Once upon a time, in a picturesque countryside, a group of eighteen boys ranging in age from 12 to 17 arrived for a day of falcon hunting. Excitement filled the air as they set foot near a magnificent oak tree, their meeting point before embarking on their adventure.
Being imaginative and spirited, the boys decided to pretend that they each ruled over their own kingdoms. With laughter and anticipation, they assembled to discuss and choose two kings who would lead their respective domains.
After much deliberation, it was decided that Clement, a mature and responsible 17-year-old, would lead the younger boys, aged 14 and below. Vico, also 17 but possessing a natural charisma, was elected to govern the older boys, aged 15 and above.
However, tensions arose when it was discovered that Alban, a notorious joker and known for his sarcastic remarks, had been separated from his cousin Clivent. The older boys deliberately divided the cousins, causing frustration and disappointment to Alban.
Unwilling to accept this decision, Alban attempted to protest. He argued that Clivent, being only 14 years old, should not be placed in Vico's group. Yet, his objections were met with laughter from the other boys, who dismissed his concerns as trivial.
In an attempt to settle the matter, Vico jokingly suggested tying both Alban and Clivent to a nearby tree and granting them an hour or two to escape. Clement initially voiced his dissent, but his objections were overshadowed by Airwin, Alban's 15-year-old brother, siding with Vico.
Seizing the opportunity to challenge the restraints placed upon them, Alban tried to make a run for it. However, Clement swiftly intervened, forcing him to stay and comply with the whimsical game the boys had devised.
Bound together against their will, Alban and Clivent found themselves tied to the same tree. Alban initially struggled, his screams and leg-kicking echoing through the woods. Eventually, exhaustion tamed his resistance, leaving him resigned to his predicament.
Alban, ever the impulsive comedian, made humorous remarks about being trapped for a hundred years, believing they were caught in a cunning hunting trap. Vico, growing impatient with Alban's banter, instructed him to cease with the comments and focus on finding a way to escape.
Snickering, Alban teased Vico, accusing him of picking on younger kids. Clivent, trying to ease the tension, suggested they stop the bickering and work together to free themselves. Alban, his mischievous smirk still intact, believed he had a plan.
"Do your thing," Alban finally said to Clivent, eliciting confusion from his cousin. But instead of explaining further, Alban remained silent.
Time trickled by, and with each passing minute, the boys attempted to escape their restraints. Frustrated, Clivent started whistling, hoping to attract help.
Unbeknownst to him, Omer, Clivent's older brother, was sitting nearby with Clivent's falcon. The melodious tune caught the eagle-eyed attention of the majestic bird, who swiftly glided over to Clivent's side.
A glimmer of hope shone in Clivent's eyes as he smiled at his beloved feathered companion. "Oh, you sweet girl," he whispered affectionately.
True to his nature, Alban couldn't resist adding a snarky comment. "Be careful, she might decide to eat your eyes out," he joked, garnering amusement from the other boys. Clivent rolled his eyes and sighed, choosing to ignore the remark as he gently played with his falcon.
Meanwhile, Omer dutifully obeyed Clivent's request to retrieve the falcon, watching over them with utmost care. Time passed slowly, with Clivent and Alban making occasional attempts to escape their binds.
After what seemed like an eternity, Clivent, overwhelmed by his emotions, began to cry. He expressed his desire to return home to London, finding solace in the familiar rather than staying in the company of these boys who seemed to relish in their power struggle.
As Clivent's tears fell, the others realized the seriousness of the situation. Swallowing their pride, the boys swiftly came to their senses, unanimously agreeing to release Alban and Clivent from their imposed captivity.
With the bonds severed, the boys embraced Clivent, assuring him that he was an integral part of their group. Alban, for once, kept his witty remarks to himself, sensing the need for empathy and support.
Humility and understanding prevailed amongst the boys as they continued their falcon hunting adventure. They all learned a valuable lesson that day - the importance of unity, acceptance, and the strength that lies within the bonds of friendship. And so, with newfound camaraderie, they set off together, leaving behind any division or animosity that had hindered their earlier play.