The market is lively, filled with the sounds of merchants calling out their wares and the chatter of customers.
Lexzandra weaves through the crowd, trying to blend in while keeping a keen eye on her surroundings. She feels a mix of excitement and nervousness.
This is one of the few times Soo-young has ventured out on her own since becoming Lexzandra, and the freedom is both exhilarating and daunting.
Lexzandra walks through the busy market, her eyes wide with wonder and curiosity. She admires the colorful fabrics, the rich aroma of spices, and the trinkets on display.
Despite the thick cloak she wears to hide her identity, her striking beauty still catches the eyes of people passing by. Some pause to stare, drawn by her elegance even under the hood.
She pulls the hood of her cloak lower over her face and walks faster, remembering her destination: the jewelry shop where she is to meet Ethan.
Earlier that morning, she had told Elara about her plan. Elara had been adamant about accompanying her, warning of the dangers of venturing out alone, especially for someone of her status.
"It's too dangerous, Your Highness. You shouldn't go alone," Elara had insisted.
But Lexzandra had been determined. She wanted to handle this herself, to prove that she could take control of her own destiny.
With a resigned sigh, Elara had eventually given in, providing her with detailed instructions and the secret code to use at the shop.
"If anything happens, call for me immediately," Elara had said, her worry evident in her voice. Lexzandra had nodded, appreciating the concern but resolute in her decision.
As she finally reaches the jewelry shop, she takes a deep breath and steps inside. The shop is small but filled with glittering jewels and ornate pieces.
She approaches the counter and quietly speaks the code that Elara had given her. The shop owner, a stern-looking man, nods and disappears into the back room.
Moments later, Ethan emerges, his expression unreadable. He doesn't seem surprised to see her, and with a brief nod, he motions for her to follow him.
They walk through a narrow hallway to a small room at the back of the shop. The room is dimly lit, with shelves lined with books and only a single lamp casting a soft glow.
Ethan gestures for her to sit. "What do you need this time?" he asks, his tone casual but curious.
Lexzandra pulls out the sketches of the symbol she found in the book and places them on the table.
"I need information about this symbol," she says, watching his reaction closely.
Ethan picks up the sketches, examining them carefully. He shakes his head slowly.
"Magic is banned here. It's dangerous to even talk about it."
"But your guild deals with forbidden knowledge," Lexzandra counters. "You must have some information."
Ethan looks up, a hint of a smile on his lips. "The princess is making demands now? Interesting."
Lexzandra is taken aback that he knows her true identity but decides not to question it. She has more pressing concerns. "I need to know what this symbol means," she insists, her voice firm and determined.
Ethan leans back in his chair, his eyes narrowing as he considers her request. "Information like this isn't easy to come by," he says slowly. "It will take time and resources to dig into such forbidden knowledge. I'll need 2000 gold coins."
Lexzandra gasps, her eyes widening in shock. "2000 gold coins? That's an outrageous amount. I don't have that kind of money."
Ethan shrugs, his expression indifferent. "Then I can't help you. My services aren't free, and the risks involved in this matter are considerable. If I get caught, it could cost me my life."
Lexzandra feels a wave of frustration and desperation wash over her. She can't afford to walk away without the information she needs.
She takes a deep breath, trying to calm herself. "Is there any way we can negotiate? 2000 gold coins is far beyond my means."
Ethan studies her for a moment, tapping his fingers on the table thoughtfully. "Why is this so important to you? What's your connection to this symbol?" he asks, his curiosity piqued.
"That is none of your concern, I presume," Lexzandra deadpans. "You just need to find out about its origin and things related to it.."
Ethan raises an eyebrow. "Alright, let's negotiate. How much can you afford?"
Lexzandra thinks quickly, calculating her limited resources. "I can manage 1000 gold coins," she offers, hoping it will be enough.
Ethan shakes his head, his expression serious. "Not nearly enough for the risk and effort involved. I might consider it for 1500 gold coins."
Lexzandra feels a pang of frustration. "1500 gold coins is still a lot for me," she protests.
