Princess's POV
It was seven in the evening when I stood before the King and Queen in my father's private office.
The golden light of sunset filtered through tall windows, casting long shadows across the polished floor. In my hands was a bundle of documents — reports, requests, pleas for aid.
I stepped forward and placed them neatly on my father's desk.
"I have reviewed all the petitions," I said clearly. "Requests for assistance from neighboring villages, reinforcement of the northern borders due to increased monster activity, and supplies for the settlements that were destroyed last month. I've approved the dispatch of soldiers, lumber, and carpenters to help them rebuild."
My father, King Aldric, did not immediately look up.
"Good work," he said calmly. "You may leave."
I did not move.
A few seconds passed.
He lifted his gaze slowly.
"Is there something else you wish to tell me?"
My mother, Queen Seraphina, watched me with gentle curiosity. "What is it, my daughter?"
For a moment, I hesitated.
I faced war councils without trembling.
Yet asking this felt strangely more difficult.
"I would like permission… to go out tonight."
My father's brow rose.
"At this hour?"
Mother tilted her head slightly. "And where will you be going? With whom?"
"There is a new café in the city center," I answered smoothly. "I will go with Kara and Raven."
A café.
Not a tavern.
Certainly not a tavern.
Father leaned back in his chair, fingers steepled.
"You are still a target," he said firmly. "You know that. I cannot allow you to wander the city freely."
A familiar frustration rose in my chest — but I kept my voice gentle.
"I will not be alone. Kara and Raven will be with me. You know how capable they are." I stepped closer. "I will be disguised. No one will recognize me."
He remained silent.
I swallowed.
"Father… I have never asked you for anything. I follow every instruction. I attend every meeting. I fulfill every duty." My voice softened. "Please. Just this once."
Mother placed a graceful hand on his shoulder.
"My dear," she said warmly to him, "she will be safe with Kara and the Huntress Raven. You trust them, do you not?"
Father exhaled slowly — the sound heavy with reluctance.
"…Very well," he said at last. "But only this once."
Relief flooded me so quickly I nearly smiled like a child.
"Thank you, Father—"
He raised a hand, interrupting me.
"However," he added, eyes glinting with amusement, "I must admit I am surprised you came to ask for permission instead of sneaking out as you usually do."
I froze.
"I… don't know what you mean," I replied carefully. "Who would sneak out?"
He smiled.
"Do you truly believe I am unaware of every time you slip beyond the palace walls?"
Mother laughed softly.
"You must have wondered why no one ever found out or stopped you," she said. "There was always a knight following at a distance. Watching. Never interfering."
I stared at them.
"You— you knew?"
"Of course," Father replied calmly. "I would never allow my daughter to wander unprotected."
Embarrassment and disbelief warred inside me.
"All this time…" I muttered.
He regarded me thoughtfully. "So tell me — why ask for permission tonight?"
I hesitated only briefly.
"Because," I said with a faint smile, "someone told me not to sneak out anymore."
Father studied me carefully.
Mother smiled knowingly.
I bowed slightly. "Good night , love you ."
And before they could say more, I turned and left — heart racing not from fear, but anticipation.
When I entered my chambers, Kara and Betty were waiting.
"Well?" Kara asked immediately. "Did the King allow it?"
I nodded brightly. "He did."
Kara blinked. "That easily?"
"Not exactly."
I turned to Betty. "Please prepare something simple. Unremarkable. And a cloak."
Raven would arrive soon.
I changed into black skirt and a plain white blouse. I tied my hair and draped a dark cloak over my shoulders, pulling the hood low enough to shadow half my face.
I turned to Kara. "I'm ready."
She smirked.
"You seem very excited. Are you excited because it's your first tavern visit … or because Raven will be there?"
I grinned — unable to suppress it.
"Both."
We exited the palace and made our way toward the main gates.
My pulse quickened the closer we came.
And then I saw her.
Raven stood speaking with two of the gate guards. The torchlight flickered against her dark clothing, catching silver strands in her hair.
When we approached, the guards bowed.
Raven dipped her head slightly toward me.
"Good evening," she said, a faint smile touching her lips. "Are you ready?"
"Good evening," I replied. "Yes, we are."
One of the guards added, "We hope to see you at training one day."
Raven nodded politely. "I'll try."
As we began walking away from the palace, Kara nudged her lightly.
"What were you talking about?"
"They train under Master Elyra," Raven replied. "They were telling me how strict she is. How relentless, and how strong."
I smiled faintly. "That sounds like her."
The palace gates slowly disappeared behind us.
Ahead lay the city — alive with lantern light and distant laughter.
For the first time in a long while, I was not walking as a princess bound by walls and titles.
I was simply a girl.
The night air was cool. The streets grew busier as we approached the city center. Music drifted faintly through the air — lively, unrestrained, This is the first time I've gone out at this time.
I glanced at Raven.
She walked slightly ahead, naturally positioning herself where she could see everything.
Protective, Always.
I felt my chest warm.
Perhaps tonight…
I would step further into her world.
And perhaps, beneath the noise of the tavern and the laughter of strangers, I would learn something more about the girl who I fall for.
The city lights flickered ahead.
And my heart beat in time with each step we took toward the unknown night.
