Chapter 22

Though Alexei had secured stability after Stefan's exile, there were still isolated pockets of resentment towards his rule. Rebellion simmered in the northern mountain villages, far from the capital's oversight.

When Alexei heard rumors of attacks on royal supply wagons, he decided to ride there swiftly with a small escort, hoping his direct intervention could calm the tensions before violence escalated.

The mountain folk glared with sullen mistrust as Alexei first arrived in their rough-hewn villages. But he persevered, listening to grievances about tax burdens and scarce winter rations. He investigated shortfalls himself, rooting out corruption and relieving overzealous tax collectors.

Gradually, wary hostility thawed into cautious welcome, especially when Alexei personally helped shovel snowbound roads and repair storm-damaged roofs. Word spread that this new young king possessed not just honeyed speeches but willingness to work alongside commoners.

On the eve of his departure, th