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CHAPTER 1 - ARTH
Huling Na-update:
2024-10-29 19:42:56Disclaimer: This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, businesses, places, events, locales, and incidents are either the products of the author's imagination or used in a fictitious manner. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, or actual events is purely coincidental.
This story is not affiliated with any institutions mentioned in the chapters.
This book contains spoilers for book 1: Reclaim the Ice Crown.
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“Can we take a break?” Arth asked, interrupting Maester Irvine from explaining the history of Stone Glacier Ruins. He had his chin rested on his palm, legs bouncing involuntarily under the table. Then he yawned.
“Pardon, Your Highness?” The old man looked over his glasses, standing in front of Arth while holding a thick book. “We have barely just begun our history session.”
Arth frowned at the ancient books piled on his table. This was too much … too much for him. If only he’d grown up reading and citing passages on lots of books, he could’ve handled what he had in front of him now. But he never liked books … ever. He grew up chopping woods and hunting and training with swords. How could he take every detail, every event that had happened in the past, all forced to get inside his mind every single day? His brain was like a cup, and every session, the Maester had been pouring more water until the cup would spill. He wanted to go out … to hunt … to see the capital and the people.
“Can I skip today’s session?” Arth began. “I have a sick friend to visit.”
Maester Irvine closed his book and put it down on his desk. “You have already skipped twice the previous week, Your Highness. There is still a lot you need to learn as someone who’d never studied in academies before, much more that you hold the highest position in Glacia.”
“I just … don’t understand why you think this is the only way for me to learn things …” Arth said. “You have to consider how every person is different … and books may not be the best option for someone to be educated. Like me, for example, I learn more from experience … by going out and seeing the world and understanding how everything works. I don’t want to get stuck in here, forcing all information—”
“Every member of the Royal Family had gone through thousands of sessions before … it is part of growing up to help them rule the country in the most efficient way,” Maester Irvine explained. “In addition to that, Your Highness, it is much more dangerous for you to go out of the citadel, considering you are the last Aragon.”
“I have Kael to come with me.” Arth jerked his head towards the Divine Knight, standing on guard beside the door. Kael only shrugged. “Besides, I am strong enough to protect myself.”
“Still, we cannot risk it. Someone out there might be planning to assassinate you.”
“I don’t want to do this, Maester Irvine,” Arth said.
“But you must, as you are our leader. You have to perform all the responsibilities necessary as the King.”
A sharp breath pushed out of Arth’s nose. “Leader …” A long momentary silence let Arth turn to glance at the windows, his lips pursed. He never was a leader … and he never would be. He could never become like Lucas, who had been an incredible strategist as the leader of the Forgotten Winter guild.
“I may have the birthright to the throne,” Arth said, still dazing off at the windows, “but I am no leader, because I was never born as one.”
“Your Highness,” Maester Irvine removed his glasses and studied Arth, “A few people are born to be leaders … but most are made … trained … and taught to become one. Leadership is not a talent you are given at birth, it is a skill that everyone has. And it is their choice if they want to develop that skill … your choice it is, Your Highness.”
Arth shook his head, recalling what happened before. Back in Frostwood village, Chief Gregor teamed him up with three other young men, almost having the same age as him. Arth was given the task to lead the group. They traveled on deep through the forest to hunt for the beast the Chief wanted. But at his mistake, it cost them two of his members getting severely injured that they had to retreat from slaying the beast. They blamed Arth for what happened and said he would never be capable of becoming a leader. Arth was left shocked, thinking he could lead and protect his members, but how wrong he was when he witnessed the beast almost killing his members. He never wanted nor tried to lead anyone or any group after that.
“You hear me, My King?” the maester interrupted Arth’s ongoing thoughts. “Leadership is not a talent. It is a skill all of us have.”
“Perhaps I’m not capable enough to develop that skill.”
“You are mistaken, for everyone is capable of developing any skill, only that it all comes down to their choice.”
