The prince was most definetly pleased with this great feast set before him, and as the maid spoke about topics of interest to the public and of herself, he set out to eat, making sure to keep his ear open as he did so. He enjoyed every last bite of his feast, and finished it rather quickly, unwanting to waste even a single moment of his day, for he only had today and today only to prepare for tomorrow.

"I see." he said a bit grimly upon learning his brother and ex-king had died fighting instead of running, as Aleph had hoped. It wasn't enough to upset him, and as hopeful as he was, he at least smiled at the fact that his traiterous brother killed a few Goulashians before falling. That much less to deal with. Though he kept it in mind, the news about the Harvest Festival didn't interest him too much, aside from something to speak about if he needed idle chatter. However, the rumor about an attack tomorrow was very worrysome to him. They would dare try an attack like such? Not in his kingdom would they succeed.

The prince Aleph smiled and placed his hand on the maid's shoulder. "I thank you for your time. If you wouldn't mind finding the guard captain and telling him that I would insist upon scouts being placed around the surrounding area to warn of any attacks tomorrow, you may take the rest of the day off without consequence." he said before letting her leave out the door. Aleph wasn't ignorant to how much servants actually did around the castle, especially after watching how they would clean up any and all messes he would make in his room under confinement. It might not be normal for a prince, but he did actually value his servants and other hands around the place.

Now all he had to do was get fitted into apparel that would make him look like a true prince.

Day 2, Evening

As the maid left to do as ordered, the tailors and his assistants entered the prince's chamber. Dressed at the height of fashion, those three cut an impressive figure. As the tailor looked upon his new client's attire, he tsked and clucked in displeasure, clearly not approving of the prince's choice of attire. Gesturing to his assistant to start the measurements, the man finally spoke.

"I am Eugene Sasburg, Your Highness, and I will not let you out of this room before you are clothed like a king!" The man said with a nearly manic glint in his eyes. "Bring the fabrics and equipment!" He ordered to a servant, adjusting his eyeglasses as he did so.

The following hours were surprisingly exhausting, with the prince having to stay still in increasingly uncomfortable positions while he was turned into a human shaped cloth hanger. Numerous exotic fabric were used, and even more numerous type of cuts were discussed and the Prince's wardrobe slowly increased to satisfy the tailor. The whole process took the entirety of the evening, but the prince though in the end that it was worth it.

He looked magnificent in his new clothes, after all!

Aleph was now Confident.

Aleph was now Fatigued.

Aleph glanced idly at the man who appeared in the room with a bit more enthusiasm that he was expecting. It honestly gave him a few weird vibes. He listened as he was told that he was going to have to wait while they did all sorts of measurements and whanot. "Fine. Do as you wish." was the only thing Aleph said during the whole process.

The positions he was forced into were quite awkward and unwelcome. At first it started normal, with him standing straight up, his arms to each side while fully extended, but then it just got weird and uncomfortable. Among the many positions, he was forced to do a pose in which he held one leg off the floor, bent at the knee for about thirty minutes straight. It was surprisingly tiring, and by the end of it all, Aleph wasn't sure he wanted to do much else besides take a nap. This had better been worth his day.

Even if he wanted to simply collapse onto his bed, Aleph refrained from doing so, and sent a servant to go inform the chef that dinner would be appreciated greatly. As he awaited dinner, a odd, random feeling crossed through him, and he was far from sure why that was. He could only wonder....

Why the hell do I feel like I have a little captain in me?

Day 2, Night

The feast was magnificent as always, and the bed as decadent as Aleph remembered as he fell asleep as soon as he touched the pillow. Then came the strange dreams, dreams of piracy and endless sea of various alcohol of all thing. He dreams he was the captain of a ship that was bound to a gigantic barrel of something he felt was precious but could not tell why he though such a thought. The dream was as strange as it was colourful and left the young man puzzled.
Dawn finally came after what seemed an eternity of alcohol, sea, crime and wenches that seemed to pop up all over the place.

As soon as the prince awoke, he was attacked by various type of clothings, a team of servants dressed him, combed his hair and washed his face and hair in an effort to make him look like a king-to-be. Then came the jewellery and his circlet that now throned on his brow like a crown, all polished and glinting in the faint morning light. After what seemed hours but were mere minutes, the man was presented with a particularly splendid breakfast of baked goods, hot chocolate and even a small roast of sucking pig. Wolfing down his meal with relish, the prince was once again cleaned up and pushed to the castle's main balcony, where his brothers and the kingdom's chamberlain awaited.

