《The Princess’s Warden》


 Chapter 1

    I don''t really remember how it came to this¡ªhow my morning routine now included exercise with five goblin-ugly degenerates trying to kill a little girl of obvious nobility.


    The forest floor was littered with bodies, the air thick with the scent of blood and sweat. Evidence of Resonance Skills scarred the earth¡ªshattered bark, singed leaves, lingering shadows twisting unnaturally.


    Without turning, I sidestepped the attack¡ªa surge of shadowy fangs erupting from the gruff man with wild, unwashed hair and twin black daggers.


    Unfortunate for him, I''ve got eyes at the back of my head. Figuratively speaking, of course.


    His balance faltered when his surprise attack missed, and I didn''t waste the opening. I danced past the next volley¡ªan archer''s arrow narrowly grazing my ear¡ªand the vines snapping at my legs like hungry serpents. My blade found its mark first.


    The shadow-wielder''s eyes went wide as steel pierced his neck. Blood bubbled and choked his words, his body slumping to the ground like a puppet with its strings cut.


    The remaining four shifted, uneasy now. Realization sank in. Whatever assumptions they''d made¡ªthat I was an innocent, unfortunate soul dragged into their mess¡ªhad shattered the moment my blade tasted blood.


    Unfortunate for them, they were right. At least about the innocent part.


    "Who the hell are you?" one of them growled, his voice rasping with nerves.


    I didn''t bother to answer. Words were wasted on cretins like these.


    Instead, I glanced at the girl¡ªcurled on the ground beside her mother''s body. She was trembling, her tear-streaked face buried against the lifeless woman''s chest. Her thin frame was exposed to the cold air, and I didn''t need to imagine the horror she''d witnessed.


    Her mother¡ªat least, I assumed they were blood¡ªstared blankly into nothing, her broken body left as evidence of their fun.


    The archer broke the silence, her voice sharp and commanding. "Enough games. Kill him and be done with it."


    She loosed an arrow the same moment I moved. My Resonance Skill flared¡ªAbsolute Detection¡ªand her movements betrayed her before she even shifted her weight.


    Time narrowed to a pinpoint. My dagger was already flying.


    She barely had time to inhale before the blade pierced her eye. The impact sent her sprawling, bow falling uselessly from dead fingers.


    "Two down," I muttered, my voice low and flat.


    The last three froze, their confidence turning to brittle fear. Good. They deserved it.


    **


    Suffice to say,none of them were alive by the time I was finished.


    Slowly and tentatively, I walked up to the frail girl.The tale has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the violation.


    "Hey, it''s over now." I said gently, I took off my black coat and covered the woman''s naked body with it.


    I glanced at the dead soldiers, still clad in their suits of armor. The carriage they had been riding was overturned, smoke curling from its scorched remains. It was charred and blackened, the damage unmistakably caused by a powerful fire-based Resonance Skill.


    This attack wasn''t done by those five buffoons. It was done by someone else and it was an ambush, a planned attack.


    Whatever was going on, I have gotten myself involve in something dangerous.


    The sobbing girl with blonde hair, did not move, just constantly crying with dead eyes.


    "Come on. Let''s get out of here." I told her gently whine urging her up with my hands.


    The girl immediately buried her face in my bosom. I was shock at first but eventually I let her hugged me and I patted her back gently.


    **


    We didn''t speak as we made our way through the forest.


    The Eldergrove Expanse stretched endlessly around us, its towering trees blocking most of the light, leaving everything cloaked in shadowy green. The air was damp and heavy, carrying the smell of moss and earth. Twisting roots jutted up from the ground, making every step careful and deliberate.


    We weren''t far from the main road now¡ªthe safer path that would lead us out of the forest. But for the moment, the stillness clung to us like fog, broken only by our footsteps.


    A few moments ago, a Bristlethorn Lynx had leapt from the brush. My Resonance Skill¡ªAbsolute Detection¡ªwarned me before it even appeared. One throw was all it took, my dagger finding its mark with practiced ease. The Lynx hadn''t stood a chance.


    The girl stayed close to my side, her small hand clutching my sleeve as if letting go might shatter her. She hadn''t said a word since I found her. She hadn''t looked at the Lynx, either.


    I slowed to a stop beside the dead creature. "We need to keep moving soon," I said gently, crouching beside it. "But first, I''m going to take the fur. It''s worth a lot, and leaving it would be a waste."


    She didn''t reply¡ªjust tightened her grip and stared at the ground, her blonde hair falling in front of her face. She looked so small, so lost, and it made my chest ache.


    I hesitated, then softened my tone. "It''s okay. You don''t have to look. Just... stay close and keep your eyes on me, alright?"


    Still nothing. But she didn''t pull away, and that was enough.


    I sighed, more to myself than anything, and pulled out my blade. "This won''t take long. I promise."


    She stayed beside me, quiet and unmoving, while I worked. I could feel her presence¡ªfragile but determined¡ªas though staying close was the only thing keeping her together.


    The forest remained quiet, but not in a peaceful way. It was the kind of silence that always made me keep one hand near my weapon.


    "Once we''re on the road, we''ll get you somewhere safe," I said softly, almost as if speaking to the air. "You don''t have to worry anymore."


    There was still no answer, but I thought I caught the faintest movement¡ªher head dipping ever so slightly.


    Good enough for now.


    **


    It was night. Not a single star pierced the sky¡ªthe dense foliage of the Eldergrove Expanse saw to that. The darkness here was thicker than in any open space, oppressive and absolute.


