Kings Calls

The night passed, and Arin slept peacefully inside the prison cell, the cold stone walls surprisingly comforting after the turmoil of the day. He was abruptly awakened by the shouting of guards echoing through the dimly lit corridors.

“Wake up! The king has ordered us to take you to him!” one of the guards barked.

Arin rubbed his eyes and slowly stood up, trying to shake off the grogginess. The guards, clad in polished armor that gleamed even in the sparse light, opened the cell door. Their uniforms were adorned with intricate dwarven designs, with deep blue capes cascading down their backs, signifying their royal duty. Each guard carried a short, broad-bladed sword at their side, and their helmets were crafted to resemble a mountain's stout, rugged features.

As they led Arin through the winding corridors, the surroundings became more elaborate. The stone walls were interspersed with ornate tapestries depicting legendary battles and heroic dwarven deeds. Golden sconces held glowing crystals, providing a soft, steady light. The floor beneath their feet transitioned from rough stone to polished marble, reflecting the grandeur of the castle’s interior.

Arin's heart pounded as they approached the grand hall. The massive double doors, made of dark oak and reinforced with iron, opened automatically with a soft creak, another marvel of dwarven engineering. The guards who had escorted him remained outside as Arin stepped forward, his eyes widening in awe.

The king’s hall was an architectural masterpiece—high ceilings arched above, supported by towering columns carved with intricate runes. Rich, crimson curtains framed tall windows, allowing streams of morning light to filter in, casting a warm glow on the assembled court. Soldiers stood at attention along the walls, their eyes fixed forward, expressions stern.

As Arin made his way further into the hall, he noticed Borin and Dustin standing among a small group of onlookers. Their faces showed a mix of relief and curiosity. What caught Arin by surprise the most was the king’s throne, situated on a higher platform resembling a balcony. The king sat there, bathed in the light, exuding an aura of majesty and authority. His golden crown, encrusted with precious gems, glinted in the sunlight, and his robes were of the finest velvet, embroidered with gold thread.

Beside the king stood a few high-ranking officials and two ladies. One was elderly, with silver hair and a wise, serene expression. The other was the same girl who had brought Arin food the previous night. She gave him a reassuring smile, which helped to calm his nerves.

The king's voice boomed across the hall, deep and majestic, commanding the attention of everyone present. “Young one, yesterday I was away, and due to an unfortunate misunderstanding, you were confined to the prison for a day. I deeply regret this grievous error.”

A murmur ran through the hall as the king’s words sank in. Arin felt a mix of relief and apprehension.

The king continued, his gaze sweeping over the assembled court. “As compensation for this misjudgment, I shall grant you the privilege of any of your wishes and you will be allowed to visit the treasury of our kingdom .”

The announcement caused a stir. Several voices rose in protest, concerned about bestowing such an honor on a mere boy of fourteen. The king raised his hand, silencing the dissenters. He fixed his gaze on the man responsible for Arin’s imprisonment, who stood looking pale and guilty.

“It was my own brother’s grievous error,” the king declared, his voice heavy with disappointment. “He acted hastily and without proper investigation.”

All eyes turned to the king’s brother, who stood at the edge of the platform. His face flushed with anger and embarrassment. “This is absurd! Humans are not to be trusted! This boy could be a spy for all we know! and you are taking such a decision without elders agremeent ” he shouted, his voice echoing through the hall.

“Enough!” the king commanded, his voice like thunder. “You have overstepped your bounds, brother. Your actions have caused undue harm. Leave this hall at once.”

The king’s brother glared at Arin, then at the king. “You’re making a mistake,” he snarled. “You’ll regret this.” With that, he turned on his heel and stormed out of the hall, his footsteps echoing in the silence that followed.

The grandeur of the hall was not lost on Arin. The tapestries, the gleaming marble floors, and the regal presence of the king all made him feel both small and significant at the same time. He noticed many eyes still watching him as an enemy not accepting Arin presence.

Borin and Dustin stepped forward, their expressions a mix of pride and concern. They had been instrumental in getting the king’s attention, and their presence reassured Arin that he wasn’t alone in this strange, imposing place.

The king’s voice softened slightly as he addressed Arin directly. “I am eager to see what you will ask for. As for your choice, simply inform Borin when you are prepared.”

Arin nodded, feeling overwhelmed yet determined. He was aware of his disheveled state, his clothes rumpled and dirty, and he hadn’t had a chance to bathe. The smell of sweat and grime clung to him, a stark contrast to the cleanliness and order of the hall.

As the king dismissed him, Arin couldn’t help but feel a surge of hope. He had been given an unexpected chance to prove himself, and despite the challenges ahead, he was ready to face them head-on.

He glanced at Lyra, who gave him an encouraging nod. The road to clearing his name and making a place for himself in this dwarven kingdom was just beginning, and he knew he had allies by his side. With renewed determination, Arin prepared to take the next steps in his journey.