A whole garrison of guard was protecting them and keeping an eye on any trouble, as asked by the prince, all shining in polished heavy armour or spotless leather jerkins. Soon, the courtyard below was filled by citizen and the Presentation started.

The Chamberlain cleared his throat and started speaking.

A small squad of Goulashians attacked from their previous hiding place under the balcony.

Aleph is no longer Fatigued.

Aleph is no longer Hopeful.

Aleph was quite content with the epic dream he had as she woke up. Regardless of whether or not he knew what was actually happening, it made him feel just that much more awesome. But as much as he wanted to, he couldn't go back to sleep, as he had chores, and these chores were to attend an audience, and he couldn't ignore that, unfortunately.

Normally, he would feel a bit nervous in such a situation involving this many people, but with a kind heart and luxe clothes to match, he couldn't really not be confident, now could he? So, with a smile, he stepped onto the balcony and glanced around. Though the faces were for the most part, unfamiliar, he knew that the other men he saw were his brothers and rivals. Even still, he gave a complementary bow and smile to each and every one of them, ignoring the fact the more narcisstic ones might take that as a sign of surrender. By no means was he doing that, and only the fools would see it that way. He would fight for the throne if need be, to ensure that no unjust imprisonment ever happens to anyone again. And to lead his kingdom to victory, of course.

Aleph's stance was far from king-like - his arms were idly hanging to the side, in a bit of an uncomfortable position because of his kingly apparel. Such was the price for beauty, it had seemed. He didn't really know too much about anything really going on here, so he stood and stayed quiet, at least that was his plan, but when the death cry of a guard caught his attention, he realized that he'd get killed doing such. Now was time for action!

As the guards began retaliating, Aleph was thankful he had taken the servant's information as credible, and acted accordingly. It might've just saved not only his life, but the lives of the entire royal family. He'd remember this. He'd make sure she was compensated greatly. Aleph noticed one thing that the guards had, aside from armor, that he did not, and that was a means to defend himself. He had not a sword nor shield in which to use against the aggressors, and countering them with his hands was only a last resort considering it wasn't the easiest nor safest thing to do. Aleph would remedy this lack of weaponry by quickly running in and stealing the deceased guard's sword while the Goulashians were occupied with his guards.

He doubled back and addressed his brothers and his family, sword in hand. "My brothers! If you wish not to die, then a hasteful retreat should be made, immediately!" he warned with a stern, commanding voice reminiscant of a commander of some sort. If he had any part of being a king down already, it was that he had the voice that made people want to do what he said, both normally and in severe situations, like right now. Aleph was sure that there were more where that came from, and was expecting the worse.

Aleph's blood was pumping, and he liked it.

To think that dancing would injure him like this, it was absolutely ridiculous. Of all times to get himself injured he did it right before the royal gathering, how frustrating. He would lay in his bed, no doubt he would need to call a physician, but wouldn't he rather rest? Perhaps it would be worth the pain to endure the injury and simply get some rest. He thought to himself for a few moments. He couldn't afford for the wound to become infected, he finally decided to call a physician, he sent one of the servants to find the finest available physician. Hopefully there was more a physician could, though somehow he doubted it. He remained in his bed, pretty much helpless.

He closed his eyes and tried to imagine something pleasant. Time passed quickly as he imagined beautiful vistas that was the kingdom of Alder. He would imagine the many great projects he would complete, how much he could improve the kingdom: No man, woman or child would suffer, and he would decimate his enemies. Fourty minutes passed before the physician arrived, Roland's eyes snapped open once heard the creaking of the door opening. He was always a little intimidated by doctors of any kind, often times their treatments were quite painful, and pain was something that Roland was terrible with. He had no choice though, and despite his anxiety he kept a straight face, with any luck the doctor could help more than the bandages, and he could take a nap in preperation for tonight.

Day 2, Night

The physician worked quickly and competently, washing the prince's feet in a warm water basin brought by servant and applying a strange salve to his feet. Soon enough the Prince's feet were bandaged and Roland fast asleep, his sleep too exhausted for dreams of any kind.

The morning dawned like it was a mere second later, the Prince still feeling fatigued but far better than when he fell into bed the night prior. Breakfast was brought and eaten swiftly. Then came the time for the Presentation as Roland was washed, perfumed and clothed into his new princely apparels to be shown to the whole kingdom.

Led to the castle's balcony, the prince moment of glory was interrupted by a small squad of Goulashians attacking from below...

