A Royal Foothold

Titles don't mean much when there's an uphill climb, but I hear you. Beyond the open gate, the gravel alley dips near an old bicycle propped against the fence. Its rusted pedal hung just low enough to serve as an outpost. I tested the grooved rubber tread with my boot, leaning the flat of my blade against the crankarm for balance. The chain rattled once, settled, and held firm under my weight. From up here, the view opens along the entire length of the lane. A decent vantage point for any traveler, prince or not.