Chapter 5: The past
The room went silent as the two men gazed at each other with intensity. Arias' eyes were filled with emotion while Anemone looked at him with contempt. It was only after a few moments had gone by that Anemone finally spoke.
"He was once a good and kind man, a just and benevolent king. He's been through a lot over the years, but I know that man is still in there somewhere," he said.
"We all go through things!" Arias shouted, his chest rising and falling with anger and frustration.
"But that doesn't give us the right to mistreat others...to treat people like playthings. That man isn't the kind king you once knew and you are a fool to keep waiting for something that will never happen!"
"I've already said my piece, Arias. If you have nothing else to say, then please—go."
The captain narrowed his eyes, studying Anemone.
The man before him seemed thinner than the last time they'd met, his once-athletic frame now gaunt. Anemone had been a legend in his youth—the kingdom's greatest warrior, the most skilled huntsman. The two of them had known each other since birth, rivals and companions from the moment they could hold a bow and the sword. Arias had always admired Anemone. It had been his dream to build a guild together, a place for the strongest warriors, serving the nation and fighting side by side.
Things had been going well. Arias had even entertained the thought of making Anemone his partner—not just in battle, but in life. Over the years, Anemone had grown stronger, but also more beautiful, his quiet grace only adding to his allure. Arias had always known that he wanted Anemone for himself.
But everything had changed the day the king set his eyes on Anemone. Ceremus had recognized the warrior's potential and drawn him into the royal court, offering him a position as an advisor. The incredible fighter, once free to roam the wilds and live as he pleased, had retired from his hunting days.