“I’m not going anywhere, Human. I’ve been ordered to work with you.”
If this world had prank cameras, I would be looking around to make sure this is not one of those elaborate ruses. But both the angry glare of the [Princess] and the stupefied frown on Diana’s face tell me that this might actually be real.
“Alright, how about I go with the [Princess],” I say to all the people present, “and find out what this is all about?”
“Joey Luciani, you have business with me as well,” Diana says without skipping a beat.
“I’m sure, milady—huh, [Lady] Diana. Cool name. I knew another one... but the [Princess] gal got me out of prison, and I don’t think I’ve said thank you yet. Can we take a rain check?”
...
The [Princess] and I sit at a table for two in an establishment that has just been cleared out by the Royal Guard, with said Royal Guard looming menacingly above me.
“Alright, Your... Highness? Is that the right title?”
“Your Royal Highness,” an angry voice comes from a Royal Guard member, who immediately earns himself a glare from the purple-haired woman.
“Ok,” I clear my throat, “Your Royal Highness, would you clarify to me what exactly you mean by having to ‘work with me?’ Thank you.”
“My Royal Father has ordered me to partake in the activities of your business, Human.”
“The [King] of the country has told you to... work in a bakery?”
“Yes. I am waiting for an explanation.”
“Huh, me too. How about we get some drinks? I fear this will get a bit... tiresome.”
I can hear the woman grind her teeth, “Don’t act coyly, you filthy bastard! What kind of scheme is this?!”
Old man, if you know anything specific, please enlighten me.
It seems that your woes with the populace of this city might have been solved before they could affect you in any meaningful manner. You have been bailed out, young Luciani.
Bailed out... is she...
“Wait, are you a PR stunt?”
“Excuse me?!”
“Oh, sorry. That’s not an insult. I mean, are you aware of the trouble with my bakery?”
The [Princess] just frowns in reply. She’s going to get a bunch of wrinkles in the future if she’s not using magic or some alchemic cosmetic products.
The story has been illicitly taken; should you find it on Amazon, report the infringement.
Shit. A beauty testimonial? Damn. I need to tell Truffles.
“Well, you seem to know something about it. So, let’s skip the niceties. Has your family sent you here to help me?”
[Princess] Laurealia’s face undergoes several changes in a matter of seconds before she squints at me, “what?”
“I’m being framed for Plinius’s murder. Somehow, your family knows, and they want the Human in Amorium not to be framed for who knows what crazy reason. But yeah, that sounds like what’s happening here. Can I ask what they told you?”
...
A Few Hours Prior
“[Princess] Laurealia, are you still surveying the land around Amorium?” [King] Tarquinius inquired, his tone carrying the weight of the station. The Enchanted mirror shimmered, revealing the poised face of the [Princess], her posture stiff, reflecting her unease.
“Yes, Your Majesty,” the [Princess] replied with a formal nod, her eyes revealing a hint of defiance. The background behind her flickered with the vibrant scenes of Amorium, the bustling city that held many secrets and challenges.
“Good,” the [King] declared, his eyes narrowing slightly. “We have deliberated and concluded that your presence in Amorium is required again. A detailed report outlining your responsibilities and tasks will be provided to you promptly.”
A flicker of confusion crossed [Princess] Laurealia’s face. “May I inquire about the nature of this sudden decision, Father? Is there a specific matter that necessitates my return?”
The [King] leaned back, his gaze unwavering as he addressed his daughter with a softer tone yet laden with authority. “[Princess] Laurealia, you are yet to fully grasp the complexities and duties of our kingdom. An advisor has brought a matter in Amorium to our attention—a matter you shall assist your Ancestor in resolving.”
Laurealia’s brows furrowed, her hand gripping the sword at her side. “Could you elucidate, Your Majesty?” A pang of dread filled her as she anticipated a ludicrous assignment. Hoping she was wrong, she formulated her next question, “Is it regarding the Dungeon? If needed, I can request additional members of the Royal Guard to—”
The [King] raised a hand to halt her words. “No, Laurealia. This does not concern the Dungeon. We have delegated that responsibility to the Watch and the Adventurers’ Guild. You must learn to tread the path that [Great Prince] Vespasianus established for us. There is bitterness within you that needs tempering. If you are to ascend to the throne as [Queen], it is our obligation to ensure your character is fit for such a position.”
The [Princess] bit her lip, a familiar frustration bubbling within her. This narrative was not new to her; she had endured it countless times. Yet, she had to maintain a façade of respect to avoid further consequences. “Father, may I request more information?”
“Your Ancestor is collaborating with the Human,” the [King] revealed, a sternness in his voice. “You are to aid them in their endeavors. The report will provide you with the specifics.”
A wave of disbelief and indignation washed over Laurealia.
“WHAT?!” She couldn’t stop the outburst but instantly regretted her lack of composure.
The [King]’s gaze sharpened, a warning appearing in his eyes. “Laurealia, we expect obedience. We do not wish to command the Royal Guard to escort you back in chains. Do we have your assurance that you will adhere to our directives?”
The [Princess] clenched her fists, her anger simmering beneath the surface, but she bowed her head in reluctant acquiescence. “Yes, Your Majesty. You have my word.”
The [King] nodded, satisfied with her response, but Laurealia could sense the underlying tension. The Enchanted mirror’s glow dimmed, severing their connection.
...
The Present
The [Princess] looks across the table at me and raises a hand at a spooked [Waiter].
“Drinks, please.”
Then, her gaze turns to me, and her voice goes harsh.
"I need to tell you something."