Arth sighed. “I’m afraid you won’t understand … Anyway, my head is throbbing and I need to rest my brain for a bit. I’ll make it up for our session tomorrow.” He pushed his chair back and stood.
“That’s what you always say every day, Your Highness,” Maester Irvine replied, frowning.
Arth gave a thin smile, saying, “Have a good day, Maester Irvine.”
Kaugnay na kabanata
The Rise of the Frost Dragons (Blue Triangle Series #2) CHAPTER 2 - KAEL
Blue lamps on the walls had shone the dim bath chamber, blue flames flickering inside every glass. Servants entered and brought towels and cinnamons and azalea flowers, some sprinkling the petals on the clear waters. Then the aroma came to welcome the king. Kael Denvorn followed inside before closing the doors behind.“Have a cup, Sir Kael,” King Arth said as he went to the round table that stood right at the edge of the steaming pool of bath, then he began pouring the silver flagon. “I know you love cherry wine.” He handed out one cup about half-full.“If it pleases you, My King,” Kael replied, taking the cup, then he took a sip. As he did, he watched King Arth walk around the pool, with his white robe covering his naked body. The young king sat on the edge and submerged his legs through the steaming water, his face blank as he drank in his cup.“Is something the matter, Your Highness?” Kael
The Rise of the Frost Dragons (Blue Triangle Series #2) CHAPTER 3 - ARTH
“We’ve been expecting you,” Arth said, seated at the head of the long table along with his four High Councilors.“Your Highness,” the two Archmages greeted as they kneeled on the floor of the Council Chamber. The hood of their white cloak had covered their hair, and one of them had long silver chains that hung around his neck, jingling as they stood.“Have a seat. You must’ve had an exhausting journey from Galadhor.” Arth gestured at the vacant chairs on the side of the table. He had been informed days ago of their coming, and something about it had made him unhappy. Usually the Temple of Archmagi from Galadhor would send low-ranking mages across the world to deliver messages and—most of the times—a glimpse of their fate, and all of these were from the words of the Elder Magus who could tell what’s ahead of their time.But these two who just came to Arth’s country were
The Rise of the Frost Dragons (Blue Triangle Series #2) CHAPTER 4 - TRISTAN
The clock was ticking. Tristan had long been waiting in his seat along with five elderly people, staring at the wall that had just struck past nine in the morning. The Central Library looked less interesting than what he had expected, and he’d finished checking out with his eyes the old leather-bounds in the towering bookshelves on the ground floor. He’d finished studying the bland, silver chandelier that hung from the high ceiling—where it had been painted of people and mountains and rivers he could’ve never cared at all.He’d been trying to catch the eyes of the old lady on the front desk for almost a hundred times already. All the things he needed to take himself out of boredom had been done. But his name had yet been called.Fingers tapping on his folded arms, Tristan stared once again at the fierce-looking lady ahead, who had been burying her face in the enormous book she’s reading. He had to meet the keep
The Rise of the Frost Dragons (Blue Triangle Series #2) CHAPTER 5 - ARTH
“You don’t have to go with me,” Arth said as he descended on the staircases, heading to the depths of the underground dungeon. “I can go there alone.”“Eh? That would be unwise, Your Highness,” Sir Valor replied as he followed along with two of his fellow Grand Knights. “It’s our duty to take over Sir Kael’s absence on your guard. The dungeon is far more dangerous with you heading there alone.”Arth had to roll his eyes, as if he couldn’t protect himself with the power he had now. He only had one reason for entering the dungeon; to speak with the person whom he had his last visit a year ago. He had to know what’s happening in Glacia right now. Some things he had yet to understand in his kingdom kept on bothering him in his sleep every night.Darkness crept through the maze tunnels of the dungeon; only the torchlights held by the Grand Knights giving light, with s
The Rise of the Frost Dragons (Blue Triangle Series #2) CHAPTER 6 - TRISTAN
