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24.35% REINCARNATION OF THE ROYAL OUTCAST / Chapter 19: The Symbol

Chapitre 19: The Symbol

Inside the large office-like room, the atmosphere is thick with the weight of political discussions. The emperor and Crown Prince Nikolai sit across from each other, their expressions serious as they deliberate over matters of state.

The room is grand, with high ceilings and walls lined with shelves of books and documents, a testament to the importance of the decisions made within its walls.

As they take a break, the emperor's secretary, Master Aldric, enters with a slight smile on his face. "Your Majesty, I thought you might find this amusing. It appears that Princess Lexzandra has taken to cooking. Word around the palace is that she prepared a dish, and it was quite delicious."

Nikolai's scoff is immediate and dismissive. "Cooking? Is that supposed to impress us?" His voice drips with irritation. For the past few days, all anyone can talk about is the spoiled, foolish princess. According to him, it's absurd.

The emperor raises an eyebrow, leaning back in his chair. "Is it truly absurd to acknowledge when someone is making an effort to improve themselves? Perhaps you should give her a chance, Nikolai."

Nikolai crosses his arms, his expression hardening."You actually believe she's changed? This is the same girl who threw tantrums and acted stupidly for years. She must have threatened her servants to speak highly of her. There's no other explanation."

Theodore sighs, a note of weariness in his voice. "People can change, Nikolai. Especially when given the opportunity and encouragement. Lexzandra is still young, and she deserves the chance to grow and learn from her mistakes."

Nikolai shakes his head, frustration evident in his eyes. "I've heard enough of this. The princess is cunning. She must be plotting something. She's probably trying to win favor to manipulate us later."

The Emperor looks at Aldric and they both share a knowing glance. "Nikolai, your resentment blinds you. I know you have reasons to be wary, but we must be fair. If Lexzandra is trying to change, we should support her, not undermine her efforts."

Nikolai clenches his jaw, his anger barely contained. "Support her? After all the times she's embarrassed this family? How can you be so lenient?"

"Because she is part of this family," Theodore replies firmly. "And as her father, it is my duty to guide and support her. Just as it is my duty to support you. Holding onto past grievances will only poison our future."

Nikolai's eyes flash with indignation. "You expect me to just forget everything? To pretend she hasn't caused us trouble?"

"I expect you to be the man I know you are," the emperor says, his voice steady. "A man who can see beyond his own pain and anger. A man who can recognize when someone is trying to make amends."

Nikolai falls silent, his fists tightening in frustration. He wants to argue, to make his father see that Lexzandra is not to be trusted. But he also knows that his father's words carry a weight of wisdom and experience that he cannot easily dismiss.

The emperor studies his son, seeing the turmoil in his eyes. "Think about what I've said, Nikolai. Give your sister the chance to prove herself, just like I have given. She might surprise you."

Nikolai gives a curt nod, not trusting himself to speak further on the matter. "Very well, Father. Let's get back to the issues at hand."

The emperor nods, turning his attention back to the documents on the table. "As you wish. We have much to discuss."

____

In the hushed silence of the grand library, Lexzandra sits surrounded by a fortress of books, each tome promising to unravel the mysteries of sorcery and ancient symbols.

Her eyes scan the aged pages, absorbing the arcane knowledge with a mix of fascination and urgency. She feels a weight pressing on her, a sense of destiny intertwined with the enigma she is desperately trying to decode.

Her fingers trace the symbol on the page, the same symbol that has been haunting her thoughts. It appears again, intricate and foreboding, triggering a rush of memories. Lexzandra's brow furrows as she tries to place where she has seen it before.

Minutes pass, her mind whirring through the past days and weeks, until finally, it clicks.

She remembers Elara's words during one of their conversations while bathing. Elara had pointed out the unique symbol engraved on Lexzandra's chest, a mark she had never seen before. 

Lexzandra glances around the library, ensuring she is alone. The vast room is empty, save for the rows of towering bookshelves and the faint echo of her own breathing. She takes a deep breath, her heart pounding.

