Transcending Fate (Transmigrated to an Otome Game)

Departure to a Foreign Land

The morning sun filtered through the curtains as Alaric woke up, the day of departure weighing heavily on his mind. He dressed meticulously in a simple yet elegant outfit, making sure he looked presentable for the journey ahead.

After a light breakfast with his father, who reassured him of the importance of this mission, Alaric made his way to the palace with his single servant and modest luggage in tow.

Upon arriving at the palace, the grandeur of the place never failed to impress him. He was greeted by the palace servants, who swiftly handled his luggage and led him to a beautifully decorated waiting room with light, soothing colors. Alaric couldn't help but feel a bit anxious as he waited.

The door opened, and Prince Lucian entered the room. He looked as regal and handsome as ever, his presence commanding the space. Their eyes met, and Alaric stood to greet him.

"Your Highness," Alaric began, but Prince Lucian quickly interrupted.

"Alaric, when we're alone, just call me Lucian," the Prince said with a smile that held an endearing warmth. If anyone who knew the Prince well had seen it, they would have noted how unusual this was.

They engaged in light conversation, discussing the journey ahead and the importance of the diplomatic mission. Alaric found the Prince's demeanor unexpectedly charming and relaxed, which put him somewhat at ease.

As they talked, Lucian reached out to brush an imaginary piece of lint off Alaric's shoulder. The touch was brief, but it sent a shiver down Alaric's spine. He couldn't help but notice the Prince's fingers lingering just a moment longer than necessary. Alaric felt his cheeks warm, and he quickly looked away, trying to steady his racing heart.

Their conversation was interrupted when the door opened again, and Julian entered the room, followed closely by Elias. Both greeted the Prince, and Julian turned his attention to Alaric, his expression one of feigned concern.

"Alaric, are you alright? We haven't seen each other since the Duke's party," Julian said, his tone dripping with false innocence. He glanced at Prince Lucian as if seeking his approval or support, but none came.

Instead, Prince Lucian addressed the group. "Is everyone ready? We should depart before noon." His tone was authoritative, leaving no room for further discussion.

A flash of irritation and confusion passed through Julian's eyes, but he masked it well. Alaric felt a wave of confusion himself, unsure of the dynamics at play. Elias, standing behind Julian, took in the scene with quiet amusement, his eyes keenly observing everyone.

Elias's gaze lingered on Alaric, intrigued by the young man's beauty and the alertness that seemed to surround him. The recent interactions and the subtle tension intrigued Elias, sparking a thought in his mind: What would happen if he claimed Alaric for himself? The idea amused him, and he started to form a plan, looking forward to revealing his true self to Alaric soon.

Prince Lucian noticed Elias's lingering gaze and felt a strange sense of possessiveness. "His," the thought echoed in his mind, though he quickly brushed it off. Something about Elias seemed off, and Lucian resolved to keep a close watch on him.

In the waiting room, everyone harbored their own thoughts and agendas. Alaric, feeling the weight of the situation, simply hoped to get through the journey without incident and return home safely.

With their thoughts kept private, the group made their way to the front entrance of the palace, ready to embark on their journey to the neighboring kingdom. Alaric took a deep breath, steeling himself for whatever lay ahead.

As Alaric and the group arrived at the palace courtyard, they were greeted by a flurry of activity. Several carriages were lined up, some designated for servants, others for goods.

Guards on horseback were stationed strategically to ensure the safety of the Prince and the ambassador, Julian, whose presence was critical to maintaining diplomatic relations between the two kingdoms. Among the carriages, two stood out for their elegance and beauty. One was larger and more ornate, painted in white and gold, and pulled by regal white horses.

Alaric remembered from the game that the Prince was supposed to invite Julian into his carriage. He tried to head towards another carriage, hoping to avoid any awkwardness, but was stopped abruptly.

"Alaric," a voice called, firm but gentle. He turned to see Prince Lucian, who had reached out to hold his arm.

"Yes, Your Highness?" Alaric responded, his heart racing.

"Travel with me in my carriage," Lucian said, his tone leaving no room for argument.

The statement shocked Alaric, leaving him momentarily speechless. Wasn't this the line the protagonist was supposed to say to Julian? Sensing his confusion, Lucian continued.

"You're from our kingdom and an important person. It's protocol that we travel together," Lucian explained, though the reasons seemed vague and not entirely convincing.

Before Alaric could muster a refusal, Lucian had already boarded the carriage, leaving him with no choice but to comply. Alaric took a deep breath, telling himself it was just an order, a protocol to be followed. He climbed into the carriage, settling into the luxurious interior.

Meanwhile, Julian stood there, his angelic figure illuminated by the soft sunlight. To those around him, he appeared serene, but inside, jealousy and hatred burned fiercely. He clenched his teeth, feeling slighted by Lucian's unexpected choice. Briefly, he glanced towards Elias, who was also watching the Prince's carriage with a contemplative expression.

Sensing Julian's gaze, Elias turned to look at him. Julian quickly averted his eyes and put his head down hurrying to board his own carriage. Elias, intrigued by the unfolding drama, smirked and followed suit, boarding the carriage with Julian.

Within a few minutes, the journey began. As the carriages rolled out of the palace gates, Alaric sat across from Lucian, trying to steady his nerves.

The Prince's unexpected invitation had thrown him off balance, and he couldn't shake the feeling that something significant was about to unfold.

Lucian, noticing Alaric's discomfort, offered a reassuring smile. "Relax, Alaric. This journey will be much more pleasant with you by my side."

Alaric nodded, trying to calm the fluttering in his chest. "Thank you, Lucian."

The use of the Prince's name felt intimate and strange, yet there was a comfort in it. As the carriage moved steadily towards their destination, Alaric couldn't help but wonder what the future held, especially with the unpredictable dynamics at play.

In another carriage, Julian fumed silently, his mind racing with thoughts of revenge and jealousy.
Elias, ever the observer, watched Julian with keen interest, amused by the turmoil of Julian he briely thought 'Should he punish this dark angel to be jealous of my little kitten....or wait and enjoy what will happen ' he smirked,  plotting his own moves in the intricate game they were all unwittingly a part of.

Thus, the journey to the neighboring kingdom began, each passenger lost in their own thoughts, emotions simmering just beneath the surface.