[The creak of the palace gates] Eve and Princess Lily dismounted from their horse as the grand gates of the royal palace swung open. Two heavily armored knights stepped forward, their massive forms moving with surprising grace as they pulled the doors wide to admit the newcomers. Meanwhile, a stableman appeared and led the horse towards the stables, ensuring it would be well cared for.
[The soft rustle of fabric] As Eve and Lily stepped inside, they were greeted by an orderly array of maids and butlers, each impeccably dressed and standing at attention along the sides of the grand hall. The air was filled with an aura of formality and expectation, the staff bowing slightly as the pair passed.
[Footsteps echoing in the hall] Emerging from the ranks of servants were three individuals who exuded an undeniable aura of royalty. The first, a stately woman with an air of authority, her regal bearing evident in every step. The second, a man with a commanding presence, his eyes sharp and discerning. The third, a younger woman whose elegance and grace spoke of her noble heritage, yet her expression held a hint of arrogance and entitlement.
"Princess Lily," the stately woman greeted, her voice warm yet formal. "Welcome back to Selevex. We have been eagerly awaiting your return."
[Shuffling of feet] Princess Lily stepped forward, inclining her head in acknowledgment. "Mother, Father, Sister," she addressed them in turn, her tone respectful but tinged with affection. "It is good to be home."
The commanding man, her father, nodded approvingly. "And who is your companion?" he asked, his gaze shifting to Eve.
[The air grows tense] Lily quickly intervened, her voice clear and authoritative. "This is Eve, an exceptional monster hunter and mercenary. I hired her as my personal bodyguard after a bandit ambush destroyed my carriage. She happened to be passing by and saved me."
[Whispers among the staff] The revelation caused a ripple of murmurs among the assembled maids and butlers, their curiosity piqued by the presence of such a renowned figure.
The younger woman, Lily's sister, stepped forward, her eyes narrowing slightly with a haughty gleam. "A mercenary? How very... rustic," she said with a sneer. "And you, dear sister, felt the need to hire this mercenary? Are our guards not sufficient?"
Lily's expression remained calm and composed. "The situation required immediate action, and Eve proved herself more than capable. Her skills are unmatched, and I felt it prudent to ensure my safety with someone of her expertise."
The stately woman, Lily's mother, tilted her head slightly, her lips curling into a disdainful smile. "Indeed, an exceptional monster hunter," she echoed, her tone dripping with condescension. "It seems rather unconventional to rely on a passing mercenary for protection. One would think our kingdom's resources would suffice."
Lily met her mother's gaze evenly. "Mother, Eve's presence has already proven invaluable. I trust her abilities and judgment. She is here to ensure my safety, and I stand by my decision."
[The regal woman gestures dismissively] Sensing the need to shift the conversation, Lily's father intervened smoothly. "We are grateful for your assistance, Miss Eve. Please, join us inside. We have much to discuss."
[Footsteps on marble floors] Eve frowned and tilted her head slightly, her desire to refuse evident. She had wanted nothing more than to collect her reward from Lily and be on her way. The slight frustration was apparent on her face, a subtle tension in her posture as she considered the invitation. Freedom was her only allegiance, unbound by duty or honor. She thrived on the open road, away from the constraints of royal politics.
Her gaze shifted to Lily, who was giving her a look that spoke volumes. Lily's eyes were imploring, a silent plea for Eve to accept the invitation. The princess's expression held a mixture of urgency and hope, a clear indication that this was more than a mere formality. There was something deeper at play, something that necessitated Eve's continued presence.
[The air grows thick with unspoken tension] Eve sighed, the sound heavy with resignation. She knew she could not refuse. "Very well," she said, her tone measured. "I will join you." The decision was made, and with it came the understanding that her path was now intertwined with the politics and secrets of Selevex.
[Expressions of disdain] Lily's mother and sister were visibly filled with disgust at Eve's response. Their expressions contorted with a mixture of disbelief and revulsion. It was clear that they did not want a commoner, much less a mercenary, stepping inside their esteemed halls. The disdain in their eyes was unmistakable, a silent testament to their prejudice and arrogance.
