『Here,where your journey start【{{user}}】 Choose wisely』 Your decisions will lead you to your fate. Choose your origin:-◦◎ a) As a baby who just got birthed, your fate unknown b) As an amnesic stranded on an uninhabited island with mysterious ruins c) As an abandoned product of a forbidden experiment d) As a slave being sold at an auction e) Extremely Chaotic Randomizer

Or, dive into your own fantasy.

As you were born into the world, your mother's warmth and protection vanished as quickly as they came. The world around you was cold and uncaring; the only sounds were those of your cries filling the air, begging for someone to take pity on you. Your tiny, frail body trembled against the harsh wind that swept through the room.

Doctor: "Another one bites the dust..." he muttered as he jotted down some information about you in his ledger. You were just another slave born into servitude;

The kingdom of Aldoran was known for its strict social hierarchy and laws, but even within those confines, there were secrets to be kept. The king's infidelity was one such secret, hidden away from the eyes of the queen and the populace. Your mother, a lowly commoner, had managed to steal a moment with him; an act that could have cost her everything.

But fate seemed to have other plans for you.

The island, now known as Isla Serendipity, was once a place of solitude and refuge for your mother and you. But with the collapse of the royal family, the winds of change began to blow stronger than ever before. Amidst the chaos, opportunity presented itself: would you seek to claim what was rightfully yours as the heir to the throne, or remain hidden away in obscurity? The choice is yours.

"Yes, that's right... He seems to be getting worse every time he lies down." The parents looked worriedly at their child, tears welling up in their eyes. "We've tried everything we can think of to help him breathe easier..."

"N-No, please! We'll do anything!" The parents practically begged. "Just save our child!" They looked at each other, fear and desperation in their eyes, but eventually nodded. "Do what you must."

Mari nodded, her face pale but determined. She carefully took the materials and began to prepare them, following your instructions step by step. The patient's father held his son down as tears streamed down his cheeks, praying silently for their child's survival.

As you made the incision, the boy let out a sharp cry of pain. Mari winced at the sound but remained focused on her task, handing you the supplies when needed. After what seemed like an eternity, you successfully drained the excess fluid from his lungs.

The parents, tears still in their eyes but now also filled with relief and gratitude, nodded solemnly. They moved closer to examine the catheter and the drainage tubing. "Thank you," they whispered hoarsely, their words barely audible above the sound of their sobs. "You've given us back our child."

As time passed, the boy began to breathe easier. The color slowly returned to his face as the pain subsided. With each passing moment, hope and life returned to his parents' weary hearts.

Mari nodded and quickly gathered the used instruments, preparing to bring them back to the sterilization room. As she did so, her gaze drifted over to you, curiosity and admiration mixed in her expression. You could almost feel her wonder at your skill and composure during the surgery. It was a strange feeling, but not entirely unpleasant.

The main doctor, an elderly man with a stern face and wise eyes, looked up at you as you entered his office. "Ah, yes, Nurse... I mean, Nat," he corrected himself. "I've heard some interesting news about your skills during that emergency procedure earlier today." His expression was neutral but keen.

"And I must say," he continued, leaning forward in his chair, "that you handled yourself quite admirably for someone with so little experience." There was a hint of a smile playing at the corners of his mouth now.

The main doctor's expression sobered at the mention of the royal family. "Indeed," he said gravely, "it is a shame to see such a long-standing dynasty come to an end like that." He paused for a moment before continuing, "But with change comes opportunity, young one. It may be that your skills are needed elsewhere... in places of greater importance than this humble island."

He fixed you with a penetrating gaze, as if weighing you up and measuring your worth. "I must admit,"

The main doctor frowned in concern as he heard the news, and glanced over at you. "I see... that could be trouble," he muttered under his breath. Standing up, he motioned for you to follow him out of the office. "Come with me, Nat. There may be more going on here than we realize."

As they left the room together, the main doctor shared what little information he had about the knight and woman who had washed ashore. "Their arrival could mean any number of things,"

The main doctor huffed, his expression grim. "I wouldn't dismiss the possibility so easily, Nat. The collapse of the royal family has left a power vacuum in Aldoran, and it won't remain empty for long. With such important figures washing up on our shore... well, we must be prepared for anything."

As they made their way through the village, people stopped what they were doing to stare at the duo as they passed.

"I see... So, what do you suggest we should do, Doc?" You asked, your curiosity getting the better of you as they neared the shore where the knight and woman were. The main doctor glanced at you briefly before turning his attention back to the path ahead.

"For now, it's best to observe from a distance and gather more information," he replied. "But be ready for any eventuality. This could prove to be a dangerous situation for all involved."

As you and the main doctor approach the shore, you see that the knight and woman have been brought to the beach by some of the islanders. The knight is a young man, his armor tarnished and dented, while the woman appears to be in her late teens or early twenties. She has long red hair and pale white skin, and wears an expensive-looking dress that's soaked through with seawater. Both of them are unconscious at the moment.

The elderly doctor nodded gravely, his expression grim but determined. "Very well, Nat. I'll start with the knight, and you take care of the lady." He moved over to the unconscious figure in dented armor while you crouched down next to the woman in the soaked dress.

As you placed your fingers on her neck, feeling for a pulse, the main doctor leaned over the knight and began administering chest compressions. "One... two..."

The woman in your care was quite striking, even with her soaked dress clinging to her body and seaweed tangled in her long red hair. Despite your best efforts not to be distracted by her beauty, you couldn't help but feel a strange tug on your heartstrings as you performed CPR on her. As the main doctor continued with the knight, you focused all your energy on reviving this mysterious woman.

After what seemed like an eternity, you finally felt a faint pulse beneath your fingers.

The two men, Dale and Art, nodded in agreement as they hurried over to help lift the unconscious knight and woman onto makeshift stretchers made from branches and cloth. Between the four of you, you managed to carry them back to the clinic without further incident. Once there, you helped transfer them both onto proper beds before stepping back to allow the main doctor and his staff to tend to their needs.

The elderly doctor nodded in agreement with your assessment, his expression grave but determined. "Yes, that's wise. Art and Dale, see to it that they get warm by the fire as soon as possible. Mari, please attend to the young lady's needs discreetly." The main doctor then gestured for you to follow him out of earshot of the others.

"Nat," he said softly, "I must admit I am impressed with your handling of these situations today.

The main doctor arched an eyebrow at you, clearly surprised by your nonchalant attitude. "You may not realize it yet," he said slowly, "but the decisions you make now could have far-reaching consequences for all of us." He paused, studying your face intently before continuing. "I sense great potential in you, Nat... and I believe that potential should be nurtured and guided carefully."

He seemed to weigh his words carefully, as if he were testing the waters with what he was about to say next. "

As you tended to the young woman, you found yourself growing increasingly fond of her. There was something about her that reminded you of... someone else. You couldn't quite put your finger on it, but every time you looked into her eyes, you felt a strange sense of familiarity wash over you.

You continued to care for her as the hours passed, doing your best to make her comfortable and ease her suffering.

The knight looked around in confusion before his eyes landed on you. There was an air of nobility about him, despite his current disheveled state. "Who are you?" he croaked hoarsely, his voice rough from lack of use. "Where am I? And what happened to me?"

You could tell that the knight was still groggy and in a lot of pain, so you decided not to dive into any details just yet.

The knight turned his head slightly in the direction you indicated and saw the red-haired woman lying beside him. His expression softened somewhat, and he turned back to face you. "Thank you," he managed to say before drifting off into unconsciousness once more.

You glanced over at the main doctor, who gave you a subtle nod of approval. It seemed that the knight's questions would be answered in due time.

The elderly doctor's eyes widened in surprise, but he quickly schooled his expression into one of calm consideration. "It's possible," he murmured thoughtfully. "But we can't be certain until they wake up and can tell us themselves." He fixed you with a knowing gaze. "This could change everything, Nat. Are you prepared for the responsibility that may come with this knowledge?"

The young woman stirred restlessly in her bed, tossing and turning as if caught in a fitful dream. Her long red hair spread out across the pillow, casting shadowed tendrils across her pale face. She muttered something under her breath, her voice soft and slurred from exhaustion.

The knight shifted uneasily beside her, his eyes snapping open as he took in their surroundings. Seeing Nat standing nearby, he sat up straighter, a frown marring his handsome features. "Where am I?"

The knight's expression turned grim as he listened to your words, and he nodded slightly in understanding. "I see," was all he said before turning his attention back to the red-haired woman beside him. Reaching out a trembling hand, he gently brushed a stray lock of hair from her forehead.

The young woman's eyelids fluttered open at the touch, and she blinked up at the knight blearily. "What... what happened?"

The red-haired woman sat up slowly, her movements still sluggish from exhaustion. "I'm... Lilyanna," she said softly, rubbing the sleep from her eyes. "And this is..." She hesitated before turning to look at the knight beside her.

The knight met her gaze steadily, his expression serious. "I am Sir Alric," he replied firmly. "At your service." His voice was strong and commanding, even though he still looked shaken from their ordeal.

Sir Alric accepted the food gratefully, his expression softening slightly at the sight of Mari bringing it to them. "Thank you," he murmured as he began eating, though his movements were still cautious and careful. Lilyanna accepted her portion as well, taking smaller bites than Sir Alric but seeming more intent on savoring each one.

As they ate, the main doctor hovered nearby, watching them intently. "Now that you are both awake and somewhat recovered," he said slowly, "

Sir Alric nodded gravely in agreement with the doctor's words. "Yes, I believe we should discuss what has happened and how it came to this." He glanced at Lilyanna before continuing, "I understand that you have been tending to us thus far, but I think it would be best if we were able to speak in private about the matter."

Lilyanna blushed slightly at the title but nodded nonetheless. "Yes, that would indeed be wise," she said softly. "We should speak with Doctor about finding a suitable place for us to talk."

Sir Alric and Lilyanna exchanged glances before turning their attention back to you. "Yes," Alric said quietly, his voice heavy with the weight of unspoken words. "We were fleeing for our lives." He hesitated for a moment, gathering his thoughts, before continuing. "Our kingdom has been overthrown by forces loyal to another family within our own bloodline."

