In an unusual place, I look around to analyze my whereabouts.
My surroundings were unfamiliar, and I had no idea where they were leading me. Eventually, we arrived at a grand door, a barrier between me and the royal presence that awaited on the other side. The maid shared a few hushed words with the door guard, and soon my presence was announced to the unknown figures beyond the door.
The door guard's voice resonated through the grand chamber: "Announcement for an audience with Their Majesties, Lena Linwood of the Royal Household, requesting an audience." With the announcement made, the door swung open, revealing a sight that left me utterly awestruck. The room was colossal, its opulent design and grandeur taking my breath away. Seated upon their thrones were the King and Queen themselves, regal and imposing figures radiating an aura of authority.
My eyes widened as I took in the scene before me. Beside them, I spotted the crown prince, who seemed to be in the midst of leaving as he gave a sharp glare at me. Gathering my courage, I began the long walk toward the throne, each step feeling more arduous than the last. Despite my best efforts, my legs, tired from the journey, struggled to carry me gracefully.
…
Finally reaching the appointed spot, I lowered myself to my knees in a gesture of humility. My heart raced as I offered a respectful bow, my gaze cast downward in deference. The room's vastness only seemed to amplify my own insignificance in the presence of such power.
With a deep breath, I mustered the courage to address the royal figures before me. "Your Majesties," my voice trembled slightly, the weight of the moment making itself known, "I am Oruvan Amor, a humble servant of the Royal Household. I am deeply honored to be granted an audience with you." As I spoke, I tried to steady my nerves and convey the respect and sincerity that filled my heart. This was a moment that would shape my path in ways I could scarcely imagine, and I hoped my introduction would leave a positive impression on those who held the fate of the kingdom in their hands.
The King is beknownst for his capability to detect lies, and the Queen has the capability to sense sincerity.
King Alaric gestured for me to lift my head, a sign of acknowledgment and respect. Queen Seraphina's eyes held a curious gleam as she regarded me, her expression reflecting a mixture of intrigue and appraisal.
King Alaric's voice resonated with a note of recognition, his words a testament to the news that had reached his ears. "I've heard about your generosity. It was told you are the first to come to rescue to save my youngest daughter."
Queen Seraphina's voice joined the conversation, imbued with sincerity. "I give you my gratitude."
Responding with a deep sense of respect, I spoke, "Thank you, your majesties. It is my proof of loyalty that I should save her when in need."
In a swift moment, the atmosphere shifted as the door to the left corner of the room creaked open, revealing a small figure dashing toward the safety of her mother's side. It was Loria, the young princess I had helped rescue.
With genuine relief, Queen Seraphina addressed her daughter, her voice laced with maternal warmth. "Loria, my precious daughter. Thank goodness you are fine!"
Loria's eyes met mine, and though her initial shyness was evident, her determination shone through as she mustered the courage to speak up for me.
As if propelled by skepticism, King Alaric inquired about the events that led to Loria's rescue. "But I wonder, how did you find her? I believe our men were already searching for her everywhere. Besides, you are arriving from elsewhere, seemingly by flight. Could it be that you were involved in her abduction?"
The implication of his words hung heavy in the air, casting doubt upon my intentions. Yet, in a sudden moment of clarity, Loria's voice emerged with a sternness that belied her age. "Daddy! He is not a bad guy!"
Her firm declaration pierced through the doubt, painting a new perspective on the situation.
Queen Seraphina, perceptive and empathetic, understood the intricate dynamics at play. She intervened, her words a bridge between the opposing viewpoints. "Well, you are not wrong, my King. But maybe we should hear their stories first."
Empowered by the opportunity to share her side, Loria began recounting the events that led to her unexpected adventure. She revealed her spirited nature, her daring escapade out of the palace to explore the world beyond its walls. The forbidden allure of the outside world had driven her to take an alternative route, a path less traveled, along the precarious edge of a cliff.
With an unintentional misstep, Loria found herself in danger's grip, her fall leaving her unconscious at the foot of the hill.
The King and Queen, listening intently, were met with disbelief as they realized the extent of their daughter's audacious nature. She was a blend of her parents, embodying both her mother's courage and her father's impulsive tendencies.
In that moment, the room was a tapestry woven with curiosity, gratitude, and the undeniable bonds of family. As Loria's story unfolded, the intricacies of her character were revealed, adding new dimensions to the relationships that connected us all.
As Loria's story unfolded, it became clear that her adventurous nature had led her into a dangerous situation. Despite her bravery, she found herself in a perilous predicament that could have ended tragically if not for my timely intervention. The King and Queen's expressions shifted from suspicion to gratitude as they realized that I had indeed saved their daughter from a potentially disastrous fate.
I can see her expression changed a bit brighter than earlier as she has passed the worst of what she expected. She must have thought the Queen would give her a scold for what had happened. That's why in the carriage when we headed to the palace, she was gloomy and unsettled.