In stark contrast, Lily's father smiled slightly, an expression of genuine appreciation. He beckoned Eve towards the inner hallways of the palace with a graceful gesture. "Come, Miss Eve," he said warmly. "There is much we need to discuss, and your insights will be invaluable."
[The creaking of heavy doors] As the group moved further into the palace, the opulent surroundings became more evident. The grandeur of the royal residence, with its intricate tapestries and gilded fixtures, was a stark contrast to the wild forests of Killan. Eve couldn't help but feel a sense of unease, knowing that her presence here would likely lead to more than just safeguarding the princess—it would entangle her in the intricate web of royal politics and the secrets of Selevex.
Eve sighed under her breath and muttered, "Fucking great… Just what I needed."
[Footsteps on marble floors] They soon arrived at a grand dining hall, where a long dining table stretched before them. The table was set with an array of food, each dish more extravagant than the last. The extravagant utensils gleamed with the unmistakable luster of gold. On either side of the table stood maids, perfectly poised, and chefs, waiting attentively for any commands.
[The rustle of fabric] Eve's eyes scanned the lavish spread before her. Plates piled high with delicacies, silver bowls brimming with rich sauces, and goblets filled with what appeared to be the finest wines. To a mortal, this feast would be a banquet of unparalleled luxury. Yet, Eve knew the truth behind the illusion. For her, these foods were nothing more than a disgusting delicacy devoid of taste, like eating tasteless ash. The true sustenance she craved was something far more primal and forbidden—the blood of a human being.
[The tension in the air] As a pure-blooded vampire, Eve had long learned to mask her true nature. Here, amidst the aristocracy of Selevex, she had to act accordingly, hiding her vampiric identity beneath a façade of normalcy. The challenge lay not just in feigning interest in the feast before her, but in navigating the treacherous waters of courtly intrigue and scrutiny.
[The clinking of fine china] "Please, take a seat," Lily's father gestured to a place at the table. His smile, though warm, held an underlying expectation of decorum. Lily's mother and sister seated themselves with practiced grace, their expressions barely concealing their distaste for Eve's presence.
[The scrape of chairs on the marble floor] Eve settled into her seat, her movements smooth and calculated. She reached for a goblet of wine, raising it to her lips and taking a measured sip. The liquid, though rich and full-bodied, did little to quench her thirst. She set the goblet down with practiced ease, maintaining her composure amidst the grandeur of the dining hall.
[Soft murmurs of conversation] As the royal family engaged in light conversation, Eve's actions mirrored those of a noble. Her posture was impeccable, her movements elegant. She picked up her utensils with delicate precision, cutting her food with an almost regal grace. Each bite she took was small and measured, her chewing slow and deliberate, reflecting the training and upbringing of someone accustomed to high society.
[The rustle of silk] Princess Lily, seated beside her, leaned in slightly. "Eve, are you alright?" she asked softly, her concern genuine.
Eve nodded, offering a reassuring smile. "I'm fine, just... not very hungry," she replied, her voice steady. The statement was both a truth and a deception, a necessary part of the charade she played.
[The flickering of candlelight] As the evening progressed, Lily's mother observed Eve closely. Her keen eyes picked up on the subtle nuances of Eve's actions—the way she held her fork, the manner in which she dabbed her lips with the napkin, the graceful way she sipped her wine. These were not the actions of a common mercenary. They were the telltale signs of noble upbringing.
[The sound of clinking cutlery ceases] "You seem quite practiced in the ways of noble dining, Miss Eve," Lily's mother remarked, her voice laced with suspicion.
Eve did not react, her expression remaining calm and composed as she continued to eat. She ignored the comment, choosing not to engage or offer any explanation. This non-reaction infuriated Lily's mother, who was unaccustomed to being disregarded in her own home. "Are you deaf, Miss Eve? Or perhaps you think yourself above answering me?" Her tone was sharp, dripping with condescension.
[Expressions of disdain] Lily's sister chimed in, her voice equally venomous. "It seems our guest lacks the basic manners to respond. How typical of a mercenary."
Before the tension could escalate further, Lily's father intervened smoothly. "Enough," he said firmly, his voice commanding. "Miss Eve is our guest, and she has already proven her worth by protecting our daughter. Let us not forget that."