A sharp, irritated look was all Tristan could show as the people watched him ride down the mainroad along with a cavalry of knights, led by Sir Kael. They trotted their way through the gatehouse, entering the castle grounds.“How can I not have the right to refuse?”“Because he is the king.”“You know how I despise nobility, much more for royalty,” Tristan said. “I was supposed to make it for my ride to Cold Hills. Why does he want to see me now?”“I can only say that it is a confidential matter that must be discussed between the two of you … alone.”Tristan rolled his eyes. He hated it when his agendas were being interrupted. He already had turmoil from his late appointment with the archive keeper earlier, and he had gotten worse when he discovered how impossible it would be for him to search for his father. “It better be important,&rd
The Rise of the Frost Dragons (Blue Triangle Series #2) CHAPTER 7 - KAEL
“What on Earthos has gotten into your head, Sir Denvorn?” Councilor Tomen spoke once all servants and guards left the five of them alone in the Council Chamber. “Have you not learned from the countless failures you had during Terrowin’s reign?”Kael had his eyes on the table, his one hand on his lap, thinking of how stupid he was. He never thought King Arth would send him away just to visit Lucas in the dungeons.“I assume you still remember the most important task you have as the Divine Knight. You are not to let the King slip out of your sight. No matter what he tells you, his safety and protection must always come on top. Do you understand?”“I understand,” Kael replied, his voice lowered.Councilor Vornell shook his head. “We cannot let this pass, I say. He left the King to speak with the most dangerous prisoner in the dungeons … alone. The Crown’s Council
The Rise of the Frost Dragons (Blue Triangle Series #2) CHAPTER 8 - TRISTAN
Tristan was back at home after a long day of travel. The village of Cold Hills would always give him a sense of comfort … and he could not tell what part of it exactly … perhaps it’s just everything about the village. The northern wind sent a cold brush on Tristan’s face as he rode on an open carriage. They reached the eastern entrance of the village, passing through the watchtowers and guards, before they made their way down the road. The breeze carried the scent of winter cherry trees. Considering the place having the highest population among all the villages of Glacia, most people of Cold Hills had still been suffering from poverty, despite the higher funds and aids given by the new reigning king for the supply of the village. And the darker side of that, what you would see out in the sun was not what it seemed. The village might’ve had less violence and crimes, but at night, far worse things would happen … unimaginable things done secretly by those nobles … the r
The Rise of the Frost Dragons (Blue Triangle Series #2) CHAPTER 9 - ARTH
The fireplace crackled and disrupted the silence in the small room. Arth sat on the huge chair, facing the hearth, his eyes dazing on the flames. He could never imagine what would’ve happened had they got caught by the archmages. Everyone would know about Janshai’s identity. All the people in Glacia would go mad and wild if they discovered their king had been keeping a demon in the castle for almost a year now. Trusts would be broken and suspicions would arise. As much as Arth could not want to break his people’s trust, he also couldn’t afford to let Janshai fall into danger from the archmages … much more now that he’s ill. He promised himself he would protect his friend no matter what. And now, he’d been faced with a hard time, not knowing what to do to address both needs. It was of pure luck that the archmages had yet to find them, despite taking Janshai out of the concealment barrier in his chamber. They could’ve traced them by now. But a day had come by since the
Pinakabagong kabanata
The Rise of the Frost Dragons (Blue Triangle Series #2) EPILOGUE
A huge explosion shook the area of the Ashenvale forest.“What is this power?” Maester David was staying in the big tree watching General Kael and his student, Arth battle.He could see Arth at a disadvantage after taking many hits and blows by the mighty sword of the General. Every attack of the general and every block of Arth was slowly draining his strength.General Kael was still holding his sword one hand while Arth was already panting and wounded.“Just yield, Arth. You can’t defeat me.” The general said.“Even with my last breath, I will never yield.” Arth replied catching his breath. His brown cloak was already shed with blood and his lower ankle injured. Soil and dust are already on his face and his yellow hair.“Then I’ll force that out of your mouth.” The general quickly touched the ground with his hand and looked at Arth narrowly. “You’ll regret this.”The ground began to shake suddenly. Huge root vines came out from the ground and extended towards Arth with speed.Arth he
