THE_WORDSMITH

In this world, some say, the truth and the legends are the same. One such legend belonged to the protagonist, Valerian.

Valerian was an orphan, a boy blessed with a beautiful face, and everyone around him, could not help but want to play with him, till one day a prophet passing through their town pronounced him to be cursed. 

Since that day, the destiny of the boy seemed to have changed completely, he was shunned by everyone around him, and the gazes that were earlier filled with love and affection, now brimmed with disgust and hatred. 

The constant shunning and humiliation made the cheerful child grow up to be bitter and inexpectant. On his seventh birthday, things changed once again. 

This time, it was not the people around him who went through a change, but himself. As he grew up, Valerian became a legend in his own sense. 

The people sang of a boy, who could not speak, they shed tears for a boy, who could not grieve. He came from nowhere yet he was known everywhere. 

Would you like to know this legend? A story where a curse can become a blessing? A story of sacrifice, betrayal, determination, and secrets.

Valerian, The Legendary

Valerian and Fortuna were standing in front of the old man after the boy narrated everything to the old man. He did not look away from the old man at all. If he dared to show the slightest hesitation he will not even know how he died. This old was not someone he could afford to toy with. He only wanted to borrow his power to get things cleared

As the hall descended into silence, Valerian became anxious. He wanted to say something when the old man asked, "Given what you said, Thales intends to gain more territory through this ploy of his? Then why shall I help you? Is it not good for my empire to grow more?"

Valerian smiled suddenly, and said, "Sir, if you think that gaining more territory at the cost of your prestige, and dignity throughout the continent is worth it then please go on. I have nothing else to say. I have always learned that an Emperor's face is the face of the empire, and his deeds and the deeds of his empire.

Borrowed Knife.