Eve scoffed, leaning back slightly in her chair. "I don't need to communicate with any of you or form any connections," she said coldly. "I'm only here to collect my reward from Princess Lily and be on my way. No strings attached."
[Expressions of disdain] Lily's mother and sister exchanged looks of disbelief and revulsion. Their disdain was unmistakable, a silent testament to their prejudice and arrogance.
The tension in the air was palpable, the atmosphere thick with unspoken animosity. Lily's father, sensing the escalating conflict, coughed forcefully, drawing the attention of everyone in the room. The sound echoed through the grand dining hall, momentarily breaking the charged silence.
"Let us not allow discord to mar this evening," he said, his voice steady and authoritative. "Miss Eve, your actions have safeguarded our daughter, and for that, we owe you a great debt." He paused, looking at his wife and daughter, both of whom wore expressions of barely concealed contempt. "I will personally see to it that you are rewarded."
Eve's eyes flickered with interest, a smirk playing on her lips. She leaned back slightly, her demeanor exuding a blend of confidence and amusement. With a casual gesture, she made a sign with her hand that clearly indicated her preference for gold.
Lily's father chuckled heartily, the sound rich and genuine. "Gold, the most common yet sought-after material in this world," he mused, shaking his head. "It seems even the most exceptional of mercenaries are not immune to its allure."
Lily's mother scoffed, her expression one of disdain. "How typical," she muttered under her breath, loud enough for Eve to hear. "A mercenary's loyalty always comes with a price."
Lily shot her mother a warning look, her voice calm but firm. "Mother, Eve's services were invaluable. We should be grateful, not condescending."
Eve's smirk widened, her eyes glinting with a mix of amusement and defiance. "Indeed," she said, her tone light yet pointed. "I provide a service, and I expect fair compensation. It's a straightforward transaction."
Lily's sister, unable to contain her scorn, chimed in. "And what will you do with your precious gold, mercenary? Buy more weapons to ply your bloody trade?"
Eve turned her gaze to Lily's sister, her expression unwavering. "What I do with my earnings is my business," she replied coolly. "But rest assured, every coin is well-earned."
Lily's father raised a hand, signaling for silence. "That is enough," he said firmly. "Miss Eve has fulfilled her part of the agreement, and she will be rewarded as promised." He turned to Eve, his expression softening slightly. "How much gold would suffice, Miss Eve?"
Eve considered for a moment, her eyes narrowing thoughtfully. "Enough to cover my expenses and compensate for the risks taken," she said finally, her voice measured. "Let's say, a thousand gold pieces."
Lily's mother gasped, her eyes widening in shock. "A thousand? That's outrageous!"
Lily's father, however, nodded thoughtfully. "Considering the circumstances, I find it a reasonable request," he said, his tone brooking no argument. "You shall have your gold, Miss Eve."
Lily offered Eve a grateful smile. "Thank you, Eve. Your assistance has been more than I could have hoped for."
Eve inclined her head slightly. "Just doing my job," she replied. "Now, if there's nothing else, I'd like to collect my reward and be on my way."
Lily's mother, still bristling with indignation, muttered under her breath. "Unbelievable."
Lily's sister merely rolled her eyes, her disdain evident.
Lily's father rose from his seat, gesturing for Eve to follow. "Come with me, Miss Eve. The treasury is this way. We will see to it that you receive your payment immediately."
Eve stood, her movements fluid and graceful. She cast a final, defiant glance at Lily's mother and sister before turning to follow Lily's father. As they left the grand dining hall, the flickering candlelight cast long shadows on the walls, a reminder of the secrets and intrigues that lay hidden within the palace of Selevex.
The journey to the treasury was marked by a heavy silence, broken only by the soft echoes of their footsteps. Lily's father walked with a purposeful stride, his expression thoughtful. "I must admit, Miss Eve," he said finally, "I am curious about your skills and background. You handled yourself with the grace of nobility back there."
Eve smirked, her eyes gleaming with a hint of mystery. "Let's just say I've had a diverse upbringing," she replied cryptically. "Enough to know how to navigate both battlefields and dining halls."
Lily's father chuckled. "A valuable combination, indeed," he said. "Perhaps we could use someone of your talents in a more permanent capacity."