I quickened my pace until I was walking beside Raven.
"How are you today?" I asked, trying to sound casual. "Your wounds… are they better?"
"I'm fine," she replied calmly. "They've almost healed."
Almost.
She glanced at me. "And your training? Do you still wish to continue?"
I nodded immediately. "Of course. But only after you've fully recovered."
A faint smile touched her lips. "Then we'll resume tomorrow. I'm well enough."
Tomorrow.
The word alone sent a quiet thrill through me.
She looked at me again, more thoughtfully this time. "Did the King truly give you permission to come out this late? To a tavern?"
I smiled slightly. "Yes. I told him I would be going out tonight."
A pause.
"I did not mention it was a tavern," I added lightly. "I said café."
Raven stared at me for a moment — then chuckled.
"And what if someone followed you, like every other time? If they discovered you were at a tavern, your father would not be pleased."
I slowed slightly. "Is someone following me?"
She laughed softly. "Not tonight. But every time you snuck out alone, there was always someone trailing you at a distance."
I blinked. "There was?"
"At first, I thought he meant you harm," she continued. "But his aura felt familiar. It was the knight who always stands beside the King. That's when I realized — your father sent him."
I groaned quietly. "So he truly knew all along…"
Raven's eyes softened. "Kings rarely miss what concerns their daughters."
We walked in silence for a few moments more.
Then she stopped.
"We're here."
I lifted my gaze.
Before us stood a large, aging two-story building. The upper floor was dark and silent, but the first floor glowed warmly — lit by mana stones and hanging lanterns. The faded paint on its walls told stories of countless nights like this.
A wooden sign creaked gently in the breeze.
Maris Tavern.
The door burst open.
Laughter spilled into the street along with warm light and music.
And then she stepped out.
Ayla.
She spotted us immediately and approached with an easy, confident smile.
"Good evening," she greeted. "You're a little late — but I'll forgive you."
Her eyes slid to Raven.
With a smirk, she stepped closer and cupped Raven's face, tilting it down slightly.
"Let me see the cut on your forehead."
Something inside me snapped.
Raven gently pulled back. "I'm fine."
But Ayla had already wrapped an arm around her in a familiar embrace — far too familiar — and glanced at me with a knowing smile.
"So you came too, Princess. I didn't think you would."
Raven looked at her. "How did you know she was a princess?"
Ayla laughed lightly. "She told me she might come disguised when we met at the orphanage, don't you remember."
Her eyes flickered back to me.
"I hope this place doesn't disappoint you," she added smoothly. "It's not exactly noble standard."
I ignored the remark.
Instead, I caught the way she looked at Raven.
Too close.
Too comfortable.
Kara leaned toward me and whispered, "I think Ayla's flirting. Look at that shy smile."
I clenched my jaw.
Flirting?
Was she?
Ayla suddenly reached for Raven's hand and intertwined their fingers.
My vision narrowed.
"So, Princess," she said sweetly, "ready to go inside?"
I didn't answer.
I couldn't.
Kara discreetly pinched me from behind.
Ayla noticed — and laughed.
That laugh only made the heat in my chest burn hotter.
Raven gently pulled her hand free and stepped closer to me.
"Princess?" she asked quietly. "Are you alright?"
I forced a smile.
"Yes. I'm fine. Let's go in."
She studied me for a moment longer than necessary.
Then turned to Ayla. "Are we waiting for someone?"
Ayla glanced over Raven's shoulder.
"No need," she said, smiling brightly. "She's here."
I followed her gaze.
And then I saw her.
A young woman with wavy golden hair that shimmered under the lantern light. Her green eyes sparkled when they landed on Raven.
Before I could process what was happening, she ran forward —
And leapt into Raven's arms.
Her arms wrapped around Raven's neck; her feet lifted off the ground entirely. Raven instinctively caught her, steady and strong.
Kara and I stood frozen.
"First Ayla," Kara muttered under her breath. "Now this one?"
The girl laughed joyfully. "Raven! Finally! I've missed you so much!"
She stepped back just enough to look at her — then hugged her again.
"You've changed," she said brightly. "You're taller. And even more handsome."
Handsome?
Raven laughed softly. "You haven't changed much either. Still beautiful."
Beautiful.
Did she just—
I felt something twist painfully inside me.
Was she complimenting her?
Flirting?
I couldn't tell.
The girl finally noticed us and stepped down.
"Oh, I'm sorry," she said politely. "I didn't realize you were with friends."
Raven smiled gently at her.
"Let me introduce you. This is Kara. And this is Lyria. They're my friends."
Then she gestured toward the girl.
"This is Aurora. She's a former huntress… and a healer."
A small pause.
"And she's Ayla's girlfriend ."
Girlfriend?!.
The word echoed loudly in my mind.
Did I hear that correctly?
Aurora smiled warmly. "It's nice to meet you."
I turned slowly toward Ayla.
"Girlfriend ?" I repeated.
Ayla stepped beside Aurora, sliding her hand into hers effortlessly.
"Yes," she said with a playful smirk. "My girlfriend."
And then—
She leaned forward and kissed Aurora on the lips.
Kara and I stared at them in stunned silence.
The world seemed to tilt slightly.
The jealousy that had been burning inside me flickered… then shifted into something else entirely.