    Fortunately, making a fire was simple enough. I pulled out my Emberstone, struck it against the edge of my dagger, and watched as the sparks danced into the tinder I''d prepared. The dry twigs caught instantly, flames crackling to life.


    The girl sat close beside me, silent as ever. Her blonde hair hung over her face, shielding her expression.


    I''d managed to catch a Duskrabbit before we stopped. It was foraging¡ªminding its own business, really¡ªbut prey doesn''t get a choice. The moment it noticed me, it darted, trying to vanish into the underbrush. Useless against my skill. With Absolute Detection, I could read every shift in its muscles, every twitch of its body. I saw where it would go before it knew itself.


    A flick of my knife ended the chase. Dinner was served.


    Now the rabbit''s meat roasted over the fire, juices sizzling and crackling as the flames licked at it. Beside me sat the Bristlethorn Lynx''s fur, cleaned and ready. I''d use it as a blanket tonight. The girl could take my sleeping bag¡ªI didn''t mind.


    "Hungry?" I asked gently, glancing at her.


    Silence. Of course.


    I turned back to the fire, shifting the rabbit slightly. "Don''t worry. It''ll be done soon. Duskrabbit''s meat is something special¡ªtender and sweet. You''ll like it."


    She didn''t respond, but I wasn''t surprised. The absolute silence gnawed at me, so I filled it. Talking seemed better than letting the darkness creep back in.


    "Have you ever heard the stories about this place?" I asked. I didn''t expect an answer, so I continued anyway. "They say there''s a path deeper in the forest that only shows up at night. Looks inviting¡ªflowers glowing faintly, like a fairy trail. But it leads nowhere. People who follow it just... disappear."


    I chuckled softly, shaking my head. "Probably nonsense, right? But I''ve never felt like this forest likes people much."


    The stories passed the time. The rabbit cooked through, its smell warm and rich, pulling me back to the moment. I pulled a leg off the carcass, handed it to her. She took it silently, without looking up.


    Satisfied, I grinned and bit into my share. The meat was perfect¡ªjuices and tenderness assaulting my taste buds like a small miracle. I couldn''t hold back a muffled moan of pleasure. "By the gods... that''s good."


    If she thought I was ridiculous, she didn''t say so.


    We ate in quiet, save for the crackling fire and the occasional rustle of leaves in the dark. Once we finished, I reached for the sleeping bag and handed it to her. "Here," I said, offering it. "You''ll sleep better in this."


    She refused. Instead, she moved closer, small hands clutching my arm. Before I could say a word, she leaned against me, her breathing slowing as sleep took hold.


    I sat there, momentarily bewildered, watching her head rest against my shoulder. But it made sense. Who would want to be alone after all that?


    I sighed quietly, shifting just enough to let her rest comfortably while I draped the Lynx''s fur over myself. Two more days. That''s all it would take to reach the city.


    For now, though, I let the fire burn low and the forest settle back into its strange silence.

 Chapter 2

    The sight of an open blue sky was a welcome relief, especially with the weather so clear and sunny.


    It must have been midday, judging by the sun''s position. To be certain, I reached into my pocket and pulled out the Sun Disk¡ªa small, engraved metal tool that emitted a faint glow along its edges, marking the current hour.


    "We''re almost to the closest city now," I said to the girl beside me, who still hadn''t moved farther than an inch away since we met.


    "Since you''re a noble, they''ll know your family. They''ll look after you, keep you safe," I added with what I hoped was a reassuring smile.


    It didn''t work. She trembled and gripped my hand tighter, her small fingers nearly digging into my skin.


    We walked for another hour before the looming walls of the city of Kirel came into view. The walls were massive, towering thirty feet high, their dark gray stone streaked by time and weather. Moss clung to the cracks, and ivy vines crept lazily along the base like silent guardians.


    The road grew busier as we approached. Merchants, travelers, mercenaries, and adventurers passed us, their chatter a constant hum. Some glanced our way¡ªa disheveled girl clinging to me, mostly hidden under my cloak¡ªbut they moved on without asking questions. They had their own business to worry about.


    At last, we reached the Iron Arch, the city''s main gate. Reinforced oak and iron stretched tall and wide, large enough for two wagons to pass side by side. Twin watchtowers flanked the gate, banners snapping in the breeze as guards looked down with sharp, hawk-like gazes.


    The girl pressed closer, practically glued to my side. There was a tension here I hadn''t expected. The guards were standing straighter, their eyes sharper, and the general hum of the city felt unusually strained. That''s when I saw them¡ªposters nailed near the gate, fluttering slightly in the wind.


    I stopped.


    The sketch was crude but unmistakable: the girl in front of me. Her mother''s likeness was there, too.


    She wasn''t just nobility. She was royalty.


    My throat went dry, and I swallowed hard. Depending on how this went, I could lose my life here. I could be accused of something heinous or rewarded.


    "Stay close," I murmured, though I didn''t need to tell her twice.


    We passed under the gate, only to be stopped at the checkpoint. Wooden tables and crates served as makeshift inspection stations where guards in chainmail collected entry taxes, searched goods, and questioned travelers. Wagons groaned as merchants unloaded cargo for inspection, while lines of people shuffled toward the stations.


    A guard stepped in front of us, his sharp gaze flicking between me and the girl. He was weathered and sturdy, probably in his mid-thirties, his chainmail well-worn but carefully maintained. A steel helmet sat snug on his head, and a spear rested easily in his grip, though his stance was more watchful than aggressive. He looked tired¡ªlike a man who''d seen too much trouble¡ªbut his eyes were sharp, missing nothing.The story has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the violation.