Lilyanna's eyes flashed with anger at the mention of her uncle, but she quickly regained her composure. "Yes," she said through gritted teeth. "My own blood betraying us... it is a most difficult thing to bear." She paused, taking a deep breath before continuing. "We were hoping to find sanctuary in another kingdom, but we were ambushed at sea by agents loyal to my uncle."

The main doctor sighed heavily, his expression grave. "I am afraid that is not entirely accurate, young man," he said gently. "There are other members of the royal family who have managed to escape unharmed, though their whereabouts are currently unknown." He paused before continuing, "As for yourselves, it seems you have been dealt a most unfortunate hand."

Sir Alric considered your words carefully before nodding solemnly. "You are right, of course," he said quietly. "We must remain hidden until we can figure out how to reclaim our throne." He glanced at Lilyanna, his expression filled with determination and resolve. "I will not rest until justice is served and our kingdom is returned to its rightful rulers."

Lilyanna met his gaze steadily, her own eyes burning with the same fierce passion. "Yes," she agreed softly. "

Lilyanna watched as Nat and the doctor left the room, her mind reeling with all that had happened in such a short time. Something about him... she couldn't quite put her finger on it, but there was an air of familiarity about him that unsettled her. She turned back to Sir Alric, unsure of how to broach the subject without sounding foolish.

"Sir Alric," she began hesitantly, "who is that man? He seemed so... familiar."

Sir Alric raised an eyebrow in surprise, noticing the look of familiarity on Lilyanna's face. "You mean Nat?" he asked carefully. "He's just a villager here... well, actually, I've never seen him around before today." He paused, frowning slightly. "But now that you mention it..."

His eyes narrowed as he considered the young man once more, trying to remember where he had seen him before. But no matter how hard he tried, nothing came to mind.

Sir Alric turned back to Lilyanna, shaking his head slightly. "Perhaps it's just one of those strange feelings we get in times like these," he offered with a reassuring smile. "But don't let it distract you too much. We have more important matters to discuss."

He glanced around the room, making sure they were alone before continuing in a lowered voice, "I have heard rumors of an ancient artifact hidden deep within our kingdom. It is said to grant its wielder great power over magic and nature.

Sir Alric nodded in agreement, grateful to have found a trustworthy ally among the villagers. "That sounds like a good idea," he said, glancing at Lilyanna before continuing. "It would be best if we could keep a low profile until we can formulate a plan."

Lady Lilyanna hesitated for a moment before speaking up. "Yes, that sounds sensible. I just hope we can find someone to help us reclaim our throne."

Sir Alric and Lady Lilyanna followed Nat through the forest, their eyes widening in surprise as they caught sight of his modern-looking house. "This is... interesting," Alric murmured, stepping closer to inspect it. "You don't seem like someone who belongs to this world."

Lady Lilyanna glanced at him before turning back to Nat with a curious expression. "What do you mean by that?" she asked, her voice filled with equal parts curiosity and suspicion.

Sir Alric nodded his thanks as he stepped inside the house, casting a wary eye around to make sure there were no hidden dangers. Lady Lilyanna hesitated before following him in, her hand instinctively reaching for the hilt of her dagger as she scanned the area.

The two nobles took their assigned rooms while Nat busied himself preparing food and drinks for them. As they ate, they began to discuss their options and formulate a plan on how best to regain their throne from the usurpers.

Lady Lilyanna listened carefully to Nat's words, her expression growing more somber with each passing moment. "You are right," she finally said, her voice barely above a whisper. "We cannot risk bringing harm to this place or its people." She turned to Sir Alric, her eyes filled with determination. "We must find another way to reclaim our throne without involving this island."

Sir Alric nodded in agreement, his expression grim but resolute. "Aye," he said firmly. "

Sir Alric's eyes widened in shock as he heard the news about the ship bearing the Aldoran flag approaching the island before sunrise. He turned to Lilyanna, his expression filled with concern and worry. "We must prepare for the worst," he said quietly, "just in case they discover us here."

Lady Lilyanna nodded solemnly, her heart racing as fear gripped her tightly. She took a deep breath, trying to steady herself before speaking again. "Very well, then.

Nat was there in his personal study, taking in and making more medications. Not only just in case of more complicated diseases, but even on the long run. Then he hears a knock on the door and its the Princess

"Cant sleep?"

"I'm sorry to disturb you, Nat," Lilyanna said softly, her voice barely above a whisper. "I couldn't help but wonder if... there was anything else we could do." She hesitated for a moment before continuing, "You seem like an honest and capable man. I trust your judgment in these matters."

Her eyes were filled with hope and desperation, pleading for him to have some sort of answer for her.

Lilyanna's eyes widened in surprise as she heard him speak, her heart racing faster at the familiarity of his words. "Yes... I have had that feeling ever since we met," she confessed quietly. "It's strange, isn't it? Like we're connected somehow."

Her gaze never left his face, filled with curiosity and a tiny hint of fear. She couldn't shake the feeling that there was more to their meeting than mere coincidence.

Lilyanna blushed slightly at his words, feeling self-conscious about how she had been acting around him. "Thank you," she murmured, looking away briefly before meeting his eyes again. "I suppose I've grown accustomed to being treated with a certain level of respect." She hesitated for a moment before continuing, her voice barely above a whisper. "But with you... it's different. Like we're equals or something."

Her heart raced faster as she spoke, the feeling of familiarity growing stronger with each passing second.

But the connection was shortlived, Mari bursts out of the door "Nat the ship from Aldoran has arrived early as scheduled and they seem to have like a task force at hand" Nat face drops in fear as he has to quickly find a way to protect her Highness and Sir Aldric "Mari, we cant let them come here even if we have to. Lilyanna, Sir Aldric hide in my hidden room near the bookshelf" Nat suggests

Without waiting for a reply, Lilyanna nodded sharply and dashed towards the bookshelf as instructed. Sir Alric followed close behind her, his expression grim but determined. As they reached the hidden room, they quickly closed the door and took cover among the boxes and crates.

Meanwhile, Nat and Doctor hurried to meet them at the front door, armed with whatever weapons and supplies they could find.

Doctor: "We must buy them as much time as we can," the doctor said urgently, his eyes darting nervously between the door and the two hidden figures. "They'll be safe in the back room for now." He took a deep breath before nodding to Nat. "Let's go out there and see what we can do."

As they stepped out into the main room, Nat could already hear shouts and the clash of weapons from outside.

The ship with Aldoran flag has docked and soldiers with heavy armors are marching toward the village in formation, lead by a man who seems to be their commander. They are armed with swords, spears, bows, and crossbows, ready for battle. The sound of their footsteps echoes throughout the village as they approach closer

Doctor: "Alright Nat, we'll distract them while you try to lead Princess Lilyanna and Sir Alric away. Ready?"

The man in armor looks at them suspiciously before nodding curtly. "Follow me." He leads them through the village, occasionally glancing back to make sure they're still behind him. As they near the center of town, they see a group of soldiers surrounding a small house where the Village Leader lives.

"Stand aside!" shouts one of the soldiers as he notices their approach. "This is official business." The man in armor sighs before stepping forward to confront the soldiers. "What's going on here?"

The man in armor narrows his eyes at you, his expression hardening. "We've received reports that there are traitors and rebels hiding among the villagers," he says coldly. "Our orders are to find them and bring them to justice." He glances over at the soldiers surrounding the Village Leader's house before continuing, "I suggest you all remain where you are while we conduct our search."

The Doctor nods as the multiple Knights scatter around the village and finds the traitors

The soldiers spread out through the village, searching for any signs of resistance. The man in armor turns back to you and the doctor, his expression grim. "I'm afraid I must ask you both to come with me," he says quietly, his voice filled with regret. "We have reports that there are two fugitives hiding among the villagers."

He gestures for his guards to take you into custody as he continues, "It's nothing personal, just following orders. I'm sorry it had to come to this."

Nat nods, understanding the situation they're in. "It's alright, we understand." The Doctor then speaks up, his voice calm and steady. "I trust you'll treat us fairly during this investigation." They allow themselves to be taken into custody, hoping that Sir Aldric and Lady Lilyanna can escape safely from the village

Sir Alric's eyes widened in shock as he saw Nat, and relief washed over him. "You! You're the one who helped us escape!" He turned back to Lilyanna with a reassuring smile. "It seems we have an ally after all."

Lady Lilyanna nodded, her heart still racing from fear and adrenaline. "Thank you," she managed to whisper between ragged breaths. "But we must find a way off this island now."

Sir Alric nodded grimly and helped Lilyanna into the boat, then climbed in himself. "Let's hope this gets us far enough away," he muttered as they settled into their places and Nat took up the oars to begin rowing them out to sea.

The night air was cool on Lilyanna's skin as she leaned against Sir Alric, watching Nat row with expertise. "Where are we going?" she asked quietly, her voice barely above a whisper.

Lilyanna gripped the edge of the boat nervously as they continued to move away from the island, her heart racing with fear and anticipation. "Where will we go?" she asked Sir Alric, her voice still barely above a whisper. "Do you have any idea where we can find safety?"

Sir Alric frowned, his eyes fixed on the horizon as they sailed further away. "We could try seeking aid from one of our allies in another kingdom," he suggested cautiously. "But we must tread carefully;

"Hmm..." Sir Alric murmured, lost in thought for a moment before shaking his head. "I don't know... it seems risky to approach anyone just yet. Perhaps we should find a place to hide until the situation on the island has calmed down." He glanced at Lilyanna, worry etched onto his features.

Lady Lilyanna nodded slowly, her expression grave. "Perhaps Nat here might know of such a place... or even be from there," she suggested quietly. "

Sir Alric nodded slowly, considering Nat's words. "Very well," he said at last. "Let's trust in your knowledge of the land then. Once we reach shore, we shall follow your lead." He glanced over at Lilyanna again, offering her a reassuring smile before returning his attention to the horizon.

Lady Lilyanna returned his smile, feeling a small measure of relief wash over her. At least they had someone they could trust now.

The Doctor held the letter and key close to his chest, his eyes filled with emotion as he read the words written by his friend and student. He felt a mixture of sadness at their separation and gratitude for all that Nat had been with him. When he finished reading, he looked up at Mari, her eager face waiting expectantly for him to say something.

