Castle Dragon's Crest
Theo Earhart
— My lord, returning from your lessons? — a cautious voice broke the evening stillness.
— Yes, — I replied without turning.
— Please, take care. The safety of the entire estate rests on your shoulders now.
I said nothing. I simply stepped forward, as if I hadn't heard. But after a few paces, whispers reached my ears from behind. I didn't need to look back to know—servants.
— Just a couple weeks ago, he was boasting he'd crush Lord Raphael at the tournament...
— And now he's been expelled from the academy. How pitiful.
— That's what pride without power leads to.
Their voices faded as I made my way down the stone corridor toward my quarters. The walls, once majestic, now felt cold and oppressive. My footsteps echoed dully, and even the lanterns along the walls flickered with uncertainty—just like my state of mind.
