The Crowned Heart | SKZ x Reader

7 | The Second Test

The morning dawned with a flurry of excitement and whispers among the contestants. The first challenge, despite its twists and turns, had set a new tone among us. Now we were all curious, each wondering what the second challenge would reveal. Some of the contestants speculated it might test combat skills or perhaps knowledge of Valoria's history, while others leaned toward something that would test our creativity or adaptability.

As we gathered in the main hall, Prince Felix was already there, seated near one of the large windows, light pooling around him as he observed each contestant arriving. His expression was softer than usual, thoughtful, and even a little distant. When he caught sight of me, he offered a small wave and gestured for me to join him.

"Good morning," he greeted, his voice as gentle as his smile. "Ready for round two?"

"I hope so," I replied, taking a seat beside him. "Though I'm not sure what to expect after yesterday."

Felix chuckled, running a hand through his blond hair. "That's the thing about these challenges. They're meant to keep you on your toes. But if it's any comfort, I think you're handling them well."

"Thanks, that means a lot," I said sincerely. "It's nice to have some encouragement from... well, you."

He shrugged, eyes twinkling with an almost playful glint. "I guess we'll just have to see if I'm right, won't we?"

Before I could respond, the advisor's voice echoed through the hall, silencing our conversations. "Contestants, please make your way to the ballroom for your second challenge."

Felix gave me a final reassuring nod before heading toward his brothers. I fell into step with the other contestants, a mixture of nerves and curiosity bubbling inside me. We were led through winding corridors, finally reaching the grand ballroom—a space I hadn't yet seen, and one that took my breath away.

The room was vast, with high ceilings adorned with crystal chandeliers that sparkled under the morning light. A series of tables, covered in fabrics, threads, paints, and other materials, were arranged in the center. My heart skipped a beat, both from the beauty of the room and the realization of what the task might entail.

The advisor gestured toward the tables. "For this challenge, you will be asked to create something that represents your vision for Valoria's future. It can be anything—a symbol, an invention, a piece of art. Whatever you believe embodies hope, unity, and strength for the kingdom. You have two hours."

My mind raced. Creativity wasn't something I had particularly honed back home; my life was more about practicality and hard work. But this was an opportunity to let my heart speak for what I believed could be a brighter future, one where anyone, even someone like me, might belong.

As I approached a table filled with paints and canvases, I couldn't help but overhear some of the princes murmuring about the challenge. Minho seemed especially interested, nodding in approval as he listened to the advisor's explanation. Chan was quiet, his face impassive but intent, as though he were deeply invested in what each of us might create.

I chose a canvas, brushing my fingers over its rough surface, and took a deep breath. Okay, Y/n, I thought to myself. This is your chance to show who you are.

I began mixing paints, letting colors emerge slowly. I chose deep greens and rich blues, inspired by the countryside that had been my home, blending them to create a background that felt both earthy and vibrant. Images of Valoria's future drifted through my mind—a kingdom of peace, where everyone could live without fear, where unity replaced division. I wanted to convey that hope, that sense of promise.

As I painted, I lost track of time, pouring myself into the image, adding layers of texture and shape. Others around me created beautiful pieces as well. I noticed one contestant crafting a delicate sculpture with a feather motif, symbolizing freedom, while another was working on an intricate woven tapestry of Valoria's royal crest, surrounded by blooming flowers.

By the time the advisor announced that our two hours were up, I felt both exhausted and strangely fulfilled. My piece—a painting of an open sky over lush fields and rivers, with doves soaring toward the sun—was simple but heartfelt. It reflected not just Valoria's beauty, but the hope that everyone could share in its promise.

The advisors walked among us, pausing to examine each piece. I held my breath as they inspected my painting, sharing a few hushed words before moving on. My heart was still racing when they finally finished their rounds and gathered at the front of the room.

"Each of you has shown incredible thought and care in your creations," the head advisor said, his voice calm but full of authority. "This challenge was designed not just to test your creativity, but to reveal what lies within your hearts—the vision you hold for Valoria."

He motioned toward Prince Chan, who stepped forward with the quiet confidence I was coming to recognize. "The next part of the challenge is simple," Chan explained, his gaze meeting ours one by one. "Each of you will have a moment to explain your creation. Tell us what inspired you and what message you want it to convey."

The line moved quickly, each contestant stepping forward to share their piece. Some were eloquent, others nervous, but each shared with conviction. When it was my turn, I felt the weight of the princes' eyes on me, their curiosity mingling with expectation.

Taking a steadying breath, I held up my painting and met their gaze. "I wanted to capture the peace and unity that I believe should be at the heart of Valoria. This kingdom is filled with beauty, but I think its true strength lies in the potential for harmony among its people—no matter where they come from or what their backgrounds are. That's what I hope for... that one day, everyone here can soar as freely as these doves, without fear."

There was a brief, quiet pause after I finished, and I felt a surge of nervousness. But then, Felix gave me an encouraging nod, his eyes warm, and Chan's expression softened, as though he understood exactly what I meant. Even Minho looked impressed, the usual spark of humor in his eyes replaced by something deeper.

The advisor thanked each of us for our presentations, then dismissed us for the afternoon while they deliberated on our work. As we filed out of the ballroom, I couldn't help but feel a lingering sense of pride and relief. This challenge had been more personal than I'd expected, and sharing that part of myself, especially with the princes watching, felt like both a risk and a triumph.

Just outside the ballroom, Felix caught up to me, his usual playful demeanor replaced by a quiet admiration. "That was beautiful, Y/N," he said softly. "I can see how much you believe in this kingdom and its people."

"Thank you," I replied, my cheeks warming. "It means a lot that you think so."

We walked in comfortable silence for a moment before Felix glanced over, a slight smirk breaking through his sincerity. "You know, if you keep giving these heartfelt speeches, the rest of us might start to feel inadequate."

I laughed, nudging him lightly. "Oh, I don't think you have anything to worry about."

As we reached the end of the hall, Prince Chan and Minho appeared from around the corner, deep in conversation. They noticed us and approached, Chan's expression thoughtful as he nodded in greeting.

"Good work today, Y/N," he said. "Your vision for Valoria is... inspiring."

Before I could respond, Minho chimed in, his gaze lingering on me. "It's refreshing to see someone who isn't afraid to dream of a better future. Don't lose that."

The words left me speechless, but before I could gather my thoughts, they continued down the hall, leaving me and Felix standing there. I watched them go, feeling an unexpected swell of gratitude and something else—something that made my heart beat a little faster.

Felix noticed my expression and leaned closer, whispering with a grin, "Looks like you've made quite the impression."

"Stop," I said, feeling my cheeks heat up even more.

He chuckled, giving me a wink before walking off, leaving me with a mixture of excitement, uncertainty, and anticipation for what lay ahead in this competition—and in the palace.