The next day, anticipation and nerves mingled as I prepared for the grand event at the royal palace. Dressed in formal attire that befitted the occasion, I adjusted the details of my clothing in front of the mirror. The rumors about me being an 'Astral Mage' had been going around for some while, and I knew all eyes would be on me.
I boarded the carriage and headed to the battle hall of the event.
Seraphina appeared before me and sat in the cushioned seat, which was empty in front of me.
Seraphina spoke, "Magnus, these events often hide more than they reveal. Keep your senses sharp. There is more than what you see."
I nodded, appreciating her guidance. "I can't help wondering about the Crown of Eldoria. Regulus and Ariana seemed fixated on it in the Astral realm. Do you think it's connected to the prophecy?"
Seraphina's astral form leaned forward, "The Crown is a relic of great power, tied to the destiny of Eldoria. Many desires this great power. That's why Aeliana hides this crown."
I looked at her curiously, "Have you know Empress Aeliana?"
"Yes, she was my childhood friend. We dreamt of exploring the world together. But times changed, and she turned her back on me." Seraphina replied sadly. I could feel the weight of her voice.
I wondered, Was it because of the role of an empress?
Seraphina looked at me suspiciously, "I can read your mind, Magnus." She clapped suddenly and said, "And 10 points to you."
I was flabbergasted, "What is wrong with you?" I asked.
Seraphina's expression was filled with anger as she spoke, "She chose to abandon our dream and become the empress, all in the pursuit of being a 'good girl'."
She frowned as she crossed her arms and legs. I tried to calm her down, "She did it for the people of Eldoria." I was hoping that my voice would reach her.
Suddenly, I felt anger emitting from her body, and Seraphina looked furious. She banged her hand against the carriage wall and shouted, "AND FOR WHAT, THE PEOPLE THAT TIME ABANDONED HER. You don't know the full story."
Something was blackening all around her.
I quickly channeled mana into my hand and conjured a beautiful scenery. There was a golden beach with sparkling water flowing forward and backward like a swing. The air was calm and surreal. It was a perfect day on the beach. I suddenly created a bunch of snow and threw it playfully on Seraphina.
She became pissed, she asked, "WHAT ARE you doing?" I smiled and said, "I am trying to cool you down."
After a few moments, she couldn't help but burst into laughter. "Wow, the student is teaching the teacher!"
"Like you said, teacher, humor is the key to success," I replied while laughing with her.
Suddenly, I heard a voice. "Young Master, we have reached." It was the carriage man.
Seraphina disappeared, and the carriage man opened the door. I got down from the carriage and looked at the royal palace. It was as grand as ever.
Upon entering the royal palace, I was immediately struck by the grandeur of my surroundings. The hallways were filled with the lively chatter of nobles and the gentle melodies of musicians, creating a truly enchanting atmosphere. As I navigated through the crowd, I heard a voice calling me. "Magnus! Here!" It was Zander.
I went and hugged Zander and happily said, "ZANDER! It has been ages. How have you been?"
Zander grinned, clapping me on the back. "Magnus! You haven't changed a bit. I've been well, busy with my studies and training. And you, my friend?"
I chuckled, "Oh, you know, the usual. Unveiling mysteries, discovering ancient powers, the typical life of an Astral Mage." We both shared a laugh.
As we continued catching up, I couldn't help but inquire, "And what about Rowan? It feels like an eternity since we last saw him."
Zander's expression turned a bit sad. "Ah, Rowan. He's off on military training, stationed on the outskirts of the kingdom. His dedication to the kingdom's defense is admirable, but it does keep him away."
It struck me that eight years had passed since we last met, and the paths we chose had led us in different directions. I talked with Zander for a long time.
After a few hours-
I found myself outside, in the royal garden. The air was clean and stress-free, unlike the event hall. All the nobles were staring at me like vultures. I shivered at that thought. There were a lot of beautiful flowers blooming in the night as I bent down to touch a rose when suddenly a shadow came behind me and said, "Magnus, right?" It sounded like Alina, but it was not her.