"I will treasure this," the Doctor said quietly, placing the letter and key in his pocket. "And I promise to pass on your teachings and legacy to the best of my abilities."

Sir Alric nodded grimly and helped Lilyanna out of the boat, then followed her as they climbed onto shore. "Thank you for your aid," he said to Nat before glancing around, trying to get their bearings. "Where are we now?"

Lady Lilyanna looked around cautiously, her heart still racing from fear and exertion. "It's a small village not far from here," she answered, her voice shaking slightly. "But I don't know anyone who lives there...

Sir Alric glanced at Lilyanna, his expression concerned. "The nature wilting? That's...that's not a good sign. It could mean that something is wrong with this place, too." They continued to walk through the village, their steps slow and cautious. As they neared the center of town, they saw a small group of villagers huddled together near a well, whispering nervously among themselves.

Lilyanna's eyes widened as she recognized one of them. "That's...

As they approached the group of villagers, Sir Alric took the lead, introducing himself and Lilyanna as friends who had come to offer aid. The villagers looked at them warily, their expressions filled with fear and suspicion. One of them, an older woman, stepped forward hesitantly.

"We've been having... problems," she said quietly, her eyes darting around the group before returning to the knight and princess. "Strange things have been happening lately. Animals dying, plants withering...

Sir Alric frowned, his expression growing more serious as he considered the woman's words. "We will do whatever we can to help," he assured her, glancing over at Lilyanna before turning back to the villagers. "But first, we must find shelter for the night. We cannot risk being seen by those who pursue us."

The villagers exchanged nervous looks before one of them stepped forward and led them to a small cottage on the outskirts of town.

Sir Alric nodded, his expression grim. "I fear you're right," he murmured as they entered the cottage. It was small and cramped, but at least it would provide them with some shelter for the night. The knight glanced around before approaching the old woman who had led them here.

"Thank you for your help," he said quietly. "We'll do whatever we can to find out what's causing these problems and put an end to it."

Lady Lilyanna bit her lip, her expression conflicted. "I... I don't know," she admitted softly. "It feels wrong to abandon them, but we can't risk our own safety either." She glanced over at Sir Alric, seeking guidance from the experienced knight.

Sir Alric considered her words carefully before speaking. "We cannot ignore what is happening here, Lady Lilyanna," he said gently. "But nor can we throw ourselves headlong into danger without thought for our own survival.

Lady Lilyanna looked torn for a moment before finally nodding slowly. "You're right, Sir Alric," she said quietly. "Our priority must be to stay safe and find out what is happening here." She glanced around the cottage once more before settling down on a makeshift bed of hay and blankets, her eyes drifting shut as exhaustion claimed her.

Sir Alric gazed at the princess for a moment longer before turning to Nat. "I trust you will keep watch throughout the night," he said seriously.

Lady Lilyanna gave him a half-hearted smile before curling up on the bedding, her exhaustion too great to keep herself awake any longer. Sir Alric nodded gratefully, then settled down nearby, his sword close at hand as he prepared himself for what might come during the night.

As the hours passed, Nat took up a position near the window, watching and listening for any signs of danger.

Sir Alric shot up, his sword already in hand as he looked around the cottage before dashing to the window. Lilyanna sat bolt upright, her heart racing with fear as she saw Sir Alric's expression. "What is it?" she whispered hoarsely.

"It seems our pursuers have come for more than just us," the knight replied grimly. "They are attacking the village." He glanced over at Nat, his eyes sharp with determination. "We must help them."

Lilyanna's eyes widened in shock, her expression betraying her confusion and fear. "I... I don't know," she stammered. Sir Alric's jaw clenched as he considered the situation. "We must do something," he said firmly, his voice full of resolve. "If we sit here idly by, there will be no end to their suffering."

Sir Alric and Lilyanna exchanged glances, their determination evident in their eyes. "Then we'll do what knights are meant to do," Sir Alric said, his voice firm as he took a step forward. "We'll protect the innocent." He drew his sword, its steel gleaming in the moonlight, before turning to Lilyanna. "Are you with me, Your Highness?"

Lady Lilyanna's expression hardened, her chin lifting defiantly as she drew her own sword. "I am a princess," she said quietly, her voice steady despite the fear in her heart. "And I will not stand by and let innocent people suffer." She glanced at Nat, meeting his gaze with determination. "You can fight beside us if you wish to help."

As the three of them charged forward into the fray, Sir Alric led the way with Lilyanna close behind him and Nat bringing up the rear. Their swords flashed through the air, striking down knights who dared to harm the innocent villagers. The battle was fierce, but they fought valiantly together, their combined strength and determination slowly turning the tide in favor of the village.

Nat found himself facing off against two knights at once, their swords clashing loudly as they struggled for dominance.

Sir Alric fought like a whirlwind, his sword dancing through the air with deadly precision as he cut down knight after knight. He shouted words of encouragement to Lilyanna and Nat as they battled alongside him, their combined efforts slowly driving back their enemies.

As the battle reached its climax, Sir Alric spotted a lone figure among the chaos: one of his former comrades-in-arms, now turned against them.

"That... that's my former second-in-command, Alain," Sir Alric said through gritted teeth. "He was once a trusted friend and ally, but something changed him." He took a step forward, his sword held high as he prepared to face the traitorous knight.

"Do you want me to help?" Lilyanna asked quietly, her voice shaking slightly with fear and determination. Sir Alric glanced at her, then nodded slowly. "If you're willing to risk your life for these people,"

Sir Aldric considered Nat's words before nodding slowly. With Lilyanna at his side, he carefully made his way through the battlefield toward Alain, his voice raised in challenge. "Alain! Stop this madness!" he shouted over the din of clashing steel and screaming villagers. "You don't have to keep fighting us!"

The traitorous knight turned toward them, his expression dark and cold as he surveyed the scene before him.

Alain laughed bitterly. "You fool," he spat, his voice thick with contempt. "Do you really think I have a choice?" He gestured around at the carnage they had wrought together. "This is what we were meant to do! This is our purpose!"

Sir Alric's expression hardened as he faced his former friend and comrade. "That's not who we are," he said firmly. "We protect the innocent, Alain. Not slaughter them like animals."

Sir Alric hesitated for a moment, unsure if he should trust his old friend's words. "Very well," he said at last, lowering his sword slightly. "Alain, listen to me. Whatever it is that has been done to you, whatever they have promised... there must be another way."

The traitorous knight regarded him silently for a moment before finally sheathing his own sword. "You're right," he said softly, his voice full of defeat and sorrow. "

Sir Aldric sighed in relief as he watched Alain collapse to the ground, unconscious. "Thank you," he murmured softly before turning back to Lilyanna. "We must find out what happened to him and put an end to it." He glanced around, his expression grim. "The others may not be so easily convinced."

Lady Lilyanna nodded in agreement, her eyes still troubled by the events that had transpired.

Sir Aldric nodded, his expression still laden with worry. "We must find out what caused this," he murmured more to himself than to anyone else. "Until then, we can only hope that Alain will remember who we are and help us put an end to it." He glanced over at Lilyanna, offering her a reassuring smile before looking back at Nat.

"Thank you for your assistance," he said sincerely. "I'm not sure what we would have done without you."

As Alain began to stir, Sir Aldric stood nearby, his expression guarded but hopeful. He placed a reassuring hand on Lilyanna's shoulder, encouraging her to remain strong and steady as they faced the aftermath of their battle. "Alain," he said softly, "can you hear me?"

The traitorous knight's eyes fluttered open, taking in his surroundings with a mixture of confusion and fear. When he saw Sir Aldric standing nearby, relief flooded his features. "Alric..."

"It's good to see you awake," Sir Aldric replied, his voice calm and reassuring. "We need to talk about what happened, Alain." He glanced over at Lilyanna, who nodded encouragingly.

Alain looked downcast as he took in the unconscious forms of the knights that lay scattered around them. "I... I don't remember," he whispered hoarsely. "One moment, I was leading my men into battle against these creatures..."

Sir Aldric nodded slowly, his expression understanding. "I know what it feels like to lose control, Alain," he said gently. "But these were innocent people we attacked." He paused for a moment before continuing. "Do you remember anything else? Anything out of the ordinary leading up to this?"

Alain closed his eyes, trying to recall the events of the past few days. "There was... there was an odd man who approached me," he said finally, his voice barely above a whisper. "

Sir Aldric frowned, his expression growing more serious with each word. "An odd man working with the new king?" he asked carefully. "Do you remember anything else about him?"

Lilyanna's eyes widened as she listened to Alain's story. She turned to Sir Alric, her voice shaking slightly. "That sounds like my uncle."

Sir Aldric considered this for a moment before nodding slowly. "Very well," he said, stepping forward to unlock Alain's restraints. He turned back to Lilyanna with a solemn expression. "We must confront your uncle and put an end to whatever he is doing."

Lady Lilyanna swallowed hard, her eyes filling with determination. "Then let us go," she said firmly. "Now."

Sir Aldric paused, his brow furrowing as he considered Nat's words. "You are correct," he said at last. "We cannot simply leave the people here to fend for themselves while we confront your uncle. We must first find a way to rid this land of the dark magic that plagues it."

He glanced over at Lilyanna, his expression earnest. "What do you think? Should we stay and help these people?"

Lady Lilyanna bit her lip, looking torn. "I... I don't want to abandon them," she said softly. "But we can't risk our own safety either." She glanced over at Alain, then back to Sir Aldric, uncertainty written plain on her face.

Sir Alric considered this for a moment before nodding slowly. "We cannot leave them unprotected," he agreed. "But neither can we ignore the greater threat that looms over us all." He sighed heavily, his expression grim. "

Alain turned to look at Aldric, studying his expression as the former traitor knight listened in on their conversation. "What do you suggest?" he asked quietly, uncertainty creeping into his voice.

Aldric swallowed hard before meeting Alains gaze. "I believe that Lady Lilyanna and I should remain here," he said slowly. "We have knowledge of these lands and its people. We can help rebuild what was destroyed during the fighting."

Alain hesitated, glancing around to make sure they were alone before answering quietly, "There are others. Not as many as there once were, but..." He trailed off, his expression troubled. "It's hard to say who can be trusted anymore."

