Alora and her mother had just finished gathering firewood from the forest. Carefully, they tied the wood into a tight bundle before beginning the long walk home. Their home was nothing more than a small hut, barely standing, where Alora lived with her mother and her younger brother.
Alora's mother, Irene, was a petty trader who worked tirelessly to provide for her two children ever since her husband went missing on a mission assigned to him by the king. Rumors spread through the kingdom—some claimed her husband had been killed, others whispered that he had been captured and would never return. Despite the talk, Irene never stopped praying. She prayed that one day her husband would come back home, and that she and her children would no longer bow their heads in shame because of the stigma society placed upon them.
Alora's father, Monroe, had once been a respected chief in the kingdom. He was known for his dedication, loyalty, and hard work. Because of this, he was held in high regard by the king and often served as his right-hand man. This position earned him the king's trust—but also the envy of other chiefs who resented his influence.
Trouble began when the kingdom started experiencing a shortage of textiles supplied by neighboring kingdoms. Clothing became scarce and expensive, and commoners grew restless. Tailors complained daily, unable to work due to the lack of materials. The king, disturbed by the unrest, called a council meeting.
"The commoners have complained about the rising cost of clothes," the king announced. "Even the tailors are frustrated due to the shortage of materials. I believe this problem is connected to the supplies we receive from other kingdoms."
"Your Majesty," Chief Monroe said respectfully, "I do not believe the fault lies with the kingdoms supplying us. It is more likely that bandits are attacking the caravans while the materials are being transported, making it difficult for them to reach us."
"If that is the case," Chief Adrian added, "then someone must be behind it. Ordinary bandits cannot steal such large quantities without assistance—most likely from a wealthy or influential individual."
"I agree," Chief Silas said. "We recently received a message from King Amir stating that twenty carriages of textiles were sent, yet only ten arrived. Either King Amir is deceiving us, or bandits are responsible."
"I do not believe King Amir would betray us," Chief Monroe replied firmly. "This is not the first time he has supported us, and he has always come through in times of need. This must be the work of an old enemy. Ordinary bandits alone could not accomplish this."
After lengthy deliberation, the council agreed that the thefts were likely caused either by bandits or a hidden enemy. It was decided that spies would be stationed at the borders and that someone would be sent to King Amir's kingdom to investigate further.
Later that evening, King Alexander retired to his chamber, troubled by the situation. As he pondered his next move, Queen Lucinda entered the room.
"My king," she said gently, "I believe you should send Chief Monroe to King Amir's kingdom. King Amir considers him like a younger brother. If Monroe goes, I am certain this matter will be resolved."
"Are you confident in this, my queen?" the king asked.
"Yes," she replied softly. "If this issue is not settled quickly, the consequences could be severe. Today it is fabric—tomorrow it could be food. Chief Monroe is loyal, capable, and hardworking. Sending him will ease the kingdom's worries." She rested her head against his chest.
"You make a good point," King Alexander said after a pause. "Yet something within me hesitates. I know Monroe is capable, but I cannot explain this feeling."
"My king, you are overthinking," Queen Lucinda said calmly. "You are only remembering what happened to Lord Sebastian. You wish to make the right decision—that is understandable. I will leave you to rest." She moved away and lay beside him.
"Do not worry, my queen," he said quietly as he lay down. "I will find a solution."