    "Where are you coming from?" he asked, his voice calm but edged with suspicion.


    "I need to speak to your superior," I said quietly, keeping my tone measured. "Somewhere private."


    The guard''s brows furrowed, but he didn''t argue. He raised a hand, signaling for other guards. They moved quickly, surrounding us, though their weapons stayed at their sides. Precaution, not hostility¡ªat least not yet.


    They led us through the checkpoint, past the merchants and travelers, to a small stone outpost built against the inner city wall. The structure was functional, sturdy, and unadorned, the kind of building built for work, not comfort.


    We were told to wait outside as one of the guards disappeared into the outpost. I shifted my weight and glanced at the girl beside me. She was quiet, her head lowered, her grip on my sleeve still firm.


    The door opened a few minutes later, and we were led inside. The room was tight and practical, lit by flickering torches set in iron brackets. A large central desk dominated the space, its surface buried under piles of maps, ledgers, and loose parchment. A weapons rack lined one wall, spears standing at attention like silent sentries.


    Behind the desk stood the Gate Captain. He was a tall, broad-shouldered man in his forties, with short dark hair streaked with gray and a face that looked carved from stone. His steel breastplate gleamed faintly in the light, a royal crest emblazoned on his chest. His sharp eyes flicked to us the moment we entered, weighing and assessing, the kind of look that could cut straight through lies.


    "Who is she?" the Gate Captain asked, his voice steady and commanding.


    I ignored him, crouching down so I could speak to the girl¡ªthe princess¡ªon her level.


    "I''m going to take off the cloak," I whispered softly. "You''re safe now."


    She didn''t answer, but she didn''t resist either. Carefully, I pulled the cloak away.


    The Gate Captain''s chair scraped loudly against the stone as he shot to his feet, his eyes wide in shock.


    "...By the gods," he breathed.


    "Your Highness."


    The Gate Captain''s voice was steady, but his shock showed in the slight tremor of his movements as he immediately dropped to one knee.


    The girl flinched and shrank behind me, her small hands clinging to my sleeve like a lifeline.


    The Gate Captain rose slowly, his gaze shifting to me. "I''m guessing you''re the one who saved her."


    I gave him a simple nod. He gestured to a pair of chairs in front of his desk, though the girl refused to move or sit. I sank into mine gratefully as the captain called for a maid. Moments later, a tray of bread, fruit, and water was brought in. I didn''t hesitate to accept, tearing into the bread.


    The Gate Captain excused himself, leaving us alone in the office. The girl stayed where she was¡ªclose to me, unmoving¡ªher grip firm and unrelenting.


    An hour later, the door opened, and the Gate Captain returned with a handful of servants¡ªyoung women dressed in clean, simple dresses, their footsteps quiet.


    The Gate Captain bowed deeply. "Princess, I am truly sorry for what you have been through. I know these last days must have been difficult. I have already sent word to the magistrate, and a message will be sent to your father, the King."


    "You''re safe now," he said softly. "These servants will help you bathe, get changed, and rest. You must be exhausted."


    The servants stepped forward, their faces kind and smiles gentle, but the girl didn''t move. She pressed herself closer to me, her trembling growing worse.


    "Princess," one of the servants coaxed gently. "Please, come with us. We''ll take care of you."


    "No."


    Her voice was soft¡ªbarely more than a whisper. Fragile and faint, but there was something sharp at its edge, like a thin crack in glass.


    "Come now, Princess," the servant urged again. "You''ll feel better after a bath and some proper rest."


    "No," she repeated, louder. The air shifted, subtle at first, like a gathering storm. A strange weight pressed against my chest, growing heavier with each passing moment.


    "Princess..."


    "No, no, no, no!" Her voice rose with every word, sharp and clear, ringing through the room like a bell. The pressure grew¡ªthick, heavy, choking. My heart skipped a beat as the servants hesitated, their movements faltering.


    "Leave!"


    The word exploded from her like a force, and the air seemed to ripple. A sudden invisible pressure surged outward, like the shockwave from an unseen blast. The servants froze mid-step, their expressions going blank. In unison, as though yanked by invisible strings, they bowed, their heads dipping low.


    "Yes, Princess," they said softly, their voices hollow, mechanical.


    The Gate Captain stiffened, his hand twitching toward his belt, but he didn''t move further. His eyes darted between the girl and me, wide with disbelief.


    The servants turned and walked out of the room without another word, their movements stiff and puppet-like.


    The pressure lifted, and the silence that followed was deafening. My heart pounded in my chest as I looked down at her. She was trembling, her breathing ragged, but her hands never let go of me.


    What... the hell was that?


    The Gate Captain exhaled slowly, his voice cautious when he finally spoke. "She... doesn''t want to be separated. That much is clear."


    I didn''t respond, still reeling from what I''d felt. I glanced down at her again. Her face was buried against my arm, her small frame tense, but she was no longer shaking.


    The Gate Captain straightened, his sharp gaze settling on me. "It seems you''ll be staying with her for now."


    There wasn''t much room to argue.

 Chapter 3

    I found myself standing in one of the largest rooms I''d ever set foot in¡ªa room inside the magistrate''s mansion. I gave a low whistle at the sheer luxury of it.


    The space was vast, with high ceilings and smooth, polished stone walls that gave it a cold, formal air. A large window framed one side of the room, heavy dark curtains hanging beside it like silent sentinels, ready to shut out the sun when drawn.


