Chapter 7

The first rays of sunlight emerged through the trees of the forest, casting a golden glow across the clearing. Helen awoke from her sleep, blinking drowsily as she stretched. She looked around, finding the campsite empty except for the faint remnants of their firepit, now cold and covered in grey ash.

Rubbing her eyes, she slowly sat up, her thoughts still foggy from sleep. As she glanced around, she spotted Sarah standing a few paces away, speaking quietly with another figure—her Royal Knight, Gillen. The tall, armored man stood with his back straight, his posture disciplined even in the early morning.

Helen smiled, relief washing over her. She stood up, brushing off her dress and making her way over to them.

“Good morning,” she called, her voice still a bit groggy but cheerful. “You’re both up early.”

Sarah turned, offering a warm smile. “Good morning, Princess Helen. I thought it best to get an early start.” Her expression was relaxed, yet there was a certain alertness in her eyes, as if she had been up for some time already.

Gillen bowed slightly as Helen approached. “My lady, I would like to once again apologize for not being able to protect you,” he said, his voice solemn. “I’m grateful that Miss Sarah was there when I was not.”

“It’s alright, Gillen,” Helen said, her smile reassuring. “You’re here now, and that’s what matters. Besides, Sarah did a wonderful job looking after me.” She turned to Sarah, her eyes filled with gratitude. “Thank you, once again.”

Sarah inclined her head, a modest smile on her lips. “I’m just glad I could help.”

Gillen straightened, his expression softening slightly. “We should make our way to the capital soon, my lady. We’ve been out here longer than expected, and the roads could be dangerous.”

Helen nodded. “Yes, you’re right. We shouldn’t delay any longer.” She glanced between Sarah and Gillen, then asked, “How far is it from here to the capital?”

“Not far,” Gillen replied. “If we keep a steady pace, we should arrive by the end of the day.” He adjusted the sword at his hip, his eyes scanning the treeline. “I will lead the way, but please stay close, both of you.”

Helen glanced at Sarah, giving her a small, playful smile. “You’ll like the capital.”

Sarah returned the smile, her eyes softening.

The trio set off, leaving the clearing behind as they ventured onto the narrow, winding path that led through the forest. The morning air was crisp, and the sun's warmth began to melt away the chill of the night. Helen walked between Sarah and Gillen, her steps light and quick as she occasionally glanced up at the canopy, watching the sunlight filter through the leaves.

For a while, they walked in silence, the only sounds being the crunch of leaves beneath their boots and the distant calls of birds. Sarah remained vigilant, her senses alert for any sign of danger, but she kept her demeanor relaxed, not wanting to make Helen anxious.

After some time, Helen broke the silence. “Sarah,” she began, her tone curious, “you never did tell me much about yourself. Where are you from?”

Sarah hesitated for a moment, her eyes fixed ahead on the path. “It’s… complicated,” she said, her voice measured. “Let’s just say I’m not from around here.”

Helen raised an eyebrow, clearly intrigued. “Oh? That sounds mysterious.” She gave Sarah a sidelong glance, her curiosity piqued. “You must have quite a story, then.”

Sarah smiled, but it didn’t quite reach her eyes. “Perhaps. I’m from a place that’s far away.” She didn’t want to share too much, especially when she was still trying to piece everything together herself, and believed that caution was one of the most important things.

Helen sensed the subtle reluctance in Sarah’s tone and decided not to press further. “I understand,” she said, her voice gentle. “Whenever you’re ready.”

Gillen, who had been quietly leading the way, glanced back over his shoulder. “Whatever your story, Miss Sarah, you have my thanks for protecting the princess. I will ensure that His Majesty hears of your deeds.”

Sarah nodded. “Thank you, Sir Gillen. But there’s no need to make a big deal out of it. I’m just glad she’s safe.” Sarah kept faking a smile like she was some kind of noble savior.

This tale has been unlawfully obtained from Royal Road. If you discover it on Amazon, kindly report it.

Helen laughed softly. “Too late for that, I’m afraid. Once we reach the capital, I’m sure my father will want to meet you. And he won’t be the only one.”

“Then I suppose I’ll have to prepare myself for quite the introduction.”

The group continued down the path, the forest gradually thinning as they drew closer to the main road that would lead them straight to the heart of the Kingdom of Grand Valka. The capital awaited them, and with it, answers to some of the questions that had been swirling in Sarah’s mind since she first arrived in this world. She needed some form of overview of this world, she always believed that information was the most important asset one could have.

***

The path gradually widened as they neared the outskirts of the Royal Capital. Sarah, Helen, and Gillen emerged from the dense cover of the forest, stepping out onto a paved road that led straight to the city’s towering gates. The sight before them was nothing short of awe-inspiring.