Roland is no longer Peaceful

Roland is now Fatigued

Roland is no longer Wounded

Roland put on his best smile for the presentation, trying to look as noble and gallant as possible. However a blood curdling cry interrupted the event. From the balcony Roland could see a squad of Goulashian warriors attacking, they fought the guards and observers alike. He was shocked to say the least, and was even more shocked that he was defensleess. What could he do besides flee? He could see that Aleph had already grabbed a sword, and from what he said it sounded as if he was going to fight along the guards. Though he didn't know Aleph in any sense, he would not leave him to fend off the Goulashians with just a handful of guards at his back, besides, what good is a king that cannot lay down his blood for his people? Roland would turn to one of his brothers, "Find any available guards you can, send them here. I'll help with the defense." And with that Roland made his way down to the ground where the fight was located. Even though he wasn't very strong or sturdy like Aleph, he was nimble and quick on his feet, he didn't plan to get into the thick of it too much.

Once on the ground level with his brother Aleph, Roland would sprint over to a nearby fallen Goulashian, grabbing his hatchet and wooden buckler. The hatchet was probably even better than the swords he was used to using, it was small enough to promote quick attacks. He felt the wooden handle and tried to center his balance, steady his body aswell as his mind. From the front a Goulashian woud cut down one of the guards, blood spurtting all over his face as he charged forwards towards Roland. It was frightening, but blood was starting to pump through his body, his heart raced. Similar to Aleph, he liked it. Roland could predict the Goulashian soldier's attack, his arm was slightly back as if he was going to strike with a vertical slash. Roland hopped back, avoiding the attack by a goot foot or two. Fear flooded his body, the flight for fight instinct urging him to flee, but he wouldn't. Even though he wasn't a warrior at heart, he wasn't a coward. Summoning up all of his bravery Roland would lunge forth, the Goulashian man still unstable from his last attack. It was an openning, and a big one at that.

This Goulashian wasn't exactly skilled, he seemed to fuel his attacks with rage only to leave himself open afterwards. Roland with aim a horozontal slash at the enemy soldier's neck where his skin was exposed. Roland's hatchet lodged itself into the man's neck, and he fell to his knees. Roland would pull the hatchet from his neck, blood spurtting all over him and the groun around him. His eyes widened, he had killed a man for the first time. This feeling...This feeling...It...

It felt great.

Roland kicked the Goulashian in the chest, causing him to fall back to bleed out on the ground. Adrenaline rushed through his body, he regrouped with Aleph, following him and watching his back, whether he chose to flee or fight.

Day 3, Morning

Most of the Princes made their ways back in the castle securely, others joining the fight like Aleph and Roland, taking the weapon of the fallen and joining the fray to protect their lives and their homes. With the guards in position and more coming after they were alerted by the other Prince, the battle was fortunately in their favour as merely a dozen of Goulashians soldiers had attacked, the act an halfhearted attempt at a coup by the small band of men.

Aleph fought bravely, managing to best two Goulashian soldiers by bravery and innate skills alone, his confidence helping greatly his cause. With a war cry, the young man charged his enemies with a desperation born of fear and anger, making short work of his opponents at the cost of a deep gash to his offhand arm, that he used as a makeshift guard, managing to prevent a far more deadly blow. However, another soldier sneaked out behind him, ready to end his life in the most cowardly of ways only to be stopped.

Indeed, Roland watched his older brother's back and managed to block the blow in time, the attacked being finished off by a guard that proceeded to stay by the Princes' sides from here on out. The rest of the guards had arrived.

Now far outnumbering the greatly diminished invaders, the guards could now concentrate in protecting the princes as the Goulashians' apparent leader was brought to heel before the still present brothers, the battle finished by one last blow at the leader remaining comrade.

“What should we do with this one, Your Highness?” The captain of the guard asked the bloodstained princes.

“We should kill him in the capital's square!” Said one.

“We should send his head back to those filthy Goulashians on a silver platter!” Said another.

“We should enrol him in our army!” Said a third.

“Make him our slave!” Said a forth.

Soon, the balcony was filled with a cacophony of orders from the nearly all the princes present. Roland and Aleph were drowned in sound...

Aleph is now Wounded.

Aleph is now Fatigued.

Aleph's Strength increased by 2.

Aleph's Toughness increased by 2.

Aleph is now Triumphant

Roland is now Exhausted.

Roland is no longer Suave.

Roland's Speed increased by 1.

Roland is now Triumphant.