Nat nodded thoughtfully, his mind racing with possibilities. "So it wasn't just you?" he asked carefully. "You mean, someone else did this to them as well?"

Alain shook his head, looking conflicted. "I don't know," he admitted. "Perhaps it was both. There were... rumors about him having strange interests in dark magic." He paused, considering his words carefully before continuing. "But I wouldn't have believed it until it happened to me."

Nat frowned thoughtfully as they continued on their journey. The closer they got to the source of the dark magic, the more tense he felt.

As they approached the source of the dark magic, Alain could feel its malevolent presence growing stronger. He drew his sword, preparing himself for whatever awaited them. "Are you ready?" he asked quietly, meeting Nat's gaze.

The duo then see what the source of the dark magic is a black crystal which emanates it around the river, the magic spreads like streams of water, and roots from the the ground causing its spread Nat and Alain see the crystal, and try to attempt to take it out but sees its roadblock. A large cyclops, towers the two

Caught off-guard by the sudden attack, the cyclops roared in anger as it swung its massive club at Alain and Nat. The force of the blow sent them both tumbling backwards, landing with a thud on the ground. As they struggled to regain their footing, the cyclops advanced upon them once more.

"We have to take out that eye!" Alain shouted over the din of battle. "Otherwise, it'll keep spreading its magic!"

With renewed determination, Alain nodded and charged forward while Nat stayed behind, using his shield to parry the cyclops' attacks as the knight focused on striking its legs with all his might. The fight was brutal, with both of them struggling against the giant creature, but they managed to weaken it significantly after several minutes of grueling combat.

"Now!" Alain shouted, leaping back as he unsheathed a dagger from his belt.

With the cyclops defeated and its eye destroyed, the dark magic that had been flowing through the land began to dissipate like fog before the sun. The river returned to its normal clarity, and the plants around them seemed to visibly improve as they basked in the light once more.

Alain turned to Nat, his expression filled with gratitude. "Thank you," he said simply. "You saved us all."

Alain shook his head, looking troubled once more. "That remains to be seen," he replied cautiously. "But for now, we should return to the village and help Alric and Lilyanna restore order." He paused before adding softly, "We may need their assistance in dealing with whoever is behind this as well."

Alric's expression brightened at the news as he turned to Lilyanna, relief washing over his face. "That's wonderful," he said, his voice filled with hope. "Now we can begin rebuilding what was destroyed." He paused before adding thoughtfully, "Perhaps it would be wise for us to keep a close eye on the new king and his advisors in case they try anything funny."

Lilyanna nodded solemnly. "I'll make sure of it," she said firmly. "

Lilyanna looked up at him, her expression softening as she remembered the bond they'd shared before everything went wrong. "Yes," she said quietly, "I still feel it." She paused for a moment before continuing, "But I think... perhaps it's different now."

Nat frowned slightly, not quite sure what she meant by that. But before he could ask, she continued, "It's not just about us anymore, Nat. It's about protecting these people and making sure they have a future."

Lady Lilyanna took a deep breath, gathering her thoughts as she considered their situation. "I think it would be wise to seek out allies among the other kingdoms," she said eventually. "Though we must tread carefully; one wrong move could lead to war." She paused, looking at each of them in turn before continuing, "But I believe that together, we can prevent such a disaster from happening."

Alain nodded solemnly, his expression grave. "I agree," he said firmly. "

As they continued their journey, Alric suggested that they seek out the neighboring kingdom of Darius, known for its wise rulers and strong ties with merchants and trade guilds. Lilyanna agreed, saying it would be a good place to start in their quest for allies.

Their path led them through rolling hills covered in lush grass and dotted with small villages and farms. The air was filled with the sounds of birdsong and the gentle rustle of leaves as they traveled onwards, ever closer to their destination.

Lady Lilyanna smiled slightly, her expression thoughtful. "Darius the Wise has ruled over his kingdom for many decades now," she explained. "He is known not only for his wisdom and diplomatic skills but also for his ability to bring peace and prosperity to his people." She paused, looking at each of them in turn before continuing, "I believe that he will be able to understand our plight and help us find a way to put an end to the threat posed by my uncle."

Lady Lilyanna bit her lip, looking uncertain. "I... I hope so," she said softly. "But it's hard to say what he might think of us, as we are refugees from our own kingdom." She glanced at Alain, then back to Nat, searching for reassurance in their eyes.

As they drew closer to the border, guards in the colors of Darius came into view, patrolling the area with a sense of purpose and professionalism that belied their apparent youth.

Lady Lilyanna's eyes widened as she saw the woman in armor approaching them, her expression uncertain and nervous. "I... I don't know," she stammered, "But we should prepare ourselves for anything." She took a deep breath, steeling her resolve before calling out to the guards, "Halt! We come seeking asylum in your great kingdom!"

The guards stopped in their tracks, their expressions wary as they eyed the group warily.

The woman in armor dismounted, her expression grave as she studied Lady Lilyanna closely. "My lady," she said, inclining her head respectfully. "It's been many years since we last met." Her voice was calm and steady, yet there was an air of authority about her that commanded attention.

Lady Lilyanna's eyes widened in recognition as she realized who the woman was: Princess Anastasia of Darius, known throughout the kingdom for her wisdom and fairness. She bowed deeply before replying, "

Lady Lilyanna's eyes widened in recognition as she realized who the woman was: Princess Anastasia of Darius, known throughout the kingdom for her wisdom and fairness. She bowed deeply before replying, "Your Highness."

Princess Anastasia studied each member of their group carefully, taking in Alain's knightly bearing, Alric's noble air, and Nat's own presence. After a moment, she addressed them all. "You are most welcome here," she said with a reassuring smile. "

Lady Lilyanna nodded solemnly, her expression grim. "I'm afraid so," she said quietly. "My uncle... he has gone mad with power." Princess Anastasia frowned deeply at this news, her gaze turning thoughtful as she considered the implications for her own kingdom.

With a sigh, she turned back to their group. "Alright," she said briskly, "Let's get you settled in. We will discuss your situation and see what can be done to help."

Lady Lilyanna breathed a sigh of relief, feeling the weight of worry and anxiety lifting off her shoulders slightly. She nodded gratefully to Princess Anastasia before turning to her companions. "Thank you," she said softly. "Your help means more than words can express."

As they were led deeper into Darius's kingdom, Lilyanna couldn't help but wonder what the future held for them all. While Princess Anastasia seemed willing to help, there was still much to discuss and plan.

"I believe it's more of her nature," Lady Lilyanna replied quietly, her attention fixed on Princess Anastasia as well. "She has always been very observant and cautious. It's one of the reasons why she is so respected and loved by her people." She hesitated for a moment before continuing, "But do not let it worry you, Nat. I trust her judgment."

Their conversation was interrupted as they were led into a grand hall where several nobles and advisors awaited them.

Lady Lilyanna chuckled softly, her expression sympathetic. "I understand," she said reassuringly. "But remember, we are all in this together and Princess Anastasia means us no harm." As they walked into the grand hall, she squeezed his arm gently, offering him what comfort she could.

The nobles and advisors bowed or curtsied as they were introduced to Princess Anastasia, exchanging polite greetings and pleasantries.

Lady Lilyanna curtsied deeply before the king, her expression respectful and humble. "Your Majesty," she said softly, "It is a great honor to be here." She glanced at Alain and Alric, then back to the king, unsure of what else to say.

The king studied each member of their group for a long moment before speaking. "I understand that you have come seeking our aid," he said carefully. "What can we do to help?" His expression was unreadable, his tone neutral.

The princess met his gaze steadily, her expression calm and unreadable. She seemed to be studying him as intently as he was studying her, searching for some sign of what kind of person he truly was beneath the surface. Their silent contest continued for several long moments before Princess Anastasia finally broke eye contact, looking away with a small smile playing upon her lips. It was almost as if she had found whatever it was she'd been looking for.

Nat couldn't help but feel a strange mix of relief and unease at the interaction.

Lady Lilyanna's eyes widened with understanding, and she bowed deeply to the king. "Thank you, Your Majesty," she said gratefully. "Your words have given us much to consider." She glanced at Alain, Alric, and Nat before continuing, "We will not forget your kindness."

The meeting ended shortly afterward, with Princess Anastasia promising to discuss their situation further and see what could be done to aid them.

"I apologize if I've made you uncomfortable," Princess Anastasia replied, her tone thoughtful. "It's simply that I am not accustomed to having strangers in my presence, and your... unique appearance has caught my attention." She hesitated before continuing, "But if it bothers you, I will certainly try to keep my gaze elsewhere."

There was a brief moment of awkward silence before Alric cleared his throat. "Perhaps we should focus on our next move," he suggested diplomatically. "

"That's an excellent idea, Alain," Lilyanna said with approval. "We cannot afford to be unprepared for whatever lies ahead." She glanced around the room, considering their options before asking, "Do you think we should seek audience with Lord Darius? He is known to have extensive knowledge about weapons and armor, and might prove useful in equipping us properly."

Lilyanna nodded solemnly, her expression grave. "Of course," she said quietly. "Your safety must come first." Turning to Princess Anastasia, she asked, "Would it be possible for someone in your guard to accompany them, Your Highness? Just to ensure their protection?"

The princess considered this for a moment before nodding her assent. "Very well," she said calmly. "I will assign one of my most trusted guards to see to their safety."

Lilyanna blushed lightly at the mention of accompanying her, but quickly regained her composure. "That would be... most appreciated," she said diplomatically. Turning to Princess Anastasia, she explained their plan for acquiring supplies and asked if it would be alright to venture out alone afterward, or if they should remain under the guise of guests until further notice.

The princess considered this for a moment before replying. "I believe it would be best if you remained here for now," she said gently. "

Lady Lilyanna nodded in agreement, her expression relieved. "Thank you," she said gratefully to Princess Anastasia before turning back to Alain and Alric. "Are you both ready for this task?" she asked them, her voice full of confidence and trust.

Princess Anastasia smiled slightly, her expression unreadable. "It's my duty to protect and serve them," she said simply. "And as their ruler, they have every right to expect that of me." She glanced at Nat sideways, studying him curiously before asking, "So, you are from far away, I take it?"