Confusion.
Relief.
Embarrassment.
I had been angry.
Furious.
Over nothing.
Raven stood beside me quietly.
I dared a glance at her.
She was watching Ayla and Aurora with nothing but calm fondness — the look of someone observing friends.
Not lovers.
Not rivals.
Friends.
The realization hit me like cool water over flames.
Had I truly been jealous?
That easily?
That intensely?
I felt my cheeks grow warm beneath the hood of my cloak.
Kara leaned closer and whispered, barely containing her amusement, "You were about to declare war five minutes ago."
"Be quiet," I muttered.
Raven turned slightly toward me.
"You look pale," she said softly. "Are you sure you're alright?"
I met her eyes.
And for a brief, breathless second, the noise of the tavern faded into the background.
"Yes," I answered more honestly this time.
But inside —
My heart was racing for reasons that had nothing to do with taverns… or danger… or kings.
And everything to do with the girl standing beside me.
Aurora stepped forward again, her fingers slipping naturally around Raven's wrist.
"You disappeared for two years," she said warmly. "We have so much to talk about. Come — let's go inside."
She pulled her gently toward the tavern door.
Ayla lingered beside me.
With a smug little smile, she leaned closer.
"Yes," she said softly, "that is my girlfriend."
I looked at her without responding.
If she has someone she loves… then why was she so close to Raven?
Why the touching? The teasing? The hand holding?
"Why so quiet?" Ayla asked, clearly entertained. "Don't you want to ask me something?"
"I don't know what you're talking about," I replied evenly.
She laughed — light, knowing.
"There's no need to ask. Your face says everything." She tilted her head slightly. "Yes. I did it on purpose. Getting close to Raven. Holding her hand. Hugging her."
I stopped walking.
"Why are you telling me this? I never asked you anything."
Her laughter rang louder, enough that Raven and Aurora glanced back at us in confusion.
Ayla lowered her voice but kept that mischievous glint in her eyes.
"You're amusing."
"…I am amusing?"
"Every time I touched her," she said, studying my expression closely, "your face changed completely. And you couldn't do a thing about it."
Heat rose to my cheeks despite myself.
"It has nothing to do with me," I said calmly. "We're just friends."
Ayla's smile sharpened.
"Just friends?" she echoed. "Then you wouldn't mind if I helped Raven meet someone. You know she has plenty of admirers in the Guild. I think it's about time she entered a relationship."
My jaw tightened.
I said nothing.
Could said nothing.
She watched my silence and laughed again.
"This is why I can't stop teasing you."
Then, gradually, her tone shifted. The playfulness faded.
"But listen carefully," she said more seriously. "Nothing lasts forever. If you don't take your chance, it may disappear. Think about that."
Her eyes softened just slightly.
"You care about her. That much is obvious. If you ever need help… you can rely on me."
Before I could respond, Raven called out:
"Are you two coming?"
Ayla stepped back as if nothing had happened.
We pushed the tavern door open.
The warmth hit me first.
Heat. Laughter. The scent of roasted meat and ale.
The tavern was nearly full — mostly hunters, a few civilians, everyone loud and alive. Glasses clinked. Boots thudded against wooden floors. Someone in the corner was playing a stringed instrument badly but enthusiastically.
It was chaotic.
And yet…
Comfortable.
I found myself looking around in quiet fascination.
Raven moved slightly closer to me.
"You're very quiet," she said softly. "If you don't like it, we can leave."
I shook my head quickly. "No. I like it. I was just observing."
I looked around again.
"It feels warm," I admitted. "Not just physically. It feels… real."
Her lips curved gently.
"I'm glad you like it. But if you ever want to go, tell me."
I nodded.
Then a broad-shouldered older woman approached us with a bright smile.
"Raven! You're here!"
She pulled Raven into a tight embrace.
"I heard you were trapped inside a gate. I was worried sick."
"I'm alright," Raven replied gently. "Thank you."
The woman waved us forward. "Come in. Everyone's been waiting."
We followed her deeper into the tavern, toward a long table at the back.
I recognized the faces — the hunters from the forest.
Raven stepped forward.
"Good evening. Sorry I'm late."
Captain Sam leaned back in her chair. "You're barely late."
She gestured to two young men. "Bring more chairs. Looks like we've doubled in size."
Kara and I offered polite smiles.
"Good evening," I said. "I hope you don't mind us joining."
Captain Sam grinned. "Any friend of Raven's is welcome."
Something about that sentence warmed me unexpectedly.
We sat.
I ended up between Kara and Raven.
Across from us were Aurora and Ayla, a young man named Chris, and a healer I vaguely remembered — Elise. Beside Raven sat another hunter, Daniel. At the head of the table, Captain Sam presided like a commander even off duty.
Laughter resumed almost immediately.
Stories of hunts. Complaints about contracts. Teasing.
I watched Raven.
This was a version of her I had not seen before.
Relaxed.
Teased.
Smiling without restraint.
Raven rolled her eyes faintly — but she was smiling.
A real smile.
Not the restrained, careful one she wore at the palace.
And I felt it then.
A strange ache in my chest, This was her world, People who knew her before me, Who laughed with her without hesitation, Who touched her without second thought.
