The Sword of Justice

Chapter 4- The Revelation

The battle raged on, and as time passed, the shadowy figure began to show signs of exhaustion. Liam and Jaime, satisfied with their accomplishments, seized the opportunity to subdue the enigmatic assailant. They swiftly bound the figure, intending to interrogate him for answers.

However, the shadowy figure didn't appear alarmed or distressed by their actions. Instead, he began to laugh, a deep and knowing laugh that echoed through the dimly lit alley. "I knew you two would amuse me," he remarked, his amusement evident.

Liam and Jaime exchanged puzzled glances as the figure continued, "I am but merely a human who is tired of corruption in our nation. From the looks of it, I can tell you two aren't any different. Are you?"

Curiosity and caution filled the air, and they created distance between themselves and their captive, weapons at the ready. The shadowy figure's next move left them in shock and disbelief. He began to reveal his face, which had been concealed until now.

Liam and Jaime exclaimed in unison, "S... Sir Zargel?" The person before them was none other than Zargel Skylar, the younger brother of the emperor of the Ash Empire.

Liam, unable to contain his confusion, questioned, "This does not make sense. What reason do you have to go against the empire when you are from the royal family yourself? Is this how you pass your time? Because lives of people carry weight much heavier than the wealth you possess."

Zargel, with a calm and measured tone, responded, "Calm down, kid. I do what I do because I want to change the system of our nation, not to amuse myself. How easy it was for you to jump to conclusions just after knowing my identity. You aren't very trusting of nobles, are you?"

He continued, "But considering the horrific crimes you witnessed since your early age, it stands to reason that you'd turn out like this."

Liam further inquired, "So why are we meeting like this? And what are your plans?"

Zargel explained, "Since the three of us here share the same goal, I propose we team up. I can train you to become formidable forces, and then together, we'll bring a new dawn to this land."

Jaime, his curiosity piqued, asked, "But why us?"

Zargel smiled and, in a gesture that spoke of alliance and trust, pointed towards Liam's left side. There, he saw Jaime on one knee, acknowledging Zargel as his master and pledging his allegiance. Jaime was ready to embark on this journey of change.

Liam, realizing the sincerity of Zargel's intentions and the alignment of their goals, made the same gesture as Jaime. He accepted this unexpected alliance and was ready to become part of the movement that aimed to challenge the oppressive system of the Ash Empire and bring about a brighter future.