Although Kalvin was secretly jubilant, he tried to hide the fact and pretended to ignore the sound. Of course, it was difficult to hide his emotions from his lord. From the distance, waves of chuckles vibrated through the atmosphere. That is so like Jared, Kalvin thought, before Jared's voice shook the desolated space.
Are you mad at me, Kal? Mocked Jared, bursting into roars of boisterous laughter, unable to restrain himself. Kalvin, annoyed and embarrassed, silently wished that Jared couldn't feel what he was feeling. He pushed away the thought and calmed himself, as well as Jared, who was still uncontrollably snickering. So what are we up to today, Jared? Kalvin tried to act casual.
Hmmm, Jared thought, Well Pops says we're declaring war with Arious in the next day or two, so I thought I should sharpen up my shooting skills. Kalvin knew Jared was smug and keen on becoming the hero. With a deep groan, Kalvin prepared to assist Jared.
Jared was the King of Espion, Benjamin II's precious son, the youngest in the family. Nevertheless, Jared's intelligence, charisma, and stalwart personality surpasses both of his older brothers, Prince Mark and Prince Seth. It was almost a known fact that Jared would be King Benjamin II's successor. Jared knew, and he was arrogant and proud. He was the hero of everything, everything that would increase his chances of wearing the golden crown.
Now, Kalvin. Kalvin is nothing. He's not a part of the world. At least he was only the shadow of Jared's soul. Conscious to nobody but Jared. Existing for nobody but Jared. Jared, Jared, and Jared. He is a part of Jared. Jared's helper, guider, and special friend. But nobody knew of his existent. He was a lone star who's glow would never be seen.
The arrow, faster than a bullet, hit the bullseye on the tiny target a hill away. Kalvin felt Jared's usual pompous elation, but instead of praising him, Kalvin smiled. You didn't hit it right on the hole we poked with a needle. Concentrate harder, and keep your hands as stable as possible. The smugness immediately turned into disappointment, making Kalvin let slip a snort.
After a day's hard work, the sun as well as Jared and Kalvin prepared to take a nice, long rest. The sun painted the sky yellow, then orange, as it dipped below the sparkling mountains. Exhausted, Jared drooped on the back of his charming, chestnut steed. His eyes half closed and communicated silently with Kalvin.
...and then I'd conquer all the kingdoms and become the king of the land. I'd make laws to keep the peace, but as well as happiness. Kal, can you imagine what life would be like? Jared rambled passionately.
You have a really big dream Jared. At least you're one step closer to it after today's practice. Gladness surrounded the atmosphere now.
You know, Kal, I really don't know if I could've gotten to where I am now if you weren't here. Kalvin grinned. He likes to flattered. Especially since only Jared could.
They had reached the castle of Espion now. The castle, a white, sparkling palace seemed to emit a silvery glow in the dusk, welcoming and pleasant. The trickling river beneath the brick bridge the lead up to the castle played an alluring, gentle harmony. Even the birds, gliding back to their nests chirped merrily. The guards greeted Jared with welcoming grins as he guided his beauty steed back to his warm, comfortable stable, where it smelt strongly of hay, but pleasant and dry. Jared put up all his spirits for the anticipated show in the castle when he entered, although at the moment, his mind dreamed of the warmness of his bed. Jared walked towards the main hall, where the lights gleamed brighter than it already is in the passage. Kalvin could feel every footstep getting heavier, but kept his thoughts to himself.
In the main hall, the glossy back and white tiles sparkled from the reflection of the dozens of huge, shimmering chandeliers. The sudden brightness seemed to have awakened Jared, who seemed to have been sleepwalking.
Um..okay, what's this? asked Jared uncertainly to Kalvin. King Benjamin and Queen Ann sat highly in their jeweled thrones. Price Seth, Price Mark, and Princess Joanne beside them, all eyes on Jared as he entered, none uttering a single word. Whatever Jared was expecting, it was not a family meeting, Kalvin thought. At that moment, King Benjamin stood up swiftly and silently. Pausing for a second he declared, Prince Jared, due to circumstances, the war begins tomorrow. Thus, I entrust the duty of a knight to you. To fight for our kingdom, to fight for victory.