Where did I fit in this world? , A princess disguised in a cloak.
An outsider.
Ayla's earlier words echoed in my mind.
Nothing lasts forever. If you don't take your chance…
Raven leaned slightly toward me.
"Are you sure you're alright?" she asked again, quieter this time.
"Yes," I said honestly.
Then, after a brief pause, I added:
"I like seeing you like this."
Her expression shifted — subtle surprise.
"Like what?"
"Happy."
For a moment, the noise of the tavern seemed distant.
She held my gaze.
And something softened in her eyes.
"…I am," she said quietly.
The world around us roared with laughter, But in that small space between us —
It felt still.
And I realized something with startling clarity, I was not afraid of hunters.
Or taverns.
Or High Mages.
I was afraid of losing my place beside her.
And that fear burned far brighter than jealousy ever had.
The tavern owner, Maris, approached our table again, her presence warm and commanding.
"Do you need anything else?" she asked cheerfully.
Raven glanced at me. "What will you drink?"
I hesitated.
"I've never had beer before," I admitted quietly. "It was always wine at banquets… or refined drinks prepared by servants. But today… I want to try beer." I looked at her. "May I?"
She smiled — not teasing, not amused — just gentle.
"Of course you may. You can do whatever you want. You don't need permission."
The words settled somewhere deep inside me.
You don't need permission.
She turned to Maris. "Two beers. And one non-alcoholic drink for me."
Maris nodded and left.
I blinked. "Non-alcoholic? You don't drink?"
Ayla laughed from across the table. "Our Raven doesn't drink alcohol."
Raven shook her head. "That's not entirely true. I'm just… weak when it comes to alcohol."
I tilted my head. "How weak?"
She considered for a moment. "One glass of beer is enough to make me drunk."
I laughed softly. "Oh? Poor little thing. Can't even handle a drink. Don't worry — you're still young. You have time to learn."
She looked at me with a slow smirk.
"Are you mocking me, Princess?" she murmured. "And what about you? Can you hold your drink?"
I leaned slightly closer, confidence flowing through me.
"No matter how much I drink, I don't get drunk easily."
Then I lowered my voice and whispered near her ear,
"If you do get drunk… I'll take care of you."
She chuckled under her breath.
"Thank you for your generous offer," she said quietly, "but I'll refuse. I don't want to embarrass myself in front of you."
That only made my curiosity grow.
"Now I want to see you drunk even more," I teased. "What would it take to make you drink?"
She laughed softly. "Definitely not today. Maybe another time. With fewer people. So I don't disgrace myself."
I raised a brow. "Is that a promise?"
She held my gaze.
"…A promise."
Before the moment could deepen, Ayla leaned forward with a smirk.
"What are you two whispering about? Share it with us."
"Nothing important," Raven replied smoothly. "She was just saying how much she likes this place."
Then Raven turned toward Aurora. "I honestly didn't think you would stay with Ayla this long. I was sure you'd leave her." She paused. "Because she's a womanizer."
Aurora laughed and squeezed Ayla's hand.
"She was at the beginning. But she changed." Her voice softened. "And I love her. I couldn't leave."
Ayla lifted Aurora's hand and kissed it gently. "And I love you."
I watched them quietly.
The way they looked at each other.
The ease.
The certainty.
It was beautiful.
And I would be lying if I said I did not feel a small sting of envy.
I wanted someone to look at me like that.
To choose me like that.
I sighed softly without realizing.
Raven noticed.
"I'm happy for you both," she said sincerely.
Aurora smiled. "Thank you. But what about you, Raven? Is there someone in your life?"
My breath caught.
Raven shook her head. "No."
"Not at all? Why?"
She shrugged slightly. "I've been busy. I never had time for those things."
Aurora brightened. "I could introduce you to someone."
For a second, my heart nearly stopped.
Please say no.
Please.
Raven smiled politely. "I'm fine. Thank you."
Only then did I realize I had been holding my breath.
She stood. "I'll get the drinks."
Aurora stood too. "I'll come with you."
They walked toward the bar.
And I watched her.
Every movement.
The way she spoke to the bartender.
The way she leaned slightly on the counter.
The faint smile she gave Aurora.
I was so focused that I didn't notice Ayla moving until she sat in Raven's chair beside me.
"You're staring," she said quietly.
I didn't respond.
"You know Raven won't stay single forever," she continued calmly. "At any moment, she might start liking someone. Or someone might get close to her."
She leaned in slightly.
"Despite her cold expression, she's popular among hunters. And if that happens…" her voice lowered, "you'll be too late."
I clenched my jaw but said nothing.
Ayla leaned back.
"I've said what I needed to say. Think about it. And if you need advice… I'm willing to help."
Then she returned to her seat as if nothing had happened.
Moments later, Raven returned carrying the drinks.
She placed one beer before me, one before Kara, and her own red drink in front of her.
"What did Ayla say to you?" she asked softly. "You look deep in thought."
"Nothing," I replied with a small smile. "I was just thinking. Thank you for the drink."
Then I noticed the red hue in her glass.
"What's that?"
She lifted it slightly. "Strawberry cocktail. A bit of lemon to balance the sweetness. And just a little beer." She extended it toward me. "Do you want to taste?"
I took the glass from her hand.
