Page 109 of The Fae Girl 1

I raised an eyebrow. The fact that she was untouched more than suggested otherwise though I decided not to say that out loud.

He finished his drink before running his hands over his face. “Do us all a favour and fuck her.”

“Seford?” I repeated the strange name confused. “Why are we going there?”

Nela and Indi shrugged.

“Prince Fain has ordered it.” Nela stated. “So you better get sorted. We’ve got orders to have you at the stables within the hour.”

I scowled annoyed. My body was aching from the amount of training I’d been putting in. If I’d known I’d be off gallivanting to god knows where I might have been less aggressive on myself.

I huffed getting up out of my chair because in reality what choice did I have? Prince Fain clicked his fingers and I had to go running. It felt like he was back to his old tricks. The arsehole prince was back.

“What do I need to pack?” I asked.

“Leave it to us.” Nela said. “Just make sure you’re wearing comfortable clothes. You’ve got a few hard days of riding ahead of you.”

Here we go again. It was just like when I’d be shepherded off to Montefore. I just hoped the Prince wasn’t as bad as the last time.

“You might want to wear these.” Indi said passing me some thick leather boots. “They’re riding boots. They’ll be a lot sturdier than the ones you have on.”

I nodded taking them. “Thanks.” I said tossing my own and yanking the new ones on.

“Take this cloak too. It’ll be cold and you don’t want to catch a chill.” She said holding out a thick wool one that looked as soft as it would be warm.

“You’ve thought of everything.” I said.

Indi laughed. “That’s what we’re here for.” She replied as they continued to pack.

* * *

We walked downthrough the main castle and across the cobblestones to where the stables were.

It had been made clear that Mira was to stay here and while I felt bad for her being left behind I was also relieved that she didn’t have to endure a hard few days of riding. I think she would have struggled even more than me.

At least Mira was spared that joy.

As we got to the stables as I gasped. There must have been a hundred soldiers, all mounted, all ready to go.

“What is this?” I asked them starting to feel nervous, like there was some sort of plot afoot.

Nela shrugged. “It’s just to keep you safe.”

“To keep me safe? It looks like a small invasion.” I muttered.

“Come on let’s get you on your horse.” Indi said pulling me gently round to where a servant was waiting holding the bridle for a chestnut mare who looked as impatient to go as half the soldiers did.

I scrambled up into the saddle, very aware of how awkward I looked. As the servant hooked my feet into the stirrups and passed me the reins I let out a low breath. At least I wasn’t being tied in this time. I guess I should be grateful for that.

Prince Fain walked out. Everyone that wasn’t mounted dropped to one knee.

He looked up at me and I inclined my head, just like all the other riders had done.

No need to be rude, at least not until he’d actually crossed the line. Although I wondered how long it would be before that happened.

And then I realised it was the first time I’d seen him since the trial, since Rillon. The Fain he’d been then, the protective Fain had made me feel almost safe, but the Fain right now that was busy ordering everyone around made me feel very differently.

He gave me a small bow and then looked over the horses and provisions.

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