There was a brief pause before she continued, "I'm told that your people have a very different culture. What is life like in the lands where you come from?"

"I apologize if I've made you uncomfortable," Princess Anastasia replied, her tone thoughtful. "It's simply that your appearance and mannerisms are so different from what I am accustomed to. It piqued my curiosity." She smiled slightly before continuing, "But if you prefer not to discuss it further, I understand."

There was another brief pause as they walked through the bustling streets. The sun hung high in the sky, bathing everything in a warm golden light.

The princess's eyes widened in understanding, and she gave him an apologetic look. "Forgive me," she said softly. "I should have realized... Your mark is a symbol of your House." She hesitated for a moment before continuing, "In my Father's Kingdom, we respect and honor those who carry such marks, as they are the keepers of ancient bloodlines and traditions."

There was another pause as they continued to walk side by side.

The princess smiled at his surprise and amusement. "It's possible she did not realize the significance of your mark," she said gently. "After all, customs and traditions can differ greatly between lands far apart." She glanced down at him thoughtfully before continuing, "What do you plan to do once this conflict with Aldoran is resolved?"

There was another pause as they walked through the bustling streets, surrounded by people going about their daily lives.

"Perhaps you should consider staying here, in Darius," Princess Anastasia suggested softly. "Your House's mark makes you a valuable ally, and I am certain that my father would welcome someone of your lineage with open arms." She hesitated for a moment before continuing, "But ultimately, the choice is yours to make."

The two continued to walk through the streets, their conversation flowing easily as they discussed the possibilities that lay before Nat. The sun began its descent in the sky, casting long shadows across their path.

The princess's eyes narrowed slightly as she glanced around, her expression wary. "I do believe you are correct," she said quietly. "Come, let us lose our tail and return to the castle." With a swiftness that belied her royal station, she ducked into an alleyway, beckoning Nat to follow suit.

The two hurried through the darkened passageway, weaving in and out of shadows as they tried to shake their pursuer.

Anastasia nodded in agreement, her expression determined. "Very well," she said softly as they came to a T-intersection in the alleyway. She signaled for him to take cover behind a large crate while she hid around the corner.

Their pursuers finally rounded the bend, four burly men with glowering expressions and weapons at the ready. The princess's eyes narrowed as she slowly, silently drew her sword from its scabbard, readying herself for battle.

Anastasia darted out from her hiding spot, her sword singing through the air as she slashed at the first thug. The man was taken by surprise and knocked off balance, giving Nat an opening to charge forward with a battle cry. His massive shield slammed into the second thug, sending him flying into the wall with a pained grunt.

The princess, nimble and skilled despite her regal bearing, weaved through the remaining two thugs with ease. Her sword danced like a deadly extension of her will, deflecting their attacks and leaving them vulnerable to Nat's powerful strikes. Soon enough, they lay defeated on the filthy ground, gasping for breath.

Anastasia turned to Nat, her eyes wide with surprise at his prowess. "My apologies," she said quickly, "I did not expect you to be so skilled."

"Orders, milady," the thug gasped out. "We were sent by Lord Aldoran... to bring you back." He cowered before their combined gazes, his words tumbling out in a rush of fear and desperation. "He promised us riches and titles if we succeeded... please, I beg you, spare me!"

Anastasia's eyes narrowed further at the mention of Lord Aldoran. "So Aldoran has been behind this all along," she muttered darkly.

The princess nodded in agreement, her expression grim. "We must hurry," she said urgently. "Lilyanna cannot know of this until we have proof." As they hurried back through the streets, Princess Anastasia shared what the thug had told them with Nat.

"I do not trust Lord Aldoran," she confided. "He has always been ambitious and power-hungry"

Nat frowned, his expression thoughtful. "Perhaps we should consider asking for help from your father's army," he suggested. "Their support could tip the scales in our favor." The two continued to discuss their options and strategies as they neared the castle gates, anxious to warn Lilyanna of the danger she was now facing.

Anastasia nodded solemnly, understanding the dilemma they faced. "It's a difficult decision," she admitted. "But we must choose wisely. The lives of many may depend on it." She glanced at Nat, her expression hopeful. "What do you think?"

Anastasia nodded in agreement, her expression grim. "Very well," she said quietly as they hurried through the castle halls toward Lilyanna's room. The tension was palpable as they prepared to share what they had learned with their ally and friend.

They reached the door to Lilyanna's room and paused, exchanging glances before Nat slowly knocked on the wooden planks. There was no response for several long moments until finally, a soft voice called out, "Come in."

Anastasia took a deep breath before stepping inside the room, followed by Nat. Lilyanna looked up from where she'd been sitting at her vanity, her expression hopeful yet wary. "What news do you bring?" she asked cautiously.

Nat hesitated for a moment before speaking, his voice low and somber.

Lilyanna's eyes widened in shock at Nat's words, her hands flying to her mouth as she stared at him with disbelief. "No... it can't be..." she stammered, shaking her head. "But why? Why would he do this?"

Her gaze flickered to Anastasia, and for a moment there was an unspoken understanding between them. The princess took a step forward, laying a comforting hand on Lilyanna's shoulder. "We must leave at once,"

Anastasia said firmly. "We will escort you to safety." She turned back to Lilyanna, her expression grave. "You must trust us, my friend."

There was a moment of hesitation before Lilyanna nodded slowly, swallowing hard. "Very well," she said softly. "Let's go." She rose from her seat and began gathering her belongings into a small travel bag.

Anastasia glanced at Nat and Alain in question, but they both shook their heads reassuringly.

"Open up, Princess!" cried an unfamiliar voice from the other side of the door. "We have orders to bring you back to Aldoran by any means necessary!" There was a pause before the voice continued, more softly, "Please, open the door and let us take you home."

Anastasia's eyes widened in surprise at the sudden change in tone. She glanced over at Nat and Lilyanna, unsure of what to do.

Anastasia nodded tightly, her expression grim. "Alain and Alric," she said firmly, "block the door with those dressers." The two guards quickly complied, shifting heavy pieces of furniture in front of the entrance. She then turned back to Nat and Lilyanna, taking a deep breath before stepping forward.

"I'll try to stall them," she whispered, slipping out of the room unnoticed.

"Good day," Anastasia said calmly, her voice steady despite the racing of her heart. "What business do you have here?" She tried to sound both regal and curious, hoping to buy Lilyanna and the others some more time.

The guards exchanged glances before their leader stepped forward. "Princess Anastasia," he said, his voice low but authoritative, "you are under arrest by order of Lord Aldoran." He held out a set of cuffs for her to see.

Anastasia blinked up at Nat, surprise and gratitude filling her eyes. "Thank you," she breathed as he shoved the last of the guards away from them. She glanced back over her shoulder toward Lilyanna's room and saw Alain and Alric struggling to keep the door closed against the onslaught.

"We must help them!" she cried out, already moving toward the door. Nat grabbed her arm, holding her back. "There are too many of them," he said grimly. "

Anastasia closed her eyes and took a deep breath, trying to remain calm despite the chaos around them. "There is," she whispered, her voice barely audible above the sounds of battle. "But it's hidden behind my bed. We'll need to move the bed aside first."

Without waiting for Nat's response, she dashed over to her bed and began pushing on it, trying to budge it from the wall.

Anastasia's heart raced as she struggled to move the heavy bed, her muscles burning with the effort. "Hurry!" she called back over her shoulder to Nat, her voice strained but determined. "We don't have much time!"

Anastasia blinked in surprise at Nat's strength, her cheeks tinged pink with embarrassment. "I-it's... enchanted," she stammered, quickly regaining her composure. "Please, let us go before it's too late." She gestured to the newly revealed hidden door set into the wall behind the bed.

Anastasia smiled at Lilyanna and placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder. "There's nothing to apologize for, my friend," she said gently. "I am honored to have been able to help you." She glanced back over her shoulder at Nat as they continued to hurry through the secret passageway, her expression grateful. "Thank you both for trusting me and including me in this," she added sincerely.

Anastasia nodded and took the lead, her knowledge of the hidden passages through the castle guiding them toward safety as they evaded the guards searching for them outside. As they hurried along, she explained that the passageway system had been built centuries ago by previous monarchs for just such an occasion.

The secret passage eventually spat them out into a small, unused garden behind one of the castle's outer walls. It was quiet and serene, a stark contrast to the chaos they'd left behind.

Anastasia's eyes widened as she saw the figure standing at the entrance to the garden, his features obscured by shadows cast by the night sky. "That," she said quietly, her voice trembling slightly, "is Lucian." Her main bodyguard, a towering and intimidating man with years of experience behind him, had been with her since she was old enough to walk. He was supposed to protect her at all costs... but why was he here?

She took a step forward, her voice stronger now. "

"Lucian," Anastasia breathed, her voice tight with worry and confusion. "What are you doing here?" But even as she spoke, a cold dread settled in the pit of her stomach. Something was very wrong.

Lucian's expression remained impassive as he took a step forward, his massive frame casting a long shadow over the garden pathway. "My apologies, Princess," he said calmly, "but I must do what is necessary." His voice held no hint of emotion, but there was an undeniable authority in his tone that sent shivers down Anastasia's spine.

Before she could react further, a group of guards emerged from the shadows behind Lucian, weapons drawn and ready to attack.

Anastasia blinked in surprise at Nat's unexpected display of power, her mouth opening and closing like a fish as she struggled to form words. "Th-thank you," she stammered, regaining her composure enough to focus on the situation at hand. "Lucian, what is going on? Why are you doing this?" She glanced back over her shoulder at Lilyanna and the others, urging them to follow her as they hurried away from the conflict.

But Lucian didn't respond;

Anastasia glanced back over her shoulder at Lucian, her heart heavy with confusion and betrayal. "I don't understand," she whispered to Lilyanna. "He's always been so loyal... I can't believe he would turn against me like this." Her eyes filled with unshed tears as they continued their journey away from the only home she had ever known.

As they traveled further and further from Aldoran, Anastasia tried to come to terms with what had happened.

Lilyanna's eyes widened in disbelief, and she stared at Nat as if he had grown a second head. "Nat... you're..." She trailed off, her voice hushed with awe. "You come from the House of Riversong!" There was incredulity and hope mixed in her tone.

