The day had finally arrived. The sun was shining brightly over the Duskveil estate as the carriages carrying Crown Prince Leo and Vivienne arrived. Ryan stood at the entrance, ready to welcome them, with Scarlet by his side.
As the carriages came to a stop, the doors opened, and Leo stepped out first, a confident grin on his face. Although they were the same age, Leo always carried himself with a sense of royalty that made him stand out. Vivienne followed close behind, her calm and sharp gaze taking in everything around her, just as Ryan remembered from their last meeting.
"Hey, Ryan," Leo greeted him warmly, walking up to him. "Good to see you again."
Ryan smiled and gave a casual wave. "It's been a while, Leo. Welcome to Duskveil."
Vivienne nodded in greeting. "Ryan." Her voice was polite but measured, her gaze as sharp as ever.
"Vivienne, good to see you too," Ryan replied, bowing slightly out of courtesy. Scarlet stood quietly by his side, observing the exchange.
With pleasantries exchanged, they all moved inside to begin their discussions.
After exchanging pleasantries, the group moved into the grand hall of the Duskveil estate to begin their formal discussions. The atmosphere shifted as they sat at a large wooden table, the conversations turning toward more serious matters—trade and diplomacy.
Leo leaned forward, his hands resting on the table. "Ryan, as you know, Duskveil's location is strategically important for trade between our regions. We'd like to establish a stronger trade route between Pendragon and Duskveil."
Vivienne nodded in agreement. "The wealth of resources in your territory could benefit both our regions greatly. In return, we could offer access to some of the rare materials from our lands. It would strengthen both of our economies."
Ryan listened carefully, nodding at their proposals. "That sounds beneficial for both of us. I've been thinking about expanding our trade as well. Establishing more reliable routes would be a good step."
The conversation flowed smoothly, with both sides discussing potential agreements. Leo and Vivienne shared their thoughts on future collaboration, from trading rare materials to creating alliances that would benefit their territories.
Once the formal talks concluded, Leo's tone shifted, becoming more personal. "Ryan," he began, leaning back in his chair, "there's something else I wanted to discuss with you. A unique opportunity."
Vivienne's eyes gleamed as she added, "We've been preparing for a dungeon exploration. It's a special dungeon that only allows Level 1 Magisters to enter."
Ryan raised an eyebrow, already knowing where this conversation was headed. He remembered this part of the game—the protagonist would enter this very dungeon and obtain an item that unlocked a cheat skill, something that gave the protagonist an edge over everyone else.
Leo continued, "This dungeon is no ordinary one. There are treasures inside that could greatly enhance your power. I want you to join my team for the exploration."
Vivienne smiled. "I was going to extend the same invitation. My team has been preparing, and having you with us would ensure success."
Ryan smiled politely, his mind already racing. In the game, this dungeon was a critical turning point for the protagonist. But now that he knew about it, he had no intention of letting the protagonist take that cheat skill. He needed to get stronger, and this dungeon was his opportunity.
But joining Leo or Vivienne wasn't part of his plan.
"Thank you for the invitation," Ryan said with a slight bow. "But I have my own team already."
Leo's smile faltered slightly. "Your own team?"
Ryan nodded and gestured to Scarlet, who stood beside him. "This is Scarlet. She's been training with me for a while now, and her strength in flame magic is remarkable. I trust her skills completely."
Scarlet bowed slightly. "It's an honor to meet you, Your Highness, Lady Vivienne."
Vivienne's sharp gaze shifted to Scarlet, evaluating her for a moment before turning back to Ryan. "I see. You've already made your decision."
Ryan smiled. "Yes. I plan to explore the dungeon with my own group, including Seraphina Pendragon and some other followers. I believe we'll manage just fine."
Leo leaned back in his chair, a thoughtful expression crossing his face. "Very well. I can respect that. But don't hesitate to reach out if you need any assistance."
Ryan nodded. "Thank you, Your Highness. I'll keep that in mind."
As the conversation wound down, Ryan couldn't help but feel a surge of excitement. He had successfully declined both Leo and Vivienne's offers without offending them, and now the dungeon exploration was his next target. He remembered the protagonist's journey in the game, but Ryan had no intention of following the same path.
He didn't care about the plot or whether he was seen as a hero or villain. He would walk between the lines, doing whatever it took to grow stronger. And if anyone tried to stand in his way, he wouldn't hesitate to eliminate them. His bottom line was clear: survival and strength.
As he and Scarlet left the hall, Ryan's mind was already racing with plans. The dungeon awaited, and he wasn't going to miss his chance.
"Let's start preparing," Ryan said, glancing at Scarlet.
Scarlet nodded, a determined look on her face. "I'm ready whenever you are."
Ryan smiled, knowing that the real adventure was about to begin.