Chapter 3
Jayden strode through the castle's dimly lit halls, his boots echoing faintly against the stone floor. Shadows flickered across the walls, cast by the sparse torchlight. His expression was grim, his thoughts churning as he approached the dining hall.
"They never summon me for dinner, yet tonight I'm called? This reeks of something more," he muttered under his breath.
His fists clenched at his sides as he noted the subtle increase in his strength. Even without fully unlocking his Mana, the residual effects of his training were beginning to show.
'Good,' he thought, his jaw tightening. 'I might need it tonight.'
Stopping before the grand double doors of the dining hall, Jayden paused, his gaze falling on the intricate carvings that adorned the wood. Scenes of royal triumphs and battles glorified the Valor name—an exaggerated history he found both laughable and irritating. With a sneer, he pushed the doors open.
The dining room stretched out before him, vast and dripping with opulence. Golden chandeliers bathed the space in warm light, illuminating the lavish tapestries that lined the walls. Each one told a story of Valor's supposed greatness—stories Jayden doubted held much truth.
At the head of the table sat King Aldric Valor, his sharp blue eyes locking onto Jayden the moment he entered. The king's graying hair and commanding presence exuded authority, but to Jayden, his father was a master of manipulation, nothing more.
Queen Everlin sat beside Aldric, her emerald gown shimmering as she moved. Her auburn hair was styled into an elaborate bun, and her cold green eyes followed Jayden's every move. She radiated regal beauty, but her gaze held no warmth.
Jayden's half-siblings occupied the seats nearest to their parents. Richard, dressed in a crimson doublet, lounged back with a smug grin. Liana, poised and delicate, picked at her food with feigned disinterest, while Vincent sat upright, his expression one of quiet arrogance.
Two unfamiliar faces caught Jayden's attention.
At Aldric's right sat a man in his early thirties, his dark green coat embroidered with gold thread. His long black hair was tied neatly back, a short beard framing his angular jaw. Striking green eyes—sharp and observant—scanned the room.
Beside him sat a girl about Liana's age. Her sleek black hair had subtle blue highlights that caught the light, and her emerald eyes held a quiet confidence. She wore a sapphire gown with silver trim, the fabric shimmering with her every movement. A silver necklace adorned with an emerald rested at her throat, accentuating her refined presence.
Aldric's voice broke the silence.
"Jayden, my son, it's wonderful that you've finally joined us," he said, his tone dripping with false warmth.
Jayden paused, his instincts screaming that this was a trap. He masked his suspicion with a polite smile, bowing slightly. "Of course, Father."
He took the furthest seat from the head of the table, his movements deliberate.
Once Jayden was seated, Aldric gestured toward the guests. "Allow me to introduce Lord Aurelian Darcanis and his daughter, Lady Celina Darcanis. They have come to discuss an alliance that could prove invaluable to our kingdom."
Jayden stood, bowing politely. "A pleasure to meet you, Lord Aurelian. Lady Celina."
"The pleasure is ours, Lord Jayden," Aurelian replied, his voice smooth and controlled.
Celina gave a small nod, her emerald eyes briefly meeting Jayden's.
"Jayden," Aldric said, his tone shifting ever so slightly, "I trust you'll show proper decorum tonight. Lord Aurelian is a most esteemed guest, and it would do us all well to make a good impression."
"Of course, Father," Jayden replied, his tone sharp with concealed sarcasm. "I wouldn't dare embarrass you."
The tension at the table was palpable. Richard smirked at Jayden's subtle jab, whispering something to Liana that made her stifle a giggle. Vincent, however, kept his focus on the guests, ignoring the undercurrent of animosity.
The dinner dragged on, filled with discussions of alliances, trade agreements, and pleasantries. Jayden spoke only when addressed, his sharp mind cataloging every detail. He couldn't shake the feeling that the entire event was staged to test him, to see if he would slip up.
Celina's occasional glances didn't go unnoticed, though she masked her curiosity well. Her composure was impressive, and Jayden couldn't help but wonder what role she played in her father's plans.
The next morning, the training field was bathed in soft sunlight. Jayden moved through his stances, his wooden sword slicing through the air with precision. His movements were sharp, each swing fueled by frustration.
'Last night was a game,' he thought. 'They wanted to see if I'd falter. But I won't give them the satisfaction.'
"So this is where you were," came a familiar voice.
Jayden turned, his expression neutral as Celina approached. Her formal gown from the night before had been replaced with practical attire: a fitted blue tunic, black breeches, and knee-high boots. Her hair was tied back in a braid, giving her a more approachable look.
"Lady Celina," Jayden greeted, his tone guarded. "To what do I owe the pleasure?"
She offered a small smile. "My father and I won't return home until the treaty is finalized. I decided to explore the grounds and found this place."
"I see," Jayden replied, gripping his wooden sword.
Celina studied him for a moment before speaking. "You're the Demon Prince they whisper about."
Jayden smirked. "I'm surprised you know, given how everyone pretended I didn't exist last night."
"I overheard the maids," she said simply.
"Gossip is their favorite pastime," Jayden said dryly.
Her gaze flicked to his sword. "You practice swordsmanship?"
"Self-taught, but yes," he replied.
Celina raised an eyebrow. "Your stances are... unconventional."
Jayden chuckled. "If you can do better, feel free to show me."
Without a word, Celina stepped forward, holding out her hand. Jayden hesitated before handing her the sword.
She took a step back, assuming a stance. Her movements were fluid, like a dancer's, yet each strike carried precision and intent. Her final spin ended with the sword pointing directly at Jayden.
"Not bad, Princess. Not bad at all," Jayden said, genuinely impressed.
"Perhaps there's hope for you yet, Demon Prince," she teased.
Jayden raised an eyebrow, a faint smile tugging at his lips. "Care to spar sometime?"
Celina's eyes gleamed with mischief. "I'll consider it."
Chapter 3: End