Our fingers brushed briefly.
I took a sip.
The flavor was bright — sweet at first, then gently sour.
"It's sweet," I said thoughtfully, "then it turns slightly sharp. It's very good."
She smiled, pleased , She lifted her glass slightly.
"To your first time at a tavern."
I lifted mine as well.
"To our friendship… and whatever the future holds for us."
Our glasses touched softly, For a fleeting second, our eyes met over the rim of crystal, The tavern roared around us , But in that small clink of glass — , It felt like a promise.
We were laughing only moments before.
Glasses half-empty. Faces warm with drink and noise.
And then Captain Sam spoke.
"Raven," she said, her tone steady but sharp beneath the surface, "about the black gate… can you tell us more about what happened inside? You left without saying much that night."
The laughter died instantly.
The air shifted.
Every eye at the table turned toward her.
Raven did not stiffen. She did not hesitate. She simply lifted her gaze calmly.
"I already explained everything happened in the dungeon," she replied. "If there are further questions, I'll answer."
Captain Sam leaned forward slightly.
"You know that after you left, we entered with High Mage Seraphiel to inspect it."
At the mention of Seraphiel, my fingers tightened slightly around my glass.
"The entire dungeon," Sam continued, "was filled with monster corpses. From the entrance all the way to the boss chamber."
No one interrupted her.
"When we entered the boss room," she said slowly, "it was destroyed. Completely."
Her voice lowered.
"The walls were split open like torn parchment. Sword marks carved deep into stone. The ground cratered with massive impact points. The ceiling… partially melted. Like wax."
I felt the tension rise with every word.
"What exactly happened in there, Raven?" she asked. "Explain it clearly."
Raven's expression did not change.
"As I said before," she answered evenly, "I fought with everything I had. I killed some monsters. Then an explosion came from the boss chamber. The remaining monsters rushed toward it. I stayed behind, curious, and went to look."
She paused briefly.
"I hid by the entrance and watched. The monsters were attacking the boss. The fight lasted a long time. In the end, the boss killed them all… but died from its injuries."
Silence.
Thick. Heavy.
Captain Sam's eyes narrowed slightly.
"When we examined the boss's body," she said, "the wounds didn't match monster claws."
"It was covered in sword wounds. Clean cuts. The face was nearly destroyed. There were blunt-force marks — as if someone had beaten it repeatedly."
She leaned closer.
"Raven… is there something you're not telling us?"
The tension at the table became suffocating.
Aurora whispered quietly to Ayla, "What's going on?"
"I'll explain later," Ayla murmured. "Just listen."
Raven's reply came without delay.
"There is nothing I'm hiding," she said calmly. "But Captain… it seems you are implying something. If you have something to say, please say it directly."
Captain Sam did not break eye contact.
"High Mage Seraphiel examined the chamber. It was saturated with your magical signature. The wounds on the boss matched your energy."
She did not blink.
"Why are you hiding the truth? Why won't you admit that you killed the boss? That you closed a black gate alone? That is something even the strongest hunters have failed to do."
The tavern noise around us seemed distant now. Like we were sitting inside a bubble of silence.
All eyes were on Raven.
But she remained unnervingly calm.
"What do you want me to do?" she asked quietly. "Lie? Claim credit for something I did not do? I am telling the truth. I did not kill it."
Kara leaned slightly toward me and whispered, "Captain Sam is really pushing this…"
I said nothing , I watched Raven, Not her words, Her eyes.
There was something there.
Not fear.
Not guilt.
But restraint.
Ayla finally intervened.
"Alright, alright," she said lightly, though her tone carried warning. "Everyone's tense. Let's drop this for now."
Captain Sam exhaled slowly.
"Fine," she said. "One last question."
She looked directly at Raven.
"What is your ability? I've never seen you use anything besides your sword."
Raven answered without hesitation.
"I'm strong. And fast."
Several brows lifted.
Elise frowned slightly. "You mean physically enhanced?, But what about the shield spell you used inside the dungeon?"
"It's a basic spell," Raven replied. "I learned it from a mage I met in another city."
Chris leaned forward. "When you say strong and fast — do you mean body enhancement like mine?"
"Not exactly," Raven said calmly. "Your ability is temporary enhancement. Mine isn't an ability. It's simply how my body is. and Training only refined it."
The table fell into quiet awe.
I could see admiration growing in their expressions.
All except Captain Sam.
She was still watching Raven carefully. Measuring her.
Aurora suddenly clapped her hands once.
"That's enough work talk," she declared brightly. "We came here to celebrate not to fight."
And then she raised her glass high. "Let's drink To our friendship!"
Everyone followed, except sam who was watching revan.
"To friendship!"
Glasses clinked.
The tension eased — but it did not disappear.
Not entirely.
I noticed Raven's glass was nearly untouched.
Mine, however, was empty.
She noticed too.
"I'll get you another," she said softly.
Before I could protest, she stood and walked toward the bar.
I watched her go.
The straight line of her back.
The controlled steps.
The way she blended into noise without losing awareness.
Captain Sam's words echoed in my mind.
Your magical signature.
Sword wounds.
Black gate.
She is lying.
Not to boast.
Not for glory. But to hide something.
And if she truly closed that gate alone—Then how powerful is she really?
