"Well, it all took place ..." Crystalia began, making sure her words were delivered clearly as she delved into the explanation.
I blinked, my gaze subtly fixed on the individuals I presumed to be Princess Crystalia's parents, particularly her mother.
Certainly, they emitted an imposing aura, an aura that might have unnerved a regular boy my age had I not been a transmigrator. Nevertheless, my attention was drawn to her mother's attire, causing me to involuntarily gulp a little.
While the king adorned a beautifully decorated crown and was draped in a long robe that sparkled as though it were woven from diamonds, and decorated with a variety of gemstones, the Queen's attire followed suit, crafted in a similar manner.
However, a distinct feature caught my attention – her attire was connected to her panties, making her crimson undergarments exposed to the world. A portion of her fair thighs remained concealed beneath the fabric, while her lower thighs and flawless skin below her knees were openly displayed for all to see.
"And is that everything that happened?" the Queen asked, casting a fleeting glance my way, her gaze seemingly probing me once again. Princess Crystalia had just finished recounting how she and Flintor had sneaked out of the kingdom to train, and how their plan had taken an unexpected turn when they discovered me and Saria in danger.
This decision led them to rescue us, resulting in the current situation.
Observing the scene, it was obvious that Flintor was feeling somewhat embarrassed. From the tidbits I could gather, he was responsible for protecting the princess of the Prismerian Kingdom. As Princess Crystalia detailed their preparations, including their anticipation of White Flame's appearances, his discomfort seemed to intensify, particularly when she highlighted my unplanned presence.
However, his embarrassment reached its pinnacle as the princess ended her explanation.
"Yes," Princess Crystalia responded with a nod, affirming that her account was indeed complete. Her gaze shifted to her father, who seemed to sigh repetitively before releasing a deep, exasperated sigh.
Turning her attention back to her father, she received his words with a grave demeanour that brooked no disagreement. "Crystalia, go to your room. We will have a discussion about your punishment later," he stated firmly, his gaze then shifting fully to me.
He subjected me to a scrutinizing evaluation, scanning me from head to toe before redirecting his attention to Saria. His brow furrowed as if he had fallen into deep thought.
Attempting to interject, Princess Crystalia started, "But father, since I found and rescued someone from outside the mountain, shouldn't I—" Her words were promptly cut off by her father's resolute command that rang in the air, "CRYSTALIA, GO TO YOUR ROOM NOW!!" The forceful reprimand silenced her, causing her to wince and close her mouth, the sternness of his words clearly impacting her.
I stood witness as the unfolding drama before me played out. The queen released a deep sigh that seemed to reverberate across the room, enveloping everyone present. Her voice sliced through the tension as she addressed Flintor with a sharp edge, "Flintor, escort Crystalia to her room."
Her eyes bore into him, a stern warning clear in her gaze, before she shifted her glare to her daughter, the weight of her displeasure apparent. "Furthermore, ensure she remains there until I am ready to speak with her." Her voice carried an air of finality, causing Flintor to audibly gulp nervousnessly.
Acknowledging the queen's instruction with a nod, Flintor responded, "Understood, Your Highness," and then proceeded to approach Princess Crystalia.
However, her defiance was clear as she resisted his efforts, prompting him to exert more force and exchange hushed words with her in an attempt to persuade her.
Eventually, with a forceful tug, he managed to escort her out of the throne room, the door closing behind them with a resounding "thud."
With the door firmly shut, it was just me and the still-unconscious Saria left in the presence of the king and queen.
I watched as the king calmly rose from his throne, the queen following suit as they approached me. While they were a bit taller than my height, likely hovering around 1.8 meters (six feet), it wasn't so much that I had to crane my neck uncomfortably to meet their gaze.
"What's your name, young man?" The king asked, briefly casting his gaze at Saria before fixing his attention on me. "And don't lie, or the consequences will be severe."
I nodded in affirmation and replied, "I'm Orion." After all, I had no intention of deceiving anyone.
He held his gaze on me for a moment before giving a nod of acknowledgement, then proceeded to ask, "And where do you come from?".
Already prepared to answer, I immediately replied, maintaining an air of honesty, "I come from outside the mountain." I didn't want to reveal more than necessary; sharing additional information would be like giving away something valuable for free.
I'll have to offer my gratitude to the Caravans for teaching me that, particularly to Stronghold Leader Drakar. The next time I cross paths with him, I might ask him to manage a poison or two – that is, if he's up for the challenge.
The King nodded with a furrowed brow and retorted, "Throughout the millennia that my ancestors and I have inhabited this kingdom, there has never been a record or rumour of someone supposedly from outside the mountains." His tone was stern as he continued, "So give me one compelling reason to believe your claim."
Despite his warning not to lie, the very question he posed indicated his inability to discern my honesty. As such, I could only keep my mouth shut, as there was no other way for me to show that I was from outside here besides showing my gift.
But I didn't know if some among them also had something or how they would react to it. Additionally, the fact that it would lead to further questions, which I had no clue how to handle, pushed my reasons to remain silent.