The Last Kingdom: The Dead Prince

Prologue: The Heir

870 - WESSEX - WESSEX CASTLE - THRONE ROOM - DAY

The throne room of Wessex Castle is filled with many ealdormen standing around each other, after being called to a meeting about a recent raid on their borders. King Aethelred sits on his throne, his face etched with worry and determination. He addresses his council.

Aethelred: My lords, we have gathered here today to discuss the recent attack on our lands. On the west of our lands at the sea, the Danes have been raiding our coast, burning our villages and killing our people. This cannot go on any longer.

Beocca, the wise and trusted priest, steps forward.

Beocca: My king, we must not underestimate these pagans. They are fierce warriors and will stop at nothing to claim our lands.

Aethelred: I am well aware of their strength, Beocca. Which is why we must act swiftly and decisively. We cannot let them continue to wreak havoc on our people.

Many of the ealdormen nod in agreement, but some look hesitant. Someone steps forward and speaks up, that person is none other than the King's firstborn son, the 16 year old, Aiden.

Aiden: Father, let me lead the attack against these invaders. I am young and strong, and I will not let our people suffer any longer.

Aethelred looks at his son with pride and love, but also with concern. He knows the dangers of sending his heir into battle. Before Aethelred could speak, Aiden's uncle, Alfred, speaks.

Alfred: I do not think this wise, Aiden is your heir, we cannot risk losing him in battle.

Aiden scoffs and steps closer to his uncle.

Aiden: I am not afraid, Uncle. I am ready to fight for my people and my kingdom.

Beocca speaks up once again.

Beocca: I would have to agree with Alfred, my king. Perhaps we should strategize and send a smaller, more experienced group to attack the Danes.

Aethelred considering their words. He knows the risks of sending his son, but he also knows that time is of the essence. He turns to his council and addresses them once more.

Aethelred: Thank you for your counsel, my lords. We will strategize and come up with a plan that will ensure the safety of our people and the defeat of these invaders. Aiden, you will lead the charge, but you will have a small group of experienced warriors by your side.

Aiden's face lights up with determination. The council discussing battle plans and preparations, with the meeting concluding, the group disperses to make their final preparations.

870 - WESSEX - WESSEX CASTLE - COURTYARD - DAY

Aiden is walking in the courtyard when he gets called out by his brother, Aethelwold.

Aethelwold: (smug grin) I heard your going into your first battle, brother?

Aiden looks over and see his brother leaning against a pillar with a smug smirk on his face.

Aiden: Yes, I am. I am chosen to lead the charge. You got a problem with that?

Aethelwold: (laughs) Oh no, I have no problem. I just hope you don't embarrass yourself out there.

Aiden narrows his eyes and steps closer to his brother.

Aiden: I have been training for this my whole life. I am ready for whatever comes my way.

Aethelwold: (sarcastically) Of course, you have. Just don't let your nerves get the best of you out there. You wouldn't want to let our people down.