When all was said and done, the warrior-prince Aleph was filled with glory he hadn't felt before. This much was to be expected after a noble battle, especially because they had won with little casualties. None of his brothers were cut down, and for that, he was ecstatic, for he had defended some of them with his own life. Hopefully, even if they were competing for the throne, they would show him a little bit of respect. But Aleph wasn't the only one who deserved respect. No, another one of his brothers, though obviously not skilled with battle, had proven to stand up for his brothers and for his kingdom.

After all, if the King does not lead, how can he expect his subordinates to follow?

If anything, Roland proved to Aleph that he wasn't a coward, and for that, Aleph would hold him a bit higher than if he hadn't joined in. But for now, they had other matters to tend to and couldn't awe over each other's courageous actions. Aleph would walk over, right in front of the restrained attacker and look him in the eye. Quite the glare was being emitted from Aleph, one that would strike fear into the heart of anybody except for those with great experience in the battlefield. The Goulash leader, or whatever he was, didn't flinch.

Aleph raised his hand in the air, his fist clenched as if he were going to punch, but it continued up until it was raised above him. This action hurt a bit, considering he had an injury, but it shut everyone else up. "Should we not ask how he managed to snake his way into our walls? Should we not use this man to learn anything of value? Surely he might even know something that could assist us, even in a small degree." Aleph said. "Before you result to forcing him to his death, extract any information you can. That is what I believe we should do."

The sight of bodies uneased him, almost made him sick. Roland advised himself not to stare, but the stench of blood beckoned his attention. He thought back to the brief time the battle waged, when he thought about it, having Aleph be killed by the Goulashians would actually prove beneficial, it would remove one competitor and fuel the citizens' hatred towards them. Even so, for some reason he didn't feel right about leaving his brother in the thick of it, even if he could handle himself. He was only his half brother, but he still felt a connection, just as he did to all of his brothers. It didn't surprise him too much, the sight of his other brothers fleeing, afterall most of his brothers had horrible personalities, greedy, selfish and vain. Not Roland, he wasn't about to leave anyone to fight a battle on their own, guards or not.

The old dirty looking Glouashian was the supposed leader. He felt that sending his head to his kinsmen would only prove to benefit them, the trick to keeping a war going is to make the people hate the enemy, so often times it was beneficial to be docile towards the opposing kingdom's citizens. Killing the man in the town square seemed the best idea, maybe even make it a spectacle, an event. It would enetertain the people and fill them with pride. They couldn't trust any Goulashian, to even suggest freeing him was ludicrous. Aleph seemed to read Roland's mind. Gathering information was the top priority. How did the Goulashians even breach the city walls? This was worrysome, for if their defenses were unknowingly compromised it would eventually lead to devastating losses. "As my brother suggested, interrogate him, afterwards we should be rid of him in a public spectacle."

Day 3, Midday

“Yes, Your Highness!” Saluted the remaining guard as they dragged the surviving Goulashian to the dungeon to be led to the torture chamber followed by the two exhausted princes who insisted that they be present to interrogate the prisoner. Two hours passed until the soldier confessed how his squad infiltrated the kingdom and more importantly the castle.

“I can't believe it, our own mines were worked against us?!” Say one of the Torturer's assistants in disbelief after the fact were laid out for all to so by the now badly bleeding captain. This information was a shock to all.

“We must execute him at once before his comrades come to seek him out, let's get this over with, gentlemen!” Said the Torturer to the men present.

The preparations were swift and the event grand as the Kingdom knights patrolled the street in case more Goulashians arrived and merchants installed stalls around the town's plaza, a festival already in place to celebrate the kingdom's victory over the small group of Goulashians that day.

The execution was conducted flawlessly as it was drawn out until the sunset, the populace cheering as Goulashian blood was shed on the town's square by the muscular Executioner of the kingdom. The people's blood-lust was sated for now, though the festival seemed to be ready to go on for quite some days.

As the last drop of blood dripped from the cooling corpse, the captain of the guard approached the princes present.

“What are your orders, Your Highness?”

Aleph is no longer Confident.

Aleph is now feeling Festive.

Roland is now feeling Festive.

With another enemy now fallen, Aleph smiled in happiness, for that meant one less man to deal with. Now they knew what had been used against them, and now they could use it to assist him. Aleph had the basis of a plan, but of course he would at least need another's mind on the matter. Considering he had helped in the battle, Roland sounded like a good choice for this.

"Captain, I would wish to speak to you and Roland in private about certain... matters that I believe would benefit us to some degree." he spoke. "I believe making use of the mines to lure Goulashians in would work wonders, and a second or third ear would well be appreciated."