THE ASSASSIN'S FLAME

CHAPTER TWENTY

Alethia slept peacefully in her bed, her chest rising and falling with each gentle breath. The soft morning light filtering through her window cast a warm glow on her tranquil face. Despite not exhausting her energy during the Continental Tournament, the mental and emotional strain had taken its toll. The thrill of competition, the rush of adrenaline, and the weight of expectation had left her drained. Plus, last night's banquet for her victory in the tournament completely drained her.

Meanwhile, in his quarters, Prince Kieran sat in his private study, his thoughts consumed by the enigmatic Alethia. He couldn't shake off the vivid memories of her performances in the tournament. Her mastery of energy manipulation, her lightning-fast reflexes, and her unwavering determination had left him in awe.

As he reminisced about the first round, he recalled how Alethia had harnessed the ambient energy around her, seamlessly blending it with her own. Her control and precision were breathtaking. But it wasn't just her impressive skills that captivated him – it was the passion burning within her, the fire that drove her to protect others, and her unwavering kindness.

Kieran's thoughts drifted to their encounters, and he realized that Alethia embodied everything he had ever desired in a partner. She was intelligent, fiercely independent, and unapologetically herself. Her compassion and empathy towards others only added to her allure.

He rose from his chair and paced around the room, his mind racing with the implications of his newfound feelings. Prince Kieran, the man known for his stoic reserve, felt his heart swell with emotion. He had to admit it to himself: he really liked Alethia.

His mind shifted from caution to excitement. He had finally found someone special.

Taking a deep breath, Kieran decided to confide in his father, King Thane. His nerves began to flutter as he contemplated how to share his feelings. What would his father think? Would he approve?

Steeling himself, Kieran approached the throne room. He requested a private audience with his father, and upon entering, he found his father deep in thought.

  The prince hesitated, his hands fidgeting with the hem of his tunic. "Father, I...I need to speak with you about something," Kieran stammered.

"Of course, son. What's on your mind?" King Thane asked, his brow furrowed with concern.

Kieran took a deep breath before blurting out the words that had been weighing on his heart. "I have feelings for Alethea, the General of the Kingdom's army."

The room fell silent. King Thane's eyes widened, and his mouth hung agape. "Repeat that, Kieran," he requested, his voice barely above a whisper.

Kieran's nervousness intensified, but he steeled himself and repeated, "I said, I have feelings for Alethea, Father."

King Thane's face underwent another transformation, this time from shock to unbridled delight. A wide grin spread across his face, and he let out a hearty laugh. "Amazing, Kieran! I didn't expect this, but I couldn't be happier!"

Prince Kieran's eyes widened in surprise. "You're...happy?" he asked, incredulous.

King Thane nodded enthusiastically. "Why wouldn't I be? Alethea is an exceptional warrior, intelligent, and beautiful. She would make an outstanding queen consort. I've always admired her strength and strategic mind."

Kieran's anxiety began to dissipate, replaced by a sense of wonder. He hadn't anticipated his father's reaction. "But, Father, I wasn't sure if you'd approve. She's not a noblewoman, and—"

King Thane waved his hand dismissively. "Nobility is not solely defined by birth, Kieran. Alethea has proven herself through her bravery and loyalty. I'd be honored to have her as my daughter-in-law."

The king's words filled Kieran with excitement and trepidation. He hadn't expected his father to be so supportive.

"Tonight, Kieran, I want you to ask Alethea out," King Thane said, his eyes sparkling with mischief. "Invite her to dinner, a private affair. See if you can gauge her interest."

Kieran's heart skipped a beat. "Tonight, Father? That's...soon."

King Thane chuckled. "Nonsense, son. You're a prince. You must be bold. Besides, I have a feeling Alethea won't reject you outright. She's a fair and intelligent woman."

Kieran nodded, determination rising within him. "I'll do it, Father. I'll ask her tonight."

King Thane beamed with pride. "Excellent! Now, let's discuss the details. We'll need to make arrangements for a private dinner in the east wing. I'll inform the staff to prepare the Silver Room. It's intimate and fitting for the occasion."

As the king began outlining the plans, Kieran's mind wandered to Alethea. How would she react to his invitation? Would she see him as a suitor, or merely a prince? The uncertainty sent a thrill through his veins.

"Father, what if she says no?" Kieran asked, his voice laced with vulnerability.

King Ryker's expression turned serious. "Then you'll know, and you'll move on. But I have a feeling, Kieran, that Alethea might just surprise you. She's a woman of honor and passion. Don't be afraid to show her your true self."

Kieran nodded, his resolve strengthening. Tonight, he would take a chance and reveal his heart to Alethea. The outcome was uncertain, but with his father's blessing, he felt invincible.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting the kingdom in a warm orange glow, Prince Kieran steeled himself for the most important conversation of his life.