The Rise of the Frost Dragons (Blue Triangle Series #2) CHAPTER 99 - ARTH
The plan changed. Because of the chase, I was led to east from Casterfall Kingdom. Arth thought while riding his horse in a snow plain. I guess the best route for me is Frostwood village. I want to see Chief again. He passed through big stones covered with snow. From there, snow began to fall lightly.I wonder how Grand Master Tera is doing. The knights from Ice Crown Glacier are really scary. Arth saw a hawk flying over the big stones. But the one who saved me… who is he? I heard the Grand Knight call him Grand Magus. His magic is purely immense. I want to learn those skills someday. The hawk landed over the other big stone in his left side. Arth noticed that the hawk was wearing a black scarf collar on its neck.“What in the world…” Arth felt something strange about the hawk. Then, the hawk began to cry out suddenly.Wait a sec… Arth realized that it was not a wild bird. “It’s calling someone!”He whipped the rope of his horse to run fast. Then, he began to hear running footsteps
The Rise of the Frost Dragons (Blue Triangle Series #2) CHAPTER 98 - KAEL
The village bell rang in the cold and windy mountain top. The noise of the women and men calling and shouting filled the whole atmosphere with intensity and fear. After a few moments, the doors and windows of the houses were closed and locked tightly. The men which appeared to be hunters gathered towards the center village.The village was located on top of the mountains and built above the stones on the sides. Stones on the mountains have been formed to make stairs/roads from the base to the village on top. It was almost the end of afternoon and the skies are getting dark.“Sir Kael! They already reached the southern gate in the base of the hills.” One hunter wearing black jacket approached Kael who was walking towards the scout tower. Kael walked towards the wooden stairs up to the scouts. He went to see what’s below the mountains. He could clearly see hundreds of blue caped knights standing on the base of the mountains.“Quick, tell the people to pack and go all the way towards the
The Rise of the Frost Dragons (Blue Triangle Series #2) CHAPTER 97 - TRISTAN
“So, the Arth that you’ve talked about with Chief Gregor is the rightful heir to the frozen throne?” Tristan said with a loud voice. “Keep it down. Someone might hear us.” Maester David replied as they jumped from their horses and walked towards the entrance to the dark woods. They stopped and the maester pointed at the woods, “We have to reach the city as soon as possible. And this is the fastest way for us.”Tristan looked at the dark entrance and he could hear the echoes of the sound from the deep woods. “I can definitely sense many things here.” He said as he narrowed his eyes. Snow was falling from the white sky and a slight cold wind breezed through the two.“These woods are lived by wild beasts. I can sense them too.” Maester David replied. “No, it’s not only the beasts. I can feel something else. A group of people, I guess?” Tristan told the maester. Then he shook his head, “Never mind. Let’s go now, maester.”They began walking on the snowy path towards the entrance. “Stay al
The Rise of the Frost Dragons (Blue Triangle Series #2) CHAPTER 96 - ARTH
After the tricky escape of Arth and Robert, they arrived in the secret tunnel of Casterfall kingdom in which Grand Master Tera told them before. I’m back here, again. Arth thought. The last time Arth was there was when he ran away and chased by the knights. The two entered the tunnel and it was pitch-black. They could hear the water running through the tunnel as they walked on the side. Robert casted an Illumination in a lesser energy to light up the tunnel way. “How was the academy you got into with Bran?” Arth suddenly asked while looking down in the stone way as he walked.“It was great. There are lots of things that I learned there.” Robert replied. “But Bran was still the same. He never learns.”Arth smiled as he shook his head. “I envy you. You got to learn a lot. It must be so fun.”“Why? What about your private trainings with Grand Master Tera?” Robert turned to him while walking.“We only did some training to build my stamina. And he only taught me one skill.” Arth replied.“
