"P-pardon?" I stammered, taken aback by his reaction.
"It's quite clear to me that you wanted Grand Duke Xyriel all to yourself, which is why you did what you did."
I sighed, realizing my attempt at deception had failed.
"Well, you've caught me," I admitted, feeling defeated.
"Tell me, Princess, why lie to me now? You obviously don't hold me in high regard, do you?" he inquired.
"You're right, I only lied to get your attention. After all, you were quite rude to me at our first meeting, so why wouldn't I harbor some resentment?" I responded, crossing my arms.
He chuckled. "Fair point, but what's your motive? Why involve me in this endeavor when you don't even like me all that much?"
"Well, Duke Sebastian, all I want is to improve our lives. Just think about it: the concept of 'electricity'!" I exclaimed with enthusiasm.
"Is that a form of magic?" he asked, tilting his head in curiosity.
"No, it's entirely related to science!"