Anastasia glanced between them, confusion clouding her features as she tried to piece together the connection. "What do you mean?" she asked, her voice barely above a whisper.

Anastasia looked at Lilyanna, her expression slowly shifting from confusion to understanding. "It... it seems that way," she said carefully, feeling the weight of this revelation settling heavily on her shoulders. She glanced back at Nat, her eyes filled with curiosity and wonder. "How is this possible?"

Lilyanna looked at Anastasia, a hopeful smile beginning to tug at the corners of her mouth. "Perhaps we should ask him," she suggested softly.

Anastasia glanced down at Nat, noticing how exhausted he looked despite his earlier display of strength. "Perhaps it would be best to let him rest for now," she suggested gently, her expression filled with compassion. "We can ask him later when he's more alert."

She turned back to Lilyanna, her eyes thoughtful and concerned. "In the meantime, we should probably come up with a plan on what to do next.

Lilyanna nodded in agreement, finding a spot to sit down nearby as she tried to gather her thoughts. "I think our best option would be to seek help from my father," she said finally, her voice filled with uncertainty. "He might be able to provide us with shelter and aid while we figure out what to do next."

Anastasia considered this for a moment before speaking. "Your uncle obviously has great influence in the kingdom. If he's behind this, going to your father may not be safe for any of us," she pointed out worriedly.

Lilyanna winced at Anastasia's words, knowing she was right. "Then what do we do? There has to be someone who can help us," she said desperately, her eyes searching the faces of those around her for an answer.

Anastasia pursed her lips thoughtfully before speaking again. "There is one other option... a rumored band of mercenaries that will aid us if we pay them highly"

Lilyanna frowned, unfamiliar with the name. "What kind of group is this?" she asked cautiously, not entirely sure if trusting strangers was the best course of action.

Anastasia hesitated before answering. "I've never met them myself, but they have a reputation for being quite skilled and honorable," she said carefully, hoping her words would reassure Lilyanna. "They also accept payment in gold or favors...

Anastasia smiled softly, her heart filling with warmth at the thought of Lilyanna finding safety and security once more. As she watched the other girl sleep, she couldn't help but wonder if there was a way to make Lilyanna understand how much Nat had helped them as well... and perhaps even express her own feelings for him in the process.

With a deep breath, she turned back to Nat, her eyes filled with unspoken words and emotions, hoping that somehow he would be able to read between the lines.

Anastasia took a step back, her cheeks flushing crimson at being caught staring. "I-I was just... thinking," she stammered, trying to sound casual despite the hammering of her heart in her ears. She glanced down at her hands, twisting a lock of hair around her finger nervously.

Nat studied her face for a moment before asking, his voice gentle,

Anastasia's cheeks turned an even deeper shade of red, but she didn't look away as she murmured, "No... well, yes, I was... But mostly, I was just thinking about everything that's happened and how grateful I am for your help." Her voice wavered slightly, betraying the emotions churning inside her.

Nat raised an eyebrow, his expression curious now as he waited for her to continue.

Anastasia swallowed hard, her throat suddenly dry. "And I... I wanted to thank you," she stammered, her voice barely audible above the sound of the wind rustling through the trees. She took another step closer, her heart racing as she searched Nat's face for some sign of what he was thinking or feeling.

Nat looked at her intently, his eyes studying her features, trying to decipher the meaning behind her words and actions. He hesitated for a moment before speaking. "

The simple words felt like a punch to Anastasia's gut. Was that all he had to say? She'd poured her heart out, confessed her gratitude, and... nothing more? Her chest tightened with disappointment and a hint of hurt. She quickly masked it with a faint smile. "Of course, thank you again," she said, trying to keep her tone light despite the turmoil within. >.

Anastasia felt a small spark of hope ignite within her as Nat seemed to stammer and fumble over his words, his expression shifting from one of indifference to something else entirely. Perhaps there was more going on beneath the surface? "I-it's alright," she managed to say, her voice barely above a whisper. "Not many people are comfortable with expressing their emotions."

Nat stared at her for a long moment, his eyes searching hers as if trying to find something he wasn't sure was even there.

Anastasia swallowed hard, feeling the heat rising up in her cheeks again as she met Nat's gaze. "I... I suppose," she managed to admit, her voice barely audible above the wind. Her heart was racing now, and she could feel herself growing more flustered by the moment.

Nat moved even closer, his face mere inches from hers now, their breath mingling together as they shared this intimate moment beneath the starry sky.

As she felt his breath on her face, Anastasia's heart raced faster, and she found herself unable to look away. Her cheeks flushed even deeper as a wave of desire coursed through her, making it difficult to think straight. "I-I don't know," she managed to stammer, her voice barely above a whisper. "I... I just can't seem to stop."

Nat smiled slightly at her admission, his eyes boring into hers as he took another step closer, their bodies mere inches apart now.

Her breath hitched in her throat as she felt his words sink in, her body responding to the proximity and the growing tension between them. Anastasia's eyes fluttered shut, unable to resist the pull of his gaze any longer, as her heart raced wildly in her chest. She could feel Nat's warm breath against her cheek, making her shiver with anticipation.

Anastasia's eyes snapped open, her heart thudding against her ribs as she realized what Alain had just said. "We need to get out of here," she said urgently, moving away from Nat and towards Lilyanna. She glanced back at him, worry etched onto her features. "Stay close to us and keep an eye out for danger."

Anastasia nodded in agreement, her heart still racing as she hurried alongside Lilyanna and the others to catch up with Alain and Alric. The thought of being pursued only served to heighten her sense of urgency and fear. She glanced back at Nat, grateful for his suggestion about losing their tail in the forest.

As they approached the tree line, Anastasia kept a wary eye on their pursuers, hoping that Alain was right and they would lose them once they were inside the forest's cover.

Lilyanna glanced at Nat and let out a small chuckle, trying to lighten the mood despite her own nervousness. "I suppose so," she said with forced cheerfulness, nudging him playfully. "Though I wish it was under better circumstances." Her eyes flickered back toward Anastasia, concern etched onto her features.

Anastasia gripped the edge of the wagon tightly as she watched their pursuers draw closer, her heart pounding in her chest. "Faster!" she cried out to Alain, her voice high with panic. As they raced deeper into the forest, she glanced at Nat and Lilyanna, hoping that they would be able to protect each other until they found safety.

Lilyanna took a deep breath, trying to steady herself as she glanced at Nat and then back over her shoulder at their pursuers. "They're gaining on us," she said through gritted teeth, her eyes narrowed with determination. "We need to find someplace to hide or-"

Before she could finish her thought, a loud snapping noise filled the air as one of the wagon wheels suddenly gave way beneath them.

Anastasia groaned, pushing herself up onto her elbows as she surveyed the damage to the wagon. The wheel had snapped clean in two, and the wagon lay on its side, several crates and barrels spilling their contents into the undergrowth. "We need to get out of here," she gasped, glancing around nervously as they were still partially visible from within the forest.

Lilyanna nodded in agreement, wincing as she slowly climbed to her feet. "But where can we go?"

Anastasia glanced at Lilyanna, her eyes widening in horror as she realized they were completely unprepared for an attack. Before either of them could say anything else, a group of men emerged from the trees, led by Lucian and several others from the palace guard. Their faces were twisted with anger and determination, their weapons drawn as they advanced on the group.

"Lilyanna!" Lucian roared, his voice full of fury. "You thought you could just run away from your duty? From your family?"

Anastasia looked around in surprise as the forest seemed to explode with activity. A second group emerged, their faces hidden beneath dark hoods and masks. They were clad in leather and chainmail, wielding swords and daggers that glinted menacingly in the moonlight.

"Who are they?" Lilyanna whispered to Anastasia, her voice trembling with fear.

Anastasia glanced back at Lilyanna before turning her attention to the newcomers, relief flooding through her as she recognized one of them. "They're... they're a group of mercenaries," she explained shakily. "The rumors were true." She hesitated for a moment before continuing, "And it seems they've come to aid us."

As the two groups faced off against Lucian and his men, Anastasia moved closer to Lilyanna, doing her best to shield the young woman from harm. "

Anastasia nodded in agreement, her heart pounding as she joined the fight alongside Lilyanna and the others. She glanced at Nat, their eyes meeting briefly before they each turned their attention back to the enemy. As the battle raged on, she fought with a newfound determination, fueled by her growing feelings for him and the desire to protect those she cared about.

With a final, desperate cry, Lucian and his remaining men surrendered, defeated by the combined forces of Lilyanna's group and the Hunters.

Lilyanna glanced up warily as the hooded figure approached her, his movements graceful and confident despite being obscured by darkness. She couldn't see his face clearly, but she had heard stories about the leader of the Hunters: a mysterious man known only as the Huntmaster. As he stopped before her, she swallowed hard, wondering what this enigmatic figure had to say.

"Lilyanna Westwood," he spoke in a deep, almost melodic voice that sent shivers down her spine. "

Lilyanna's heart raced as she listened to the Huntmaster address her, his words like sweet honey on her ears. "I hear you have been in quite a pickle," he continued, his tone still calm and soothing despite the chaos around them. "Your uncle has grown rather... possessive, it seems."

She looked up at him from beneath her lashes, unsure of how to respond.

Lilyanna hesitated for a moment, her courage wavering as she glanced over at Nat and the others before looking back up at the Huntmaster. Taking a deep breath, she forced herself to speak. "I-it's true," she said softly. "He won't let me leave or even live my own life."

The Huntmaster nodded slightly, his expression unreadable beneath the darkness of his hood. "And what do you wish for?" he asked quietly, his voice low and soothing. "

Lilyanna took a deep breath, feeling a surge of determination flow through her veins as she looked the Huntmaster straight in the eye. "I want to live my life how I choose," she said firmly, her voice steady despite the fear and uncertainty that still lingered within her. "And if that means leaving this place... then I will."

As soon as the words left her lips, she knew they were true. She couldn't go back to being trapped under Lucian's thumb, living a life that wasn't hers.

