Nick's throat tightened as the fiery-haired girl's gaze pinned him in place.
Her presence was suffocating, raw power radiating from every step she took. Flames curled along her sword, bathing the throne room in an angry glow.
The system chimed again, mercilessly:
> QUEST STARTED
Objective: Gain the favor of Princess Lyra within 7 days.
Reward: Fire Affinity (Rank: Rare).
Penalty: Permanent Erasure.
Nick's thoughts raced. Seven days to make a princess fall for me? In what universe is that possible?
"Who dares trespass into my father's throne room?" Her voice cracked like thunder, her crimson eyes narrowing at him.
Nick opened his mouth, then froze. How do you even start a conversation with someone who looked ready to skewer you?
The rainbow-haired goddess system giggled behind him, floating lazily in the air. "You should bow, Player Nick. Princesses like respect."
Nick shot her a glare. Easy for you to say!
Still, he dropped to one knee, lowering his head. "Forgive me, Your Highness. I… was summoned here."
Lyra's eyes flicked to the goddess, then back to him. Suspicion burned in her gaze. "Summoned? By who?"
The goddess yawned, inspecting her nails. "By destiny. Don't mind me~"
Lyra's grip tightened on her sword. "You reek of lies. Explain yourself—or burn."
The air grew hotter, flames licking closer. Nick's heart pounded.
Think, Nick. This isn't a dungeon. This is a romance game.
He forced a smile. "I'm… not your enemy. In fact, I think fate wants me to protect you."
The words tumbled out awkwardly, but something in Lyra's eyes flickered—just for a second—before hardening again.
The goddess smirked. "Ooh, bold start. I like it."
Nick scrambled for more words, when suddenly—
> SYSTEM ALERT
Hidden Condition Triggered: [First Impression Check]
Rolling Charm…
A glowing die appeared in front of Nick, spinning wildly.
"Wait, what—?!" he sputtered.
The die slowed. 5… 8… 11… then stopped at 15.
> SUCCESS!
Princess Lyra's suspicion has lessened. Interest +2.
Lyra's sword lowered slightly, though the flames didn't vanish. "Hmph. Brave words for a stranger."
Nick exhaled in relief. One step closer… but six and a half days left.
The goddess floated closer, whispering in his ear. "Careful, Player Nick. You've piqued her interest. Now don't bore her—or you'll be ash."
Nick forced a grin, looking up at the princess. "Then let me prove myself, Your Highness. Give me one chance."
Lyra's lips curved faintly, a spark of curiosity in her fiery eyes.
"One chance, gamer boy. Fail me… and I'll personally light your funeral pyre."
The system dinged:
> NEW QUEST UNLOCKED
Prove your worth to Princess Lyra in the Royal Arena tomorrow.
Reward: Trust +5
Penalty: Execution.
Nick swallowed hard. Great. Day one and I already have a death match scheduled.
---
✨ End of Chapter Two