The tension in the room hung like a heavy curtain, casting shadows on the polished marble floor. Avaria, the defeated princess, sat across from me, her fingers tapping nervously on the armrest of her ornate chair. Her eyes, once fiery with frustration, now held a mix of curiosity and wariness. I had challenged her, and now she was forced to accept her loss. But my victory wasn't mere luck; it was calculated, deliberate. I had executed my plan flawlessly, and now it was time to reap the rewards.
The room, arranged for our private conversation, exuded opulence. Gilded tapestries adorned the walls, depicting scenes of mythical battles and heroic deeds. A crystal chandelier hung from the ceiling, casting a warm glow over the intricately carved wooden table before me. On it sat a delicate cup of tea, steam rising in graceful tendrils. The tea was made from the finest cocoa beans, a small luxury in this tense moment.
I took another sip, savoring the rich flavor. Avaria shifted in her seat, her gaze never leaving mine. I cleared my throat, choosing my words carefully.
"Well," I began, my voice steady, "there's something I'd like to discuss. When we both enroll in the Arcamus Magic Academy—probably two years from now—I want you to become my girlfriend."
Avaria's eyes widened, and she sputtered, "What? Why would I—"
"Or," I interrupted, leaning forward, "you could be my servant instead."
Her hesitation was evident. "No, that's not—"
"Very well," I said, my tone unwavering. "Let me reiterate: the year I attend Arcamus, you, the princess of Eldoria, will be my girlfriend. Do we have an agreement?"
She stammered, "Y-Y-Yeah, I agree."
As I left the room, my mind raced. Avaria was undeniably beautiful, but my attraction to her wasn't personal. I needed her—for information, insights into the kingdom's affairs, potential threats lurking beyond the castle walls. But there was more to this arrangement than met the eye.
The next two days passed uneventfully. I didn't cross paths with Avaria, but my sister, Alexia, made sure to pummel me during our daily practice sessions. She was relentless, her swordplay precise and unforgiving. I wondered if she suspected my ulterior motives for challenging the princess.
Finally, the day of our audience with the king arrived. My sister's nerves were contagious, and she asked me to be nervous too. We stood outside the grand throne room, the massive doors creaking open. The chamber beyond was resplendent, bathed in golden light. Courtiers in elaborate attire moved about, their eyes curious as we stepped forward.
The king sat on his throne, adorned in jewels and a glinting crown. His ancient eyes bore into us as we bowed, careful not to cross the invisible line that separated us from royalty.
"I am Alexia Edvart, your highness," my sister spoke, her voice unwavering.
"And I am Yuna Edvart, your highness," I added, my heart pounding.
"You both have done splendidly," the king said, his voice resonant. "Killing thirty aetherwyrms while protecting our citizens without assistance—I'm pleased to have such talented knights in our kingdom."
"It's our pleasure, your highness," Alexia replied, her gaze steady.
"Now," the king said, leaning forward, "what reward do you desire? Ask for anything."
His words hung in the air, and I couldn't resist. My heart raced as I blurted out, "I seek knowledge, your highness. Secrets buried deep within the kingdom—the kind that can change destinies. Will you grant me access to the forbidden library?"
The king's eyes narrowed, and for a moment, I feared I had overstepped. But then he smiled—a knowing smile that sent shivers down my spine.
"Very well, Yuna Edvart," he said. "The forbidden library shall be yours. But remember, knowledge comes with a price."
And so, my path was set. Avaria, my reluctant ally, and the forbidden library—a web of intrigue and danger awaited me. Little did I know that my wish would unravel secrets beyond imagination.