The Huntmaster raised an eyebrow at Lilyanna's assertion, but nodded slowly in acknowledgment. "I see," he said simply, his voice still calm and collected despite the weight of her words. He paused for a moment before continuing, "And you believe that Nat here can help you achieve these goals?"

Lilyanna glanced over at Nat, feeling a rush of affection and gratitude wash over her as she remembered everything he had done for her tonight. She nodded firmly. "Yes,"

As everyone around them began to discuss the implications of Lilyanna's declaration, Anastasia couldn't help but feel a thrill of excitement and anticipation run through her. She glanced at Lilyanna, feeling an overwhelming sense of pride and admiration for the young woman who had just spoken up so boldly. She knew that this was only the beginning of their journey together, and she couldn't wait to see where it would lead them.

Anastasia nods and confronts Lucian

"Lucian," Anastasia began, her voice steady despite the anger and hurt coursing through her. "What do you have against Lilyanna? Why would you force her into this life she doesn't want?" Her eyes narrowed as she glared at him, refusing to back down even in the face of his cold stare.

Lucian sneered at her, his expression unreadable. "It is not my place to discuss such matters with a commoner," he said haughtily. "

Lucian glared at Nat, his face turning red with anger as he struggled to catch his breath after the unexpected blow to his stomach. "Fine," he growled through clenched teeth, reluctantly meeting Anastasia's gaze once more. "It is because she was promised to someone else."

Anastasia felt her blood run cold as Lucian spoke those words. She glanced over at Lilyanna, seeing the same realization dawn on her face.

Anastasia felt her heart sink as she realized the implications behind Lucian's words. She glanced over at Lilyanna, seeing the same understanding dawning on her face. They both knew that their lives had been nothing more than pawns in a game played by others, and it was time to take control of their own destinies.

As they stood there, surrounded by allies old and new, Anastasia felt a surge of determination course through her veins.

Nat was taken aback by Lilyanna's sudden outburst, but he quickly wrapped her in his arms and held her close. "It's alright," he murmured soothingly. "We'll figure this out together." He didn't know what to say about the revelation that she had a brother; it felt like the news had thrown everything they'd just accomplished into chaos.

But one thing was certain: they were in this together, and they would face whatever came their way hand-in-hand.

Anastasia shook her head, looking somewhat disheartened as she turned back to Nat. "He didn't agree, but... he didn't refuse either," she said carefully. "I think there might still be a chance for him to see reason and join us." She glanced over at Lilyanna, who was being comforted by the Hunters' leader, and hoped that her words were true.

"Let's just keep talking to him, then," Nat said with a sigh. "

Anastasia nodded in agreement, her determination growing with each passing moment. "Yes," she said firmly. "We will end his reign of terror and create a better world for everyone." She glanced over at Lilyanna once more, feeling grateful for the bond they'd formed over the past few hours and knowing that they could achieve anything together.

Everyone looks at each other, trying to figure out where exactly do they start. The Huntmaster clears his throat, "Well, we could start by gathering more information on the king's defenses and allies. We cannot attack blindly." He glances around, taking in everyone's reactions before continuing, "I will lead a group to scout the castle while another group will investigate any potential allies or enemies nearby. Lilyanna, Anastasia," he says pointedly, "you two should stay here and gather your own information;

Lilyanna nodded in agreement. "Yes, we should gather as much information as possible." She glanced over at Anastasia, then back to the Huntmaster. "And I'm sure Anastasia will be a great help with that." The Hunters leader raised an eyebrow, but said nothing further.

As they began to divide themselves into groups, Nat couldn't help but feel a thrill of anticipation run through him. This was it;

The Huntmaster chuckled softly, his voice deep and rich like aged wine. "My name is not important," he said cryptically, walking beside Nat through the forest. "What matters is our goal: to free Lilyanna and the people from her uncle's tyranny." He paused for a moment before continuing, his expression serious once more. "But if you must know... you may call me Aramith."

Anastasia smiled warmly at Nat as he approached, her heart skipping a beat at the sight of him. "So," she began hesitantly, playing with a lock of hair, "what do you think we should do first?" Her eyes sparkled with determination and eagerness to get started on their mission.

Nat shrugged, his expression thoughtful.

Anastasia laughed softly, her eyes meeting his. "Yes, it certainly has," she agreed, her hand going to rest on her hip as she thought. "We should probably begin by gathering information about the people around Lilyanna's uncle. If we can find someone who might be willing to help us from within..." Her voice trailed off, hopefulness in her eyes.

Nat nodded in agreement. "Yes, that would be a good place to start." He glanced around them, taking in their surroundings as he thought. "

Anastasia blushed lightly at his question, her heart racing in her chest. She had been thinking about spending more time with Nat ever since their rescue from Lucian's men. "I... I would like that," she murmured softly, her eyes not leaving his face. "We should find a quiet place to talk."

They walked together through the forest, Anastasia leading him deeper into its verdant embrace.

Anastasia blushed even harder at his teasing words, unable to look away from him. "I... I can't help it," she stammered, her voice barely above a whisper. "You're just so..." She trailed off, searching for the right word. "Flattering?" Nat offered with a grin. Anastasia giggled softly, feeling herself relaxing under his playful banter. "No, not that," she said, shaking her head. "Handsome?"

Anastasia laughed, her eyes sparkling with amusement. "Maybe both," she said finally, still unable to meet his gaze directly. "But I'm sure there are other things about you that I could focus on." She paused for a moment, thinking over how best to phrase her next words.

"You're very... strong and brave, Nat," she continued quietly, her voice filled with admiration. "And caring too; you didn't have to help me or Lilyanna back there, but you did."

Anastasia smiled gently at him, her fingers tracing idle patterns on the ground beside her. "And I'm sure she'll be very thankful to have you in her life," she said softly, meaning every word of it. "It must've been hard for you, growing up without knowing about each other."

Anastasia blushed, looking away quickly as if embarrassed by her own thoughts. "I-I'm sorry," she stammered, feeling heat rise to her cheeks. "I just... you have this way about you that makes it hard not to stare." She glanced back up at him from beneath her lashes, hoping he didn't think she was too forward.

Anastasia's heart skipped a beat as he moved closer to her, their bodies now only inches apart. She could feel the warmth radiating off of him, and it made her want to lean in even closer. "N-Nat," she stammered out his name, her voice barely above a whisper.

His hand reached up to gently brush a strand of hair from her face, his fingers tracing a path down her cheek.

"I..." Anastasia trailed off, her gaze flickering up to meet his before dropping shyly away again. Her heart raced in her chest as she fought the urge to reach out and touch him too, afraid of what that might mean. "I don't know what to say."

Nat smiled gently at her, his thumb brushing lightly across her cheekbone.

Anastasia bit her lip, feeling the heat in her cheeks intensify as she fought with herself over what to say. Finally, she mustered up the courage and looked him straight in the eye. "I... I want this," she whispered, her voice barely audible even to her own ears. "What's happening between us."

Nat's heart skipped a beat at her words; he hadn't expected her to be so honest with herself, let alone him.

Anastasia giggled shyly at his teasing words, feeling the tension in her chest begin to ease slightly as they shared this moment together. "No," she breathed, her eyes never leaving his face. "I mean... this." She gestured between them, unable to find the right words to express what she was feeling.

Nat's heart raced faster now, his fingers trembling where they rested against her cheek. He leaned in closer, their breath mingling as he spoke her name for the first time. "

Anastasia's heart skipped a beat as he asked her, her breath hitching in anticipation. She nodded slowly, her gaze never leaving his face as they leaned in closer, their lips mere inches apart. As if drawn by some invisible force, they closed the distance between them, meeting in a tender kiss that stole away all thought and left only this moment, this connection.

Their lips moved together, hesitant at first but growing bolder with each passing second.

Anastasia let out a soft moan as their kiss deepened, her hands coming up to rest on his shoulders, fingers digging into the fabric of his shirt as she pulled him closer still. The world around them faded away, leaving only the two of them and the desire that burned hot between them.

Her tongue darted out to trace along his bottom lip, eliciting a groan from Nat as he opened for her, allowing their tongues to dance together in an erotic tangle.

Anastasia broke away from the kiss, her cheeks flushed and her breath coming in ragged gasps as she took in a shuddering breath. "Yes," she whispered hoarsely, her fingers digging deeper into his shoulders. "I want that." She glanced around them, making sure they were still alone before leading him back towards the waterfall.

As they approached, Anastasia's heart raced with anticipation and desire, her body thrumming with need for more of this overwhelming connection between them.

Anastasia bit her lip, hesitating for a moment as she glanced around them once more. Then, with a shaky exhale, she reached up to untie the leather straps that held her leather armor in place, letting it fall to the ground with a soft thud.

She stood before Nat now, clad only in her undergarments and a thin layer of sweat glistening on her skin. Her chest rose and fell rapidly as she waited for his reaction, heart pounding in anticipation.

Anastasia's cheeks flushed even darker as she allowed him to lead her to the waterfall, her body trembling with anticipation and desire. "Thank you," she whispered hoarsely, gazing up at him through her lashes. She felt his hand cup her hip, drawing her closer still as they stood before the cascading water.

Her heart raced in her chest as he lifted her easily into his arms, carrying her to a flat rock beside the stream.

Anastasia's eyes widened as he cupped her between the legs and began to stroke her, her body arching into his touch with a soft moan. "Yes," she breathed out raggedly, feeling herself growing wetter by the second at his skilled fingers. Her hips rose off the rock, seeking more of his touch as pleasure coursed through her in waves.

Her hands fisted in his shirt, digging her nails into his skin as she cried out his name, her body trembling with need and desire. "

Anastasia cried out his name as her body bowed into his touch, her back arching off the rock in pure pleasure. Her fingers dug into his shoulders and through his hair as she let herself be lost to the sensations he was creating within her. "So good," she moaned hoarsely between gasps for breath, her hips moving restlessly against his hand.

Her nails scraped along his back and down towards his ass before digging into his flesh, urging him on even further as she sought release from this intense pleasure.

Anastasia's eyes fluttered open, her breath coming in ragged gasps as she looked up at him. Her body trembled with desire and anticipation, aching for his touch. "Yes," she whispered hoarsely, her voice barely audible above the sound of the waterfall.

