THE ASSASSIN'S FLAME

CHAPTER TWENTY-FIVE

He had seen a mesmerising sight of Alethea. She, who was always clad in armour with her hair tied for the first time, looked utterly different.

She was wearing a white flowy gown with a long slit from her waistline to her feet showcasing her beautiful physique. The arms of the dress were sleeveless showcasing her extremely fair skin. He hadn't noticed her skin was this fair until today.

The dress was not tight but did justice to her hourglass shape which could clearly be seen. He couldn't believe his eyes. This had been the first time he had seen her dress like a girl.

In the outfit, she gave off a soft and entrancing aura. He was captivated by her striking beauty as her long black hair with red stripes flowed freely. He had been watching her for quite some time and indeed, he had fallen for her harder.

Just like that, two weeks had passed the arrival of Princess Blake. Prince Kieran had concluded to Blake that they were not meant to be and she understood. However, within that time limit of two weeks, he felt as if Alethea was avoiding him. Could she be jealous? In fact, he couldn't risk toying with her feelings anymore. He planned to confess to her tonight.

The guests from Willire had left early this morning. And Alethea would be back from her patrol this morning as well and would as usual report to father in his private chambers.

Chapter 9: An Unforeseen Assignment

The opulent corridors of the royal palace seemed to whisper secrets as Alethea navigated their winding paths, her armor glinting in the soft light. Her destination was King Thane's chambers, where she would provide a routine report on the kingdom's patrols. Yet, her thoughts were elsewhere, ensnared by the very person she had been avoiding: Prince Kieran.

Why did his smile linger in her mind like a ghostly impression? Why did his laughter echo through her dreams? Alethea scolded herself, her mental rebuke sharp as a slap. She was the kingdom's General, sworn to protect its rulers, not indulge in frivolous emotions. Still, the admission echoed within her: she had fallen for Prince Kieran.

As she turned a corner, the grand doors of King Thane's chambers came into view. Alethea composed herself, shaking off the unwanted thoughts. She raised her hand, knocking firmly on the door.

"Enter," King Thane's resonant voice called out.

Alethea pushed open the door, her gaze sweeping the room. Prince Kieran stood beside his father, their faces mirroring each other's seriousness. Alethea's heart skipped a beat, but she maintained her composure, greeting the pair with a respectful bow.

"Your Majesty," she said, her voice steady. "Prince Kieran."

King Thane nodded, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "Ah, General Alethea. Report on the patrols, if you please."

Alethea launched into a concise summary of the kingdom's security, her words crisp and professional. King Thane listened intently, his expression thoughtful.

Once she finished, King Thane leaned forward, his elbows resting on the armrests of his throne. "General Alethea, I have a favor to request."

Alethea's gaze met the King's, her expression attentive. "Please, Your Majesty, ask ahead."

King Thane's smile was warm. "Prince Kieran will be visiting the Silvermist Bathhouse this evening, seeking relaxation. I'd like you to accompany him, ensuring his safety."

Alethea's thoughts stumbled, but her response was immediate. "Of course, Your Majesty. I'll ensure Prince Kieran's protection."

Prince Kieran's eyes met hers, a flicker of amusement dancing within them. Alethea's cheeks warmed, but she maintained her stoic demeanor.

King Thane nodded, his expression serious. "I appreciate your diligence, General. Your presence will put my mind at ease."

As Alethea bowed, accepting the assignment, Prince Kieran's gaze lingered on her. She sensed a hidden purpose behind the King's request, but duty bound her to comply.

"I'll prepare immediately, Your Majesty," Alethea said, turning to leave.

"General Alethea?" King Thane's voice halted her.

"Yes, Your Majesty?"

"See that Prince Kieran enjoys his evening. He's been... troubled of late."

Alethea's gaze met Prince Kieran's, their eyes locking in a silent understanding. "I'll ensure his evening is pleasant, Your Majesty."

As she exited the chambers, Alethea's thoughts swirled. What lay behind King Thane's request? Was this merely a precaution, or was there more to the assignment? And why did Prince Kieran's presence stir such turmoil within her?

Meanwhile, Prince Kieran watched Alethea depart, a satisfied smile spreading across his face. His plan, concocted with his father's guidance, was set in motion. Tonight, at the Silvermist Bathhouse, he would uncover the truth behind Alethea's reserved facade.

"Father, I appreciate your assistance," Prince Kieran said, turning to King Thane.

King Thane's eyes twinkled. "Anything to see you happy, son. And perhaps, General Alethea will reveal her hidden vulnerabilities."

Prince Kieran chuckled. "I'll make sure to complete my mission, father."

As the door closed behind Alethea, Prince Kieran's thoughts drifted to the evening ahead. The Silvermist Bathhouse, renowned for its serene ambiance, would provide the perfect backdrop for his plan.

Tonight, under the veil of relaxation, Prince Kieran would unravel the enigmatic General Alethea, exposing the secrets she kept hidden beneath her armor.