As I step out of my room, I'm met with Sinbad standing a few steps back from the entrance of my chamber. His presence is commanding, and his posture is relaxed, but there's a tension in the air that makes me uneasy.
"Your Majesty," I call out, trying to lighten the mood, "I thought you and Alibaba were going to get drunk." I add a joking tone, hoping to ease whatever seriousness lies beneath his calm exterior.
He smiles, a brief but genuine smile, before looking up at me. "We were, but I thought I would speak to you for a moment."
"What is it?" I ask, my curiosity piqued.
"May we discuss in private?" he asks. I glance around the corridor, noting the guards stationed at regular intervals. The palace is never truly private.
"Is it a very serious matter?" I ask, hesitating. Letting him into my personal chambers feels risky, given how little I know him.
"It may be serious to me, but our opinions may differ," he says casually, with a charming smile that doesn't quite reach his eyes. His tone, however, is serious. I take a deep breath and step aside, allowing him into my chambers. I leave the door open, ensuring the guards can intervene if needed. We sit on a plush mat a few meters from the door, facing each other. He crosses his legs, and I mimic his posture, trying to project calm.
"So, what is it?" I ask, meeting his gaze. His demeanor is as calm and relaxed as ever, but there's a hint of urgency in his eyes.
"This might sound wrong considering I've only known you for a week," he begins. It's a familiar line, one I've heard from suitors many times before. "Would you consider a courtship?" he asks, his tone serious, devoid of his usual charm. I mull over his words, trying to formulate a proper response.
"Only for a month before I propose," he adds. "If you don't like it, then we move on, but I hope you do."
"Why?" I muster the courage to ask. He remains silent but composed, his cheerful facade slipping away, revealing a more earnest side.
"I respect you. I see determination in you, and I'm giving you an opportunity to save your kingdom," he says.
"What do you mean?" I ask, feeling a knot form in my stomach. His next words are disturbing, leaving me reeling. I stand up, pacing the room to calm myself. I finally run to my bed, picking up a small vial of yellow elixir, and hand it to him.
"Take this and tell me the truth," I demand.
"You don't trust my word?" he asks, sounding almost offended.
"Take it," I insist, staring him down. He takes the elixir without hesitation. I watch him closely, hoping he was lying initially, but he repeats the same troubling information. My heart sinks, and I sit on my bed, the world spinning around me.
"And why are you willing to help?" I ask, knowing that help from emperors never comes without a price.
"Because there is something you can offer me later in the future," he says, maintaining his calm demeanor.
"And what might that be?" I ask. He stays silent, his body rigid as if fighting to speak. The truth serum is potent, and he should be unable to lie.
"You," he finally says. I study him, finding him inscrutable, but the serum ensures his honesty. "I do wish for allies."
I take a deep breath, trying to process his words. "So, this courtship is purely strategic for you?"
"Yes," he admits.
"And how do you plan to help my people?" I ask, trying to maintain a strong facade.
"I have an army and unlimited resources to ensure the security of your country," he replies confidently.
I look at him, my thoughts drifting to the disturbing news he shared. "My sister is getting married soon," I say, worry evident in my voice.
"She will be fine," he reassures me. "Looking at Maxim, I think he truly loves your sister."
I glance around, trying to keep my composure. In the doorway, I spot Miss Motan. I notice a smile on her face and look down at my hand, realizing that Sinbad is holding it. I gently pull my hand away, feeling a mix of emotions.
"Thank you for your offer and your honesty," I say, trying to sound calm. "I'll consider your proposal, but right now, I need to focus on my sister's wedding."
Sinbad nods understandingly. "Of course. I don't mean to add to your burdens. Just know that my offer stands, and I'm here to support you in any way I can."
Miss Motan steps into the room, her smile still present. "Princess Daniella, is everything alright?" she asks, her tone polite but curious.
"Yes, Miss Motan," I reply. "Just discussing some matters with His Majesty."
She nods, her eyes twinkling with curiosity. "Very well. I won't keep you any longer. If you need anything, just let me know."
Sinbad gives a slight bow and takes his leave, leaving me with my thoughts and the weight of the decision ahead.
Miss Motan watches him leave before turning back to me. "He seems quite taken with you," she remarks.
I let out a small sigh. "It's more complicated than it seems," I reply, feeling the enormity of the situation settle over me.