Tangled Web of Deception

The next morning, I decided to feign a slight headache to decline Alexander's invitation to breakfast in his tent. In reality, I wanted some time alone with Sir Gregory to discuss the truth behind my mysterious ability to communicate with monsters.

"Good morning, Sir Gregory," I greeted him as he joined Lady Evelyn and me in my tent for breakfast. I hope you're doing well."

He returned the greeting with a warm smile, taking their seats across from me.

"Good morning, Your Highness," Sir Gregory said. "We heard about your headache. Is there anything we can do to help?"

I smiled gratefully at his concern. "I think some rest should do the trick. But I'd like to talk to you both about something important." I look at Sir Gregory before turning to Lady Evelynn, who sat beside me.

Both of their expression turned attentive, and I took a deep breath, preparing to reveal the truth. "I've been wondering about my ability to communicate with monsters. A small monster that I met last night and the night before told me that it's a gift passed down through bloodlines. Can you tell me more about my lineage and this unique ability?"

Sir Gregory exchanged a knowing look with Lady Evelyn before he spoke. Since they still believed that I had amnesia, they did not feel surprised at my question. "Of course, Your Highness. In Astoria, it's not widely known to outsiders, but small monsters live freely among humans. They are like companions and often considered pets or friends by the people of our kingdom."

He continued, "There's a special squad in Astoria that governs the interaction between humans and monsters. It's known as the Monster Conservation Unit, and it ensures that both humans and monsters coexist peacefully."

Sir Gregory paused for a moment before continuing, "In fact, you are the head chief of the Monster Conservation Unit due to your rare ability. The monsters sense your kind heart, and they trust you to protect their interests."

I couldn't believe what I was hearing. It seemed surreal to think that I held such a significant role in Astoria, a kingdom I had never even known about until recently.

"And this is why you must part ways with Prince Alexander," Lady Evelyn gently added as if she had been reading mind all along. "Astoria's culture of living harmoniously with monsters is not widely known, and not all kingdoms might be as accepting of these creatures."

I took a cup and sipped the tea carefully, thinking of an excuse to give Alexander. "But how do I tell the Prince of Eldoria? How do I explain to him that we must part ways without raising suspicion?"

"This won't be a simple task. Being truthful may not be the most effective approach given our circumstances," Lady Evelyn expressed her apprehension. "He is someone who has been fighting against monsters since he was proficient with weapons. Various men from neighbouring kingdoms have battled against monsters, both big and small, in wars. They won't share our beliefs."

After thinking for a while, Sir Gregory came up with a suggestion. "Princess, I may have a solution. There's a temple near our border. The temple does not welcome men. Tell the prince that you want to perform a pilgrimage in the temple that might take days. It would be a hassle for the prince to wait for you. Meanwhile, I will send a few of our men to the capital for a larger escort so that you can have a safe journey home after the pilgrimage."

My eyes shone brightly at Sir Gregory. As my personal knight, he has proven his worthiness.

"Let us prepare for our journey then. We must not waste any time. I will inform the prince."

As the morning sun cast its golden rays over the camp, I gathered my courage to share my decision with Alexander. Liam told me that he was still in his tent. So I hurriedly went to him.

"Aahhh… Tia. Good morning. Care to join me?"

He met my gaze with a mischievous grin as he stood up to pull out a chair for me. I waved him off to decline his offer.

"There's something I need to tell you." I held my chin up, feigning confidence. My voice was steady despite the turmoil within.

"What could that be?" He asked nonchalantly.

"We have to part ways. I've decided to perform a pilgrimage to a temple not far from here. It's already near our border, so it should be safe. On behalf of Astoria, I extend my gratitude for your assistance since that day with Frostbane." I bowed and did a little curtsy before turning around, ready to leave.

"Is that all you have to say, Tia?" There was something in his voice that I was unfamiliar with that made my steps to a halt. I started to feel uneasy. So I turned slowly to look at his expression.

Alexander's expression darkened, and a dangerous glint flashed in his eyes. "No, Celestia," he said firmly, a hint of bitterness in his tone. "You can't leave. I need your 'help,'"

Surprised by his resistance, I searched his face for any sign of understanding. "What kind of help?" His words sounded suspicious.

"I had a different plan for us," Alexander confessed, a sly smile forming on his lips. "You see, your unique ability is a valuable asset. I intend to take you captive and use your gift."

My heart skipped a beat, and a sense of unease washed over me. "Captive? You can't be serious. I thought we were friends."

The prince's indifference was chilling. "Friendship has nothing to do with it, Tia. In this world, power rules, and I intend to wield that power. "

"What power are we talking about here?" I crossed my arms, showing defiance. I had noticed earlier that he had used the word 'gift.' Did he know about my ability? Aren't my 'gift' supposed to be a secret from outsiders?

Alexander crossed the space with two long strides, his boots thudding against the grovel. He towered over me, his shoulders broad and his chest wide. His muscles rippled beneath his shirt, and his dark hair was slicked back. He looked like he could bench-press a cart, and I felt small and insignificant in his presence.

"You have a special gift, Tia. The gift of the royal family's lineage runs deep inside you. With your gift, I can hunt down the monsters." Alexander's primary aim is to hunt the King of Monsters, Aetheron. A majestic and ancient being that commands respect and awe from all creatures in the realms. His presence is as imposing as the mightiest mountains, and his wisdom is said to be as deep as the endless oceans.

My mind raced, trying to make sense of Alexander's cold and ruthless plan. "But not all monsters are ruthless. The monsters in Astoria are peaceful. They coexist with humans without any harm. You can't just kill any monster freely without judgement!"

"Peaceful or not, monsters hold immense power," Alexander replied, a dangerous glint in his eyes. "With Aetheron under my control, I will become the most powerful ruler in all the realms."

My heart sank, realizing the depths of Alexander's ambition and his willingness to use me for his selfish goals. I had grown to care for him, but now I saw a side of him I never knew existed—an unscrupulous and cunning prince driven by an insatiable thirst for power.

"I can't be a part of this," I said firmly, my voice unwavering. "My duty lies with Astoria and its people, both humans and monsters. I won't be a pawn in your dangerous game."

Alexander's indifference only intensified. "Your choice, Tia. But you should know that leaving now won't be easy. I have my ways of ensuring you stay."

With those ominous words, I felt a chill run down my spine. I knew I had to be cautious and stay vigilant, for I was now entangled in a dangerous web of deception and ambition. How and why were the plots of the novel turned 180 degrees away from the original? Aren't this tale about the love triangle tragedy between Seraphina, Ariella, and Alexander? Celestia, or now me, weren't supposed to be part of it.

I'm totally confused and fucked up!