.·:¨¨ ≈☆≈ ¨¨:·.Chapter 17: Dante.·:¨¨ ≈☆≈ ¨¨:·.

Marlene was in the palace garden, watching how the breeze gently moved the leaves of the trees. The evening light tinged the windows and cobblestone paths with gold. Kira meowed softly on her shoulder, alerting her player that someone was approaching.

“Miss Volkov,” a voice said from behind her, deep and calm. “I see you’re deep in thought.”

Marlene turned and found Dante Inovov, elegant as always, approaching with silent but confident steps. His eyes shone with intensity, and there was a mix of respect and seriousness in his gaze that made every word seem full of importance.

“Your Highness,” Marlene began, “I was thinking about everything that has happened lately. Between the intruder, Valeria, and even the duke… it’s hard to keep control over it all.”

Dante nodded slightly and moved a little closer, letting the distance between them shrink without breaking courtesy.

“I understand,” he said. “But that’s precisely why it’s important that you have a clear understanding of your objectives. They are the guide that will allow you to handle every situation with precision, without emotions clouding your judgment.”

Marlene took a deep breath and nodded, while Kira projected a small hologram with her active missions into her vision. Dante pointed to each one with a gesture, explaining its relevance:

“First, discovering and neutralizing the intruder in the palace. You know it was dangerous, but you found valuable clues, and your coordination with Max and me was key. Every detail you remember could be crucial if he reappears.” His voice was firm but gentle, making Marlene feel supported.

“Next, coordinating allies and strengthening your position at court,” Dante continued. “This isn’t just social; it’s strategic. Your respect from Valeria and the other ladies, the way you handled the tea—it all adds up to give you negotiation power and protection against the challenges to come.”

Marlene made a mental note as Kira highlighted the data in her visualization. [Cunning +2, Social Respect +2.]

“Don’t forget your meeting with Duke Adrian Blackthorn,” Dante added with a slight smile, as if enjoying the comical nature of the situation. “It was… peculiar, I admit; some ladies of the court told me about it. But those situations are tests of your ingenuity and how you can handle tension even in unexpected circumstances. That cunning will serve you in future difficult interactions.”

Marlene recalled the accidental contact, the struggle to maintain her composure, and the physical contact with the duke. She had not only managed to contain the public embarrassment but also collected valuable information about his gestures and behaviors.

“Finally,” Dante said, tilting his head slightly, “you must maintain constant vigilance over all movements at court. Every conversation, every gesture, and every social invitation can contain crucial clues. It’s not just about power or influence; it’s about anticipating moves, protecting yourself, and using every interaction to your advantage.”

Marlene smiled, understanding that every mission, every interaction, and every decision was intertwined in a complex board of social and personal strategy. Kira emitted an approving meow while highlighting: [Accumulated Reward: Cunning +4, Social Respect +3.]

“Thank you, Dante,” Marlene said, with an elegant smile. “I’ll take all of this into account. Every detail, every gesture, and every memory will become an advantage.”

“I trust you,” Dante replied with a slight nod. “But remember, the court and the palace are unpredictable. Every objective, from the intruder to Adrian Blackthorn, will test your wit and your ability to adapt. Maintain your cunning and your calm, and you can turn any challenge into an opportunity.”

Marlene took a deep breath, feeling how the combination of learning, practice, and observation was strengthening her. She knew that the next encounters would require all of her skill: coordinating with allies, gathering information, and managing strategic relationships would be key to advancing in the novel that was now her life.

Marlene let out a soft sigh, a mix of amusement and pride, as she remembered the complicated and comical encounter with the duke. Kira meowed a mischievous comment.

[Objective completed, human, but don’t get overconfident; this villain still holds surprises.]

Finally, Dante looked at her with a more personal, almost protective gaze:

“Remember, Marlene, every situation is not just an objective; they are opportunities to measure your cunning, your strength, and your diplomacy. Every decision, every gesture, counts.”

Marlene nodded with determination, feeling how the information organized by Dante gave her clarity and focus. Kira emitted a soft, approving meow and projected a notification into her vision:

[Kira: Official mission review complete. Reward: +1 cunning, +1 strategy, preparation for future challenges.]

“Thank you, Your Highness,” Marlene finally said. “Having a complete overview allows me to act with more confidence and make decisions without being overwhelmed by emotions.”

Marlene smiled slightly, ready to face the new challenges, with Dante by her side and Kira meowing softly, assuring her that every step would be watched and guided.

                                                                                          ˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➳❥to be continued˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➳❥