[System Warning: Timeline interference detected. Danger probability escalating.]
New Objective: Restore control of the narrative. Remove false allies. Disrupt the heroine's script.
Midday — Academy Ballroom (Charity Gala)
Nobles swirled in silks. Laughter echoed like glass. But Selene's eyes were fixed on one person.
Marienne.
Sweet. Smiling. Lying.
Selene moved through the crowd like a ghost dressed in crimson.
"Lady Astor," she said warmly, approaching with a flute of wine. "I couldn't help but overhear your little story about saving the orphanage."
Marienne's eyes narrowed.
"Yes?"
Selene raised the glass. "Only… it's odd. I asked the royal accountants. No donation was ever filed."
Gasps rippled instantly.
[System Alert: Public Deception Exposed. Marienne's Reputation -12. Crowd Doubt Triggered.]
Marienne's mask cracked. Just a hairline fracture.
"I'll have your title revoked for this," she hissed low.
Selene leaned in, whispering, "Try."
[System Quest Complete. Reputation Damage: 48-hour scandal lockdown initiated.]
Later — Empty Corridor
As Selene turned to leave, a hand gripped her wrist.
Kaelion.
He pulled her into a side corridor — away from eyes, from ears, from control.
"Enough games," he growled. "Who is Lucien?"
Selene didn't flinch. "Why ask me?"
"Because I saw him leaving your quarters last night."
Silence.
[System Alert: Critical Romance Route Triggered. Choose your response carefully.]
Selene met his gaze. "If I told you the truth… would you believe me?"
Kaelion's hands balled into fists. "I want to."
She stepped closer. "Then prove it."
Before He Could Respond
A dagger embedded itself in the marble beside them.
Lucien.
Leaning against the archway above.
"You really should both be more careful," he said lazily. "The game's changing… and neither of you are on the winning side yet."
He vanished before they could move.
Kaelion looked at Selene. "I don't care who you were before."
He stepped closer. "But if I find out you're lying to me again…"
Selene smiled coldly. "Then don't give me a reason to lie."
[System Alert: New Quest: "Choose Your King"]
Two paths diverge: Kaelion… or Lucien. One will betray you. One will die for you.