Chapter 117 (1/2)

Chapter 117 – There Can Never Be Two Queens (1)

“Ah, Lady Skad,” said Count Glacia, “Yes, we’ve called it a day and we’re all returning to our bedrooms.”

Count Glacia’s tone was odd. It was as though she was trying to provoke her with the tone alone and make it seem like she wasn’t.

“I see,” said Amethyst, “Must have been a tiring day. Then, please rest well.”

She then smiled at them both and cut across from between them and kept walking. She abruptly stopped in her tracks as she realized that somebody had grabbed her arm as she passed.

“Where are you going at this hour?” asked Alexcent.

“Why do you want to know?” Amethyst shot back.

“Ash….”

Don’t call me in that way, thought Amethyst. When Alexcent fondly called her, it didn’t do anything for her resolve.

“It hurts, Alec,” she said, “Please let go of me.” She tried to wriggle out of his grip, to no avail.

“Just tell me where you are going,” said Alexcent.

“You must indeed be very tired,” she said, “I am going to the training ground as you can very well see.” She showed him the sword she was holding. Amethyst regretted replying so harshly but her feelings were shards of glass embedded in her heart and she wanted to hurl them outwards.

Alexcent glanced at the sword and released her arm. He looked like he was going to say something, but the duchess didn’t wait, she turned around and walked away quickening her pace through the corridor. She didn’t want to hear whatever she was going to say.

She arrived at the training grounds and spotted the knights. Seeing how they were gathered around at such an early hour, it seemed like they must have vacated the training ground in consideration for her before this.

“Phil,” she called.

“Madam?” he asked aghast, “What brings you here at this early hour? We thought you were busy with the annual festival.” They had rightly assumed that Amethyst and Alexcent would not be training for the duration of the annual festival.

“I needed to practice,” said Amethyst, “I feel like if I am not consistent then I might have to start over from the beginning.”

“That is indeed a very good mindset,” said Phil, “But please don’t overexert yourself. I am sure you have your schedule full.”

“Today, the schedule only consists of shopping with the ladies,” said Amethyst, “And that is in the afternoon. I have got plenty of time.”

“I see,” said Phil. “Marcus!” he called out to the chief knight who was swinging his sword at a distance. Marcus ran over to them.

“We are having a strategy meeting today so the Knight Commanders of each group won’t be available,” said Phil, “But Marcus can assist you today.”

“That would be great!” said Amethyst, “I have learned from Marcus before. He is a good teacher. I am so sorry to take up your time when you are so busy.”

“Not at all, Madam.”

“You called?” asked Marcus.

“Yes,” said Phil, “Today you will be instructing Madam on her sword practice.”

“I will do it.”

Everyone turned at the voice, as Alexcent held her by the wrist. Alexcent had changed into a more casual attire and was standing next to Amethyst.

“Of-of course,” stammered Marcus, nervously, “Please do so.”

“It’s alright,” said Amethyst, “I will learn from Marcus.” Marcus who was about to take his leave stopped in his track, confused.

“No,” said Alexcent, “I’ll do it.”