The Moonlight Swordsman

The echoes of Aizel's footsteps reverberated from the elegant walls as he walked towards the hall.

He ate breakfast with everyone and chatted with Vespara and Daisy.

The morning passed slowly, with just idle talk and cutlery clinking to break the solitude. Aizel couldn't help but observe how everyone seemed to be restless as they aimlessly fidgeted and fussed with their food.

Soon, the trio discovered they had plenty of free time, with the hours stretching out before them like a huge, open plain.

Their heads were devoid of ideas, and their hands were lazy and restless. The approaching royal gala, the only notable event for the day, seemed impossibly far away in the distance.

As Daisy excused herself from the table and went into the restroom, Vespara took advantage of the chance to get closer to Aizel.

"Does Daisy know about the pink-haired woman?" She asked, her words dripping with caution.

"First, her name is Alora. And no, no one knows about her except for you. I hope you can keep it that way."

"What was that place where she pulled me off? There was a tool in which some pictures were displayed, it appears just like the normal room but it was more advance."

He quickly realized that Alora would have brought Vespara to his apartment to have a talk with her.

"Well, that was her home. I don't know anything about it and where it is.

"And you should avoid talking about her; she could literally hear and know everything, so be careful."

Vespara's eyes widened with surprise and awareness.

"Who is she? Is she from another kingdom?"

"I told you I had lost my memory, right? The only thing I know is that she is my childhood friend."

"What are you guys talking about?" Suddenly Daisy interrupted.

"Nothing darling. I was just asking how Aizel is going to ask you out after the dance."

"Oh yes, Vespara is right, wait a minute, what?"

"Hahaha…."

The hours flew quickly as they talked and enjoyed each other's company throughout the afternoon.

*****

In Evening…

The magnificent carriages of wealthy families arrived in Felgura one after the other throughout the day.

They made their way through the streets, towards the city's grand royal castle in the north. The castle was built on low cliffs, far from the busy towns below.

Meanwhile, outside the pear inn, a luxurious carriage stood in waiting.

Aizel, Vespara, and Daisy left the inn and boarded the carriage that would take them to the royal gala.

Aizel's gaze swept across the two women in front of him, noting how similar their clothing was.

Daisy's yellow dress, the very same she had worn on their visit to the potion shop, hugged her curves perfectly.

Vespara's dress, in a soft shade of purple that matched her hair, was cut from the same pattern.

Both dresses were meant to show off their shoulders, and their necklines were adorned with exquisite jewels. The gowns cascaded down their bodies, emphasizing their curves and concluding in a daring slit that displayed just enough of their legs to be alluring.

"I must say, you both look gorgeous."

"Oh my, did our pretty boy compliment us for the first time?"

"Thank you Aizel, even you look handsome," Daisy said with a blush.

Aizel's attire was nothing short of regal, befitting of a king.

He donned a long coat in a deep, rich black hue that exuded an air of power and authority.

The vest coat he wore underneath was of the same color, with delicate gold embroidery adding a touch of elegance. His pants and boots complemented the rest of his outfit perfectly.

His half cap, which was attached at the back shoulder, blew in the breeze, giving him an even more regal look as if he were a monarch inspecting his domain.

"I am glad for Vespara to give me this dress, even in black, but isn't this too much?"

"What are you saying? Everyone is going to be dressed like that, believe me." Vespara replied, shrugging her shoulder.

"Okay, if you say so,"

Aziel's attention was drawn to a low hill on which the majestic structure was erected as their carriage made its way towards the royal castle.

The castle was nothing short of breathtaking—a great architectural masterpiece. Its enormous shape stood out against the darkness, bathed in a warm, golden glow that appeared to illuminate every nook and cranny of the surrounding terrain.

Pointed spires rose up into the night sky, each one a testament to the grandeur and power of the kingdom's rulers.

It was a sight that left Aizel breathless, and he couldn't help but feel a sense of reverence and awe as they drew closer to the grand home of the royal family.

"It's magnificent; I have never seen something like this," he muttered under his breath.

"Well, they're royals for a reason," Vespara commented.

"Oh, I remember, the king is not present as he is away for some reason. However, the Queen and the prince are, and most importantly you should pay attention to the princess.

"She will lead the institute team from our kingdom. So, I am sure she will approach you.

"She isn't like any other sweet and cheery princess. She is cold and emotionless and if she deems you are not ready for the tournament then even I won't be able to help you,"

"What? Is she that strong?" He asked in shock.

"No. But she is dotted by the king. Her words are the king's words.

"Now you don't want me to go against the king, right? She is strong. I think she and Soren can go toe to toe.

"What about me?"

"You will die,"

"What? I went toe to toe with Soren,"

"Yeah, well that was only practice, remember? Did you forget about his powers? Not only that he even has unique power."

Aizel's eyes went wide.

"What is his unique power? Do you know?"

"How would I know that? And you know about unique powers?"

"Oh yes, Alora told me about that."

"Hmm, well you are strong but not quite on the level of Soren and the princess for now."

"Don't listen to her bullshit; small insects can't comprehend us; just ignore it." Suddenly, Alora's voice rang in his mind.