Alex turned around to see Shurin standing behind him. "Shurin? What are you doing here?" he asked.
"I've been searching for you since the day before yesterday. Where have you been?" she asked.
"I've… been in the guild, holed up, practicing," Alex said.
"Whatever, you need to come with me now. The princess wants to see you," Shurin said.
"I'll be back in a bit, mother," Alex said and left with Shurin. She took her around the stage until he reached a secluded area in a high tower.
The princess was inside, watching the competition in the comfort by herself.
"You're here," the princess turned around. "Finally. I hope I wasn't late in finding you."
"What's going on?" Alex asked,
"I saw your performance the day before, and I must say it was less than great," the princess said.
"Sigh, yeah, I feel less than great right now," Alex said.
"Does it have anything to do with you finding Yin treasures?" she asked.
