“Do what you can to save him. I will hold you responsible if he dies in your care"

The twins rode. The village appeared in the distance. The villagers stood in rows, battle ready and heavily armed. Mateo signaled to his general who raised his fist. The archers saw the signal and arrows were released into the air. The battle had begun.

Mateo lost sight of Diego as their horses plunged headfirst into the first row of villagers. He fought bravely, sure that his powerful army would squash the rebels. The villagers surprised everyone by holding the soldiers at bay. The fighting intensified. Finally, the army broke through the outer defense and penetrated deep into the village. A fire broke out and the entire village soon became engulfed by flames.

After many hours, a roar of triumph rattled the air.

“For the king!”

The surviving soldiers cheered, pumping their swords in the air.

“For the king!”

Mateo shrugged off the concerns of his personal medic.

“Don’t touch me right now, I’m fine. These are only scratches. Attend to my wounded men first!”

The villagers were wiped out, but the soldiers had suffered heavy casualties. Mateo stared at the carnage with tear-filled eyes. The rebellion had cost him so much…

“Your Majesty!”

A soldier galloped toward Mateo. Tears were streaming down his cheeks, cutting a path through the grime.

“What is it?” Mateo clenched the reigns of his horse. “Speak!”

“Your Majesty…” The soldier cast his eyes downward and swallowed. “I-I am so sorry…”

“Tell me what has happened!” Mateo was shouting now. Shouting because he knew what had happened, without the soldier saying any more. “Tell me!”

“Diego is dead.”