Slowly, she pushes her dress aside, revealing the symbol on her chest. The intricate design, now familiar, seems to glow faintly under the dim light.

Her mind races back to the conversation with Elara. "I've never seen a mark like this before, Your Highness," Elara had said.

At the time, Lexzandra had shrugged it off, attributing it to some oddity of her transformation into a princess. But now, with the symbol staring back at her from the pages of an ancient book, she knows it's something far more significant.

Flipping through the book, she reads aloud to herself, "This symbol is a mark of magic, an ancient sigil representing power and destiny. It has been seen throughout history on those destined for greatness or tragedy, a harbinger of both potential and peril."

Lexzandra's heart skips a beat.

Determined to uncover the truth, Lexzandra delves deeper into the library's collection. She searches for any book that might shed more light on the symbol and its implications.

Through various texts, she learns that sorcerers once thrived in the empire, moving freely and openly practicing their craft. These sorcerers were not only respected but revered as essential protectors and advisors.

Wizards, in particular, held the prestigious role of guardians of the empire, their wisdom and power deeply respected by the royal family.

The relationship between the sorcerers and the royal family was symbiotic.

The wizards provided protection and counsel, using their magic to safeguard the realm from external threats and internal discord.

The royal family, in turn, ensured that the wizards had the freedom and resources they needed to hone their skills and maintain their magical prowess.

This golden age of magic saw the empire flourish, with the wizards playing a pivotal role in its prosperity and stability.

However, as Lexzandra reads on, she discovers a darker chapter in this history. The harmony between the sorcerers and the royal family began to fracture due to a series of tragic and mysterious events.

A rogue faction of wizards, driven by ambition and greed, attempted to seize power, using forbidden dark magic to manipulate and control. Their actions led to catastrophic consequences, including widespread chaos and the deaths of several key members of the royal family.

This betrayal shook the foundation of trust between the sorcerers and the ruling class.

In response to this treachery, the then-reigning emperor, fearing further insurrection and the uncontrollable power of magic, decreed that all magic use be strictly prohibited.

Sorcerers and wizards were banished, their practice outlawed, and any remaining artifacts or texts related to magic were either destroyed or hidden away.

The once-vibrant community of magic-users was forced into hiding, and over time, they disappeared from public view, their existence becoming little more than a whisper in the annals of history.

The more Lexzandra uncovers, the more questions she has. The symbol on her chest, linked to this forbidden legacy of magic, suggests a connection she doesn't yet understand. Why does she bear this mark? Is she somehow tied to the ancient sorcerers? The implications are both thrilling and terrifying.

Hours pass, the light outside the tall windows shifting as the day progresses. Lexzandra becomes more and more engrossed, her frustration mounting as each book yields little more than vague references and ancient myths.

Her fingers ache from turning pages, her eyes strain against the small print, but she persists. The symbol on her chest feels like a key, a piece of the puzzle she desperately needs to understand. Yet, every book she consults leaves her with more questions than answers.

Finally, as the light begins to fade, casting long shadows across the library floor, Lexzandra slams shut another dusty tome, feeling a wave of exhaustion and frustration wash over her. She leans back in her chair, closing her eyes, and takes a deep breath. The silence of the library feels oppressive, her own thoughts loud in the quiet.

Lexzandra knows she cannot give up. She needs answers, and if the books here cannot provide them, she must seek knowledge elsewhere. An idea begins to form in her mind, a glimmer of hope amid the frustration.

Ethan, the guild man, might have the resources and connections to uncover what she cannot find here. He has always been resourceful, with access to information that is often hidden from the public eye.

"Ethan might know," she whispers to herself. 

She rises from her chair, her resolve hardening. Gathering the books she had been studying, she returns them to their shelves, careful to maintain the library's order.

Once the books are back in their places, Lexzandra takes one last look around the library. She heads towards the exit, her mind set on finding Ethan.


Chapitre 20: The Guildman's Demand

The market is lively, filled with the sounds of merchants calling out their wares and the chatter of customers.

