The Restless Princess – Part 3

I make sure I arrive early for our departure, settled atop Diago’s saddle. My brother only glances at me with pursed lips, but doesn’t comment on my riding horseback instead of being safely tucked away in a carriage. 

I’ve invited two of my Ladies-in-Waiting to join us, ones who I know are proficient riders. It will benefit my brother’s cause to show that women are allowed to journey on horseback with his retinue. I do actually want to help him, after all.

As we ride through the streets of the capital, the roadsides are packed with cheering crowds. Most cry out for Queen Amaria or their King, but a few cheer for me as well. I’m touched, and a bit surprised that the people even recognize me, as sheltered as I’ve been. 

Even I get caught up in the feelings of adoration, and I ride that wave a good way through the countryside, chatting pleasantly with Queen Amaria and my ladies. We’re interrupted by a shout from the forward scouts. It’s then that I notice the pounding of hoofbeats and shaking ground. 

I glance around, but see there’s no place for us to seek shelter; we’re thoroughly exposed on the open road. My stomach drops. This is the perfect place for a planned ambush.

“Get into the carriage,” my brother yells, gesturing to me and the other females. 

I turn, but see Queen Amaria cock an eyebrow before sliding her sword from its scabbard. I ride to the carriage where my ladies climb in, but I hesitate outside.

With a clash, the enemy riders converge on my brother and his guards. Steel rings out, and the sun glints off metal. I’m transfixed, but not by the sight of my brother in danger. 

Queen Amaria’s blade is a whirlwind, arching through the air and crashing down on her opponent. I’ve never seen a swordsman move so fast. Men fall before her, despite their superior strength.

Soon, she is fighting back-to-back with Andreu. It’s a sight to behold. If I didn’t know better, I’d believe they trained together they’re whole lives. Before I know it, I look around to find that all the ambushers have fallen or fled.

Andreu drops his sword, and despite the danger we just survived, a smile cracks his face.

He turns to Queen Amaria. “You’re incredible,” he breathes out. He seems to snap out of a daze, clearing his throat. “You ummm …fought well, Queen Amaria.”

“In Movalon, women are trained to fight from childhood, just as the men are,” she says matter-of-factly. “It is my role as Queen to defend my people. I’m sure you can understand,” her voice softens.

“I do,” Andreu answers solemnly. “I can see why you are beloved by your people. I am beyond honored to have you as soon-to-be Queen of Rezia.” He bows over her hand, and when he looks up into her eyes, there is something I have never seen there before—a mix of adoration, respect, and something I can’t quite name.

Queen Amaria seems to notice it too. Her eyes roam my brother’s face, and she swallows, color blooming in her cheeks. “I am honored, as well.” 

She turns to get back astride her horse, but Andreu stops her with a touch to her arm. “I have one request of you, if I may?”

The Queen tilts her head, then nods.

My brother stretches out his arm in my direction. “Would you provide swordsmanship lessons to my sister? I believe it is time that Rezia adopts the ways of her new Queen.”

…

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-Clever & WTF