In my father's office, we were deep in discussion about the safest route for the goods vehicles.
"Father, they can stop in this town, Ixres," I said, tracing my finger across the map. "I've heard it has plenty of inns and hotels, so resting there shouldn't be a problem."
"But after Ixres, there's a forest full of monsters," My father warned, his expression grim. "There's no other way out of that town."
"What kind of monsters?" I asked, leaning in with a mix of curiosity and concern.
"In the forest beyond lxres, there, leaning in with a mix of curiosity and concern.
"In the forest beyond lxres, there are Nyxara giant, nocturnal creatures that hunt anything that moves," he explained, his voice serious as he explained, his voice serious as he pointed to the ominous shaded area on the map. "They're known for their speed and intelligence. Even experienced warriors avoid them."
I stared at the map, my finger hovering over the forest. "Is there really no other route? No way to bypass this forest?"
He shook his head. "The forest is the only direct path to the southern region. Taking any other route would add weeks to the journey, and that's time we can't afford to lose."
"Then let's clear the path by sending armed forces ahead," I suggested, trying to think of a solution.
Father sighed, shaking his head. "We've tried that already. The Nyxara regenerate from any injury, no matter how severe."
I pressed my hands on the table, frustration building. "So that's it? There's really no other way?"
My father gave my back a reassuring pat. "It's fine, Mery. You've done so much already. Thanks to you, the roads are clear, and the vehicles won't break down."
He smiled gently, "Let's not worry about this for now."
No! I don't want to let it go! Want to prove myself to this family! Can't you see that?
I bit back my frustration and sighed, "Father-"
Then, a brilliant idea flashed through my mind like a lighting bolt. I straightened up, my eyes lighting up with excitement. "Father, the royal family can use magic, right?"
He looked at me, puzzled. "Yes... But it's not just them. Anyone who goes through the Aetherbind can use magic."
"But right now, the royal family can use magic, right?" I pressed, the idea forming rapidly in my mind.
Father nodded, still looking at me like I was speaking in riddles. But I was too excited to care. I practically jumped out of my seat, feeling like I had just found the key to a locked door.
"Father, we can ask them to create a protection shield for us! Or maybe even throw fireballs at the monsters! Oh no, why didn't I think of this before?" I was practically bursting with excitement.
"Calm down, Mery," my father said, his voice laced with concern. "Why would the royal family agree to use magic for our business?"
"And besides, the king lost his magic when he tried to attack the High Lunarch, Prince Ancillin," he added.
"High Lunarch can't use magic for things like this, and even if he could, he wouldn't agree to it," my father continued. "And as for the Crown Prince... he wouldn't even lis-"
"No, Father, he will help us. Don't worry, I just know it. He can help us."
"Mery-"
But before he could finish, I stormed out of his office, practically dancing with joy. I could already see the plan falling into place. This was going to work. I just knew it!
I stayed up all night, waiting for him. I kept glancing at the window, half-expecting him to burst in like some dramatic hero, or maybe crash through the ceiling, or just magically appear.
But guess what-
He didn't.
He didn't show up. Not that night, not the next day. He didn't come a whole week!!
"What the hell is that dude's problem?" I grumbled, throwing the gown I had been planning to wear onto the floor. "He's avoiding me just to dodge my questions?"
"Ahhh!!! Why is he like this?!" I yelled, throwing my hands up in frustration.
Just then, there was a knock on the door, followed by a soft, soothing voice. "Lady, are you ready?"
Evelisse's sweet voice was like a balm to my frazzled nerves. I opened the door, and she stood there, looking absolutely radiant in a purple gown delicate petal embroidery and white lace at the hem and cuffs. Her signature half-moon necklace was, as always, resting at her collarbone.
Without thinking, I threw my arms around her, seeking solace in her calm presence amidst the chaos of this crazy life-and that "I'II slice you in half" maniac. Evelisse was my little piece of peace.
She's so soft and cute, I thought, snuggling my face into her neck.
She hugged me back, her voice gentle. "What happened, lady? Are you okay?"
"No, Lisa. I'm not. I'm worried. I hate this life."
She patted my back comfortingly. "There, there... it's okay. Life has challenges."
The way she patted my back reminded me of the way Kairan did it that night.
Ughhh!!! Why am I remembering him?
I broke the hug and grabbed Lisa's shoulders, leaning forward so I was almost eye-level with her.
"Lisa, I need a distraction," I said, my voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper.
She chuckled, her eyes sparkling with curiosity. "What do you need a distraction from, lady?"
"From chuckled again, not missing a beat. "Isn't he?"
I narrowed my eyes and glared at her. "He's an asshole."
Lisa gasped, her eyes widening in mock horror. "Oh my god! Did you just curse the crown prince?"
I nodded vigorously. "Yes, Now, distract me."
Lisa placed a thoughtful hand on her cheek, as if she were deep in contemplation. "Well, I guess you and the Crown Prince must have quite the... friendly relationship."
I groaned, rolling my eyes again. "Seriously, Lisa?"
She giggled, clearly enjoying my discomfort. "Alright, alright. How about we talk about something else? Did you hear about the new enchanted garden being set up in the west wing? Apparently, it's supposed to bloom all year round."
"Encanted garden?" I said, raising an eyebrow. "Well, that's.. less infuriating that a certain prince."
Lisa grinned. "See? I told you I could distract you."
I raised an eyebrow. "Who made it?"
Lisa tapped her finger on her lips, looking up as if the answer were written on the ceiling. "I don't know. But someone did."
"Do you want to see it?" she asked, her eyes wide with anticipation.
I placed a finger on my chin and pretended to ponder. "Let's seee."
Lisa clapped her hands together like an excited child. "Lady, please! Let's go! I'm dying to see it!"
Her enthusiasm was infectious. "Alright, alright. I'm coming."
Lisa practically skipped out of the room, her excitement bubbling over. She and Shadow could give each other a run for their money in the cuteness department right now.
I followed her, trying to put my frustrations aside for the moment. It was hard not to smile at Lisa's sheer joy.