With a long walk

Always a fan of traveling the countryside, I decide to take a walk. Telling mother this elicits and impatient sigh, but she approves, reminding me that it may be a matter of days before I need to make a decision. Marissa also stops me on the way out, placing a gentle hand on my chest to halt my forward progress, reminding me of the cost of hosting so many guests with expensive tastes in the Capitol.

I walk through the castle grounds, and out the front gate, returning the salute of my guardsmen stationed there as I pass. Through the village I stroll, passing working blacksmiths, several taverns, salesmen of all kinds, criers speaking of the recent events, and many guardsmen responsible for keeping the peace.

I love the sights and smells, and as much as the commonfolk must wish to have been high-born, I too wish to experience a more simple life. Sadly, I won't ever get the experience, and these next few nights will be some of my last of any real semblance of freedom, as being a ruler is a constant and draining job.