Serendipitous Nexus: The Fateful Encounter (Part 2)

However, amidst the unfolding plans, another opportunity beckoned. An engagement with Loria, my dear friend, awaited—a chance for us to frolic in each other's company. Before meeting Loria again, I secretly meet with Asvin in an empty room. Asvin was curious about my purpose but I didn't tell him my reason for meeting him in person. This is because my intention is to hypnotize him with my spell and I asked him to lie if any person from the Palace asked him about the Advance Potion and ordered him to lie about giving it to me. 

During my meeting with the King and Queen, King Alaric has a doubt and wants to ask Asvin himself to prove my statement. The new ability that I just got yesterday is clairvoyance and telepathy is surprising for me. Later I found out that ability appeared from the passive skill that I obtained after casting a random spell in Jake's reading room. It is fortunate for me to have this ability that was really convenient for me.

Settling my business with him, I decided to go out again.

Elijah's eagerness to return to the nursery home for more playtime was palpable, his youthful exuberance contagious. His animated recollections of his friends from the previous day filled me with gratitude for his sociable nature, an attribute that seemed to be enhanced by his cherubic countenance.

At the grand entrance of the royal palace, Loria personally greeted me, ushering me inside with a warm welcome.

Navigating the palace's intricate corridors and opulent chambers as a mere six-year-old, I was mindful to conceal any peculiar behaviors. Along the way, Loria and I exchanged anecdotes about ourselves, our chatter gradually evolving into a deepening rapport. After sharing much about my own life, I decided to probe her perspective on residing within the castle walls.

"Living here must make you quite content, I imagine." I told her.

Loria, visibly pondering my words, inquired for further clarity. "What do you mean?"

"With all these splendid surroundings at your disposal, it seems like you have a lot to enjoy. What do you usually do here?" I explained further.

"Well, it's not as glamorous as it appears. The routine becomes monotonous after a while. I wake up early, attend private lessons, learn magic, practice self-defense, etiquette, delve into economics, delve into beauty, and engage in all sorts of what some might consider rather dull activities."

"That's quite a rigorous schedule you've got. But what about spending time with your friends?" I asked her.

"Socializing isn't exactly my strong suit. Most of my friends only seem to emerge during gatherings or parties, and even then, our interactions can be quite superficial. But…"

My understanding smile encouraged her to continue her thought.

"It's possible they might take your presence for granted, I suppose." I try to guess her inner thoughts.

Loria's silent agreement spoke volumes, our unspoken connection growing stronger.

"Well, that's actually a wonderful starting point." I comfort her.

"Huh?" She looked puzzled.

"You see, if you've never ventured into the world of adventure games, then you're in for a treat." I told her to be more wild and act like a kid rather than try to be perfect like someone's expectations.

Loria's curiosity piqued, her interest evident in her wide-eyed excitement.

"Let's embark on an exploratory journey together." I invited her to join me.

And thus, with the prospect of introducing Loria to the concept of adventure games, we set out to discover the palace in a new light—unfolding its grandeur, unlocking its mysteries, and fostering a bond that transcended the constraints of a life steeped in royal protocol.

…

Brimming with youthful excitement, Loria and I dashed through the ornate hallways of the royal palace, our laughter echoing through the grand corridors. Even the adults present could only sigh and shake their heads, their words stifled by Loria's royal status. I reassured her with a smile, embodying the spirit of our shared adventure.

"Don't worry, Loria. They won't scold us. Wanna know why?" I asked.

"Because we're just kids!" With conviction, I reminded her that her princess status shouldn't restrict her, that she had the freedom to break away from the usual rules. Having me as her partner meant she needn't feel alone or apprehensive. Together, we revealed in the thrill of our escapade, dashing from room to room, leaving traces of our mirth behind.

Unbeknownst to Loria, however, my true motive remained concealed – my search for the hidden passage to the royal prison. I craftily proposed a game of hide and seek, offering to be the seeker first. My clairvoyant abilities ensured I found Loria with ease. Simultaneously, I unearthed the concealed stairs leading to the depths of the palace.

As the roles reversed and Loria counted aloud, I seized the moment to fade into invisibility. My presence cloaked by magic, I navigated the palace corridors without detection. I headed straight for the guarded door, waiting for the opportune moment when the guards would open it for mealtime. Swiftly slipping through, I descended a long staircase into the heart of the palace's bowels, where the prisoners were held.