Chapter 21 - 21 - The Price of Power
Chapter 21: - The Price of Power?
It was already night in Yunatea, and Princess Alora, who had planned to meet Broken again that evening, had instructed her servants to set up a tent near the Shrine of Regeneration. Knowing that players who log out of Yunatea would return to the same place when they logged back in, she intended to wait at the same spot for his return.
Alora was seated in her makeshift tent, which was surprisingly accommodating for up to twenty people. On one side was a dining table, and on the other, a bathroom with a hot spring bath.
Outside the tent, dozens of royal knights, whose average level was above 200, stood guard near the Shrine of Regeneration. This unusual sight immediately caused fear among the players who approached the Shrine, prompting them to retreat quickly.
"There will be a big war in this place, and if you don't want to get hurt, get out of here now!" one player shouted.
"Wow, could this mean an exciting event? Is there a quest we can get if we join the battle?"
"I'm not sure. I think this has something to do with the player killers. It looks like Princess Alora is about to deal with this problem once and for all."
"I'm curious about how big the battle will be here."
News about the possible war near the Shrine of Regeneration spread quickly, and some players were even curious about the kingdom's steps against the mysterious organization threatening the realm.
Princess Alora, engrossed in the papers before her, heard her servant's voice from outside, pleading for permission. "Your Highness," the servant said, "there is a guest who wishes to see you."
She lifted her face. "Yes, I've been expecting her. Please let her in," she said, her voice soft and gentle.
Moments later, a young woman stepped into Alora's luxurious tent. She was around nineteen years old, standing at a height of 1.63 meters (5.35 feet). Floating above her head were the words "Elincia"—she was a player.
Elincia was a renowned Mage Marauder of level 210, ranked within the top one hundred players of Immortal Legacy. Her attire consisted of a combination of silver and purple garments, seamlessly blended with a robe. She had shoulder-length icy blue hair, and her eyes were a captivating deep blue.
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"Your Highness," Elincia greeted with a respectful bow, her voice steady. "I came as soon as I heard the news. It seems we have quite a situation on our hands."
"Elincia," Alora said quietly, "I'm sure I've asked you not to use honorifics too much. I mean, you players aren't used to that, right?"
"Princess Alora," Elincia replied politely, with a hint of respect in her voice. "I hold you in the highest esteem, and it is my pleasure to demonstrate it. As mages, we have had much contact with the royal family, so we are quite familiar with the proper etiquette of interacting with them."
"Alright," Alora said slowly, her porcelain complexion highlighting her serious expression. She had a regal air about her as if she truly was a perfect princess, constantly vigilant for whatever she might face.
"Have you got any updates on what I asked of you?" Alora continued.
Elincia's face lit up upon hearing Alora's words; her gaze was sharp and discerning.
"Princess Alora," Elincia began, her tone serious. "I have made some discoveries as to why the Cult of the Darkened Flame is making such movements. I apologize if I have been too blunt."
"What is your opinion on this?" Princess Alora queried.
"I believe they are attempting to use their dark magics to gain control of the kingdom," Elincia answered. "I'm not good at sugar-coating, but I have seen the involvement of the king's younger brother in this movement. It's apparent he's trying to remove you from the position of the crowned princess and take your place on the throne. If they keep moving forward, they may even try to confront and harm you to corner you."
Elincia took a deep breath and exhaled slowly. "I'm sorry if my explanation wasn't clear enough, but I have all the evidence and justification for what I said. I'm confident this information is reliable, and I'm willing to bet my name as a top 100-ranked player in Yunatea on it," she finished.
Alora nodded slowly after hearing Elincia's explanation. "I understand your concern, and I can confirm it, Elincia," she said. "All this is happening because of the struggle for the throne."
Alora felt the weight of her position, as various factions were cornering her due to her being a half-elf. Despite the pressure, she was determined to stand her ground, as she had received her mandate from the king.
"I think you've given me enough information," she said firmly. "Let me know if you need assistance from me, Elincia."
"You don't need to worry, Princess," Elincia assured her. "We, as players, will be thrilled to have the chance to be part of such a grand event, especially since it is a battle for the royal throne. I wouldn't miss this opportunity for the world. So, I can assure you, my guild and I will support you in defending the throne. However..."
"However, what?" Alora prompted.
"It seems it will become increasingly difficult for us to meet you after this. They are already collaborating with top players to limit my communication with you," Elincia explained.
Alora nodded slowly in response. "I believe the players have a unique viewpoint on the events occurring in Yunatea, and I will take measures to address this," she commented.
"I will gather the players you need," Elincia promised confidently. "I'll make sure to find the most skilled and reliable ones, and I will help you form an army of players to ensure you're prepared for the big war that may be on the horizon."
"I leave this matter in your capable hands," Alora said confidently.
"Alright, Princess," Elincia said, giving a salute. "It was nice meeting you today. I'll see you soon." She waved, then rushed out of the magnificent tent.
A short while later, a group of Princess Alora's servants entered her tent. Two of her female servants respectfully bowed as they approached her.
"Your Highness," one of them spoke up, "we have prepared the water for your bath."
Alora nodded appreciatively. "Thank you," she replied, getting up from her seat.
The two servants then assisted her in removing the heavy armor she had been wearing.
Meanwhile, within the luxurious tent, a man suddenly appeared, dressed only in his underwear. Confused, Broken logged back into the game and was surprised to find himself in a completely unfamiliar location.
"Where am I?" he wondered out loud, furrowing his brow. "I should have been near the Shrine of Regeneration, right?"
Broken stood in shock, unable to comprehend what was happening. His mouth went dry and a chill ran through his body as he took in the sight before him. In front of him stood a woman in her undergarments, with two female servants by her side.
Her long red hair flowed down her back, adding to her stunning appearance. As their eyes met, a wave of fear washed over him. He felt like his life was about to come to an end.
"Princess Alora?" he managed to say, his voice barely audible.
The female servants then shouted, "Intruder! Pervert!"