THE ASSASSIN'S FLAME

CHAPTER TWO

I walked through the palace corridors, my footsteps echoing off the stone walls. My mission's weight still lingered, my muscles screaming for respite.

"I am utterly drained, exhausted to the core," I thought to myself. "The mission's toll is evident. Of course, it's a harsh reminder of the sacrifices made and the trials endured."

Upon entering my chamber, I shed my heavy armour, the metal, and leather creaking in relief. I peeled off my sweat-drenched clothes, revealing the toned physique beneath.

A long shower washed away the fatigue, water dripping like liquid silver through my raven hair. As I stood under the cascading water, my thoughts unravelled.

"My sword, forged from dragon scales, has been my constant companion, my protector, my confidant," I mused. "Its power courses through me, a reminder of my journey, of the battles fought and won. It's also a reminder of my past. Nevertheles, my past no longer haunts me."

After showering, I donned lightweight, articulated armour, reminiscent of King Arthur's iconic garb. Strong boots encased my legs, ready for battle.

I strapped on my sword sheath, the leather creaking softly.

"This blade, I feel it's more like a katana than a sword. What can i say? It has seen me through trials and triumphs, through darkness and light," I reflected. "Its strength is mine, a bond forged in fire and blood, tempered by loyalty and duty."

The King's assignment echoed in my mind: find a suitable lady suitor for Prince Kieran. I sat down on the bed.

"A suitor for the Prince? I guess I'll have known his preferences first." I thought. "Later, I shall inquire about his desires in a woman."

With a deep breath, I headed to the military area, seeking out my friend, Captain Rykeria.

Rykeria's bright smile greeted me with a hug. "Aurora! Welcome back! We've missed you."

I smiled, my reserve softening. "Rykeria, good to see you too."

"I was worried about you," Rykeria said, her eyes sparkling. "The mission seemed dangerous, and I thought you'd be back in a year, but you completed it very fast."

"It was challenging," I acknowledged. "But duty called, and I answered."

Rykeria nodded. "You always answer, Aurora. You're the embodiment of loyalty."

We chatted for a while, our conversation flowing easily.

As we parted ways, my thoughts remained on the king's task.

"Now i must begin my assignment," I reminded myself.

I walked to the royal chambers, and my footsteps measured. A guard stood at attention.

"Please summon Prince Kieran," I requested, my voice measured.

The guard nodded, his eyes flicking to my sword. "At once, General."

I stood tall, awaiting the Prince's arrival.

As Prince Kieran walked through the palace gardens, the soft rustle of leaves and chirping of birds provided a soothing backdrop for his thoughts. His mind, however, was far from serene. The king's decision to send General Alethea to the Continental Tournament still lingered, like an unspoken question.

Kieran's steps slowed, his gaze drifting toward the horizon. He had expected to represent Avalor to prove himself as a worthy warrior and future leader. His father's choice of Alethea, though understandable, stung.

"Why Alethea?" Kieran wondered, his voice barely above a whisper. "Is it because I'm not yet proven? Not experienced enough?"

He recalled his training sessions with the palace guards, his progress, and improvements. Yet, his father's words echoed in his mind: "This is not a task for you, Kieran."

A pang of frustration surged within him, but Kieran's calm demeanour reasserted itself. He understood his father's reasoning, even if he didn't agree with it.

"Alethea is a brilliant warrior," Kieran acknowledged, his thoughts taking on a more analytical tone. "Her skills in battle are unmatched. But what about my own abilities? Don't they count for something?"

As he walked, the palace's architecture seemed to blur around him. Kieran's focus turned inward to the turmoil brewing within.

"I want to prove myself," he thought, determination solidifying. "But first, I'd like to know about General Alethea's strength."

Prince Kieran sought out his sister, Princess Elianor, in the palace gardens. Her laughter echoed through the blossoming flowers as she played with a flock of swans.

"Elianne, I need your insight," Kieran said, approaching his sister.

Elianne's eyes sparkled. "Concerning?"

"General Alethea," Kieran replied. "Her strength, her abilities. What do you know?"

Elianne's grin widened. "Ah, Aurora. She's a wonder, Kieran."

"Tell me," Kieran urged.

Elianne settled onto a nearby bench, her voice taking on a conspiratorial tone.

"Alethea's strength is unparalleled. She can wield a sword with either hand, striking true every time. Her speed is breathtaking – faster than any warrior I've seen."

Kieran's eyes widened.

Elianne's enthusiasm grew. "Her armour's lightweight, yet impenetrable. She moves with the stealth of a cat, unseen and unheard until she strikes."

"Remarkable," Kieran breathed.

Elianne's hands danced as she spoke. "Alethea's strategy is unparalleled. She outmaneuvers foes with ease, anticipating their every move. Her mind's a razor-sharp blade, cutting through deception. Even without imbuing her sword with light magic, her accuracy of killing a foe with one hit is at 80% "

Kieran's curiosity deepened. "And her combat skills?"

Elianne's eyes sparkled. "Her soldiers can take down multiple opponents simultaneously. You know, that sword of hers slices through steel. And when it's imbued with light magic, her strikes are more precise and deadlier. "

Kieran's imagination conjured images of Alethea in battle.

"Is she truly that formidable?" he asked.

Elianne nodded emphatically. "More so! Alethea's strength lies not just in her physical prowess but in her unwavering dedication. She's an unshakeable pillar, protecting our kingdom. She never fails and has a crazy amount of magic energy. Not even her limit for her attact range with ice is known."

Kieran's admiration for Alethea grew as his mouth was agape.

"One more thing," Elianne added, a mischievous glint in her eye. "Alethea's sword was forged from dragon scales and holds mystical properties. It enhances her strength, making her nearly invincible."

Kieran's eyes widened in awe.

"Invincible?" he repeated.

Elianne nodded. "In battle, Alethea's unstoppable. Like a force of nature, unyielding and fierce."

The sound of footsteps interrupted Kieran's reverie. He turned to see one of the palace guards approaching.

"Your Highness," the guard said, bowing. "General Alethea has requested an audience with you."

Kieran's eyes narrowed, curiosity piqued. "What could she want?"

Elianne asked, beaming with excitement, "She wants to see you? Then, you should go, brother."

He followed the guard to meet her, his thoughts whirling with possibilities