Chapter 1: The Prince Escapes the Castle
The grand halls of the Castle Werren echoed with the dull sound of Prince Sabel's footsteps. His cat-like eyes glowed faintly in the dim light, reflecting his boredom with a life he found all too predictable.
"Another day, another pointless meeting," Sabel muttered to himself, adjusting his ornate tunic. The heavy fabric felt like a cage, a constant reminder of the responsibilities that shackled him.
"Sabel!" a familiar voice called from behind. It was Sir Cedric, the captain of the royal guard, and Sabel's childhood mentor. "Skipping out on your duties again?"
Sabel turned with a mischievous grin. "Cedric, my duties are the same drivel day in and day out. Diplomacy, training, and more diplomacy. It's enough to drive a man mad."
Cedric chuckled, his armor clinking as he approached. "You sound like an old man. What's the plan today, my prince? Sneak into the kitchens for another pie?"
Sabel smirked. "Actually, I have something far more daring in mind."
Cedric raised an eyebrow. "Oh? Do tell."
"Tonight, I'm leaving this castle for good. I plan to seek adventure, live among the common folk, and finally put my skills to the test."
Cedric's eyes widened in surprise. "You're serious, aren't you? Do you have any idea what King Admound will do if he finds out his only son has run away?"
Sabel waved a dismissive hand. "Oh, come now, Cedric. My father will probably throw a grand feast in relief. Besides, I'll come back someday. But for now, I need to breathe the free air, to feel alive."
Cedric sighed, rubbing his temples. "You're incorrigible. What's your plan? Sneak out through the front gates?"
Sabel laughed. "Front gates? That would be too easy. No, I have something more theatrical in mind. Meet me at the south tower at midnight."
As the clock struck midnight, Cedric found himself waiting at the south tower, his curiosity piqued. Moments later, Sabel appeared, clad in dark, simple clothing. He looked more like a commoner than a prince.
"Ready for the show?" Sabel asked, his eyes sparkling with mischief.
Cedric crossed his arms. "I'm all ears."
Sabel led Cedric to a hidden passage behind a tapestry, which led to a series of winding tunnels beneath the castle. The smell of damp earth filled the air as they navigated the labyrinthine corridors.
"These tunnels were built centuries ago, in case of a siege," Sabel explained. "But I doubt anyone remembers them. Not even my father."
Cedric followed closely, his armor scraping against the narrow walls. "So, what's the plan once we're out?"
Sabel grinned. "I'll head to the tavern in the next country over. Blend in with the adventurers. You, my dear Cedric, will go back and pretend you know nothing of my whereabouts."
"And if anyone asks?"
"Tell them I was kidnapped by a band of rogue poets. They'll spend weeks trying to decipher that one."
Cedric laughed. "You're a madman. You know that, right?"
Sabel winked. "Mad? Perhaps. But at least I'll be free."
The tunnel finally opened up into a small cave outside the castle walls. Sabel turned to Cedric, extending a hand. "This is where we part ways, old friend."
Cedric shook his hand firmly. "Take care of yourself, Sabel. And remember, you always have a place here."
With that, Sabel disappeared into the night, his heart pounding with excitement. He felt alive for the first time in years, the weight of his royal duties lifting with each step.
Hours later, in the bustling tavern of a neighboring country, Sabel found himself seated among a group of lively adventurers. Their laughter and crude jokes filled the air, a stark contrast to the stifling formality of the castle.
"What's your story, old man?" one of the adventurers asked, raising a tankard of ale.
Sabel leaned back, a sly smile playing on his lips. "Oh, just an exiled prince looking for a bit of excitement."
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