Loveless/ a POWERLESS fanfiction story

Chapter 7: Brian

This morning, she arrives at the training yard on time. Perhaps the reason lies in last night's dinner with the royal family. Or maybe it's the way her rivals behaved.

Even though I wasn't on duty in the hall where the reception was held, I am aware of all the events. The palace staff is talkative, and rumors spread here at lightning speed. I even managed to laugh at the minor squabble between Enforcer and his Silver Savior. Indeed, no one in this palace knows what secrets are.

However, it's clear that Blair didn't find it amusing. She's been training with knives and throwing stars for several hours already. Her movements are sharp and precise, but I can see the tension in her. Her stance is a picture of focus and determination, with the muscles in her arms taut to the limit. Each motion seems like an attempt to release her anger.

I evaluate her strong arm muscles, pondering which strategy she should adopt for the Trials. Her Tele power can be quite dangerous, but only if there are weapons or other objects in the arena she can use for long-range attacks. And if not? Blair is a terrible sparring partner in close combat, almost like a ten-year-old child with a wooden toy sword. Marcus, Imperial who often sparred with her, joked that he should receive extra pay for those boring matches. I have no idea why Rem hasn't made her practice with weapons more yet.

I rub the bridge of my nose, trying to decide the best course of action—make her train more in swordsmanship or focus on knife throwing without using telekinesis. But even these complex thoughts don't take me far enough to miss noticing one of the participants heading towards her.

I casually approach the nearest weapons rack, pretending to choose a dagger, but in reality, I am keenly observing their interaction. Of course, I don't think this guy could cause her any harm. Rather, I anticipate a rather amusing scene involving the capricious princess and an idiot, for only an idiot would attempt to strike up a conversation with her.

The guy stops a few paces from her, runs a hand through his wheat-colored hair, and, meeting her eyes, says, "Ace Elway" Blair raises an eyebrow questioningly. Apparently not seeing a hint of interest on her face, he adds, "Illusionist."

"It doesn't matter," Blair interrupts with a predatory smile, "I have a terrible memory for names, and besides, we're in the Trials, so we won't need to make conversation, will we?"

I suppress a smile and continue watching. Blair tosses back the strands of violet hair that have escaped from her ponytail and resumes stretching, bending forward to touch her palms to her feet. But Ace doesn't back down, still trying to capture her attention and makes another attempt.

"Agreed, our roles are against us right now, but we could get to know each other under different circumstances."

She straightens abruptly, nearly elbowing him in the chest. Her eyes narrow; she's clearly not in the mood for flirting.

"Like where? If I'd visit the slums and Loot Alley?"

His face shows no sign of being disheartened by her blatant disdain. He smiles, trying to smooth things over, and I conclude that he's used to swallowing his pride, hoping for the favor of those higher in status.

"I think we could meet at a ball. Who knows, maybe we'd find common ground?"

Blair steps back, scrutinizing her opponent.

"At a ball?" She scoffs. "You really think we could have something in common?"

Ace's smile vanishes instantly, replaced by a very serious, businesslike tone.

"Yes, for example victory in the Trials. I'm a strong Illusionist, and together, we'd have a better chance of standing against the Master. Do you realize that even you can never compare to him?"