    At the center stood a canopy bed, its wooden posts intricately carved, the mattress covered with crisp, white linens that probably cost more than my family''s farm. Two armored knights were stationed outside the door, their presence a constant reminder that I wasn''t exactly trusted.


    Not that I blamed them.


    Their job was to protect the princess, and to them, I was nobody¡ªa farmer''s son who happened to stumble into the worst possible situation and walk out of it with royalty in tow. I wasn''t offended. I was just surprised they hadn''t thrown me in a cell already.


    I looked toward the girl sleeping on the massive bed. Her breathing was soft and steady, but her face, even in rest, looked troubled. My fists clenched at the memory of the forest and the horrors she endured. At least she was safe now.


    Earlier, we''d briefly met the magistrate. He bowed deeply to the princess, his movements precise and formal, before explaining that they would meet properly later once he''d sent word to the king. He glanced at me¡ªsharp, cold, assessing¡ªand said nothing. A strange man, tall and thin, with gray eyes that looked like they measured everything and everyone.


    The princess would be taken to the capital soon, and I''d get my reward. A farm boy saving royalty¡ªwho would''ve thought?


    That evening, I leaned out over the balcony, enjoying the fresh breeze. The city of Kirel sprawled below, rooftops and lantern lights alive with the hum of a thousand lives. I wanted to explore, maybe visit the Explorer''s Guild, but I''d been forbidden to leave the princess''s side after earlier events.


    The sudden sound of frantic movement pulled me from my thoughts.


    "Where?!" Her voice trembled, ragged with panic.


    "Over here, Princess," I said softly, turning to face her.


    Like a gale, she ran toward me, throwing herself against me so hard I staggered.


    "Uff." I grunted as she clung tightly to me, her small hands grabbing fistfuls of my shirt.


    The knights outside shot me such vicious glares I half expected them to drag me away then and there.


    "You should let go soon, Princess," I muttered, rubbing my ribs. "Their hateful looks are starting to hurt."


    "Don''t care," she mumbled against my chest, refusing to move.


    I sighed, awkwardly patting her back. She felt small in my arms, fragile, her trembling barely noticeable¡ªbut still there. Whatever strength she''d shown earlier was cracking.


    "Fine," I said with a quiet chuckle, trying to lighten the mood. "But you''re going to have to let go eventually. You stink. And so do I."


    She pulled back slightly to glare at me, her expression unreadable in the dim light.


    "I suppose we should take a bath," I added with a smirk. "I don''t know about you, but I reek."


    "Okay," she said softly, surprising me. "We should take a bath."


    I froze, staring at her. "...Yeah. Separately, Princess. Separately. I''m not losing my head because someone saw me in a bath with you."


    She blinked at me, lips curling faintly upward in what might''ve been her first smile since we met.Stolen content alert: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences.


    "Fine," she murmured, finally letting go.


    I sighed in relief, though I could still feel the knights'' glares on my back.


    The bath chamber was adjoining the main room, lit by the soft golden glow of lanterns set into carved niches in the stone walls. Steam rose lazily from an enormous stone tub carved seamlessly into the floor, the water warm and fragrant with lavender or chamomile. The sound of thin streams of water trickling from ornate brass fixtures filled the space.


    The attendants had entered, shooting me dirty looks as they guided the princess toward the bath. It had taken me ages to convince her to even agree, and the only way she relented was under one condition: that I stay just outside where she could "feel me."


    What that meant, I had no clue.


    "You there?" she called from behind the door.


    "Still here," I said flatly, leaning against the wall.


    There was a splash of water and what sounded like a soft sigh of relief, but the peace didn''t last.


    "Princess!" one of the attendants gasped, followed by the sound of frantic footsteps.


    "Caelan!" the princess shouted.


    I straightened. "Yeah? What''s wrong?"


    "You didn''t answer me! I thought you left!" Her voice trembled, though this time it was tinged with anger.


    "I didn''t. I must''ve dozed off," I said apologetically, rubbing the back of my neck.


    "You''re tired. Come rest with me over here," she said, her tone suddenly soft¡ªand far too suggestive.


    The indignant cries from the attendants nearly made me laugh.


    "Yeah... no," I replied quickly. "The king will turn my skull into a goblet if someone sees that."


    "Then answer when I call you!" she huffed.


    "Yes, Your Highness," I sighed.


    "Disrespectful," I heard one of the attendants mutter.


    Too tired to care, I leaned back against the wall, waiting for her to finish.


    When it was my turn, they changed the water¡ªof course¡ªand I couldn''t help but sigh as I sank into the bath. The warmth melted away tension I hadn''t realized I was carrying, the floral scent filling the air around me.


    I''d never had a bath like this before. Back in my village, water was heated by folks with fire Resonance Skills and lugged into wooden tubs. You''d pay a decent price for a few minutes of warmth.


    This? This was the life of kings.


    As I scrubbed the dirt and grime away, I couldn''t help but think of how my simple plan¡ªtraveling to Kirel, joining the Explorer''s Guild, and finding glory¡ªhad turned into something so complicated.


    Absolute Detection had been a useful skill back on the farm. It helped me spot predators lurking around the Woolhorns and made fighting off the occasional bandit easier. It gave me a chance to survive.


    I''d never imagined it would lead me here¡ªwrapped up in royal affairs with a princess who refused to let me leave her sight.


    I sank deeper into the water, letting out a slow sigh. "This was supposed to be simple..."


    **


    I stepped out of the bath, letting the warmth of the water linger on my skin as I adjusted the new clothes they''d given me. The outfit was far from what I was used to¡ªno rough tunics or patched trousers here.


