A week had passed since the hunting competition, and Ariana's routine had returned to normal. She spent her days practicing magic and swordsmanship, meeting new instructors, and delving deeper into the mysterious attack on her empire.
As she walked out of the Magic Association's grand library, Ariana felt a sense of accomplishment wash over her. She had made significant progress in her research, and her skills were improving steadily.
Just as she was about to head back to her dorms, a messenger arrived with an invitation from the Grand Duchess. Ariana's eyes scanned the elegant script, her mind already made up to decline the offer. A ball was the last thing on her mind.
The next day, Ariana decided to take a break from her studies and venture into the nearby town. She strolled through the bustling streets, taking in the sights and sounds of the market. The aroma of freshly baked bread wafted through the air, enticing her to try some.
Ariana entered a quaint restaurant, the sign above the door reading "Moonlight's Kitchen." She took a seat by the window, perusing the menu as she waited for her food to arrive.
As she lifted her fork to take the first bite of her roasted chicken, a commotion at the entrance caught her attention. A tall, handsome man with black hair and piercing red eyes strode into the restaurant, his gaze scanning the room. Ariana's eyes met his, and for a moment, they simply stared at each other.
As he approached her table, a charming smile spreading across his face, Ariana felt a shiver run down her spine. There was something familiar about him, and as she looked into his red eyes, realization dawned – this was the man she had met at the Information Guild.He was Levi Ryker
"Mind if I join you?" Levi asked, his voice low and smooth, with a hint of a flirtatious accent.
Ariana raised an eyebrow, taken aback by his forwardness. "I was about to leave," she said, trying to sound firm.
Levi chuckled, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "Ah, but you can't leave yet. I've only just arrived."
Levi took a seat across from her, his movements fluid and confident. Ariana's annoyance grew as he began to chat, his words laced with a subtle flirtation that made her skin prickle.
"You look even more beautiful in the daylight," Levi said, his red eyes sparkling with amusement.
Ariana rolled her eyes, trying to maintain a neutral expression. "You're as charming as ever, I see."
Levi's grin widened. "I try my best. Especially when I'm in the presence of a lovely lady such as yourself."
As they bantered back and forth, Ariana found herself growing more and more annoyed. Who did this man think he was, anyway?
As she prepared to leave, Levi's expression turned serious. "I actually came here on business, Ariana. I have something to discuss with you."
Levi handed her a familiar invitation – the one from the Grand Duchess. Ariana's eyes narrowed, suspicion growing.
"I couldn't help but notice that you received an invitation to the Duchess's ball," Levi said, his tone light. "I was wondering if you'd do me the great honor of being my partner for the evening?"
Ariana's initial response was to refuse, but as she looked into his red eyes, she saw a flicker of something unexpected – vulnerability.
"I don't have anyone to go with," Levi said, his voice tinged with a sad tone. "And nobody asked me. It would be a great kindness if you'd accompany me."
Ariana's resolve wavered, her annoyance melting away. She found herself agreeing to be his partner, despite her initial reluctance.
What had she just gotten herself into?
To be continued..