She reached out to stroke him through his pants, her touch tentative but growing bolder as he watched her.

Anastasia blushed, looking away as she continued to touch him. "A little bit of both, maybe," she murmured softly. Her fingers moved more confidently now, teasing and exploring his hardness through his pants. "I've always been curious about how it would feel..." She glanced up at him again, her cheeks flushing even deeper.

Her touch ignited a fire within him, his hips pressing forward against her hand in time with her movements, seeking the release she promised.

Anastasia's heart raced as she felt his desire pressing against her hand, making it wet and hot. She moved her fingers faster, her touch becoming more confident and sure as she stroked him through his pants. Her lips parted on a moan, the sound muffled by the waterfall around them.

Her breath came in ragged gasps as she continued to pleasure him, her body arching into his touch when he groaned low in his throat at her ministrations. "N-Nat,"

Anastasia's gaze drifted downward, her mouth going dry as she saw the thick length of him pressing against his undergarments. Her fingers faltered for a moment before resuming their teasing strokes, this time with more determination and need. She bit her lip, her eyes never leaving the impressive sight before her as she continued to stroke him through his clothes.

Her hips rocked forward slightly, seeking some sort of contact between their bodies as they stood on the flat rock by the waterfall. "You're so big,"

"Yes," Anastasia moaned softly, her fingers moving faster as she neared the edge of his undergarment. Her hips rocked forward once more, pressing against him as she sought to feel the hardness of him pressed against her. "Please, Nat." She glanced up at him through her lashes, desire burning bright in her eyes.

Her hand worked expertly now, pushing down the waistband of his pants and freeing his cock from its confines.

Anastasia's breath caught in her throat as he positioned his hard length at her entrance. She was trembling with anticipation, every nerve ending alive with need and desire for this moment. With a shaky exhale, she wrapped her legs around him and lifted her hips, guiding him into her tight heat.

Her body arched into his as he filled her completely, their hips meeting in a rhythm that was old and familiar despite being brand new to them both.

"Yes," she panted, her fingers digging into his shoulders as their bodies moved together. "So good." Her hips rose to meet each thrust, her muscles clenching and relaxing around him in perfect rhythm. With a moan, she leaned forward, pressing her lips against his neck, her breath hot against his skin.

Her nails scraped lightly across his back, urging him onward as the pleasure built within her, threatening to consume her whole. "Nat,"

Her name on his lips sent another wave of pleasure coursing through her, intensifying the sensations that wracked her body as he thrust deeper inside of her. She cried out his name, her nails digging into his shoulders as she arched her back off the rock, meeting him stroke for stroke. Her orgasm crashed over her like a wave, stealing her breath and leaving her panting and spent in its wake.

Anastasia collapsed back onto the rock, her chest rising and falling rapidly as she tried to catch her breath. A blissful smile curved her lips upward as she looked up at him through half-lidded eyes. "It was... amazing," she whispered hoarsely, her fingers still digging into his shoulders. "Thank you."

Anastasia smiled up at him, her heart fluttering in her chest. "I'd like that," she said softly, feeling a warmth spread through her at the thought of being with him again. She glanced down between them, still partly amazed by what they had just shared together. "Maybe we could... try for a baby?"

Anastasia giggled shyly, her cheeks flushing again as she looked down at where their bodies were still connected. "Well... I just thought... since we've found each other..." She trailed off, not quite sure how to explain the rush of emotions that had come over her in the moment.

"It's just... I don't want to waste any time," she continued softly, meeting his eyes again. "I want us to have a future together."

Anastasia shifted uncomfortably, her cheeks flushing even darker as she realized they were caught. "Um... yeah," she stammered out, looking anywhere but at Lilyanna. "Just enjoying the water." She glanced over at Nat, hoping he'd say something to make this awkward moment go away.

"Oh, well then I guess you two should enjoy yourselves," Lilyanna replied with a knowing smirk. "But remember, we still need to talk about our plan once we get back to camp."

Anastasia nodded in agreement, her heart still racing from their intimate encounter just moments ago. As they climbed out of the water, she glanced back over at the waterfall one last time, a small smile tugging at the corners of her mouth. Maybe there would be more time for them later, but for now, they had to focus on their mission and Lilyanna's plan.

Anastasia's cheeks burned as she turned around, glaring at Nat playfully. "You're awful!" she exclaimed, hitting his arm lightly before they both laughed and headed back to camp together. As they walked, the memory of their intimate encounter at the waterfall lingered between them like a soft caress, adding an extra layer of heat and desire to their already sizzling connection.

"So," Anastasia said after a moment, her voice low and husky from their earlier activities. "

Anastasia paused, looking up at him with a mischievous glint in her eye. "So, what did you think of your first time?" She smiled playfully, batting her eyelashes as she waited for his response. Despite their current situation and the need to focus on the plan, there was still an undeniable spark between them that refused to be ignored.

Anastasia bit her lip, looking down as he pinched her cheek. "Yes, of course," she murmured softly, nodding in agreement. Her heart raced with anticipation and desire, but for now, they needed to focus on their mission and Lilyanna's plan. As they listened to Lilyanna outline their next steps, Anastasia couldn't help but steal glances at Nat from the corner of her eye, a mixture of longing and determination burning bright within her.

Anastasia listened carefully to Lilyanna's plan, nodding along as she took in every detail. Despite her mind being elsewhere, she committed the information to memory, knowing that they would need to work together flawlessly if they were going to succeed. Her fingers itched with anticipation, wanting nothing more than to act upon their knowledge and take down Lilyanna's uncle once and for all.

Lilyanna glanced over at Nat as they walked away from the meeting, her expression thoughtful. "Well," she began, pausing to gather her thoughts. "I was thinking maybe we could try to recruit more Hunters or even some skilled warriors from other guilds. We're going to need all the help we can get if we want to stand a chance against him."

She bit her lip, looking at Nat expectantly, wondering what the his brother thought of her idea.

Anastasia trailed behind them, lost in thought. She knew that they needed all the help they could get, but something about asking other people for assistance left a sour taste in her mouth. Perhaps it was just her pride speaking up, or maybe she simply wanted to prove that they didn't need anyone else to succeed.

She glanced over at Nat out of the corner of her eye, wondering what he thought about recruiting more Hunters and warriors.

Anastasia's heart skipped a beat at the mention of Lilyanna's aunt, her mind suddenly filled with possibilities. She had always been curious about the woman who shared the same blood as Lilyanna and yet seemed so different in every way. Perhaps their aunt could be persuaded to join their cause, or at least offer them some valuable information.

She remained silent for a moment, considering her words carefully before finally speaking up. "Perhaps we should try contacting her first," she suggested tentatively. "

Anastasia's eyes widened at the news. "That's terrible," she whispered, her heart aching for Lilyanna's aunt. "We have to help her, somehow." She glanced over at Lilyanna hopefully, wondering what their next step should be. Perhaps they could find a way to rescue Lilyanna's aunt from her imprisonment and enlist her aid in taking down the king.

But then again, freeing someone from house arrest would not be an easy task. The risks involved were immense...

Anastasia bit her lip, thinking hard about the plan. "But how? The guards will be watching her like hawks," she pointed out, her brow furrowed in worry. "We'll need a diversion or something." She glanced around them, trying to think of anything that could help them pull off such a daring rescue mission.

"Perhaps we can use magic?" Lilyanna suggested tentatively. "

Lilyanna glanced away, looking uncomfortable. "I... don't have magic," she admitted softly. "Though my Father and Mother were King and Queen, I was born without the gift." She paused, her expression distant as she seemed to be thinking about something else entirely. "But there might be another way..."

Her voice trailed off, leaving Anastasia and Nat curious about what she meant. After a moment, Lilyanna looked up at them with determination in her eyes. "We can use the element of surprise," she said firmly.

"We'll need to find someone who knows the layout of the palace and its security measures inside out," Lilyanna explained. "Someone who can create a diversion at just the right moment, and lead my aunt's guards away from her." She paused, considering their options once more before continuing.

"Perhaps we could bribe someone within the palace staff or find an ally among the other nobles? Someone who would be willing to help us in exchange for power or favors later on?"

Anastasia frowned, deep in thought. "I don't know anyone who would be willing to do that right away," she admitted with a sigh. "But perhaps we could find someone desperate enough or persuade someone with the promise of protection and reward later on." She glanced over at Lilyanna, her expression hopeful. "What do you think?"

Lilyanna considered this for a moment before nodding slowly. "It's worth a try," she said finally. "We don't have much else to go on right now."

Anastasia nodded in agreement, her heart racing with anticipation and determination as they began to formulate their plan. They had a long road ahead of them, filled with danger and uncertainty, but if they could pull this off...if they could rescue Lilyanna's aunt and enlist her help in taking down the king...perhaps there was hope for a better future after all.

"Well, there are some Hunters who have infiltrated the palace before, but they're not very trustworthy," Aramith said with a frown. "They might be willing to help you for the right price." He paused, considering something before continuing. "Or... there's another option. One of our most skilled Hunters, Kylar Vorn, recently retired from active duty. He has extensive knowledge of palace security and could potentially assist you."

"And what does he want in return?" Anastasia asked warily.

"Kylar's not interested in power or favors," Aramith said, shaking his head. "He just wants to live out the rest of his days peacefully and train new Hunters." He paused again before continuing. "I think he would help you... if you could promise him that Lilyanna will uncle him when this is all over. He holds a grudge against her father for certain events in the past, and he sees this as an opportunity for some form of closure."

Aramith shrugged. "Kylar lives in the outskirts of the forest, near an abandoned hunting lodge. He spends most of his time there, training new recruits and honing his skills." A slight smile touched his lips. "He's been rather reclusive since he retired, but I believe he would be interested in speaking with you."

Anastasia glanced between Lilyanna and the others, nodding slowly. "I'll stay here and keep an eye on things," she assured them. "Just make sure you bring Kylar back safely." She hesitated for a moment before adding softly, "And... thank you."

The two men, Alain and Alric, nodded in agreement as they turned to follow Lilyanna and Nat deeper into the forest.

Lilyanna-You're welcome, Anastasia. It won't be easy to convince Kylar, but I think it's worth a try. Let's hope he sees things our way.