And why does she insist on remaining in the shadows?
I felt a strange mix of pride and fear. Pride that she might be capable of something extraordinary.
Fear of what it means if others discover it.
And deeper than both—A quiet ache.
Because even now…
Even after all this time…
She still carries her burdens alone.
The tavern noise swelled again as someone began laughing loudly.
But my gaze remained fixed on her figure at the bar.
"Ayla," Captain Sam said firmly, "what are you doing? Why are you defending her so fiercely? I'm not attacking her."
Ayla crossed her arms. "No? Then what is this? An interrogation?"
Sam's jaw tightened. "I believe her. But I'm certain she's hiding something. Something happened in that dungeon that she refuses to tell us."
Ayla exhaled slowly, trying to remain calm.
"What happened has already happened. The important thing is that she's alive. The gates that threatened the city are gone." Her voice sharpened slightly. "Stop pressuring her."
She looked around the table.
"Do you realize that Raven is the only reason everyone at this table is alive? Imagine if we hadn't asked her to join our team."
Daniel nodded immediately. "She saved me more than once."
Chris lifted his hand slightly. "Me too."
Elise swallowed before speaking. "I was sure I would die from that wound near my heart. I even thought I saw white light." She glanced at her hands. "I don't know what Raven did. But when she placed her hand over my chest… it felt like she pulled me back into life."
A silence followed her words.
Ayla turned back to Sam.
"And you too. She saved you. She saved me." Her voice dropped. "Inside the black gate… I had already given up hope. I truly believed we would die there. But Raven stood in front of us. She became a shield between us and the monsters until we escaped without a single fatal injury."
Her eyes hardened slightly.
"We should thank her. Not doubt her."
Captain Sam lowered her gaze briefly.
"I know," she admitted. "I owe her my life. All of us do." She looked up again. "But I want her to trust us the way we trust her. Whatever the truth is… I want her to know we would stand beside her."
Ayla's expression softened.
"She knows," she said quietly. "And when she's ready, she'll talk. For now… let it go."
Then she glanced past Sam.
"Change the subject. She's coming back."
Raven returned carrying my beer.
The entire table had gone strangely quiet.
She placed the glass in front of me and sat down.
"Why is everyone staring at me like that?" she asked lightly. "Did something happen?"
Ayla laughed easily. "Nothing. We were just talking about the past. When you were still in the Guild."
Aurora grinned.
"Oh! I remember when Sam and Ayla tried to make Raven drink alcohol when she was fourteen."
I blinked.
"What?"
Aurora laughed louder. "Maris came running with a wooden stick and chased them out of the tavern. She was furious."
Laughter erupted around the table.
Elise added, "Raven has always been Maris's favorite."
As if summoned by her name, Maris herself approached us, placing a strong hand on Raven's shoulder.
"That's because she was the only sensible one among you," Maris said proudly. "Even as a child, she was calm. Mature. She knew exactly what she was doing." Her voice softened. "I've always considered her like a daughter."
Raven looked up at her with quiet gratitude.
"Thank you. For caring about me then… and now."
Maris patted her shoulder warmly. "Tell me if you need anything."
She returned to the bar.
Raven leaned slightly toward me.
"What were you really talking about? Everyone looked serious."
I forced a small smile. "Nothing important. Just missions and old stories."
She studied my face for a second longer — as if she knew there was more — but she let it go.
"Are you enjoying yourself?" she asked instead.
"Yes," I answered honestly. "It's lively. Loud. Chaotic." I smiled. "It's fun."
"I'm glad."
And she meant it. The tavern felt different from palace gatherings, No polished floors. No rehearsed smiles. No political calculations.
Just people who had survived together — laughing because they were still alive.
Hours passed.
The tavern slowly emptied.
Chris and Daniel left first — both clearly drunk, leaning on each other for support. Elise followed not long after.
Eventually, Captain Sam stood.
"I should go," she said. "I have work early tomorrow."
Then she looked at Raven.
"Can I speak with you alone for a moment?"
Raven nodded without hesitation. "Of course."They moved toward the bar and sat side by side.
I tried not to stare.
But I did.
Kara nudged me lightly. "You're going to burn a hole in them."
"I'm not staring," I muttered.
"You are."
I looked away — but only briefly.
At the bar, Sam spoke quietly. Raven listened, her posture straight, expression composed.
There was something solemn in the way they sat.
Something heavy.
Ayla leaned toward me softly.
"She worries," she said. "Sam. She's not suspicious because she doubts Raven. She's afraid of what Raven is carrying alone."
I swallowed.
"I know."
And I did. That was what frightened me too. Not the power. But the loneliness behind it.
Raven always stood between danger and others.
Always in front.
Always silent.
The kind of strength that saves everyone — but never asks to be saved.
I tightened my grip around my glass. What if one day the burden is too much?
What if one day she chooses to walk alone again?
The thought made my chest ache.
At the bar, Sam reached out — not in accusation, not in command — but in quiet reassurance.
She placed a hand over Raven's forearm.
Raven looked at her.
And for just a second—
I saw something rare in her eyes.
Vulnerability.
It was gone almost instantly.
But I saw it.
And that small glimpse made one thing painfully clear:
She does not know how to lean on others.
