Chereads / The Legendary mage / Chapter 23 - Chapter 23: Third Prince

Chapter 23 - Chapter 23: Third Prince

Scene: Royal Palace-

The Prince's Chamber, situated at the heart of the royal palace, exudes an aura of authority and warmth, blending grandeur with comfort.

Golden tapestries with intricate flame motifs adorn the walls, reflecting the rich hues of sunset, while soft candles and an ornate chandelier cast a warm, dancing glow.

A massive, symbol-etched oak desk dominates the room's center, representing strength and valor.

Stacks of scrolls, tomes, and strategic texts rest atop the desk, alongside a quill and inkwell, awaiting the prince's decrees.

Near the window, overlooking the palace gardens, a plush armchair invites contemplation.

Shelves lined with ancient texts and artifacts showcase the kingdom's legacy, complemented by a roaring fireplace that adds warmth and subtle danger.

The air carries a soothing scent of incense and burning wood, fostering a serene yet invigorating atmosphere perfect for forging alliances, strategizing battles, and pondering destiny.

Seated at the desk is a youthful figure.

Prince Cyrus Flameheart, 23, embodies a striking blend of youth and regal authority, standing tall at six feet with an athletic build.

His golden skin glimmers like sunlit bronze, and his molten gold hair flows to his shoulders, framing his face in soft waves.

Prince Cyrus Flameheart's eyes are his most captivating feature - piercing amber with flecks of crimson that spark with intensity, echoing the flames he's named after.

His angular features - high cheekbones and a strong jawline - convey nobility and determination.

Dressed in richly embroidered crimson and gold garments, his attire boasts intricate flame motifs symbolizing his lineage.

A pendant shaped like a flickering flame hangs around his neck, crafted from rare gemstones that catch the light with every movement.

Cyrus carries himself with confidence and charisma, effortlessly drawing attention.

His presence is commanding and magnetic, embodying his fiery heritage and future responsibilities.

As the third prince, Cyrus is a contender for the kingdom's throne.

Engrossed in work, Cyrus was startled by a sudden knock at his chamber door.

"Come in," Cyrus said.

The Executor entered, kneeling before Prince Cyrus. "Your Majesty, Officer Vicc sent me."

He produced a pendant from his pocket and presented it to Prince Cyrus.

The moment Prince Cyrus laid eyes on the pendant, he recognized its significance - a distress signal sent by a noble to the Royal Family in times of crisis.

"Summon Jeff," Prince Cyrus instructed his butler.

Footsteps echoed outside, followed by the entrance of Jeff, the royal knight.

Sir Jeff, 29, stood tall at 6 feet 2 inches, with a strong build and polished armor adorned with the royal emblem - a blazing flame on his chest.

His dark hair fell to his shoulders, framing sharp, deep brown eyes.

A dark blue cloak with crimson lining flowed behind him, complemented by a heavy, ornate sword at his back, bearing battle scars.

Jeff's presence radiated strength and loyalty, embodying the realm's protection.

Kneeling before Prince Cyrus, Jeff said, "Give the command, Your Majesty."

"Assist them to the best of your ability, Jeff," Prince Cyrus ordered.

"As you wish," Jeff replied.

Jeff and the Executor departed, leaving Prince Cyrus alone in his chambers, lost in thought.

Meanwhile, Adam, disguised as a girl, navigated the streets cautiously, scanning his surroundings.

Suddenly, Gobar's servant, Ko, appeared before him.

"Hey, girl, you don't belong here," Ko said. "Where are you from? Did you sneak in from the Fifth Layer?"

Adam observed Ko's slender build and servant attire, noting the slave collar around his neck.

"He's a slave," Adam thought. "He must be following orders."

"I'm lost," Adam said, feigning vulnerability.

Ko narrowed his eyes. "You're an illegal immigrant from the Fifth Layer, aren't you? Now you're homeless?"

Adam shook his head, pretending fear.

"You'll soon be caught by city guards and imprisoned," Ko warned.

"Don't be afraid," Ko said. "My master is kind-hearted. He'll provide for you and offer work at his shop."

"Follow me," Ko instructed.

Adam trailed behind Ko, then discreetly activated his God's Eye skill.

His blue eyes transformed, glowing golden as the skill took hold.

Scanning the surroundings, Adam spotted a cozy coffee shop ahead.

The shop, nestled in a bustling town corner, exuded warmth. Its wooden exterior boasted inviting brown hues, while large windows allowed soft light to pour in.

Inside, the aroma of freshly brewed coffee and baked goods filled the air. Wooden tables and mismatched chairs created a welcoming atmosphere, complemented by book-lined shelves and eclectic trinkets.

Above the shop, the owner's two-story dwelling featured a colorful flower-adorned balcony and a cozy living space.

Soft lighting, comfortable furniture, and personal touches reflected the owner's passion for their craft. Handmade art and photography decorated the walls, adding a personal touch.

Observing the house, Adam thought, "The standard here surpasses the Fifth Layer."

The servant informed Gobar, "Master, this girl from the Fifth Layer has nowhere to stay. What should I do?"

Gobar, wearing a fake smile, approached Adam. "Child, you're lost. Don't worry, you're safe with me."

As Gobar spoke, he placed a hand on Adam's shoulder, his eyes locking onto Adam's.

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Gobar's Profile

Name: Gobar

Occupation: Coffee Shop Owner

Age: 41

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Physical Description

- Overweight with a round belly

- Weathered skin, bushy mustache, and twinkling eyes

- Loose, colorful tunics, often stained

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Personality Traits

- Lustful and flirtatious

- Charismatic and jovial

- Greedy and cunning

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Background

Gobar built his coffee shop from scratch, supplementing his wealth with shady dealings.

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Motivations

- Wealth and pleasure

- Maintaining his lifestyle

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Relationships

- Customers: Flirtatious, creating a mixed reputation

- Suppliers: Charm-based negotiations

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Conflict

- Tension with authorities and rival business owners due to his behavior

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Adam was astonished by the wealth of information his God's Eye skill provided about Gobar. "Perhaps it's because I studied him while activating the skill," Adam thought.

Gobar misinterpreted Adam's expression, thinking, "Excellent. The more fearful you are, the more I can exploit you."

Gobar embraced Adam, saying, "Don't be afraid."

Adam regained his composure, stepping back. "Thank you, Mr... How can I repay this kindness?"

Gobar's thoughts betrayed his innocent expression: "She smells intoxicating... I must restrain myself."

Composing himself, Gobar instructed his servant, "Ko, show her to the upstairs room."

Adam followed Ko, entering the room with curiosity.

Gobar's bedroom, above the coffee shop, reflected his personality - cozy, cluttered, and inviting.

Earth-toned walls enveloped the modest space, centered around a well-worn bed with a patchwork quilt.

Mismatched furniture filled the room: a sturdy dresser, a rickety nightstand piled with receipts and books, and a snack-littered table.

A thick rug warmed the wooden floor, while faded curtains blocked the morning sun, creating a cozy atmosphere.

Trinkets and mementos adorned a small shelf, including patron photos and hints of Gobar's flirtatious nature.

Despite clutter, the room exuded comfort, with lingering coffee aromas from the shop below.