Train to become stronger

He replied, "Because I don't take you seriously."

I told him, "Whether you take me seriously or not, you have to accept the challenge."

He finally agreed. Joel was to be the judge, he announced that whoever reached 100 bullseye shots first would be the winner. We began the challenge immediately, and I ended up winning, which infuriated Ken. Everyone else was surprised by my victory, and I saw traces of admiration and envy. That was how I became the vice guard.

Training continued, and Annie approached me, saying, "We just started not too long ago, but you couldn't wait to show off, right?"

I couldn't take it anymore and retorted, "What's your problem with me, Annie? We weren't exactly good friends back at the academy, but at least we weren't enemies so why are you trying so hard to become my enemy?"

She just scoffed and walked away. "Ugh, that girl is crazy," I muttered to myself. I finished my training for the day and headed back to my room.

In the corridor, someone pulled me and pinned me against the wall. It was the prince. "My prince, what are you doing!?" I exclaimed.

"I heard you've become the vice guard. What are you planning, Nia?" he demanded. We were so close that I could feel his breath on my face, and my ears turned red.

I stuttered, "I-I-I'm not planning anything, just wanted to elevate my status. What's with you?"

The prince replied, "It better be that. Like I told you before, just be patient. I'll bring you proof soon."

He then let me go and left. I cursed under my breath, "That jerk, he's always pinning and pulling me." I decided to train my body to become stronger.

The days flew by, and the long-awaited banquet of officials was finally upon us. I felt a wave of nervous excitement; everything had to go perfectly. This was the moment I had been preparing for. I quickly dressed and reported to Joel. Together, we headed to the prince's chambers.

We waited outside for a while until the prince emerged. He spared me a brief glance before continuing on. We followed him quietly to the banquet hall. The palace was magnificent, with towering marble columns, intricate gold leaf designs on the ceilings, and lush tapestries depicting historic battles and royal achievements. The banquet hall itself was opulent, with long, ornate tables set with fine and gleaming silverware. Crystal chandeliers cast a warm, golden light over the assembled guests, who were dressed in their finest attire.

Once the prince took his seat, we were stationed to stand right beside him. I started planning the perfect moment to strike, but the prince seemed to be watching me closely.

Then came the king's grand arrival. Trumpets blared, and the large, gilded doors swung open to reveal the king, clad in regal robes and adorned with a crown encrusted with jewels. He walked with commanding presence, and the room fell silent in reverence.

My heart tightened as he entered. My parent's murderer. I wanted to rush at him and end it all immediately, but I knew I had to ensure the blame wouldn't fall on me. I needed to escape safely and find my sister.

The banquet began with a fanfare of trumpets and a grand announcement by the herald. Nobles and officials from across the kingdom filed into the hall, exchanging formal greetings and polite conversation. Servers in crisp uniforms moved gracefully between the tables, offering trays of hors d'oeuvres and goblets of sparkling wine. The air was filled with the soft hum of chatter and the clinking of glasses.

As I watched and waited for an opportunity, the music shifted, signaling the start of the officials' dance. This dance was a tradition, a formal display of the kingdom's unity and prosperity. After the dance, the serving of wine would commence, providing the perfect chance for my plan.

The prince joined the dance, giving me the moment I needed. I turned to Joel and said, "I'm feeling pressed. I'll be back soon." Without waiting for a response, I headed toward the royal kitchen. Just as I neared my destination, a shout rang out behind me, "Seize her!"

Two guards immediately grabbed me. Panic surged through me. Had I been caught? I hadn't even reached the kitchen yet. What if they searched my pocket and found the poison?

The person who shouted approached, and it was Joel. "Oh, Joel, what are you doing?" I asked nervously.

"I'm sorry, Bella, but the prince ordered that I not let you go anywhere without me following you," he replied.

"I don't understand. I'm not the one you're protecting."

"It's the prince's orders. Please try to understand," he insisted. Then he pointed another way. "That way leads to the bathroom. Let's go."

Reluctantly, I followed him to the bathroom and then back to the banquet. "Ugh, damn this wretched prince," I cursed under my breath.