Chapter 16
Bianca POV
My training with Sophia was very intense, it pushed me to my limits. We practiced different move that particular day. We practiced on combat moves, on magic spells, and on defensive techniques.
And I was determined to learn, I wanted to prove myself worthy of Ethan's trust. I don't want to look like a. Weakling anymore.
As the sun began to set, Sophia called for a break. We sat on a nearby bench, trying to catch our breath.
"You're a quick learner, Bianca," Sophia said, as she smiled. "But remember, defense is key. Don't let your emotions cloud your judgment."
I nodded, taking her words to heart. I knew I still had a long way to go. I had a lot to learn, but I was determined to get better in every way.
Just then, Ethan appeared, his eyes scanning the training grounds. "How's the training going?" he asked, his voice so warm.
Sophia stood up, brushing off her pants. "Bianca is a natural. She has potential."
Ethan's eyes lit up with pride. "I knew she would be."
As they chatted, I noticed someone watching us from afar. And it turned out to be Derek again, his eyes narrowed. I felt a shiver run down my spine. "Sophia, I think we should wrap up for today," Ethan said, his voice so low. "There's something I need to attend to." I sensed a sense of urgency in his voice.
Sophia nodded, and we packed up. As we walked away, I caught Derek's gaze once more. This time, I saw something that made my heart skip a beat. I saw a glimmer of Emily's pendant around his neck. I was extremely shocked at that sight
My mind reeled as I processed what I had just seen. Why is Derek putting on Emily's pendant? What is actually happening here? Was he in league with Emily?
I felt a surge of anger and betrayal, but Ethan's hand on my arm kept me grounded. "Let's go," he said, his voice still low. "We'll talk about this later." I nodded as I followed quietly.
As we walked away, I couldn't shake off the feeling that something was off. Derek's actions seemed very suspicious, and I wondered if he was hiding something.
Once we got back to the palace, Ethan led me to a private room. "What is going on?" I asked, my voice barely above a whisper.
Ethan's expression turned serious. "I don't know what's going on with Derek, but I'll find out. Just Promise me that you'll stay away from him until then."
I nodded, my heart still racing. Although I knew I had nothing to do with him but I still have to try as much as possible to stay away from him "I promise."
Ethan's eyes locked on mine. "I'll protect you, Bianca. No matter what." His words gave me an unexpected comfort.
I believed him, but I knew I had to be strong. I couldn't just rely solely on Ethan for protection. I needed to learn more, to grow stronger.
Just then, a knock at the door interrupted us. "Enter," Ethan called out.
The door opened, and a servant appeared. "Your majesty, a message from the border guards. A mysterious figure has been spotted, wearing Emily's pendant..." Ethan's eyes narrowed. "Bring the guard here," he commanded.
The servant bowed and left, and returned with a burly guard. "Tell me what you saw," Ethan said, his voice firm.
The guard swallowed hard. "I was patrolling the border when I saw a figure lurking in the shadows. He was wearing a pendant with Emily's symbol on it."
I felt a chill run down my spine. Emily's pendant was a symbol of her power, and whoever was wearing it was likely in league with her.
Ethan's expression turned grim. "Did you see the person's face?"
The guard shook his head. "No, your majesty. He was too far away. But I could sense his power. It was very strong."
Ethan nodded, his eyes locked on mine. "I'll investigate further. Until then, Bianca, you're to stay close to me at all times."
I nodded, feeling a sense of relief. With Ethan by my side, I felt safer.
But as we left the room, I couldn't shake off the feeling that we were walking into a trap. Emily's pendant was a warning sign, and I knew we had to be very careful, especially now.
As we walked, I noticed Sophia watching us from afar, her eyes narrowed. She seemed to be waiting for something, or someone, but I couldn't tell.
Suddenly, she approached us, her expression was serious. "Ethan, I need to speak with you. Privately."
Ethan's eyes flicked to mine, then back to Sophia. "What is it?" In quest to know what the problem was.
Sophia hesitated, then leaned in close. "I've received a message from an unknown source. It says... Derek...is working with Emily."
My heart skipped a beat. Derek? Betraying him again?