proceed?"
Prince Eyrin's gaze remained fixed on the inn, his expression unreadable.
"Nameless again! He still owes me, and now he's going to destroy my inn once more! That scoundrel!" The innkeeper bellowed, his face reddening with rage.
"I wish to dine here," Prince Eyrin declared, his hands clasped behind his back. Unseen by the others, his fists tightened, channeling his essence for battle.
When no response came, Prince Eyrin repeated his request.
A figure burst forth from the inn, a sword thrusting towards Prince Eyrin. Anticipating the attack, Prince Eyrin opened his hands, unleashing a concentrated blast of energy. The assailant stumbled backward, flying into the doorway.
With calculated calm, Prince Eyrin strode towards the door.