Page 70 of Cursed By Gold

Fairy Godmother grips my shoulders firmly. "Remember you do not walk this path alone, my child. We will unravel the way forward together."

I cover her weathered hand with mine, vision blurring with grateful tears. But for the first time since stumbling from those lightless tunnels, hope flickers tentatively inside me. The world may have shifted on its axis tonight, but I will find my footing again.

Dark and difficult days are coming. But with my guild - my family - at my side, I will survive this storm as I have every other. And we will emerge wiser, stronger, bound tighter than ever through adversity.

I rise slowly, legs still shaky but spine straight. There is work yet to be done tonight. But I will rest easier knowing Fairy Godmother's steady guidance is there to light the way forward through the shadows. We will navigate this together, one step at a time.

I pull my wise mentor into a fierce embrace. "Thank you," I whisper hoarsely. There is nothing more that needs to be said.

She returns the hug just as tightly, love and pride shining in her eyes. Then she pats my shoulder and turns me gently toward the door. "Go check on the others now. We will talk more tomorrow."

I nod, squaring my shoulders and stepping back out into the bustle of the guild tavern, my spirit bolstered. The truth remains a heavy burden, but I do not carry it alone. And together, we will find a way.

A Confession

Remme

Today is the day - I will finally confess my feelings to Scarlet. The time for discreet flirtations and stolen moments is over. I must know if what burns between us could truly ignite into something more.

Butterflies swarm my stomach at the thought. I, a cursed king, as nervous as a green squire! Yet the thought of laying my guarded heart bare makes me more anxious than facing an army ever could.

A soft chuckle draws my gaze to Sophia sitting by the hearth, mischief dancing in her eyes. "Who would believe it? The fearsome King Remme, conqueror of realms, felled by something as simple as young love."

I shoot her a wry glance, my pacing finally stilling. "It is far from simple, as you well know. You always see straight to the heart of things, don't you my friend?"

Her amusement fades, keen intellect weighing my words. "I see the loneliness etched beneath your strength, Remme. Butthis path is tangled with thorns. She is still only a participant in your tournament who is probably susceptible to your curse."

I shake my head firmly. "The trials will conclude soon and I will finally master my powers. I think I’ve figured out who it is, but am waiting for the last trial to verify. Once no more risk of harm remains, we can explore what lies between us." I meet Sophia's skeptical gaze. "I will not lose this chance at happiness. Not when I have already lost so much."

Sophia sighs, rising to stand near me. "Your curse makes any relationship dangerous. If you touch her..."

Pain lances through me at the thought. "I know," I say hoarsely. "But I am experienced in control. Simply having her near, eases the isolation like nothing else."

Sophia searches my face with those piercing eyes that see far more than most. I open my heart to her, unwilling to hide even the most vulnerable parts.

At last she nods slowly. "Your feelings run deep. Who am I to discourage you from pursuing a balm to long-borne wounds?" Her expression turns solemn. "But promise you will take care. Scarlet may become hurt in all this, and not just physically."

I clasp Sophia's hand, immensely grateful for her wisdom and honesty. "You are a true friend for speaking so plainly. I know there are many risks, but turning away from love does not guarantee safety. I must try, Sophia. She deserves that much."

Sophia's gaze softens. "As you say. I wish you every happiness, if it is meant to be." Her lips quirk wryly. "But you had better prepare an especially moving speech to win her heart."

I chuckle as nerves resurface. "I intend to. Speaking of which, I have final preparations to make." I glance out the window at the sinking sun. "Scarlet will arrive soon. Will you ensure we are not disturbed?"

Sophia inclines her head. "Of course. I will keep watch outside." Her expression grows serious once more. "AndRemme...be cautious. Follow your heart, but keep your wits about you."

I smile softly, infinitely grateful for her protective presence. "Always, dear Sophia." With an encouraging squeeze of her shoulder, I sweep from the study, buzzing with anxious energy. The time has come. Tonight, I bare the fullness of my heart. May the fates be kind.

I descend through empty castle corridors to the lovers' garden kept locked and overgrown since my curse began. Tonight, I have transformed it into a haven worthy of Scarlet. Candles adorn the vine-wrapped gazebo in a warm glow. Plum blossoms and hyacinth perfume the air with sweetness. A spread of delicate fruits, cheeses and wine awaits atop embroidered linen.

Most importantly, the space is utterly private. No curious eyes or listening ears can intrude upon what will be the most vulnerable conversation of my life. Here, surrounded by beauty cultivated through neglect and time, I will finally voice the depth of longing in my soul.

At the stroke of moonrise, a hesitant footfall reaches me. I turn, breath catching as Scarlet's figure materializes on the garden path. She is resplendent in a flowing gown the deep crimson of pomegranate seeds, hair spilling loosely over her shoulders. The candlelight softens her features, wide eyes darting nervously to take in the intimate setting.

I step forward, pulse thundering. "Scarlet, thank you for coming. Please, make yourself comfortable." I gesture to the cushioned chairs and try not to reveal how desperately her answer hangs on the air between us.

She perches tentatively across from me, spine stiff as a caged bird poised to take flight. I ache to put her at ease, but first, I must speak my vulnerable truth. Clearing my throat, I begin the speech I prepared with such care:

"From the first moment we spoke, you stirred something in me I thought lost forever. At the time, I told myself it was mere curiosity at your audacity." I smile sadly. "But my heart knew better. Our every encounter kindled a growing spark, even through trials and mistrust."

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