    The shirt was made of soft cream linen, the fabric so fine it barely felt real, with sleeves that gathered at the wrists and subtle embroidery along the collar and cuffs. Over that, a fitted dark vest of smooth, sturdy material gave a sharper edge to the look, complemented by trousers tailored from deep gray wool. Simple yet expensive leather boots, polished to a shine, completed the ensemble.


    I turned my arms, inspecting the cut and stitch. This was a far cry from the coarse, sweat-stained clothing of farm life. I''d always seen nobles wearing this kind of finery when they passed through town, but now I was wearing it myself.


    Stepping out, I found the princess sitting outside the bath chamber in an ornate chair carved with intricate patterns¡ªprobably something the magistrate kept as part of his collection of unnecessary luxuries. She looked almost regal again.


    Her blonde hair, soft and dry, fell neatly to frame her face, its earlier unkempt state a distant memory. A simple but elegant pale-blue dress flowed around her small figure, accented with silver trim. Seeing her like this¡ªthe dirt, fear, and pain washed away¡ªwas almost jarring. It was like watching someone reassemble themselves piece by piece until they became whole again.


    I couldn''t help but let out an appreciative weasel inside my head. She''s definitely going to be a looker when she grows up. Whoever marries her would be one lucky guy.


    The princess looked up from the book in her lap and flashed me a soft smile. It was small, but genuine, and it caught me off guard. I raised an eyebrow at her, surprised by the shift in her demeanor. She was starting to look like royalty again, but something about her smile reminded me of the quiet girl from the forest.


    "You didn''t have to wait," I said, shaking off the thought.


    "What if you escape?" she replied simply, her voice steady.


    "How?" I shot back, incredulous.


    "I don''t know, but I don''t want to take any chances."


    I rolled my eyes at that. Escape? As if I could. Even if I tried, the knights outside would probably skewer me before I reached the front gate. Hell, with the way things felt, I was probably being watched from every angle¡ªany wandering insect in my radius might as well be under surveillance.


    Before I could reply, a knight approached us, his armor clinking softly with each step. He bowed low to the princess, his tone formal and precise. "Your Highness, the magistrate is waiting for you in the dining hall."


    The princess didn''t hesitate. "He is to come with me," she said, authority pouring from her voice in waves.


    "Yes, Princess. The magistrate has mentioned that your savior is invited as well."


    "Good. You may go."


    The knight bowed again before retreating, and I found myself staring at the princess in mild disbelief. She turned to me and caught my look, her head tilting slightly.


    "What?" she asked, her voice softer this time.


    I shrugged. "It''s nothing. You just seem... different. I''m not sure if I should change how I interact or speak to you. I forget that you''re royalty after all¡ªa princess¡ªand me... well, I''m just an ordinary man."


    She closed the book with a faint snap and stood up. Her small hands smoothed the front of her dress before she stepped toward me. Instinctively, I took a step back, something about the look in her eyes making my spine straighten involuntarily.


    She stopped right in front of me, staring up with an intensity I wasn''t prepared for.


    "Don''t ever change how you speak to me," she said firmly. "Or how you act around me. I don''t want that."


    I opened my mouth to respond, but she wasn''t finished.


    "And you''re not just an ordinary man."


    She paused then, her voice dropping to a murmur, something so quiet I barely caught it.


    "I will make sure of that..."


    I frowned, tilting my head. "What was that last part?"


    "Nothing," she said quickly, turning away before I could press further.


    I watched her for a moment, still trying to process the shift in her demeanor. From the quiet, trembling girl in the forest to this¡ªcommanding, confident, and somehow still unsettling¡ªit was a shock to the system.


    I ran a hand through my damp hair and sighed. "What did I get myself into?"


    She glanced over her shoulder at me with that same soft, unreadable smile. I couldn''t tell if I should be reassured or worried. Maybe both.

 Chapter 4

    The first thing I noticed about the dining hall was the table. It was unnecessarily long¡ªso long, in fact, that I couldn''t imagine anyone using its far end without shouting. It was massive and, judging by its polished sheen and ornate carvings, made of some incredibly expensive wood. For all I knew, it probably had magical properties, too, because nothing else could justify something this extravagant.


    I''d been in a quiet state of shock since yesterday at the sheer amount of money nobles spent on ordinary things. I suppose in some strange way, I was lucky¡ªlucky to witness such wealth that a man like me, a farmer''s son, would otherwise never lay eyes on. If this was just the magistrate''s mansion, I couldn''t imagine how mind-numbingly amazing the king''s palace must be.


    The air in the dining hall was cool, and the ceilings stretched high above, with glittering chandeliers casting soft light across the room. The stone walls were lined with tapestries, depicting abstract patterns I couldn''t make sense of, and narrow arched windows offered glimpses of the fading evening outside.


    At the far end of the hall, the magistrate stood waiting. He greeted the princess with a deep, practiced bow.


    "Sorry for the late introduction, Your Highness. I am the magistrate of the city of Kirel, Auren Varess," he said smoothly. His words were polite but precise, as though measured for efficiency. "I''m sure my humble home pales in comparison to yours, but I hope it will provide you with enough comfort to recover from your recent ordeals."


    The princess curtsied gracefully, the picture of royalty restored.


    "I thank you for your hospitality, Lord Varess," she replied, her voice calm and authoritative. "Your people have taken good care of me and my savior. I will not forget this favor."


    "Just doing my duty, Your Highness," he said simply, his gray eyes revealing nothing.


    "I will make sure to reiterate that such duties should be largely rewarded."


