The training of royal successors takes place under the tutelage of the enigmatic Master Yoshihito Schneider, a legendary figure whose wisdom transcends generations. Despite his perennial appearance of a 25-year-old, Master Yoshi, as he is affectionately called, has accumulated the wisdom of countless cycles of seasons. His imposing 1.86m (6'1") frame is adorned in traditional Japanese robes, white with gold details, which contrast with his long silver hair and his piercing sky-blue eyes. It is said that he manipulates the positive energies that maintain the balance of the dimension itself, a subtle yet immense power.
For centuries, Master Yoshi has shaped the minds of future rulers, instilling in them not only political and administrative knowledge but also a deep respect for the harmony of nature. His rigorous two-year training covers everything from intricate governance strategies to various martial arts and disciplines essential for forming a just and wise leader. He teaches the art of governing without disturbing the delicate balance of the natural world, a philosophy that echoes through all the kingdoms.
Endowed with a magical power that defies human comprehension, Master Yoshi inspires respect and, in some, a reverential fear. His word is law, his requests rarely questioned. To cross him is to invite fate to manifest in unpredictable and often devastating ways.
...
Aleph arrived at the knights' training ground, a wide-open field on the outskirts of the city. The knights present were commenting on his strength, but the conversation soon turned to another warrior, a legendary figure among them.
"No one here can defeat him," said one of the knights with admiration.
"It looks like he came to train today," commented another, looking toward the entrance of the field. "This is your chance, Aleph. Fight him and see what you're made of."
"I want to see if this knight is truly strong," Aleph replied with a confident smile.
His excitement, however, turned to surprise when he saw who was approaching. It was Leticia, disguised in men's clothing, light armor protecting her torso, and a cap that concealed her long hair. Aleph was impressed to discover that she trained with these knights.
The leader of the knights made the introductions.
"Aleph, this is the most skilled knight in our division," he said, presenting Leticia. "Despite his appearance, his strength is impressive."
Leticia addressed Aleph, her voice disguised in a deeper tone:
"I would like to test your skills, knight. Do you accept a duel?"
The surrounding knights buzzed with the prospect of a fight between the two warriors. Aleph, intrigued by Leticia's reputation, readily accepted the challenge.
"It would be an honor," he replied with a slight bow of his head.
They took up their shinais, the bamboo swords used in training, and put on their face protectors. They bowed formally and began the duel. Leticia, determined to assess Aleph's true abilities, attacked with ferocity. Aleph, in turn, analyzed her movements carefully.
"Should I take this fight seriously?" he thought. "But that look in her eyes... she's not going to hold back."
Leticia delivered a quick and precise frontal strike, which Aleph blocked with ease. He noted the speed and refined technique of her attacks, the precision of her defense. He counter-attacked, but with restrained force. Leticia blocked the blow, realizing he wasn't fighting at his full capacity.
"I hate it when people don't take a fight seriously," she said with a tone of disapproval.
"Forgive my discourtesy," Aleph replied, a smile forming on his lips.
From that moment on, the fight changed. Aleph increased the speed and force of his attacks, using refined and unpredictable techniques. Leticia, though pressured, defended herself bravely, energized by the challenge. Aleph, however, recognized in her movements some specific techniques from the style taught by Master Yoshi. With a precise strike, he disarmed Leticia and won the duel.
Catching their breath, they both bowed, acknowledging each other's skill.
"Now I'm sure," Leticia declared. "I want you... as my knight."
Aleph, surprised by the sudden proposal, thought: "She really needs to pay more attention to how she phrases things..."
The knights crowded around Leticia, praising her skills and lamenting her defeat, though they acknowledged she had fought bravely. Aleph, sitting at the edge of the field, was catching his breath. Then, Leticia approached, offering him a bottle of water and an invitation to talk. Curiosity shone in Aleph's eyes.
"Why do you train here?" he asked, admiring her determination.
"I need to keep my skills sharp," Leticia replied with a smile. "I can't afford to lose the strength I've gained."
"I confess I underestimated you at first, Princess Leticia," Aleph admitted with an amused smile.
"How did you discover my identity?" Leticia asked, surprised.
"Your techniques, Princess. The strikes you used... only Master Yoshi teaches them."
"Impressive," Leticia praised. "Your perceptiveness will make this invitation easier. Would you accept being my official knight?"
Aleph's expression hardened.
"I am honored by the invitation, Princess," he replied with a regretful tone. "But there is something that prevents me from accepting it."
"Is it because you wish to serve my brother? To become a Royal Knight?" Leticia asked, disappointment evident in her voice.
Aleph hesitated, unsure how to answer.
"I would very much like to help you, Princess. But I cannot reveal the reasons for my refusal."
"I understand," Leticia said with a resigned sigh. "Well, from what I've heard, you'll be working at the castle soon. I'll have other opportunities to convince you to change your mind."
With a final smile, Leticia said goodbye and departed, leaving Aleph deep in thought.
...
The training of royal succession is a complex and multifaceted art, adapted to the particularities of each kingdom. There are four official combat styles, each reflecting the philosophy and traditions of its respective kingdom. From the way a sword is wielded to the nuances of a counter-attack, each style has its own peculiarities, from the position of the feet to the way the weapon is held.
These techniques, perfected over generations by Master Yoshi, are passed down to the crown princes and princesses with rigor and precision. The Master adapts his instructions according to the origin of each student, recognizing that no style is intrinsically superior to the others, but rather possesses unique characteristics that must be explored and developed. Although tradition dictates that only royal successors have access to these teachings, in exceptional circumstances, Master Yoshi may share his knowledge with those he deems worthy, regardless of their lineage.
...
Veronica, the florist, was walking with her son when she was intercepted by some thugs. They separated her from the child.
"Call the girl who frequents your flower shop," ordered the leader of the thugs, his voice harsh and threatening.
"Which one?" Veronica stammered, fear paralyzing her.
"The one with long, black hair."
"The one who works at the castle? What do you want with her?"
"That's none of your business, woman. Bring her to us, or your son will pay the price."
Veronica, unaware of Leticia's true identity, believed she was just a castle employee and a colleague of Dagmar. Desperate, she sent a messenger with an urgent letter to Dagmar, begging for help. Dagmar, in turn, delivered the message to Leticia. Intrigued and worried by the desperate tone of the request, Leticia decided to answer the call, despite the strangeness of the situation.