Time: Morning to Evening
Age: Elira – 6 years (body), Kael – 3 years (body, 50 years mind)
The siblings moved cautiously through the narrow streets near the palace. Every object around them—cartwheels, crates, and bustling legs—reminded them of how small their bodies were. But their minds, sharpened by Kael's fifty years of experience, guided every step.
Kael whispered, "We cannot rush. Every merchant we approach, every ally we gain, must be measured. One wrong step, and we risk exposure."
Elira nodded, gripping his hand. "I understand. We need patience… and strategy."
They began by observing the market and recording who had influence, who could provide resources, and who might secretly sympathize with the overlooked and ignored. Kael explained the importance of reputation.
"If we are seen as clever, reliable, and discreet, the right people will follow us. Power is not only strength; it is influence, knowledge, and alliances."
By midday, they approached a small merchant who often supplied the palace.
Kael, despite his tiny body, spoke with confidence, negotiating subtly for a share of trade in exchange for information he had gathered on hidden trade routes.
The merchant was hesitant, but Kael's precise arguments—focusing on mutual benefit and efficiency—won him over. Slowly, other small but reliable allies joined them: a blacksmith who admired Kael's intellect, a courier willing to deliver messages discretely, and a scholar who had noticed Kael's unusual knowledge of politics and history.
Elira observed everything carefully. "Kael… it's amazing how people trust you, even though your body is so small."
Kael's expression was serious. "Bodies may limit us physically, Elira, but minds control strategy, perception, and planning. That is why we have patience. We are invisible to most, but we can see everything. That is our advantage."
As night approached, they gathered in a safe corner of the city to count their resources and review their progress. Kael instructed Elira on recording observations, analyzing potential threats, and understanding palace movements.
"We must prepare for the day the empire notices us," Kael said. "We are small now, but if we learn, plan, and train, no one can underestimate us. Knowledge is our shield; influence is our sword."
Elira's fingers tightened on his hand. "We will be ready. Together."
Kael's small face softened slightly. "Exactly. Step by step, we gain freedom. Step by step, we gain power. And no one—neither empire nor past mistakes—will define us."
That night, the siblings returned to their wing, exhausted but mentally sharp. Every ally, every merchant, every detail they
observed had brought them closer to a life outside the castle—one where they could shape their own destinies.
No jokes, no distractions, only strategy, knowledge, and determination.