Ariel stood before an ornate mirror, studying the reflection of his new body. His silver hair fell past his shoulders, framing sharp, aristocratic features. Cold, calculating violet eyes stared back at him, revealing a mind already at work. He was no longer just a writer; he was a player in a world where the rules had already been written.
"If the story is destined to kill me, then I must change the story."
Cedric returned moments later, carrying a dark crimson coat embroidered with gold. Ariel slipped it on with practiced ease. Every piece of his attire spoke of wealth and power, yet he knew that wealth alone would not save him. Influence, alliances, and knowledge—these would be his weapons now.
He made his way to the council hall, his every step measured and deliberate. The noble families who had once dismissed him as a mere background character would soon learn that Ariel Moonstone was not to be underestimated.
As he entered the hall, all eyes turned to him. Some with mild curiosity, others with veiled contempt. The story's major players were already here. Lords and ladies, future traitors and pawns in the grand game of politics.
"Lord Moonstone," a voice called. A man with golden hair and a warrior's build approached—Duke Reinhardt, the father of the novel's protagonist.
Ariel smiled, but it did not reach his eyes. "Duke Reinhardt. It is an honor."
The duke studied him, as if searching for something beneath the surface. "I heard rumors that you had fallen ill. Yet you stand here, looking stronger than ever."
Ariel let out a quiet chuckle. "It would take more than an illness to bring me down."
The council meeting began soon after. Discussions of trade, military strength, and political maneuvers filled the room. Ariel listened, absorbing every detail. He had written these events, but they were beginning to shift in unexpected ways.
When the meeting concluded, a noblewoman approached him—Lady Seraphina Voss, a cunning politician and one of the most dangerous figures in the kingdom. She had been a minor antagonist in his novel, but Ariel knew her true potential.
"Lord Moonstone," she said smoothly. "I sense you are not the same man you once were."
Ariel met her gaze, a slow smile forming. "Change is necessary for survival, Lady Voss. I intend to live."
She tilted her head, intrigued. "Then perhaps we should talk further. The game has only just begun, after all."
As Ariel stepped out of the council hall, he exhaled, the weight of fate pressing upon him. He had taken the first step in altering his destiny. Now, all that remained was to stay ahead of those who sought to use or destroy him.
The story belonged to him now.
And he would make sure it ended his way.
Ariel walked through the palace corridors, his thoughts churning. He had changed the trajectory of events, but that did not mean he was safe. He needed leverage, an edge against the key players in this world. If the protagonist was destined to bring him ruin, then he needed to strike first. The true battle had not yet begun, but Ariel was ready.
And he would not lose.