Chapter 266: Moment of Pride
He turned and walked away with the maid.
Behind him, green grass shimmered beneath the sunlight—
and with every step forward, innocence quietly began to fade.
Ashryn finally reached home.
He smiled warmly as a familiar figure rushed toward him, pulling him into a tight embrace.
"Mom," he said softly.
She held him close, brushing his hair.
"Where was my boy?"
Ashryn smiled.
"I was with friends."
She laughed gently.
"That's wonderful, my boy."
Footsteps echoed behind them.
His father—the King—approached, his presence calm yet commanding.
"Ashryn, come with me. We're going outside."
Ashryn nodded, taking his father's hand.
The castle gates closed behind them with a heavy THUD.
They stepped into the open air—
blue skies stretching endlessly above, grass swaying softly in the wind. Everything felt alive, peaceful, beautiful.
Together, they walked through the streets of the Kingdom of Yusa.
People greeted them warmly, bowing in respect. Smiles followed wherever they passed. Ashryn spoke gently, inviting them one by one to the palace for dinner that night.
A man stepped forward, smiling.
"Prince Ashryn, what are you doing here?"
Ashryn answered brightly,
"I'm here to invite you to the palace."
The man chuckled.
"That's very kind of you. I'll come, future king."
Ashryn shook his head with a warm smile.
"That would be great—but I'll only become king when I'm worthy of the crown."
The man laughed softly.
"That's our little Ashryn."
Ashryn's father glanced down at his son.
Pride filled his eyes.