THE ASSASSIN'S FLAME

CHAPTER TWENTY-FOUR

As Princess Elianne's chambers came into view, Alethea's reluctance grew thicker than the castle walls. She had never been one for frilly attire, and the thought of shedding her armor made her skin prickle with unease. But Elianne's grip on her arm remained firm, guiding her toward the royal quarters with a gentle yet unyielding persistence.

Upon entering the chambers, Elianne released Alethea's arm and flung open the doors of her expansive wardrobe. Dresses of every hue and fabric spilled out, a rainbow of silks and satins that seemed to whisper promises of elegance and refinement. Elianne's eyes sparkled as she browsed through the array, her slender fingers dancing across the garments.

"Ah, this one," Elianne exclaimed, withdrawing a dress that shimmered like moonlight. "This will suit you perfectly, Aurora."

The dress was a vision of ethereal beauty: a flowing white gown adorned with delicate flowers, its bodice would hug Alethea's curves before cascading down to her feet. A tantalizing slit from waist to hem would reveal a glimpse of her slender legs, while the sleeveless design would showcase her toned but gentle arms. Paired with white high platform heels, the overall effect was nothing short of enchanting.

Alethea's gaze widened as Elianne handed her the dress, her face a mirror of skepticism. "You expect me to wear this?" she asked, her voice laced with incredulity.

Elianne's smile was a mischievous curl of lips. "I don't just expect you to wear it, Aurora. I insist. You look lovely in armor, but sometimes, it's nice to reveal the beauty beneath."

Alethea's hesitation lingered, her hand instinctively reaching for the familiar weight of her armor. "But what if there's an emergency? I need to be prepared."

Elianne's laughter was a melodic chiming. "Aurora, you're a skilled warrior, and your magic is always at your fingertips. You can change into your armor in an instant if needed. Today, let's focus on unveiling the woman behind the warrior."

With a sigh, Alethea relented, allowing Elianne to guide her to a nearby mirror. As she slipped into the dress, the transformation was nothing short of magical. Her blackish hair with red stripes, normally tied back in a practical braid, cascaded down her back like a waterfall of night, framing her face with an allure she never knew she possessed.

Elianne stepped back, her eyes shining with satisfaction. "You look stunning, Aurora. Truly breathtaking."

Alethea's gaze met her reflection, and for a moment, she forgot to breathe. The woman staring back was a stranger – vulnerable, yet radiant. Her armor had always been her shield, her identity. Without it, she felt exposed, yet strangely liberated.

"I...I don't recognize myself," Alethea stammered, her fingers brushing the delicate flowers on the dress.

Elianne's smile softened. "That's because you've been hiding behind your armor for too long. It's time to show the world the beauty and kindness you possess, Aurora."

As Alethea's gaze lingered on her reflection, Elianne's thoughts drifted back to their earlier encounter with Prince Kieran and Princess Blake. She had noticed Alethea's lingering glance, the faint flush on her cheeks. It was a spark of interest, one Elianne intended to fan into a flame.

"Aurora," Elianne said, her voice low and conspiratorial, "I have a feeling today will be the start of something extraordinary."

Alethea's eyes met Elianne's, a mix of curiosity and trepidation swirling within them. "What do you mean?"

Elianne's smile was a subtle, knowing curve. "All in good time, my friend. All in good time."

Alethea scoffed, "You know, sometimes I don't get you at all."

Elianne rolled her eyes. "And you never will."

As they exited the chambers, Alethea felt a sense of trepidation. She was a warrior, not a courtier. Politics and romance were realms she'd never navigated. Yet, with Elianne by her side, she felt a sense of security, a trust that the princess would guide her through the complexities of royal life.
Elianne had managed to drag Alethea all the way to the garden. On the way, the guards exchanged confused looks upon seeing their General in such feminine clothes for the first time. They just couldn't believe their eyes.

"Great, we're here." She said.

"Um what are we doing here, in the garden, Elianne." Alethea asked.

"Well I'm gonna teach you to behave, talk, walk and act like a princess. You're always speaking in formality and give out an intimidating aura. Today, my aim is to teach you to how to give out that calm and relaxing aura." Said Elianne.

"Seriously Elianne. You dragged me out here for this. I swear it Elianne, one of these days, you will be the end of me." Alethea spat out.

"Come on. Don't be a joykill let's begin!"Elianne exclaimed excited.

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Prince Kieran was walking through the palace, his footsteps echoing through the walls of palace. He had just left Princess Blake for she had gone to her room. He discovered quite a lot about her. She seemed to have surprisingly piqued his interest a bit. She was skilled in archery and loved to managed the kingdom's affairs.

She also seemed like a kind person. Though she met some of his requirements, she seemed to view most of things she did as mere duty unlike Alethea who was truly passionate. She was 26, a year younger than him and even 2 years older than Alethea. However, Alethea exuded a mature aura and had a mature way of thinking compared to Princess Blake who gave off that fresh young aura and had
a completely different but not mature way of thinking.

It was safe to assume that Alethea beared the true qualities of a woman unlike Princess Blake who was still growing up. Not only that, but Alethea's foothold in diplomacy and politics were stronger than that of Princess Blake.

In the end, Princess Blake could not be compared to Alethea. Passing through the palace, Prince Kieran caught a glimpse of something completely astonishing. He halted his movements at the balcony upstairs and looked at the garden downstairs.