Eve shook her head, her smile wry. "I appreciate the offer, but I value my freedom too much. I'm not one for long-term commitments."
He nodded, accepting her response. "Very well. But know that you will always be welcome in Selevex, should you ever change your mind."
As they reached the treasury, Lily's father gestured to the guards, who opened the heavy doors to reveal the wealth stored within. He stepped inside, retrieving a heavy pouch filled with gold coins. Handing it to Eve, he smiled warmly. "Here is your reward, as promised. A thousand gold pieces."
Eve took the pouch, feeling the weight of the coins. "Thank you," she said simply. "I appreciate the promptness."
With the transaction complete, Eve turned to leave, her mind already on her next destination. But as she walked away, she couldn't shake the feeling that her time in Selevex had left an indelible mark, one that would perhaps draw her back to this kingdom in the future. For now, though, she was content to return to the freedom of the open road, her pockets heavier and her resolve as strong as ever.
As Eve made her way out of the dining hall and into the grand hallway that led outside, she moved with the confidence and poise of someone who had just successfully navigated a complex and potentially perilous social situation. The flickering candlelight cast long shadows on the walls, creating an almost ethereal atmosphere as she walked towards the exit, the heavy pouch of gold coins secure at her side.
[Footsteps echoing in the hallway] Just as she approached the grand entrance, she heard hurried footsteps behind her. She turned slightly, her senses alert, and saw Princess Lily running towards her, seemingly out of breath. The princess skidded to a halt a few steps away, her chest heaving as she tried to catch her breath.
"You're leaving... already?" Lily asked, her voice tinged with a mix of surprise and disappointment. Her eyes searched Eve's face, as if hoping to find a reason for her to stay. The vulnerability in her gaze spoke volumes, suggesting that she had hoped for something more from their brief yet intense encounter.
Eve paused, her expression softening slightly as she looked at Lily. "Yes, Princess," she replied, her tone gentle yet firm. "I've done what I was hired to do. Your safety was my priority, and now that you're safe, it's time for me to move on."
Lily's face fell, her shoulders slumping slightly as she took in Eve's words. "I thought... I thought we had something special," she murmured, her voice barely above a whisper. "You saved me, Eve. I owe you more than just gold."
Eve's eyes softened, and she took a step closer to Lily. "Princess, you don't owe me anything more than what we agreed upon. I'm a mercenary, and my job is to protect and move on. Attachments complicate things."
Lily looked up at her, her eyes filled with disappointment. "But what if I want things to be complicated? What if I want you to stay?"
Eve sighed, her resolve wavering for a moment as she considered the princess's plea. "Lily, my life is not one that can be easily shared. I'm always on the move, always looking for the next job. Staying in one place, forming attachments—it's not who I am."
Eve knew she couldn't let herself get attached to any mortal. The devious secret she harbored—that she was a vampire—meant that close relationships were not just complicated; they were dangerous. For both parties.
Lily stepped closer, her hand reaching out to gently touch Eve's arm. "Just think about it, Eve. You don't have to decide right now. But if you ever find yourself needing a place to call home, Selevex will always welcome you."
Eve looked down at Lily's hand on her arm, the warmth of the princess's touch sending a small, unexpected thrill through her. She gently took Lily's hand in her own, giving it a light squeeze before letting go. "I'll keep that in mind, Princess," she said softly. "But for now, I have to go."
Lily nodded, her eyes filled with a mixture of sadness and understanding. "Take care, Eve. And remember, you always have a friend in Selevex."
With a final, lingering glance, Eve turned and walked out of the grand entrance, the heavy doors closing behind her with a resounding thud. The cool night air greeted her, a stark contrast to the warmth and tension inside the palace. She took a deep breath, feeling the familiar sense of freedom wash over her as she stepped into the shadows of the night.
[The rustling of leaves] As she made her way down the path away from the palace, Eve couldn't help but glance back one last time. The silhouette of the grand structure stood against the moonlit sky, a reminder of the brief but impactful encounter she had experienced. She shook her head slightly, focusing on the road ahead. There were always more adventures to be had, more jobs to take, and more challenges to face.