Chapter 196: Sealed Fate

Elara:

I closed my eyes and released the smallest sigh I could manage before turning around to face Sera with the brightest smile I could muster.

Suddenly, Jasper’s reluctance to refuse Lorien’s offer made perfect sense. How could the poor man possibly say no when Sera herself was standing right there, looking at the Headmaster as though he had personally descended from the heavens to bless my miserable existence?

I almost felt sorry for Jasper. Almost.

"It’s not that I don’t appreciate Headmaster Moonveil’s offer," I began, putting on my most innocent expression. "I’m simply concerned that I might be wasting his precious time. He already has so many responsibilities as Headmaster and Regent, and I wouldn’t want him to neglect his duties because of me."

I thought it was a perfectly reasonable argument, one that might convince Sera to reconsider the arrangement before I found myself spending the next several days being thrown onto a training mat by the most insufferably smug man in Starfall.

For once, luck seemed to be on my side. Sera’s frown softened, and she turned toward Lorien as though she was about to agree with me. Unfortunately, I had forgotten one crucial detail. Lorien Moonveil was a menace who could turn even the most innocent conversation into a political victory.

"There’s no need for Her Highness to feel concerned about that," he said smoothly, his expression so composed that I immediately wanted to throw something at him. "Looking after her is part of my responsibility as well. Since I’m the youngest among the Regents, the others have entrusted me with handling matters related to her adjustment and preparation for the throne. They don’t want her to feel overwhelmed while learning to navigate the expectations of the older generation, so they have asked me to ensure she’s properly prepared. Besides, making sure the future Queen of Starfall is ready to assume her responsibilities is hardly a waste of my time. I’m more than happy to help."

I turned my head slowly and glared at him, wondering how someone could sound so noble while deliberately sabotaging my escape. The worst part was that he hadn’t even needed to lie. Every word had been carefully chosen to make him sound responsible, considerate, and utterly indispensable. And judging by the grateful expression spreading across Sera’s face, his little performance was working beautifully.

"That’s incredibly thoughtful of you, Regent Moonveil," she said warmly. "I know how demanding your position is, and I cannot express how grateful we are for everything you are doing to help the Princess. She has a great deal to learn, and having someone with your experience guide her through this transition is truly a blessing."

Lorien inclined his head with the sort of humble smile that deserved an award for outstanding performance. "There’s no need to thank me. Her Highness’s well-being is important to all of us."

I watched the exchange in silent disbelief, feeling as though I had somehow become an unwilling spectator in a play where everyone had received their script except me.

Sera eventually turned back to me, and the moment her gaze settled on my face, I knew I had lost. "You should be grateful for Headmaster Moonveil’s guidance, Your Highness. I expect you to behave yourself, listen carefully, and learn as much as you can from him."

I pressed my lips together, resisting the urge to point out that I had never once claimed I didn’t want to learn. My objection was entirely about the identity of my new instructor, but apparently, that distinction had escaped everyone except me. Still, I knew better than to argue with Sera when she had already made up her mind.

"Of course, Sera," I replied obediently, offering her a small nod. "I’ll do my best."

Her expression softened with approval, and she seemed satisfied enough to leave the matter there. Before departing, she mentioned that she’s heading to oversee the preparations for lunch and then turned toward Lorien with another warm smile. "Headmaster, I hope you’ll join us for lunch today."

"I’d be delighted," he answered without a moment’s hesitation.

I nearly choked on air. Naturally, he would. Why stop at ruining my morning when he could also invade my lunch?

Sera left the gym looking thoroughly pleased with the arrangements she had made, while Lorien watched her go with the serene expression of a man who had just won a battle without lifting a finger.

The instant the door closed behind her, I turned toward him, ready to express exactly what I thought of his performance. Unfortunately, he merely smiled at me. That smile alone convinced me that anything I said would only encourage him.

With Sera gone, my fate for the remaining five days of the holidays was apparently sealed. Lorien Moonveil would be my sparring partner, and there was absolutely nothing I could do about it without making myself look ungrateful in front of the palace staff.

Magnus seemed to realize how thoroughly I had been defeated because, as he passed me, he gave my shoulder a sympathetic pat that somehow felt more insulting than comforting.

"My condolences, Princess," he murmured before moving toward one of the treadmills.

I shot him a murderous look, but the traitor had already decided to ignore me. Jasper, meanwhile, appeared determined to pretend this entire situation was perfectly normal.

"You skipped your morning run, so start with the treadmill," he instructed, gesturing toward the machines.

I looked at him, hoping to find even the smallest hint of remorse in his expression. There was none. "You are really leaving me to deal with this?" I whispered accusingly.

Jasper’s mouth twitched, but he kept his face straight. "It’s your training session, Elara. Make the most of it." Then he walked away before I could argue, leaving me with no choice but to obey.

I climbed onto the treadmill and began running, silently adding both men to the list of people I intended to seek revenge on when I had time.