As Poll trudged down the corridor, his internal monologue oscillated between panic and sheer disbelief. What was I thinking? Addressing the King like that?

I might as well have painted a target on my forehead.

Just then, he spotted a familiar face lounging near a large window that overlooked the palace gardens.

Ah, I’ve seen this guy before

Oh yha… He is Kaelan Aelthor.

The second prince. Poll frowned. He's not exactly known for his… brilliance.

Huh...!!

Let's see if his royal highness can conjure a miracle—or at least a distraction.

Gathering his courage, Poll approached with a bow that teetered on the edge of sarcasm and politeness. "Good morning, Prince Kaelan Aelthor."

Kaelan turned his head lazily, his blonde hair catching the sunlight in an annoyingly perfect way. He raised an eyebrow, his expression one of mild disinterest. "And who are you supposed to be?"

Poll straightened, mustering what remained of his dignity. "I'm Poll Nightvale."

Recognition flickered across Kaelan's face, followed quickly by amusement. "Oh, Sir Eryndor's boy." He leaned against the window frame, a smirk curling at his lips. "To what do I owe the honor of this interruption? Surely, you're not here to discuss matters of great statecraft?" His tone dripped with sarcasm.

Poll forced a polite smile. Heen…!

 "Actually, Your Highness, I'm in a bit of a predicament and thought you might offer some… insight."

Kaelan tilted his head, intrigued. "A predicament, you say? How fascinating. Do go on—though, fair warning, my patience for nonsense is short."

Taking a deep breath, Poll spilled everything about the meeting, sparing no detail about his accidental boldness. Kaelan listened with an air of amusement, occasionally nodding but mostly looking like someone who had just been handed the juiciest gossip of the week.

When Poll finished, Kaelan burst into laughter, his voice echoing through the hallway. It was the kind of laugh that made Poll instantly regret his life choices.

"Oh, this is rich!" Kaelan gasped, wiping a tear from his eye. "You—you—stood up in a meeting with the King and the demon lord? And asked for a summary afterward? Truly, this is the stuff of legends."

Poll, feeling his face flush. "Glad my impending doom amuses you, Your Highness."

Kaelan finally composed himself, though the smirk remained. "Oh, relax. You're not dead yet, are you? Honestly, the King probably found it entertaining. You've got guts, I'll give you that."

"Guts or stupidity?" Poll muttered.

Kaelan ignored the comment, leaning forward slightly. "Look, you might've overstepped, but here's the thing: groveling won't save you. If anything, it'll make you look weak. You've already shown confidence by speaking up—

own it.

Act like you meant every word."

Poll blinked. "So… you're saying I should double down?"

Kaelan shrugged. "Not exactly. Just tread carefully. The King respects boldness, but only if it's backed by reason and strength. You've already got his attention; now you need to prove your worth it."

Poll nodded slowly, digesting the advice. "So… no apology?"

Kaelan smirked. "Not unless you want to become the palace jester. Just keep your head high, act like you're ten steps ahead of everyone, and—most importantly—don't cross any more lines."

Poll sighed. "Great. No pressure or anything."

Kaelan clapped him on the shoulder. "You'll be fine. Worst case, you'll make for an interesting execution. I'll be sure to attend."

Poll stared at him, unsure if he was joking. "Thanks, Your Highness. Your faith in me is overwhelming."

Kaelan waved him off. "Go on, Nightvale. Whatever you do next, make it count. And for the love of all things royal, try not to drag my name into this mess."

Poll gave a respectful bow, masking the swirl of anxiety in his chest. "Thank you, Prince Kaelan. I'll keep that in mind."

With that, Poll gave a respectful bow and walked away.

As he walked away, Kaelan called after him, "And hey—if you survive, let me know how it went! I could use it."

Poll rolled his eyes but couldn't help the small smile tugging at his lips

.….

... haaa!! 

Poll took a deep breath, trying to calm his mind as he found a quiet spot away from the palace activity. Alright… let's figure this out.

his gaze landed on a deck of playing cards casually left on the table. A mischievous smile curled across his lips.

"Ah-ha," he murmured to himself, his eyes glinting with intrigue. "This could be fun... and interesting."

With that, an idea began to take shape, one that promised excitement and perhaps a touch of chaos.

***