Princess ask alot

I take a deep breath, feeling a mix of awe and trepidation. "So, what now? How do I claim you?"

"You need a key," says the worm. "I think it's somewhere here." It starts to move, causing the ground to shake. "Here it is." The worm places a large, ancient-looking key at my feet and then smiles.

"Just like that?" I say in disbelief. "No fight, no riddle, no tricks?"

"I'm too old for that," it says, settling down comfortably. "You can shrink it to the size you desire and also alter the garden to fit your needs." It slowly starts to close its eyes, clearly ready to return to its slumber.

I pick up the key, and it immediately shrinks to a desirable size, fitting perfectly in my palm. I marvel at its intricate design, feeling the power and history it holds. "Thank you," I say, my voice filled with gratitude and respect. 

As the key shrinks in my hand, the garden begins to shift around me. The bioluminescent plants dim slightly, and the air seems to hum with renewed energy. The Guardian, however, remains unbothered, its massive form settling deeper into the ground.

"Do you wish to stay here forever?" I ask, hoping to ignite some spark of curiosity or adventure in the ancient creature. "There is more to the world than this garden."

It looks up at me briefly, its single eye narrowing before it closes its eyes again. "Human," says the worm, its voice carrying a hint of ancient weariness, "leave before I take back my key."

Understanding the finality in its tone, I nod and turn to leave, the key warm in my hand. I cast one last look at the Guardian, feeling a mixture of respect and pity for the creature bound to this place. With each step I take away from the Guardian, the garden seems to react, shifting and reconfiguring itself to accommodate my presence.

Emerging from the tunnel, the cool night air greets me, and the stars shine brightly overhead. The palace grounds are silent, with everyone else still asleep. I make my way back to my chambers, my mind buzzing with the possibilities and responsibilities that come with this newfound power.

As I walk to my chambers in the dead of the night I come across Sinbad's canine. My body freezes for a moment as we both stare at each other. As if stuck in a stirring competition with each other.

"Your highness,'' calls out Vider as he emerges from another corridor, "what are you doing out this late?'' He asks as he takes hold of the being canine.

''Just out for some air,'' I respond as I try to walk past the dog and him, "am sorry Vider its not you its the dog.'' With that statement I pass by the dog with no problems and head to my chambers.

Once inside, I take a sign of relief and have a sit at my desk and examine the key more closely. It is beautifully crafted, with intricate designs and runes etched into its surface. I can feel the magic thrumming within it, its power is so great. Maybe I should test it powers to make sure its real.

I stretch out the key as if opening a door, and I am immediately transported back to the garden, which is still shifting and humming with magic. The Guardian worm stirs, looking mildly annoyed. "Why are you back here?" it asks, its voice low and rumbling.

"I have more questions," I say, sitting down next to it. "How many gardens or establishments like this exist?"

"Yes," it replies, as if my question were incomplete. "I know of three gardens and four libraries, but there are also farms, workshops, fountains, and many more."

"That's interesting," I say, pondering the scope of what the Guardian has just revealed. "So does every garden have a purpose, or are they all the same? And how do I collect them all?"

"I've never heard of collecting them all," says the worm, rolling over to meet my gaze with its one eye. "These places were created by five—or is it six?—powerful sorcerers. They served as hiding places for magical artifacts. Each sorcerer owned a piece of every establishment, so if one fell into the wrong hands, the others would back it up. There are likely more secret ones, but those are protected by stronger guardians and more powerful magic," it points down at the key, "You have already obtained an enchanted garden. No other enchanted garden will open for you again unless the guardian or owner of that one lets you in."

"So each enchanted garden or establishment has its unique guardian and is bound to its owner?"

"Yes," the worm nods slowly. "And the key you hold now binds this garden to you. Other guardians will recognize that bond and won't allow you access to their domains without permission."

I sit back, absorbing this information. "So, if I want access to another garden or library, I need to gain permission from its guardian or current owner?"

"Precisely," the worm confirms. "The magic that binds these places is ancient and complex, designed to prevent any single person from controlling too much power."

"And what about the artifacts hidden here? Are they unique to each establishment?"

"Yes, the artifacts are unique and suited to the nature of their respective domains," the Guardian explains. "Some may be weapons, others knowledge, or tools of great power. Each artifact's purpose aligns with the intent of the place it is hidden in."

"So, do you know the other owners?" I ask, looking up at the Guardian.

The worm gazes down at me, its single eye half-closed. "Human, I just woke up," it says in a tired tone. "I know little of this world as much as you do. All you need to know is that the way dungeons are captured is the same way these domains work. You will never know the owner of another facility unless they reveal it to you. If you learn well, you can channel the garden's energy to yours. But you are rather a curious one. I hope you get one of the libraries or museums. And before you ask why I selected you, it seems you love questions. I can't fight a potential queen candidate."

"Queen candidate?" I echo, confused. "What do you mean?"

The worm gives a weary sigh. "You will find out soon enough. Now go home," it says, waving its tail.

In an instant, I am back in my room. I look at the key, wondering how to disguise it. After a moment of thought, I decide to wear it as a ring. Concentrating on the key, I feel its magic respond, shrinking and reshaping until it fits snugly around my finger. The once-intricate carvings now form a subtle, elegant design, barely noticeable unless you knew what to look for.

I flex my fingers, the ring feeling surprisingly comfortable. I can still sense the garden's magic, a faint hum that resonates with my own. It's a reminder of the incredible discovery I've made and the responsibilities that come with it.