The first light of dawn spilled over the rooftops of Grandovale, casting golden hues across the cobbled streets of Velaria. Yet beneath the warming sun, a storm brewed within the royal palace. Princess Arisella Vaelith—daughter of the High Council's Head Chancellor—was missing.
Knights galloped through the streets, banners fluttering behind them, eyes sharp and alert. Each alley was searched, every district questioned. The entire city buzzed with concern and whispers of the princess's sudden disappearance.
Meanwhile, Zen, Lyra, and Arisella sat on a quiet hill overlooking the awakening city. Dew clung to the grass as Arisella stretched her arms, her eyes glinting with mischief.
"I want to spend a little more time with you two," Arisella declared, her tone stubborn.
Lyra's expression tightened. "You can't. If your father finds out, there'll be a huge mess."
Arisella pouted, puffing out her cheeks. "Hey! If you think I'm a troublemaker, I'm not!"
Zen glanced at her and shrugged, keeping his voice calm. "As long as you don't drag us into anything, do what you want."
Arisella turned to him with wide, pleading eyes. "So that's a yes?"
He gave a small nod.
A bright smile spread across her face, and the three ventured into the lively streets of Grandovale. Arisella marveled at the morning market, stopping to examine stalls filled with trinkets, pastries, and colorful fabric. She spoke with strangers like an ordinary citizen, laughing freely, savoring her moment of freedom.
Lyra playfully tugged Zen's sleeve. "She's actually kinda cute when she's not acting all highborn."
Zen didn't reply, just smiled quietly.
But peace didn't last long.
A robed mage with piercing eyes, bearing the Grandovale crest, spotted Arisella near a bakery. His eyes widened as he recognized the princess in commoner garb.
"Princess Arisella?!" he shouted, rushing over. He grabbed her by the shoulders. "Why are you here, dressed like this?! Who are these people?"
His eyes burned with suspicion as he turned to Zen and Lyra.
"What's with that suspicious look? They didn't kidnap me—I ran away!"
Arisella insisted, but the mage ignored her.
He barked an order, and two armored knights approached.
"Arrest them!"
Arisella stepped forward, her brow furrowed in frustration, but her voice firm.
"No one forced her—Zen & lyra didn't make her do anything. She came willingly. I know how this looks, but it's not what you think!"
The mage gave a reassuring nod, his voice calm but resolute.
"There's no need to fear anymore, Princess. I'll handle them from here."
Despite Arisella's protests, the mage whisked her away toward the palace. Zen and Lyra were dragged along under guard.
At the royal palace, under the grand crystal-lit hall, they were brought before the King of Grandovale.
The king sat upon a throne of silverwood and sapphire, a wise and powerful presence, though concern flickered in his eyes.
Arisella stood before him and relayed the entire story—how she slipped away, her run-in with the kidnappers, and how Zen and Lyra risked themselves to protect her.
When she finished, the hall fell silent.
The king turned his gaze to Zen and Lyra. Lyra bowed deeply.
Zen, however, stood still.
A guard shouted, "How dare you not bow before His Majesty?!"
Lyra whispered through gritted teeth, "Do you want your head flying off?!"
The king raised a hand. "Silence."
He studied Zen with interest. "So, you're the ones who saved my daughter."
Zen nodded slightly. "It was my pleasure."
The king smiled. "Then let me reward you. Is there anything you desire?"
Zen paused.
Before he could respond, Lyra nudged him and whispered, "Hey… Say about the academy"
Zen's eyes widened faintly. He looked up. "Actually… We'd like your help entering Eboncrest Arcanist's Academy."
The king let out a booming laugh. "That? That's easy. But what about the monthly expenses? You don't expect me to pay your allowance, do you?"
Zen went silent for a long moment. "we'll figure something out."
The king laughed again. "I admire your spirit. I'll ensure both your names are registered for the admission exam. But whether you make it in… that's up to you two.
He raised a hand, signaling an attendant.
"Eboncrest only accepts the best. If you both reach the top rank in the exam, you'll earn a full scholarship. Ranks two and three get fifty percent. Anything less…" He smirked. "You're on your own."
Zen's calm expression didn't change, but his eyes lit with quiet fire.
He bowed his head-only slightly. "Thank you."
The king leaned back, satisfied. "You've got one chance. Don't waste it."