The capital of the Kingdom of Grand Valka stood like a grand sentinel in the distance, its high, stone walls stretching around the city. Tall, spired towers dotted the skyline, with colorful banners fluttering in the breeze, each bearing the crest of the royal family.

Sarah’s eyes widened slightly as she took it all in. She had seen cities like this in the games she played, but to see one in person—complete with bustling streets, distant sounds of merchants haggling, and people moving about their daily lives—was surreal. It felt like she had truly stepped into a fantasy world.

The main gates were open, allowing a steady flow of people to enter and exit the city. Guards in armor stood watch, their expressions stern but attentive, as they monitored the crowd. Gillen led them straight through, and the guards quickly recognized the royal emblem on Helen’s clothing, giving them respectful nods as they passed. No questions were asked; the princess’s presence was enough to grant them swift entry.

As they moved deeper into the city, the streets grew more crowded. Merchants hawked their goods from stalls lining the main road, selling everything from fresh produce to fine silks and intricate jewelry. Street performers entertained passersby with music and tricks. Children ran between the crowds, laughing and playing, while noblewomen strolled with their parasols, chatting in soft, elegant tones. The buildings were tall, sturdy structures made of stone and wood, with colorful awnings and vibrant flower boxes that gave the medieval city a sense of warmth and life.

Helen glanced at Sarah, her eyes shining with excitement. “Welcome to Grand Valka’s capital,” she said, her voice bright. “I know it can be a bit overwhelming at first, but it’s a beautiful place, don’t you think?”

Sarah nodded, a faint smile tugging at her lips. “It’s… pretty. Like something out of a dream.” She caught herself staring at the spires in the distance, each one seeming to stretch higher than the last, until they culminated in a massive castle that loomed over the city. Its white stone walls gleamed in the sunlight, and the numerous towers made it look almost ethereal, like a palace from a fairytale.

“That’s where we’re heading,” Helen said, noticing Sarah’s gaze. “The Royal Castle. It’s the heart of the kingdom, and it’s where my father—the king—awaits.”

The closer they got to the castle, the more the bustling noise of the city began to fade, replaced by a sense of quiet reverence. The streets widened, and the buildings became more elaborate, with lush gardens and ornate statues lining the way. It was clear they had entered the more rich part of the capital, where the nobility lived.

Gillen led them with practiced ease, navigating the streets until they reached a large, open courtyard that stretched out before the castle’s main gates. Guards stood at attention, their armor polished and their stances rigid, but they relaxed slightly as they recognized the princess, stepping aside to allow the group passage. The gates themselves were massive, iron structures, decorated with intricate designs that depicted scenes of knights, dragons, and legendary battles.

Helen’s face lit up as she stepped forward, waving to a few of the guards who greeted her with warm smiles. “I never get tired of this sight,” she said, turning to Sarah. “It always makes me feel… safe.”

Sarah could understand why. The castle was imposing, yet beautiful, a symbol of strength and grace. It was clear that this was a place where power resided.

As they approached, the gates slowly swung open, revealing the grand entrance to the castle. Massive pillars framed the doorway, and beyond it, Sarah could see a hall with a gleaming marble floor. Servants and courtiers moved about, their expressions serious but efficient, as they prepared for the arrival of their princess.

Gillen stepped forward, addressing the head guard stationed at the entrance. “Sir Gillen, escorting Princess Helen Igsem, with guest,” he said, his voice steady. “We request an audience with His Majesty.”

The head guard nodded, glancing briefly at Sarah before stepping aside. “The king has been informed of the princess’s arrival at the castle. You may proceed.”

Helen beamed, clearly relieved that everything was proceeding smoothly. “Well, Sarah,” she said, turning to her with a grin, “it looks like you’re about to meet my father. Try not to be too nervous, alright?”

Sarah managed a small smile. Of course, she wouldn’t be nervous, she had already realized that when her emotions reached a boiling point in this new world, something would forcefully calm her down. Perhaps it was one of the effects of becoming the Great Demon Nirvana.

“I’ll do my best.” She said, her voice calm.

With that, they moved forward, stepping through the grand doorway and into the castle’s vast halls. The inside was just as magnificent as the outside, with chandeliers hanging from the high ceilings, tapestries depicting scenes of the kingdom’s history adorning the walls, and a long, crimson carpet that stretched down the center of the room, leading deeper into the castle.

As they walked, Sarah felt a sense of anticipation building. She had faced a few challenges since arriving in this world, but this felt different.

An unknown place with unknown people… She had already established many countermeasures against mind control and the likes should the need arise. She had also prepared herself to quickly cast [Teleportation] should an escape be necessary.

The trio made their way down the long hall, towards the throne room, where the king awaited them.