    The corner of the magistrate''s mouth quirked slightly at that. "Thank you, Your Highness."


    The exchange felt cold and tense, with words that sounded courteous but carried layers I couldn''t quite decipher. Watching them, I couldn''t help but feel completely out of place. This wasn''t my world. I almost wanted to say, "If you two want privacy, maybe I''ll go eat in the kitchen or something."


    But I kept my mouth shut.


    The dining hall, for all its luxury, was stifling. The sheer size of the table made everything feel distant, and the walls seemed to press in with their formality. I''d heard rumors back in my village that nobles had strange rules about how they ate¡ªusing tiny forks for specific foods or drinking with their pinky up. I hoped those stories were lies because I didn''t have the faintest clue about noble etiquette.


    The magistrate''s voice broke through my anxious thoughts.


    "Sir Caelan," he said, turning toward me. "I hope you don''t think I have been ignoring you. The strangeness of this morning has us perturbed. We have investigated everything..."


    There was something deliberate in the way he said that, like a hidden threat wrapped in silk.


    "But we can only thank you for having found the princess and saved her from a tragic fate. So thank you." He bowed slightly, his movements precise, though his gaze remained locked onto mine.


    I froze, completely caught off guard. My ears burned as I stammered, "Umm... I... I just did what any normal person would do, umm, Your Magistrate."This content has been misappropriated from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.


    Auren Varess gave me a small nod and gestured for us to sit. "Please, let us dine. You may sit at the head of the table, Your Highness."


    I followed his gesture to the chair he was pointing at. It was grand¡ªa throne in everything but name. Tall and made of rich, dark wood, its back arched dramatically upward, carved with intricate patterns of vines and beasts. The seat was cushioned with deep red velvet, the kind that probably cost more than my family''s farm and half the village combined. It screamed "royalty."


    But the princess shook her head firmly. "I will sit next to Caelan."


    The words hung in the air, heavy and unexpected.


    The magistrate paused for a beat, his gray eyes flicking toward her before simply inclining his head. "As you wish, Your Highness."


    I looked at her, startled, but she ignored me completely, already moving toward the spot beside me.


    I sighed inwardly, glancing at the knights standing near the hall''s entrance. They were watching me closely, their faces unreadable, but I could almost hear their thoughts¡ªWhat is this farmhand doing here?


    The answer? I had no clue.


    **


    The food laid out before us looked absolutely incredible. The kind of food that didn''t just taste good but screamed wealth and refinement. The aroma was intoxicating¡ªa mix of roasted meats, subtle spices, and fresh herbs that hung in the air like an unspoken promise. Every dish was presented like a work of art: slices of braised venison draped in a glossy herb sauce, golden-skinned honey-glazed pheasant arranged with roasted apples, and warm rosemary flatbreads still steaming softly in their basket. There were bowls of creamy mashed turnips with shaved truffle, wild greens tossed with a tangy citrus dressing, and honey-roasted carrots and beets glistening in the soft candlelight.


    I stared at the spread, trying to ignore how my mouth watered. I hadn''t even taken a bite, but I already knew this would be the best meal I''d ever had.


    Despite the grandeur of the feast, the air was thick with tense silence. A quartet of musicians played softly in the background, their string instruments filling the room with a melody that should have been soothing, but it only made me feel more out of place.


    I still couldn''t get used to all of this¡ªthe towering walls, the gilded dining hall, and the fact that I was sitting here at all. Being serenaded while surrounded by enough food to feed my whole village for weeks should''ve felt like a dream, but I knew I''d enjoy it more in the quiet of my room¡ªno, correction, the princess''s room. I was just the baggage attached to her.


    "I have sent a message to the king via Skycallers, and it should have arrived already. I''m sure word that you are found will bring His Majesty great relief," the magistrate said, his tone smooth and measured.


    "Thank you," the princess replied softly.


    I glanced at her and noticed a shift in her expression. For the first time since I''d met her, a small, genuine smile broke through her otherwise weary features. It was faint, but it was there, and it softened the quiet weight she''d been carrying.


    I tried to focus on my meal, still conscious of the princess sneaking glances at me every now and then. I pretended not to notice, but the faint smile playing on her lips wasn''t lost on me.


    The dessert was the highlight of the evening¡ªdelicate honey-berry tarts with buttery golden crusts, filled with sweetened berries that practically burst with flavor. A dollop of cream sat on top, smooth and rich. I closed my eyes with the first bite, letting the tart sweetness melt on my tongue. It was so good that I couldn''t help but grin. If I got the chance, I was definitely going to ask someone what these were called.


    We left the dining hall after finishing, the tension lingering but softened by the meal. The magistrate''s servants had led us to the back of the mansion, where a garden stretched out in the quiet evening air.


    The garden was stunning, even under the pale glow of moonlight. Neatly trimmed hedges framed winding stone pathways, their edges dotted with clusters of flowers¡ªroses, bluebells, and silver blooms that seemed to shimmer faintly. Lanterns hung from wrought-iron posts, casting pools of warm golden light along the paths. A soft breeze carried the faint scent of jasmine and roses, mingling with the quiet trickle of a stone fountain at the garden''s center.


    The princess walked ahead of me, her dress trailing softly behind her as she moved with slow, deliberate steps. I followed a few paces behind, letting the silence grow comfortable. It was the kind of quiet you shared with someone you didn''t mind being around¡ªfamiliar and unforced.


    "Bet you can''t wait to go home, huh?" I asked, my voice low in the stillness.


    "Yes... and no," she said quietly, her tone hesitant.


