The next morning, I woke up a bit later than I intended. In my other life as Samantha Lindsey back in the modern world, it was not unusual for me to sleep in during weekends. However, now, as Princess Elysia living in this magical world, I couldn't help but feel guilty and ashamed for oversleeping. Evelyn, my lady-in-waiting, came to my aid, helping me wash and get dressed in a new gown.While Evelyn braided my hair, I looked into the full-sized mirror. It was the first time since waking up here that I had had the chance to really look at my new figure.Elysia is a beautiful princess with ash blond hair that cascades down her back like a waterfall. Her hair, soft and shiny, reflecting the light and enhancing her fair complexion, matches her blue eyes. Her body was slender and graceful but not frail or weak. Her face was oval-shaped, with a small nose and thin lips. She was beautiful, but not in a flashy or arrogant way. Her natural and simple beauty made her stand out from the crowd. She had a sweet and melodious voice and a gentle and kind smile.Thank you, Mr. Narrator, for telling me the obvious!I'm still learning to take all this for real. Part of me just wants to accept faith and live as Princess Elysia, who, as long as I can remember, was not part of the novel. If I were to accept this faith, then I have to discover the mission that was entrusted to me. Suppose I choose to find a way home. In that case, the faith of Princess Seraphina and Princess Ariella at the hand of Alexander is not my business to worry about.Lady Evelyn finished braiding my hair."Thank you, Evelyn," I said, feeling a tad embarrassed because of my tardiness. "I'm sorry for the trouble."Lady Evelyn smiled warmly. "No trouble at all, Your Highness. It's my duty to assist you."As I stepped outside, Prince Alexander was already waiting. He had a genuine concern in his eyes as he inquired about my health."Good morning, Princess. Did you sleep well?"I nodded, grateful for his thoughtfulness. "Yes, thank you, Your Highness. The herbal tea helped me find some peace in my dreams."His eyes lit up with a smile. "I'm glad to hear that. How about we have breakfast in my tent? I've prepared something simple, but I hope it pleases you."As we entered his makeshift tent, I couldn't help but be surprised by its simplicity and charm. The interior was adorned with a few ornate tapestries and soft cushions, creating an inviting and comfortable ambience. Delicate patterns of flowers and mythical creatures adorned the walls, and they were too stunning to go unnoticed. I strongly believe that the tapestries were woven by Seraphina. This is another chance to dig deeper into my second curiosity.As the morning light filtered through the tent's fabric, casting a warm glow on everything inside, I sat in front of Alexander."It's lovely," I said, feeling at ease in the cozy space."Thank you," he replied, pouring some tea for us both. "I'm afraid I don't have much in the way of a royal feast, but I hope you'll enjoy what I've prepared."The spread was indeed simple, but it was evident that he had taken care to make it delightful. Fresh fruits, warm bread, and a selection of cheeses adorned the small table. It was a breakfast fit for a prince and a princess."These embroideries are magnificent..." I tried to remember what was written in the novel about Seraphina's tapestry. "...the patterns are intricate as it would come to life as the threads shimmer like stardust. I feel like I'm glimpsing a piece of heaven itself. Who made them?" I laid my trap.He smiled fondly at the decorations. "They were crafted by the Princess of Heaven herself, Princess Seraphina. She has a remarkable talent for embroidery, and she made these pieces as a gift for me."I was intrigued by the mention of Seraphina. "She must be a close friend of yours then?"His eyes softened as he spoke of her. "Yes, Seraphina and I have a special bond."He said something similar about Ariella last night. He is not being honest about his true feelings for both princesses. I sense danger. This man does not look dangerous like a villain but is a heartbreaker. I must be careful not to fall for his charms."Is there... something more between you two?" I asked hesitantly, trying not to reveal too much of my inner turmoil.Alexander's brows furrowed in confusion. "More? What do you mean?"I tried to clarify my question without making it too obvious. "I mean, are you romantically involved with her?"He chuckled softly, shaking his head. "No, nothing like that. Seraphina and I have always been close friends, but our bond is purely platonic. We've never had any romantic feelings for each other."This man! If he and I met in the real world, I would already be sending him across the room, flying after I kick his a** hard."I see," I replied, attempting to mask my disgust. "It's just that the way you spoke of her... it made me wonder."He reached out to touch my hand gently, his eyes filled with understanding. "I apologize if I gave you the wrong impression. Seraphina is an important person in my life, but it's a different kind of love we share. I hope you understand."I nodded, a fake smile gracing my lips. "Of course, I understand. I shouldn't have jumped to conclusions."Alexander's smile mirrored mine. "No need to worry. Now that we've cleared that up, let's focus on our journey back to Astoria. I promise to keep you safe every step of the way.""I truly appreciate your help," I said gratefully. "It will be wonderful to have your company on the journey back to Astoria."His eyes sparkled with enthusiasm. "It's my pleasure, Princess. Besides, I would hate to think of you traveling alone through the enchanted woods. It can be quite treacherous."I chuckled, feigning an agreement wholeheartedly. "Yes, I've had my fair share of adventures already. Having you by my side would certainly make the journey less daunting."Actually, having him around would make it difficult for me to talk to other monsters. I must find out the reason why I can communicate with them. Should I ask Evelyn or Sir Gregory? Maybe they know something about my ability.As we finished breakfast, I couldn't help but marvel at the unexpected turns my life had taken since falling into this magical world of novels. I had gone from being a modern-day woman named Samantha Lindsey to becoming Princess Elysia, embarking on a grand adventure with a charming prince by my side.In this extraordinary tale, the lines between reality and fiction blurred, and Elysia couldn't predict what the future held for her. But as she looked at Alexander, his warm smile and genuine kindness, she knew that whatever lay ahead, they would face it together, weaving a new chapter in the enchanted tapestry of their lives. And so, with a renewed sense of excitement and anticipation, they set off on their journey back to Astoria, where their destinies would unfold, and the magic of this world would continue to captivate their hearts.Oh, please, Mr. Narrator! I need to learn to live with that narrative as long as I'm here. It was as if somebody was reading it out loud in my ears.Alexander is not to be trusted blindly. He is a womanizer! Do not fall for him. Ever!