Ethan's serious demeanor breaks, and he scoffs. "A lot for you, Princess? Aren't you supposed to have access to the royal treasury? Or perhaps you've been spending too much on dresses and jewelry?"
Lexzandra glares at him. "It's not like that. The funds I have access to are limited. Besides, I'm trying to manage my own expenses."
Ethan smirks. "Fair enough, Princess. But you know, for someone of your status, 1500 gold coins should be a drop in the bucket. Maybe it's time to put those royal connections to good use."
"Alright, 1500 gold coins it is. I'll find a way to get the money."
Ethan nods, his expression becoming more serious again. "Good. Once you have the money, bring it to me, and I'll start my inquiries. Just remember, Princess, this information could be dangerous. Be careful who you trust."
Lexzandra stands up, and stretches her hand for a handshake "Thank you, Ethan. I appreciate your help"
Ethan nods. " Stay safe, Princess."
___
"What?"
Lexzandra is shocked to hear the news that she must join the family dinner tonight. The man delivering the message, a servant of the emperor, stands before her, his expression neutral but respectful.
"Are you certain?" Lexzandra asks, her voice trembling slightly. "The emperor has requested my presence at dinner tonight?"
The servant nods. "Yes, Your Highness. His Majesty has personally instructed that you attend the family dinner this evening. He wishes for the royal family to dine together."
Lexzandra blinks, trying to process the information. "Did he say why?"
The servant shakes his head. "No, Your Highness. He simply expressed a desire for your presence."
She takes a deep breath, attempting to steady herself. "Thank you for informing me."
The servant nods once more and exits the room, leaving her alone with her thoughts. She looks at Elara, who is beaming with excitement.
Elara claps her hands together, her eyes shining. "This is wonderful news, Your Highness!"
Lexzandra sighs. "I suppose so."
"Which dress should you wear, Your Highness? You need to look presentable," Elara says, her excitement palpable.
Lexzandra runs a hand through her hair, feeling a wave frustration and resignation.
After dealing with the symbol and the guild man today, she is exhausted. And now, this.
According to her memories, the last time she was asked to join a family dinner was six years ago.
Soo-young, now as Lexzandra, remembers the sting of being excluded from family gatherings, the loneliness of eating alone in her chambers while the rest of the family dined together. The sudden invitation feels like a mockery, a reminder of her previous isolation. What has changed?
Is it because she has been trying to reform her ways, to show them that she is no longer the troublesome princess they once knew? Or is this just another test, another chance for them to scrutinize and judge her?
She feels like an outsider in her own family, a role she has grown accustomed to but never fully accepted. The invitation is both a small victory and a painful reminder of her past.
She sighs deeply, knowing she cannot refuse the emperor's order but wishing she could avoid the impending scrutiny and awkwardness.
Elara carefully selects a deep green dress with intricate gold embroidery along the hem and neckline.
The dress is made of rich, luxurious fabric that drapes elegantly, accentuating Lexzandra's graceful figure without being overly extravagant.
The dress features a sleeveless design, with delicate straps that highlight her shoulders and collarbone. The neckline is modest yet stylish, dipping slightly to add a touch of sophistication.
As the maid helps Lexzandra into the dress, she hums softly, clearly pleased with her choice. The dress fits perfectly, the gold accents catching the light and adding a regal touch to Lexzandra's appearance.
Elara then turns her attention to Lexzandra's hair. She brushes it thoroughly until it shines, the dark strands cascading in soft waves down her back. Instead of an elaborate updo, she opts to keep Lexzandra's hair open, securing it with a delicate hairpin adorned with a small emerald that matches the dress.
Elara steps back to admire her handiwork, a satisfied smile on her face. "You look beautiful, Your Highness," she says, her voice filled with pride. Lexzandra looks at herself in the mirror, barely recognizing the reflection.
The elegant dress and carefully styled hair make her look every bit the princess she is supposed to be, even if she doesn't feel like one.
Taking a deep breath, Lexzandra steels herself for the evening ahead.
"Thank you, Elara," she says softly, appreciating the maid's efforts. With one last glance in the mirror, she turns and heads toward the royal palace.