While Arcadia was just beginning to sprout new buds, the central region basked in the warmth of early summer. Dozens of gardeners rolled up their sleeves under the blazing sun, sweating profusely as they tended to the tall cypress trees. A small shadow fell behind a servant overseeing the workers beneath the trees.
“Hello there,” a familiar voice called.
The servant spun around, startled, quickly removing his hat and bowing deeply.
“Well, well! It’s been a while since you’ve been out, young master,” he exclaimed.
Standing before him was a slender boy with striking red hair and vivid green eyes. Despite the sweltering heat, the boy’s sleeves and collar were meticulously buttoned. His delicate frame and gentle demeanor gave him the appearance of a deer, setting him apart from his elder brother. If young Rocky had been raised in a library instead of the training grounds, he might have looked like this.
