Sophia's words lingered in Alex's mind long after he finished his tea. An adventure ahead of him? He had no idea what that meant, but one thing was certain - he wasn't going anywhere until he figured out how to get back home.
As they sat at the table, Sophia leaned in closer, her voice barely above a whisper.
"Listen, Alex, I'm not sure if you're ready for this, but... Everia is a kingdom ruled by King Marcellus and Queen Lirien. They're fair rulers, but their advisors are more interested in maintaining power than in helping the people."
Alex's eyes widened as he tried to take it all in. "So, there's like, a government and stuff?"
Sophia chuckled. "Ah, yes! Well, not exactly like we think of governments today, but... yeah. It's a bit of a complicated system, but I'll try to explain it to you later."
Just then, the tavern door swung open, and a tall, lean figure strode in. He was dressed in fine attire, with a golden signet ring on his finger.
"Ah, Lord Victor," Sophia said with a smile. "Welcome back! We were just discussing... uh..."
Victor's piercing blue eyes scanned the room before landing on Alex and Sophia. His gaze lingered for a moment before he nodded curtly.
"I see you're acquainted with our guest, Miss Sophia. I trust you're treating him well?"
Sophia beamed at Victor. "Of course, Lord Victor! We were just having a friendly conversation."
Victor's expression softened slightly as he approached their table. "I'm afraid we have some news from the palace that might interest you, Alex... if you'd like to hear it, that is."
Alex hesitated for a moment before nodding. "Sure, I mean... yeah. I'll listen."
Victor cleared his throat and began to speak in a smooth, melodious tone.
"Her Majesty Queen Lirien has announced a grand ball to be held in two weeks' time. It's an opportunity for the nobility and gentry to mingle and make alliances. And, of course, there will be many eligible ladies in attendance."
Sophia's eyes sparkled with mischief as she leaned back in her chair.
"Lord Victor, are you trying to recruit Alex for some sort of social experiment?"
Victor chuckled. "Not at all, Miss Sophia! I assure you, this is merely a chance for our guest to mingle with the upper echelons of society."
Alex's mind whirled as he processed the information. A ball? Eligible ladies? This was more than just a social gathering - it was an opportunity for him to blend in and learn more about this strange new world.
The thought sent a thrill through his veins, but he pushed it aside for now. There were more pressing concerns... like figuring out how to get back home.
As Victor continued to chat with Sophia, Alex took the chance to slip away unnoticed. He excused himself by saying something about needing to relieve himself, and before anyone could stop him, he slipped out of the tavern into the busy streets of Everia.