Entangled Bargains

As the morning sun painted the sky with hues of gold and pink, I found myself reluctantly following Liam's lead through the inn's corridors, my mind still preoccupied with the events of the previous night. The encounter with Alexander left me unsettled and curious about the incomprehensible prince.Lady Evelyn was silently walking behind us, acting as a chaperon. Since I went back late last night after having late supper in the prince's room, she has been concerned about my reputation. She insisted on coming along this morning.As we stepped into the garden behind the inn, a sense of serenity washed over me. The garden was a lush oasis of tranquility, adorned with elegant fountains that whispered soothing melodies and pomegranate trees that stood tall and proud, their branches heavy with vibrant red fruits.Liam guided me to a secluded spot under the shade of a majestic oak tree, where a small table was set for breakfast. The table was adorned with delicate porcelain and an array of stone fruits, offering tempting treats."His Highness has prepared breakfast for you, princess," Liam said with a respectful nod before leaving me to dine in solitude.As I took a seat, my thoughts drifted back to last night's private encounter with Alexander. I had intended to propose a bargain, one that would secure my freedom and allow me to return to Astoria, and later, I would find a way to get back to my own world. But our conversation had taken an unexpected turn, and I had found myself tangled in a spider's web of seduction. I have deliberately shown Alexander another side of me or another side of Elysia.Determined not to let the opportunity slip away again, I took a deep breath and composed myself. Today, I will make my request, and I hope that Alexander will be willing to listen. I need to deal with those 'memories' as quickly as possible.Moments later, Alexander appeared at the garden entrance, a hint of surprise flickering in his eyes as he saw me waiting for him. He approached me with a confident stride, his presence commanding and captivating."Good morning, princess. You're early. I hope you had a good night's sleep, " he greeted, his voice smooth and warm."Good morning, Your Highness," I replied, trying to keep my composure and maintain the formality. I slipped many times last night, giving Alexander a strange idea, which he went along with like a cute puppy.He took the seat opposite me, and for a moment, we simply gazed at each other as if silently acknowledging the complexities of our relationship.Lady Evelyn approaches the prince with a teapot. She poured the freshly brewed herbal tea into Alexander's cup."Thank you, Lady Evelyn," thanked Alexander, somehow surprised to see Elysia's lady-in-waiting serving them. But he ignored the need to ask. There are important matters to discuss with the princess that morning, continuing from their private encounter last night.I pick up the teacup and have a little sip just to wet my throat. Then, I gingerly took the scones and halved them. On one side, I spread the butter, while on the other, a spoonful of homemade pomegranate jam was layered. Putting both sides together, I bring the scone to my mouth and take a medium bite, like eating a burger.I heard Lady Evelyn gasp. Oops... I have done something Samantha-ish. I totally forgot to watch my table manners. Hesitantly, I put the scone back on the plate and ate it using the fork and knife. When I put a small piece of scone in my mouth, I accidentally look up, and my eyes meet Alexander's.A chortle escaped his closed mouth, a gleeful and breathy laugh that exhibited his satisfaction. His eyes sparkled in amusement. Ah... I totally forgot about this man!Ignoring the unladylike act, I mustered the courage to speak. "Last night, our conversation took an unexpected turn. I had intended to propose a bargain, but it seems we ended up discussing matters beyond that."Alexander raised an eyebrow; his curiosity was evident. Indeed, our conversation was quite intriguing. What is this bargain you speak of, Princess?" His amusement vanished, replaced by eagerness.I took a deep breath, steadying myself. "I wish to make a deal with you, Your Highness. A bargain that would benefit both of us. If you agree to my terms, I will assist you in your quest to hunt the King of Monsters and help you maintain the stability of your kingdom. In return, I ask for my freedom to return to Astoria."His expression was doubtful, and he leaned back, considering my proposal. "An intriguing offer, Princess. But why would you be willing to help me, and what assurance do I have that you will keep your end of the bargain?"A glimmer of determination shone in my eyes. "You have my word, Your Highness. I may despise the idea of being abducted the second time, but I understand the importance of maintaining balance. As for my willingness to help, let's just say that I find myself curious about the mysteries that shroud the King of Monsters."Alexander studied me for a moment before a slow smile spread across his face. "Very well, Princess. I accept your bargain. But I will only let you go after we defeated the King of Monsters."I couldn't believe Alexander's insistence on keeping me with him until he defeated the King of Monsters. "You wouldn't need me once you found the King's lair. There was no reason for me to be part of the dangerous hunt. I would suggest that I could stay in Astoria and send my knight to track down the King using the map I would draw," I argued vehemently, refusing to accept Alexander's words.But Alexander wouldn't hear any of it. His eyes locked with mine, determination shining through. "I need you to be there, Ely," he said firmly, breaking the formality by deliberately addressing me by that pet name. "Your map maybe misinterpreted or wrongly read. We also need your ability to communicate with the monsters to hasten our quest. I am sure you do not want us to killed all monsters along the hunt. Once the King is defeated, I promise you can return to Astoria. I myself will escort you home safely."His words only fueled my frustration. Why couldn't he understand that I didn't want to be involved in his battles? But I knew arguing further would be futile. Alexander had a stubborn streak, and once he set his mind to something, he rarely wavered.As we sat in the garden, surrounded by the soothing sound of fountains and the shade of pomegranate trees, I struggled to find the right words."Xander, please listen," I began, trying to keep my voice steady. I, too, have broken the lines of formality. Be damn with that. I have a matter of importance at hand. "I appreciate your concern, but I don't want to be a burden or put myself in danger. Astoria needs me too, and I have responsibilities there."He sighed, his gaze softening slightly. "I understand, but with your 'monsters sense', you might be able to help us in ways we can't anticipate."I wanted to argue further, but I saw the determination in his eyes, and I knew it would be pointless. "Fine," I conceded, crossing my arms. "But I won't be a helpless damsel in distress. If I'm going to be part of this, I want to be an active participant, not just a bystander."A small smile tugged at the corner of his lips. "Deal. You can be as involved as you want, but I won't let you face any unnecessary danger."I nodded, somewhat appeased by his compromise. "Good. Then let's get this over with quickly so I can return to Astoria and resume my duties."Alexander chuckled softly. "You're quite stubborn, Ely. I suppose that's one of the things I find intriguing about you."I blushed, taken aback by his unexpected compliment. "Well, don't let it get to your head," I retorted, trying to regain my composure. "We should focus on the task at hand."As Elysia and Alexander continued their breakfast conversation, Elysia couldn't shake the feeling that their journey together was far from over. Little did she know that their paths would be entwined in ways she couldn't have imagined and that their adventures would lead them to the very heart of destiny itself.