Chapter 21 - A Most Unexpected Arrival

It was already night in Yunatea, and Princess Alora, who had planned to meet Broken again that evening, had instructed her maids to set up a tent near the Shrine of Regeneration. Knowing that players who log out of Yunatea would return to the same place when they logged back in, she intended to wait at the same spot for his return.

Alora was seated in her makeshift tent, which was surprisingly accommodating for up to twenty people. On one side was a dining table, and on the other, a bathroom with a hot spring bath.

Outside the tent, dozens of royal knights, whose average level was above 200, stood guard. This unusual sight immediately caused fear among the players who approached the Shrine, prompting them to retreat quickly.

"There will be a big war in this place, and if you don't want to get hurt, get out of here now!" one player shouted.

"Wow, could this mean an exciting event? Is there a quest we can get if we join the battle?"

"I'm not sure. I think this has something to do with the player killers. It looks like Princess Alora is about to deal with this problem once and for all."

"I'm curious about how big the battle will be here."

News about the possible war near the Shrine of Regeneration spread quickly, and some players were even curious about the kingdom's steps against the mysterious organization threatening the realm.

Princess Alora, engrossed in the papers before her, heard her maid's voice from outside. "Your Highness. There is a guest who wishes to see you."

She lifted her face. "Yes, I've been expecting her. Please let her in."

Moments later, a young woman stepped into Alora's luxurious tent. She was around nineteen years old, standing at a height of 167 cm (5'6"). Floating above her head were the words "Elincia"—she was a player.

Elincia was a renowned Mage, boasting a level of 210 and ranked within the top one hundred players of Immortal Legacy. Her attire was a sleek, form-fitting combination of silver and blue. She had shoulder-length blue hair that shimmered in the light.

"Your Highness," Elincia greeted with a respectful bow. "I came as soon as I heard the news. It seems we have quite a situation on our hands."

"Elincia," Alora said quietly, "I'm sure I've asked you not to use honorifics too much. I mean, you players aren't used to that, right?"

"Princess," Elincia replied politely. "I hold you in the highest esteem, and it is my pleasure to demonstrate it. As mages, we have had much contact with the royal family, so we are quite familiar with the proper etiquette of interacting with them."

"Alright," Alora said slowly. "Have you got any updates on what I asked of you?" 

Elincia's face lit up upon hearing Alora's words.

"Princess Alora," Elincia began. "I have made some discoveries as to why the Cult of the Darkened Flame is making such movements. I apologize if I have been too blunt."

"What is your opinion on this?"

"I believe they are attempting to use their connections with demons to gain control of the kingdom," Elincia said. "I'm not one for sugar-coating things, but I've seen clear signs of the king's brother being involved in this scheme. It's obvious he's trying to remove you from your position as the crowned princess and claim the throne for himself. If they keep pushing forward, they might even try to confront you directly or harm you to force you out.

"I'm sorry if my explanation wasn't clear, but I have solid evidence to back this up. I'm confident in the reliability of this information, and I'm willing to bet my reputation as a top 100-ranked player in Yunatea on it."

Alora nodded slowly after hearing her explanation. "I understand your concern, and I can confirm it, Elincia," she said. "All this is happening because of the struggle for the throne."

Alora felt the weight of her position, as various factions were cornering her due to her being a half-elf. 

"I think you've given me enough information," she said firmly. "Let me know if you need assistance from me, Elincia."

"You don't need to worry, Princess," Elincia assured her. "We, as players, will be thrilled to have the chance to be part of such a grand event, especially since it is a battle for the royal throne. I wouldn't miss this opportunity for the world. So, I can assure you, my guild and I will support you in defending the throne. However..."

"However, what?" Alora prompted.

"It seems it will become increasingly difficult for us to meet you after this. They are already collaborating with top players to limit my communication with you," Elincia explained.

Alora nodded slowly in response. "I believe the players have a unique viewpoint on the events occurring in Yunatea, and I will take measures to address this."

"I will gather the players you need," Elincia said. "I'll make sure to find the most skilled and reliable ones, and I will help you form an army of players to ensure you're prepared for the big war that may be on the horizon."

"I leave this matter in your capable hands."

"Alright, Princess," Elincia said. "It was nice meeting you today. I'll see you soon." She waved, then rushed out of the magnificent tent.

A short while later, a group of Princess Alora's maids entered her tent. Two of them respectfully bowed as they approached her.

"Your Highness. We have prepared the water for your bath."

"Thank you," she replied, getting up from her seat.

The two maids then assisted her in removing the heavy armor.

Meanwhile, a man suddenly appeared, dressed only in his underwear. Broken had just logged back into the game, confused and surprised to find himself in a completely unfamiliar location.

"Where am I?" he muttered. "I should've been near the Shrine of Regeneration, right?"

Broken stood frozen, struggling to comprehend the situation. A chill ran through his body as he took in the scene before him. In front of him stood a woman, also in her undergarments. Her long red hair cascaded down her back, her striking appearance almost overwhelming. As their eyes met, his heart pounded with fear. 

"Princess Alora?"

The female maids shrieked in unison, "Intruder! Pervert!"