The Rise of the Frost Dragons (Blue Triangle Series #2) CHAPTER 95 - KAEL
Now that I got these knights away from my village, I better think about my escape now. Kael told himself as he was sitting on a horse behind Grand Knight Bryle with his hands chained. He realized that there were also eight knights in a formation with them. One in front was a banner man carrying the flag of the Ice Crown. Kael and the grand knight were in the center and the other seven knights surrounded them as they travelled on their horses. I can’t fight them but I just need to distract them only if I have my sword with me. Using just magic is not enough to distract them. Kael thought as he looked at the pine trees covered in snow they pass through. He turned to the Grand Knight’s back and looked down to his elegant sword. An enchanted sword, huh? There’s clearly no chance of fighting them. “So, you’re Kael? The son of king Kaelas?” Grand Knight Bryle said smiling. “I never thought you’re alive.” Kael remained quiet after what the knight said.“I once served him. To be honest, I h
The Rise of the Frost Dragons (Blue Triangle Series #2) CHAPTER 94 - TRISTAN
Tristan quickly walked passed through two small houses towards the big white tent ahead. There were wooden benches outside the tent which are for the people accompanying their sick or injured patient. The chief directly saw maester David wearing blue cloak sitting in the bench on the right side impatiently waiting. He approached the maester quickly.“Maester David?” Tristan called while he was walking towards him. The maester turned and was relieved to see him. Maester David stood and shook hands with the chief.“Tristan, it’s been how many years.” The maester said.“15 years actually,” the chief replied. “What are you doing here? You’re supposed to be in Ice Crown right? And what’s with the elf?” He asked with his eyebrows meeting.“I’ve got bad news. There’s a war coming.” The maester said worriedly as he sat down.“A war? What are you talking about?” the chief replied.“King Muradin will declare war with the elves if they don’t give what he asks. He sent me there to negotiate but t
The Rise of the Frost Dragons (Blue Triangle Series #2) CHAPTER 93 - ARTH
“What happened to the kid?” Lord Nicholas was standing in the tiled path towards the entrance to the high garden. He was in his white sleeved clothing and brown pants. Grand Master Tera was there in the entrance of the garden looking at the fountains. The sky was cloudy but there was no snow falling. The snow that covered the grounds and plants made it seem that snow just fell earlier.Grand Master Tera looked above and saw the high towers of the castle. He sighed instead of turning to Lord Nicholas. “He’s gone.”“To where? The knights from Ice Crown Glacier became frustrated that they didn’t found the boy. You said he was there in his room?” The lord said.The Grand master turned to the lord, “I already said it, my lord. He’s gone. I don’t know how or why.”“And you were gone also by the time the knights searched his room. Is there something you’re not telling me, master Tera?” Lord Nicholas looked him in the eye as he walked towards him.“I was in my office, my lord. I just continu
The Rise of the Frost Dragons (Blue Triangle Series #2) CHAPTER 92 - KAEL
The green woods and mountains of Ashenvale have spread throughout its entire region. The scent of the husky woods and the sound of the birds made the entire environment a natural and peaceful to be in.Maester Kael, wearing a blue cloak and carrying his valyrian sword, have gone through the green woods. The soft soil of the earth gave the maester a comfortable travel on it.The place seemed to be so magical. A strong spiritual energy can be felt by the maester in to the woods.The wisps have always protected their forest and brought life in it. Maester Kael thought as he walked in the pathway through the forest.He saw different friendly animals on his way through the woods. He encountered stags, birds, monkeys, and a hippo. Such beauty the forest holds. I have to get to the Guardian of the Forest as soon as possible. The maester thought.He crossed a shallow river ahead and jumped on the small rocks. After reaching on the other side, he saw a yellow butterfly flying towards him. The