    I frowned slightly at her response. "What do you mean?"


    She stopped walking, staring at the cobbled path beneath her feet. "I dread the return home without my mother. I can''t get the image out of my head. I feel constantly afraid. Even now, facing people, I can''t help but tremble..."


    Her voice was small, fragile in a way that took me by surprise. I looked up, and when she turned around, I froze. Her face was streaked with tears, her eyes wide and blazing like a fire in the dark.


    "I don''t know how to live," she said, her voice shaking. "Don''t know how to feel. I''m so scared."


    Before I could think, she stepped toward me. She looked so small, so breakable, and I did the only thing I could¡ªI held her.


    Her sobs were muffled against my chest, her body trembling in my arms. I didn''t say anything. What could I say? I just stood there with her, letting her grieve in the only way she could.


    It struck me then that she wasn''t the strong, put-together person she seemed earlier. That confidence had been a front¡ªa fragile mask hiding the weight she was carrying.


    "I only look strong because someone gives me strength," she whispered after a long silence.


    I hesitated. "Yeah... I''m sure even now, your mother is still watching over you."


    She shook her head faintly, her voice quieter now. "What gives me strength is simply an ordinary reason."


    Her words were cryptic, and I frowned slightly, but she didn''t explain further. She just leaned against me, and I let her.


    The garden was still, save for the faint rustling of leaves and the distant trickle of water. I didn''t know how to fix what she was feeling, but in that moment, just standing there with her seemed to be enough.

 Chapter 5

    We walked back in silence, side by side, the space between us barely an inch. After confessing her grief to me, the princess seemed brighter, more at ease, as if unburdening her thoughts had given her some fragile sense of peace.


    I couldn''t help but wonder if this is what it feels like to have a sister.


    As we exited the garden, the magistrate''s form came into view, standing just outside the door leading into the mansion. The moonlight caught the sharp angles of his face, his posture stiff yet composed, like a sentinel waiting for orders.


    He bowed deeply as the princess approached.


    "Your Highness, if you don''t mind, I would love to speak to Sir Caelan at the behest of His Majesty. I have received word from your father, and he will be arriving via Waystone gate by tomorrow."


    The princess paused, her expression unreadable as she regarded him. Then, as if she''d donned an invisible mask, her earlier composure returned with startling ease. The weakness she had shown me in the garden vanished like an illusion.


    "I will be waiting inside," she said simply, her tone calm but laced with an edge of authority. Then, with a slight smirk, she added, "Don''t steal him away for too long."


    The princess disappeared through the door, and suddenly, I was left alone under the hawk-like gaze of the magistrate.


    "She''s very attached to you, isn''t she," he said, his voice even, almost conversational, yet I couldn''t shake the weight of his words.


    Not knowing how to respond, I chose silence. Saying the wrong thing felt like an easy mistake to make, so I simply followed as the magistrate turned and led me back into the garden, his long strides confident and deliberate.


    The night was calm, the full moon shining brightly in the sky, with barely a cloud to obscure its light. A warm breeze rustled the leaves above us, carrying with it the faint scent of blooming flowers. The evening air held the kind of stillness that belonged to summer, though the atmosphere felt anything but peaceful with the magistrate in front of me.


    He stopped near the water fountain, an impressive structure of pale marble carved into intricate shapes. At its base, mythical creatures seemed to leap from the stone itself¡ªdragons snarling mid-roar, a phoenix rising from carved flames, and elegant deer with antlers reaching skyward. The fountain''s centerpiece was a tall pillar, atop which stood a sculpture of a maiden pouring water from an urn, the liquid cascading down in glittering streams. The sound of flowing water filled the silence, soft yet steady, like an endless whisper.


    The magistrate stared at the fountain for a moment before turning to face me. From beneath his coat, he pulled out a small amulet.


    It was striking¡ªcrafted from smooth obsidian, surrounded by ornate silver filigree etched with glowing runes that pulsed faintly, as if alive. The black stone seemed to absorb the moonlight, drinking it in instead of reflecting it.


    "This," he said, holding the amulet up for me to see, "is called the Veilbreaker. It allows the user to detect lies when activated."


    I frowned, staring at the artifact in confusion.


    "Although I do not believe you had anything to do with what has happened," he continued, his tone measured, "the king thought it prudent to ensure... clarity. Consider this a necessary precaution."


    He paused, his gray eyes narrowing slightly as if to gauge my reaction.


    "So, I want to ask just one question," he said, his voice lowering slightly.


    I swallowed hard, feeling the weight of the moment. Despite my innocence, the intensity of his gaze and the quiet tension in the air made me feel like I was on trial for a crime I didn''t commit.


    The narrative has been taken without permission. Report any sightings.


    "What are your intentions with the princess?"


    The question caught me off guard. I could sense movement all around me¡ªhidden figures in the shadows, their presence impossible to miss. Knights. They had surrounded us, weapons ready, their positions subtle but obvious to someone like me. My resonance skill made hiding pointless; I could feel every breath they took, every twitch of their fingers on their hilts.


    I blinked, trying to process his question. My intentions? What did that even mean?


    "Umm... by intentions, umm... to return her?" I stammered, my voice uncertain.


    The magistrate raised an eyebrow, unimpressed.


    "Let me clarify," he said, his tone taking on a sharper edge. "Does your resonance skill... affect others? Mentally, emotionally, or otherwise?"


    I stared at him, startled by the sudden shift in the line of questioning.


