THE ASSASSIN'S FLAME

CHAPTER ONE

Within the majestic castle of Avalor, King Thane, a just and fair ruler, sat upon his throne, his piercing blue eyes focused intently on his trusted adviser, Lord Ravenswood The warm sunlight streaming through the stained glass windows cast a kaleidoscope of colours across the floor, illuminating the subtle dust motes dancing in the air.

"Your Majesty," Lord Ravenswood began, his voice laced with urgency, "the Continental Tournament draws near. The greatest warriors from across the land will gather to showcase their prowess, and yet, Avalor remains without a representative."

Prince Kieran, standing beside his parents, Queen Harper and King Thane, spoke in a calm, melodious tone, his voice a soothing breeze on a summer's day. "Father, I volunteer to represent Avalor." His hazel eyes, shining like polished gemstones, sparkled with sincerity.

As he spoke, his raven-black hair, perfectly styled, framed his chiselled features, accentuating his striking beauty. His full lips, curved into a gentle smile, added to his captivating demeanour. The prince's serene composure belied his intense passion for the tournament.

Queen Harper's expression softened, her maternal instincts stirred by her son's calm confidence. "Kieran, dear, this is not a decision to be taken lightly. The tournament is no place for a prince, especially not our beloved son."

King Thane's brow furrowed, his mind racing with the weight of this responsibility. "Your mother is right, Kieran. This is not a task for you. We require a seasoned warrior, one who has proven themselves in battle."

Prince Kieran's gaze remained steady, his voice unwavering. "I understand, Father. Yet, I assure you, I am prepared. My training has equipped me with the skills necessary to succeed."

The king's expression turned stern, though a hint of pride flickered in his eyes. "I appreciate your enthusiasm, Kieran, but I have already considered the perfect candidate. General Alethea, our finest military commander, will represent Avalor. Her prowess in battle is unmatched, and I have no doubt she will bring honour to our kingdom."

Prince Kieran's smile never wavered, his calm demeanour a testament to his self-control. "As you wish, Father. I will support General Alethea wholeheartedly."

As the conversation concluded, King Thane turned to Lord Ravenswood. "When General Alethea arrives, summon her to my chambers. I would speak with her regarding the tournament and about something of atmost importance."

With the matter settled, King Thane rose from his throne, his daily duties awaiting his attention. Prince Kieran bowed respectfully, his movements fluid and gracious, before departing the throne room.

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As General Alethea stepped off the train, the scorching sunlight danced across her armour, casting a golden glow on the polished metal. Her raven hair, adorned with crimson stripes, cascaded down her back like a waterfall of night, framing her heart-shaped face and piercing emerald eyes. The train station's bustling energy parted like a wave, as if the very crowd itself yielded to her authority. The train station was a private station for the royal family only. Apart from the royal family, only a few selected people could use it.

Behind her, a contingent of soldiers fell into step, their boots striking the platform in perfect synchrony. Their whispers wove a subtle tapestry of admiration:

"Did you see her take down those North border raiders?" one soldier murmured.

"Unbelievable strength," another replied, his voice barely audible over the din of the station. "Yeah, and after that assassination job in the South too as well. She finished the job so quickly and even took down over 200 soldiers single-handedly."

"And her swordsmanship? Unmatched," a third soldier added, his eyes fixed on Alethea's retreating figure.

As they walked, the soldiers' gazes drifted to the emblem on Alethea's armour - the symbol of Avalor's elite warriors. Their faces reflected a mix of awe and reverence, testifying to Alethea's legendary status within the kingdom.

Alethea navigated the crowded street with ease, her strides purposeful and confident. Her armour, polished to a mirror finish, seemed an extension of her own body, moving with fluidity that belied its weight. The sword at her side in its sheath, its leather-wrapped hilt worn from countless battles, appeared an integral part of her being.

As they approached the palace, the imposing structure's grandeur seemed to shrink in comparison to Alethea's formidable presence. The guards at the entrance snapped to attention, their salutes crisp and precise, as Alethea passed through the ornate doors.

Within the palace, the air thickened with anticipation. The message from the King had been delivered to her by the Lieutenant. Courtiers and advisors whispered among themselves, their eyes darting toward Alethea as she strode through the corridors. Her reputation preceded her, forging a path of respect and admiration.

Upon arriving at the meeting room, Alethea stood before King Thane, her posture unwavering. "Your Majesty," she said, her voice clear and strong, "I have returned from my mission. The North border is secure, and the assassination job has been a success as well."

King Thane's eyes crinkled at the corners as he smiled. " I know I can always count on you to deliver, General Alethea. Your dedication to Avalor is unwavering. I have a new task for you - one that requires your unique skills. First of all, i apologise for not giving you time to rest."

Alethea's gaze locked onto the king's, her expression steadfast. "No worries, Your Majesty, I am always at your service."

King Thane's eyes shone with a mixture of gratitude and expectation. " Good, I'm glad to know I have such a dedicated general. Now, to the matter at hand. General Alethea, the Continental Tournament approaches. I wish for you to represent Avalor in this prestigious event."

Alethea's expression remained steadfast, but a hint of intrigue flickered in her emerald eyes. "The Continental Tournament, Your Majesty? I had not expected this honour."

King Thane nodded, his voice filled with conviction. "You are the finest warrior Avalor has to offer, General. Your skills in battle are unmatched, and I have every confidence you will bring glory to our kingdom."

Alethea's gaze never wavered. "I will not disappoint, Your Majesty. I will prepare immediately."

The king's smile broadened. "I knew I could count on you, General. You will be our ambassador, showcasing the strength and valour of Avalor to the entire continent."

As the king's words hung in the air, Alethea's mind began to racing with strategy and tactics. She envisioned the tournament's arena, her opponents, and the triumph that awaited her.

"I will require information on the tournament's format, opponents, and rules, Your Majesty," Alethea said, her voice crisp and focused.

King Thane nodded. "Lord Ravenswood will provide you with all necessary details. You will also have access to our finest trainers and resources to ensure your preparation is optimal."

Alethea bowed her head, her raven hair sweeping forward. "Thank you, Your Majesty. I will make Avalor proud."

Before she departed the meeting room, the King voiced out. "Actually, there's one more thing I need your help with."

General Alethea replied without hesitation. "Please go on, Your Majesty."

The King continues, "Kieran is 27 already. Yet, I see that he still hasn't taken interest to a girl. Hence, knowing of your exceptional taste, I would like you to pick some suitors that may catch his eye. But I'd like for you to keep it a secret from him for now."

Bowing slightly,she responded, "Don't worry, Your Majesty, I won't let you down."

As she departed the meeting room, Alethea's thoughts turned to the tournament's challenges and opportunities and the King's request. She knew that this was more than a competition - it was a chance to forge alliances, showcase her skills, and solidify Avalor's position among the continent's powers.