Chapter 103: A Princess’s Challenge
Eric and Alina were still busy with their practice session. It was a somewhat lopsided practice because Eric with his new blue line vision was blocking Alina’s attacks very easily.
They were so focused they didn’t see Monica walk up beside them until she was very close. The moment their eyes fell upon the newcomer both Eric and Alina immediately stopped their sparring. They stopped swinging their wooden swords.
They turned to face Monica their expressions a mixture of surprise at her sudden appearance and curiosity about who she was.
Eric looked at Monica. He noticed the wooden practice sword in her hand. He saw her regal bearing the confident way she stood and carried herself. He quickly surmised he guessed that this young woman was likely a princess.
She was probably a daughter of one of the many kings who were currently residing in the Imperial Palace for the Emperor’s council. He assumed she like them was here in this quiet garden to practice her sword skills.
He thought she was also preparing for the Academy entrance exams.
Monica wasted no time on polite greetings or introductions. She pointed her wooden sword directly at Eric.
"I want to practice with you," she stated clearly. Her voice was cool and authoritative. It was the voice of someone used to giving orders and being obeyed. It left no room for refusal. It was not a request it was a demand.
As Eric heard Monica’s direct challenge a knot of apprehension a feeling of worry tightened in his stomach. He didn’t know who this young woman was. He didn’t know which kingdom she represented.