บท 81: Unchanging Village

While exempt from participating in drills, Henry still left the barracks before anyone could see him. He left so early that breakfast hadn't been made yet and there was hardly anyone out except for those who were burdened with overnight guard duty. 

After taking Melan away from the stables and hopping onto his back, he squeezed his knees, asking for a gentle gallop, and left the grounds of the Knights of Hydrogia. 

The dirt road and mostly empty field allowed Henry time to reflect on the day ahead of him. He wondered if he would escape his mother easily after only a few hours or if she would make him feel guilty about having to leave her for the palace. 

He didn't want to admit it but he was over-excited about going inside the palace. Never did he think he would be in a position to step foot inside. Perhaps the king only wanted them there because he liked to see who fought for him while he didn't have to lift a finger.