Lexzandra weaves through the crowd, trying to blend in while keeping a keen eye on her surroundings. She feels a mix of excitement and nervousness.

This is one of the few times Soo-young has ventured out on her own since becoming Lexzandra, and the freedom is both exhilarating and daunting.

Lexzandra walks through the busy market, her eyes wide with wonder and curiosity. She admires the colorful fabrics, the rich aroma of spices, and the trinkets on display.

Despite the thick cloak she wears to hide her identity, her striking beauty still catches the eyes of people passing by. Some pause to stare, drawn by her elegance even under the hood.

She pulls the hood of her cloak lower over her face and walks faster, remembering her destination: the jewelry shop where she is to meet Ethan.

Earlier that morning, she had told Elara about her plan. Elara had been adamant about accompanying her, warning of the dangers of venturing out alone, especially for someone of her status.

"It's too dangerous, Your Highness. You shouldn't go alone," Elara had insisted.

But Lexzandra had been determined. She wanted to handle this herself, to prove that she could take control of her own destiny.

With a resigned sigh, Elara had eventually given in, providing her with detailed instructions and the secret code to use at the shop.

"If anything happens, call for me immediately," Elara had said, her worry evident in her voice. Lexzandra had nodded, appreciating the concern but resolute in her decision.

As she finally reaches the jewelry shop, she takes a deep breath and steps inside. The shop is small but filled with glittering jewels and ornate pieces.

She approaches the counter and quietly speaks the code that Elara had given her. The shop owner, a stern-looking man, nods and disappears into the back room.

Moments later, Ethan emerges, his expression unreadable. He doesn't seem surprised to see her, and with a brief nod, he motions for her to follow him.

They walk through a narrow hallway to a small room at the back of the shop. The room is dimly lit, with shelves lined with books and only a single lamp casting a soft glow.

Ethan gestures for her to sit. "What do you need this time?" he asks, his tone casual but curious.

Lexzandra pulls out the sketches of the symbol she found in the book and places them on the table.

"I need information about this symbol," she says, watching his reaction closely.

Ethan picks up the sketches, examining them carefully. He shakes his head slowly.

"Magic is banned here. It's dangerous to even talk about it."

"But your guild deals with forbidden knowledge," Lexzandra counters. "You must have some information."

Ethan looks up, a hint of a smile on his lips. "The princess is making demands now? Interesting."

Lexzandra is taken aback that he knows her true identity but decides not to question it. She has more pressing concerns. "I need to know what this symbol means," she insists, her voice firm and determined.

Ethan leans back in his chair, his eyes narrowing as he considers her request. "Information like this isn't easy to come by," he says slowly. "It will take time and resources to dig into such forbidden knowledge. I'll need 2000 gold coins."

Lexzandra gasps, her eyes widening in shock. "2000 gold coins? That's an outrageous amount. I don't have that kind of money."

Ethan shrugs, his expression indifferent. "Then I can't help you. My services aren't free, and the risks involved in this matter are considerable. If I get caught, it could cost me my life."

Lexzandra feels a wave of frustration and desperation wash over her. She can't afford to walk away without the information she needs.

She takes a deep breath, trying to calm herself. "Is there any way we can negotiate? 2000 gold coins is far beyond my means."

Ethan studies her for a moment, tapping his fingers on the table thoughtfully. "Why is this so important to you? What's your connection to this symbol?" he asks, his curiosity piqued.

"That is none of your concern, I presume," Lexzandra deadpans. "You just need to find out about its origin and things related to it.."

Ethan raises an eyebrow. "Alright, let's negotiate. How much can you afford?"

Lexzandra thinks quickly, calculating her limited resources. "I can manage 1000 gold coins," she offers, hoping it will be enough.

Ethan shakes his head, his expression serious. "Not nearly enough for the risk and effort involved. I might consider it for 1500 gold coins."

Lexzandra feels a pang of frustration. "1500 gold coins is still a lot for me," she protests.

Ethan's serious demeanor breaks, and he scoffs. "A lot for you, Princess? Aren't you supposed to have access to the royal treasury? Or perhaps you've been spending too much on dresses and jewelry?"

