The selection letter

The year was 1553, I finally received my selection letter to the main army of Levander kingdom from my father ( John Swift- chief of Levander army). It was an everlasting moment for me as years of my training finally got its reward. And finally, I got my chance to serve the kingdom which provided such delights to our lives. Unlike other kingdoms, begar was abolished by our great King Hugo. Peasants were given financial support during crop failure. I had read many books written by King Hugo spreading awareness among the citizens about the rich tradition and the need to preserve the tradition of our Livan community.

I could not stop reading the letter which stated, " 19 years old Juan Swift, you have been selected for the mid-east position of Levander army." I was scared that I might get rejected since I was young and my height was a bit short compared to the tall Levander soldiers. But my prodigious fighting technique made it all possible. In the evening, I arranged a selection party at Richie eatery for my friends. Isabel and Rupert had been my friends since I was 3 years old. We had lots of memories together. We used to play together, laugh together, and fight together. But no matter what we always had each other's back.

At dusk, I left my hut and travelled on my horse to Richie eatery. It was a summer evening, the sky was slightly orange, birds were chirping, labourers were returning from their work, mothers were taking their kids to walk, everyone was busy with their work. The scene was just perfect. Watching the Levander city function always made me admire it even more.

After twenty minutes, I reached my destination. Near the eatery, there was a river flowing to the west direction down to the oasmont city. The eatery had a breathtaking view, It was large in size with smoky brown coloured walls. There were two crossing swords just above the entrance door which signified strong dedication of countrymen towards the king.

Fifteen minutes later, I reached the eatery. Isabel and Rupert had already arrived and were waiting for me near the entrance gate. As I got off from the horse we entered the eatery together. It was almost deserted as it was odd timings for a meal. We took the second seat in the last row sideways to the wall.

"So, how is your fruit trade going on? " I asked Rupert.

"Oh, it's going fine, my uncle and I are planning to expand it. We might have to leave the city for a while but anyway we are here to celebrate your selection Juan so let's talk about that," he said.

"Yes, Juan, you will be taking part in lots of battles and spending lots of time in training, I hope you don't forget us," said Isabel with her melodious voice,

"Oh come on just because I will be at the Castle most of the time and would be making lots of new friends doesn't mean I would forget you, or maybe I would," I replied smirkingly.

" Oh come on!" said Isabel punching me on my right arm with her soft hands, we all laughed.

As we were gossiping and having our supper, suddenly a peculiar looking man entered the eatery. He was about 6 feet tall with a long beard covering half of his neck. He was wearing a saffron-coloured cloak and had a sword with him.

The man came near our settee and said," Young warrior Juan, I am Musif leren, the vice head of Levander army. Your father, John Swift needs you at the castle. It's an emergency, hurry up!" he stated panicking and showed his castle pass to assert his identity.

"Well, I am a bit occupied right now, tell him I will come later."

" I know you are celebrating but you are required at the kingdom. King Hugo has been found dead in his room."

My brain stuttered for a moment, I could not believe the words spoken by him. The King is dead! but how? Several thoughts were going on my mind. I was in disbelief. After listening to the news, I immediately rushed out of the restaurant leaving Rupert and Isabel who were as shocked as me. "Take care!" said Isabel as I was rushing out of the eatery.