When I turned around, I was met with the sight of a girl with wavy blonde hair and beautiful orange eyes. She was adorned with numerous shiny accessories, almost as if she was purposely showing them off. Her dress was not short of magnificent, with intricate embroidery depicting beautiful birds. I gracefully bowed and said, "It is a pleasure to meet you, Your Highness, Ariana de Falcon."
With a lovely smile, Ariana said, "Magnus Thaddeus, the pleasure is all mine. I've heard amazing things about you."
I acknowledged with a polite nod, "Thank you, Your Highness. Your reputation precedes you as well."
Ariana stepped closer, her gaze meeting mine with a playful glint. "I must admit that the royal events can be rather dull, but meeting someone as interesting as you excite me."
I chuckled, "Well, I'm flattered, Your Highness. I didn't expect to find such kind words."
What is she planning? I pondered.
She stepped closer, her voice a soft melody, "Expectations can be confining. However, one could breathe fresh air in the appropriate company."
I couldn't ignore the underlying tone in her words. "Your Highness, I appreciate the invitation, but the nobility's watchful eyes are not easily eluded."
Is she trying to seduce me? I am a poor and innocent guy trying to survive in this world.
Ariana's laughter echoed, carrying a mysterious undertone. "Magnus, sometimes breaking free from expectations can be its reward. Let's make this evening... unforgettable."
As we strolled through the royal garden, surrounded by the fragrance of blooming flowers, Ariana's charm seemed like a delicate façade hiding motives yet to unfold.
We spent some time strolling about the garden. I was curious to know what Ariana had planned. Abruptly, she seized my hand and drew nearer. I could feel the tension in the air. I felt disgusted.
What the hell is she doing? I better push her away. I have only one girl in my heart. I shoved her off.
I firmly remarked, "Your Highness, you have stepped out of your boundary," as I cleaned my body of her nasty odor. "I thought we had the same mindset," she added, enraged.
A recognizable voice broke the tension before things could get any worse, saying, "Magnus! You are there."
I looked over and saw Alina running towards us, her face full of concern. She said to Ariana, "Your Highness, I hope the evening finds you well," sensing the tension. Magnus, we have some pressing business to attend to."
Alina's intervention provided a graceful exit. I nodded gratefully and followed her away from Ariana's cold gaze. Once at a safe distance, Alina asked, "What was that about?"
I explained, "Ariana seemed to have her plans for the evening. Thanks for the timely rescue, Alina."
She grinned, "No one messes with my best friend. Now, let's enjoy the rest of the evening without any unwanted drama."
Alina looked as beautiful as ever. Best friend? I had other goals in my mind. We planned to get back to the event hall. But I had a bad feeling.
Something was wrong.
I felt a sudden disturbance in the Astral energies manifested as a swirling portal. Out of it emerged an Astral dragon. Ariana gasped as the dragon seized her and began to lift her off the ground.
No way, it is the kidnapping event where Count Mapisto will be sentenced to death.
Without hesitation, Alina and I drew our weapons. The Astral dragon loomed over us. With a thunderous roar, the dragon lunged forward, its jaws open wide.
Alina reacted swiftly, conjuring a barrier of shimmering energy to deflect the dragon's initial assault. Meanwhile, I infused my wooden sword with Astral energy, transforming it into a gleaming weapon. The clash of magic and steel echoed through the royal garden.
The dragon's tail lashed out, sending shockwaves through the astral plane. Alina and I dodged and weaved, coordinating our movements to evade the creature's relentless attacks. The air around us crackled with Astral energy, adding an otherworldly intensity to the confrontation.
In response to the dragon's aerial maneuvers, I channeled my astral abilities to enhance my agility. With a burst of speed, I closed in on the dragon, aiming to strike a decisive blow. Alina continued to support from a distance, unleashing arcane projectiles to keep the dragon off balance.
However, the Astral dragon proved to be a formidable adversary. It countered our every move with calculated precision. The battle reached a critical point when the dragon unleashed a torrent of astral flames, forcing us to retreat.
As we regrouped, the dragon seized Ariana in its powerful claws, preparing to ascend into the swirling portal. Alina and I exchanged determined glances, silently acknowledging the decision we were about to make. With a shared resolve, we leaped into the portal.