Raven returned to the table as if nothing heavy had passed between her and Captain Sam.
Ayla leaned forward immediately. "What did Sam want?"
Raven picked up her glass calmly. "Nothing important. She thanked me… and asked if I wanted to return to the Guild."
The words hung in the air.
Ayla's expression sharpened. "Will you?"
Raven shook her head gently. "No. I won't."
There was no hesitation in her voice. No regret either.
Before the mood could grow serious again, Aurora clapped her hands lightly.
"Enough about work, dungeons, and monsters." She turned toward me with playful curiosity. "You seem very close to Raven. Tell me — how did you two meet?"
My heart skipped.
Raven looked at me with an amused, expectant smile — clearly waiting to hear what story I would invent.
I hesitated for a second.
I could not tell them I was a princess.
I could not tell her that Raven had once stood in my palace halls like a storm contained in human form.
So I smiled softly.
"We met by chance," I said. "And Raven saved my life."
Raven blinked in surprise. "When did I save you? I only helped you a little."
She turned to Aurora. "She lives near an orphanage. Kara and I ran into her several times. We became friends."
Aurora pouted dramatically. "What? That's it? I expected something grand. Something thrilling."
Raven laughed lightly. "Sorry to disappoint you. There's no dramatic legend behind it."
I lowered my gaze briefly, hiding my own small smile.
If only they knew.
Aurora looked at me again. "So, Lyria… are you a hunter too? Or do you have another profession?"
I kept my smile steady. "No, I'm not a hunter. I'm not even very good with a sword." I gestured subtly toward Raven. "She's training me right now. After my training, I'll decide whether I want to become one." I paused. "For now, I work with my mother. We sew and sell fabrics."
I felt Raven's eyes on me.
So did Kara's.
Both clearly impressed at how smoothly the lie had come.
Aurora nodded approvingly. "You have a great teacher. I'm sure you'll become an excellent swordswoman."
I looked at Raven and smiled openly. "She's not just a good teacher. She's the best."
Raven tilted her head slightly. "Thank you for the praise."
Aurora then turned to Kara. "You look familiar. I feel like I've seen you somewhere before."
Kara smiled calmly. "I don't think so. This is our first time meeting."
Ayla shrugged. "Kara's been my friend for years. Maybe you saw her with me once."
Aurora snapped her fingers lightly. "Maybe. But is it true you're a knight? That's impressive at your age. What's your ability?"
Kara answered modestly. "I control earth. It's not very useful in combat like wind or fire."
Raven immediately frowned.
"What do you mean not useful?" she said firmly. "Earth is exceptional — especially in defense. And if you train properly, it can become terrifying in offense."
Everyone looked at her.
Kara blinked. "Offense? I've never seen earth used like that."
Raven smiled faintly. "If you'd like, I can give you some ideas. Help you develop it."
Kara's eyes lit up. "Really? I'd love that."
Aurora's attention returned to me. "And you, Lyria? What's your ability?"
"I'm a healer," I answered.
Aurora beamed instantly. "A healer? Me too!" She lifted her glass. "To healers."
I raised mine. "To healers."
She tilted her head curiously. "If you're a healer, why do you want to become a swordswoman instead of joining the Guild as support?"
I inhaled slowly.
"Because I want to be strong enough to protect myself without depending on anyone."
My eyes shifted to Raven.
"I want to protect the people I care about. And I want to be strong enough to deserve my place beside them."
Aurora's expression softened. "That's beautiful. I wish you success."
But the truth was even deeper than that.
I did not just want to stand beside them.
I wanted to stand beside her.
The hours passed like spilled wine — warm, dizzying, effortless.
Laughter echoed between wooden beams.
Stories grew exaggerated.
The tavern slowly emptied until only half the tables remained occupied.
When I finally noticed the time, my heart dropped slightly.
"It's very late," I said softly. "I should go."
I turned to Aurora and Ayla. "It was truly a pleasure meeting you. I hope we meet again."
Kara and Raven stood with me.
Before leaving, I stepped closer to Ayla and whispered, "I hope we can meet again… I'd like some advice."
Ayla smiled warmly. "I'd be honored."
We said goodbye to Maris and stepped outside.
The cool night air greeted us like a blessing.
The city had changed.
Gone was the noise.
The streets were quiet, illuminated by lanterns and glowing mana stones embedded in the walls. The moon hung high above, silver and gentle.
I took a few steps — and a sudden dizziness washed over me.
The world tilted.
Before I could fall, Raven's hand caught mine firmly.
"Are you alright?" she asked. "Are you drunk? Can you walk?"
This is my chance, I told myself.
I smiled softly. "I'm fine. Not drunk. Just a little dizzy."
I wrapped both hands around her arm.
"If you don't mind… may I borrow your arm for a while? I don't want to fall."
She smiled easily. "I don't mind at all. But are you sure you're okay? Your face is very red."
I laughed softly. "Maybe… I'm a little drunk."
Kara walked beside us with a knowing smirk but said nothing.
My heart was racing so fast I feared they might hear it.
Her arm beneath my hands felt warm.
Solid.
Safe.
We walked slowly through the quiet streets, moonlight guiding our steps.
"This was a wonderful night," I said softly.
I glanced at her.