Lexzandra glares at him. "It's not like that. The funds I have access to are limited. Besides, I'm trying to manage my own expenses."

Ethan smirks. "Fair enough, Princess. But you know, for someone of your status, 1500 gold coins should be a drop in the bucket. Maybe it's time to put those royal connections to good use."

"Alright, 1500 gold coins it is. I'll find a way to get the money."

Ethan nods, his expression becoming more serious again. "Good. Once you have the money, bring it to me, and I'll start my inquiries. Just remember, Princess, this information could be dangerous. Be careful who you trust."

Lexzandra stands up, and stretches her hand for a handshake "Thank you, Ethan. I appreciate your help"

Ethan nods. " Stay safe, Princess."

___

"What?"

Lexzandra is shocked to hear the news that she must join the family dinner tonight. The man delivering the message, a servant of the emperor, stands before her, his expression neutral but respectful.

"Are you certain?" Lexzandra asks, her voice trembling slightly. "The emperor has requested my presence at dinner tonight?"

The servant nods. "Yes, Your Highness. His Majesty has personally instructed that you attend the family dinner this evening. He wishes for the royal family to dine together."

Lexzandra blinks, trying to process the information. "Did he say why?"

The servant shakes his head. "No, Your Highness. He simply expressed a desire for your presence."

She takes a deep breath, attempting to steady herself. "Thank you for informing me."

The servant nods once more and exits the room, leaving her alone with her thoughts. She looks at Elara, who is beaming with excitement.

Elara claps her hands together, her eyes shining. "This is wonderful news, Your Highness!"

Lexzandra sighs. "I suppose so."

"Which dress should you wear, Your Highness? You need to look presentable," Elara says, her excitement palpable.

Lexzandra runs a hand through her hair, feeling a wave frustration and resignation.

After dealing with the symbol and the guild man today, she is exhausted. And now, this.

According to her memories, the last time she was asked to join a family dinner was six years ago.

Soo-young, now as Lexzandra, remembers the sting of being excluded from family gatherings, the loneliness of eating alone in her chambers while the rest of the family dined together. The sudden invitation feels like a mockery, a reminder of her previous isolation. What has changed?

Is it because she has been trying to reform her ways, to show them that she is no longer the troublesome princess they once knew? Or is this just another test, another chance for them to scrutinize and judge her?

She feels like an outsider in her own family, a role she has grown accustomed to but never fully accepted. The invitation is both a small victory and a painful reminder of her past.

She sighs deeply, knowing she cannot refuse the emperor's order but wishing she could avoid the impending scrutiny and awkwardness.

 Elara carefully selects a deep green dress with intricate gold embroidery along the hem and neckline.

The dress is made of rich, luxurious fabric that drapes elegantly, accentuating Lexzandra's graceful figure without being overly extravagant.

The dress features a sleeveless design, with delicate straps that highlight her shoulders and collarbone. The neckline is modest yet stylish, dipping slightly to add a touch of sophistication.

As the maid helps Lexzandra into the dress, she hums softly, clearly pleased with her choice. The dress fits perfectly, the gold accents catching the light and adding a regal touch to Lexzandra's appearance.

Elara then turns her attention to Lexzandra's hair. She brushes it thoroughly until it shines, the dark strands cascading in soft waves down her back. Instead of an elaborate updo, she opts to keep Lexzandra's hair open, securing it with a delicate hairpin adorned with a small emerald that matches the dress.

Elara steps back to admire her handiwork, a satisfied smile on her face. "You look beautiful, Your Highness," she says, her voice filled with pride. Lexzandra looks at herself in the mirror, barely recognizing the reflection.

The elegant dress and carefully styled hair make her look every bit the princess she is supposed to be, even if she doesn't feel like one.

Taking a deep breath, Lexzandra steels herself for the evening ahead.

"Thank you, Elara," she says softly, appreciating the maid's efforts. With one last glance in the mirror, she turns and heads toward the royal palace.


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