    "I know it''s rude to ask," he continued, almost apologetically, "but given recent events and the princess''s... attachment to you, we must ensure no unintentional manipulations are at play."


    "Uh... no," I said quickly. "My resonance skill just lets me detect things¡ªmovements, people, threats, stuff like that. It''s all physical. Nothing mental or emotional, I swear."


    The Veilbreaker pulsed faintly in his hand, but he didn''t seem surprised by my answer. With a small nod, he tucked the amulet back into his coat.


    "I see. That will be all."


    The hidden knights began to withdraw, their presence fading back into the garden''s shadows. The magistrate turned away, his attention seemingly returning to the fountain.


    "Wait," I called out, unable to stop myself. "Aren''t you going to ask about what happened? About the attack in the forest, or... or the queen?"


    He glanced over his shoulder, his expression unreadable.


    "That will be for the king to ask," he said simply.


    I frowned. "But shouldn''t you¡ª"


    "Sometimes," he interrupted, his tone quiet but firm, "it is better not to know so much about certain things. It keeps you alive a little longer that way."


    He hesitated, then added, "You are a good man, Caelan. But I''ve seen good men die young far too many times. Be careful where your kindness takes you."


    With that, he gestured a brief farewell and disappeared into the night, leaving me alone with the faint hum of the fountain and the weight of his words lingering in the air.


    **


    I stood there near the fountain for a while, staring at the rippling water, letting the magistrate''s words hang heavy in my mind. I felt like I''d stumbled into something far more dangerous than just the murder of royalty.


    I mean, I knew this was more than just a "simple" tragedy, but I didn''t realize how messy and troublesome it would become. When I first found the princess in the forest, I thought I was doing the right thing¡ªhelping someone in need. I figured I''d drop her off at the city, get a reward for my trouble, and be on my merry way.


    I''d dreamed of using the money to buy proper gear, maybe finally pursue my dream of becoming an explorer. I could already picture myself in some far-off ruin, uncovering ancient relics and carving my name into history.


    But now? Now, I wasn''t so sure.


    The magistrate''s cryptic words kept playing over and over in my head. Sometimes, it''s better not to know so much about certain things. I didn''t need him to spell it out¡ªI''d already gotten myself tangled in something far beyond what I understood.


    Whoever orchestrated that attack on the royal carriage had plans, and I''d ruined them by saving the princess. Whoever they were, they were powerful, ruthless, and probably not the type to leave loose ends.


    I glanced back toward the mansion, its towering shape silhouetted against the night sky. Warm light glowed softly from its windows, but it didn''t feel welcoming¡ªit loomed like some sort of warning. I sighed and shook my head, hoping that whatever happened tomorrow would free me of all this.


    As I turned to leave, I noticed her.


    The princess stood just outside the door, watching me. She wasn''t leaning against the frame or shifting nervously¡ªjust standing there, completely still, as if she''d been waiting for me this whole time.


    Her golden hair caught the light from the lanterns above, shimmering faintly like a halo around her face. Her posture was rigid, her hands clasped neatly in front of her, but her eyes... they were locked on me, intense and unwavering. There was something about the way she watched me that felt strange, like she was trying to read my thoughts without saying a word.


    "How long have you been out here?" I asked, stepping toward her.


    "A while," she replied softly, not breaking eye contact.


    "Yeah... I just had a lot on my mind," I muttered, scratching the back of my neck. "But hey, your father will be here tomorrow. You''ll be back at the palace, safe and sound, and... well, I''ll probably never see you again. You know, since..."


    I trailed off awkwardly, unsure how to finish the thought.


    Her expression changed instantly. Her eyes darkened, and her whole demeanor shifted, sending a chill down my spine.


    "I''m sure my father will see that you''re better suited to stay by my side," she said firmly, her tone calm but laced with an edge that made it clear she wasn''t guessing.


    "Uh... yeah, but..." I hesitated, struggling to find the right words. "There are stronger people, Princess. People who''ve been trained for this sort of thing. I''m just a farmer''s son. I don''t belong in your world."


    Her lips pressed into a thin line, and she stepped closer to me, her small frame suddenly feeling much larger than it should.


    "It''s Elara," she said sharply, her voice like a blade cutting through the silence.


    "Uhh... what?" I stammered, confused by the sudden shift in tone.


    "Say it, Caelan," she demanded, her gaze boring into mine.


    Her words carried a weight I couldn''t ignore, and for a moment, I felt something faint brushing against my mind. My resonance skill flared instinctively, alerting me to the truth: she was using her Resonance Skill on me.


    It wasn''t overpowering, just... persuasive. A subtle, quiet nudge that left no room for resistance.


    I hesitated, glancing around as if someone might overhear. Saying the princess''s name so casually felt like a surefire way to get myself executed. But what choice did I have?


    "Elara," I finally relented, the name slipping out like a reluctant confession.


    Her face lit up instantly. She smiled¡ªbright and radiant, as if nothing had happened. For a moment, I almost forgot the intensity of her earlier gaze.


    "See? That wasn''t so hard," she said lightly, turning back toward the door. Before stepping inside, she glanced back at me one last time.


    "You won''t have to miss me, Caelan," she said softly, her tone laced with something I couldn''t quite place. "I''ll make sure of it."


    I stood there for a moment, stunned into silence.


    Miss her? Yeah, I doubted that. I didn''t think I''d miss the constant tension, the veiled threats, or the feeling of walking on a razor''s edge.


    I sighed again, the weight of the day pressing down on my shoulders as I followed her inside. I didn''t know what tomorrow would bring, but something told me this wasn''t over. Not by a long shot.