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Chapter 4: The Spark of Rebellion
The village of Eldara had once been a thriving settlement, but under Malric's rule, it had become a shadow of its former self. Soldiers patrolled the streets, and the villagers, forced into labor, worked tirelessly in the mines to extract resources for Malric's war machine.
Kael and his companions approached the outskirts of Eldara under the cover of night. Theron had provided valuable intelligence: the village's leader, Elder Varis, was an old ally of King Alden. If freed, Eldara's people would likely join their cause.
"This isn't just about liberating Eldara," Kael told his group. "It's about igniting hope. If we succeed here, word will spread. Others will see that Malric's grip can be broken."
The plan was simple but dangerous: divide and conquer. Rowan and Darian would create a distraction, drawing the soldiers away from the village center. Meanwhile, Kael, Aria, and Selene would infiltrate the barracks to free the villagers held captive there.
"Ready?" Kael asked, gripping his father's sword.
Aria smirked. "Always."
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The Battle for Eldara
Rowan and Darian set their plan into motion by lighting fires on the outskirts of the village. As the flames rose, Malric's soldiers scrambled to contain the blaze, leaving the barracks unguarded.
Kael and the others slipped inside, their movements silent as shadows. Aria dispatched the guards with swift precision, while Selene used her magic to unlock the heavy iron doors.
Inside, they found Elder Varis and dozens of villagers, their faces pale and gaunt from weeks of imprisonment.
"Who are you?" Varis asked, his voice weak but resolute.
Kael stepped forward, his eyes blazing with determination. "I am Kael Alden Eryndor, your true king. I've come to reclaim my kingdom and free my people from Malric's tyranny."
The elder's eyes widened. "By the gods… the prophecy was true."
"No time for stories," Aria interjected, helping an elderly woman to her feet. "We need to move."
As they escorted the villagers out, the alarm was raised. Soldiers poured into the streets, their weapons glinting in the firelight.
"Go!" Kael shouted to the villagers. "We'll hold them off!"
The battle was fierce. Aria's blade danced through the air, Rowan's hammer crushed armor, and Darian's daggers struck with deadly precision. Selene cast protective wards, shielding them from arrows.
Kael faced the commander of the garrison, a hulking man clad in black armor. Their swords clashed, sparks flying with every strike.
"You're nothing but a boy playing at war," the commander sneered.
Kael gritted his teeth. "And you're a coward serving a false king." With a final, powerful strike, Kael disarmed the commander and sent him sprawling to the ground.
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The First Victory
By dawn, the battle was won. The villagers, inspired by Kael and his companions, joined the fight, overwhelming the remaining soldiers.
As the sun rose over Eldara, Kael addressed the villagers from the steps of the village hall.
"Today, we have proven that Malric's reign is not absolute," he declared. "Together, we are stronger than his fear. I ask you now to stand with me. Will you fight to reclaim our kingdom?"
A chorus of voices rose in response, led by Elder Varis. "We will fight for the true king!"
The villagers pledged their allegiance, and those capable of bearing arms joined Kael's growing army.