"At first, I was nervous. But it was… freeing. Meeting new people. Talking without titles or ranks." I swallowed. "For the first time, I felt alive. Even if just for one night. I felt… free."
Raven kept her eyes forward as she answered quietly.
"It doesn't have to be just one night."
I looked at her.
"We can go out anytime. The three of us. A tavern again. A walk through the city. The forest." She finally turned her head toward me. "You only have one life. Don't waste it thinking. Do what you want."
My breath caught.
The words rose to my lips.
I love you.
They almost escaped.
But I swallowed them back.
This was not the place. Not yet.
So instead, I whispered, "Thank you."
I wished time would stop.
But it never does.
Before I realized it, the palace gates stood before us.
"We're here," Raven said gently.
She called to Kara. "Can you help her inside so she doesn't trip?"
Kara nodded and took my hand.
"Goodnight, Princess," Raven said softly. "Sweet dreams."
Then to Kara, "Goodnight."
She turned and began walking back toward the city.
Toward the shadows.
Before she disappeared completely, I called out, louder than I intended:
"Thank you for tonight!"
She raised her hand without turning.
"See you tomorrow, Princess."
And then she was gone.
Swallowed by moonlight and darkness.
But the warmth of her arm lingered long after.
The palace was silent when we entered.
Too silent.
The kind of silence that belongs only to midnight — when even the guards' footsteps grow softer out of respect for sleeping walls.
The corridors were dimly lit by scattered mana lamps, their pale glow stretching long shadows across marble floors. Tapestries stirred faintly in the night breeze that slipped through high windows.
For the first time in years, the palace did not feel like a cage.
It felt… distant.
I gently pulled my hand away from Kara's and suddenly spun in place, my skirts twirling as I hummed a random melody under my breath.
Kara crossed her arms, watching me with a knowing smirk.
"I knew you weren't drunk," she said. "You were pretending."
I stopped spinning and looked at her with a wide, unapologetic grin.
"Of course I wasn't drunk," I replied. "But it was a perfect opportunity. I couldn't let it go to waste."
Kara laughed softly, shaking her head. "You're unbelievable. Poor Raven. She was genuinely worried about you. If she knew you were acting…"
I burst into quiet laughter, covering my mouth.
"It was a wonderful night," I said, unable to stop smiling. "I truly enjoyed it."
And that was no lie.
Not the laughter.
Not the warmth.
Not the way my heart had raced when I held her arm.
Kara's expression shifted slightly.
"I didn't want to ask in front of Raven," she said carefully, "but what did you whisper to Ayla before we left the tavern?"
I waved my hand dismissively. "Nothing important. I just asked if we could talk sometime. I wanted some advice."
Then I tilted my head slightly and looked at her.
"Didn't I tell you before? Ayla deliberately gets close to Raven. Touches her. Hugs her."
Kara let out a short breath. "Yes. I was shocked when she admitted it so openly."
I laughed again, though something subtle tightened in my chest.
"There's nothing to worry about when it comes to Ayla," I said lightly. "She has a girlfriend."
Kara studied me for a second longer than necessary.
Perhaps she heard what I didn't say.
Perhaps she noticed that even with reassurance, jealousy still tastes bitter.
We stopped in front of my chamber doors.
Kara placed a hand on the handle, then looked at me.
"Rest well. Tomorrow's training will be harsh."
I nodded. "Good night."
"Good night, Princess."
I slipped inside my room.
The doors closed behind me with a soft echo.
The vast chamber felt colder than the streets outside.
Moonlight spilled through tall windows, bathing everything in silver. My crown rested untouched on its velvet cushion. My formal gowns stood arranged like silent witnesses to a life I had not chosen.
I removed my shoes carelessly and crossed the room.
Then I threw myself onto the bed without ceremony.
No attendants.
No royal composure.
Just me.
I lifted my hands in front of my face.
For a moment, I simply stared at them.
I could still feel it.
The warmth of her arm beneath my fingers.
The steadiness of her grip when she caught me.
The softness in her voice when she asked if I was alright.
I slowly closed my hands together, as if holding that memory in place.
"You only have one life," she had said.
Don't waste it thinking.
Do what you want.
I turned onto my side and pressed my hands against my chest.
What do I want?
The answer was terrifyingly clear.
I want to walk beside her.
Not as a princess protected by walls.
Not as someone she must address formally.
Not as someone distant and untouchable.
I want to be someone she chooses.
Someone strong enough to stand beside her — not behind her.
A warmth spread across my face again.
I buried it into my pillow, laughing softly at myself.
I had pretended to be dizzy.
Pretended to be drunk.
Pretended not to understand my own feelings.
But alone in the quiet of my room, there was no one left to deceive.
I hugged my own hands gently, still imagining her warmth.
If I close my eyes…
I can still feel it.
The steady rhythm of her steps beside mine.
The way the moonlight outlined her silhouette.
The way she said, "See you tomorrow, Princess."
Tomorrow.
The word felt like a promise.
My breathing slowed.
The palace walls felt less suffocating.
For the first time in a long while, I did not feel trapped by duty.
I felt… hopeful.
With a faint smile still resting on my lips, I drifted into sleep.
And even in my dreams—
I was walking beside her under the moon.