Page 184 of The Last Guardian

As the carriage veered onto a new path, I took time to observe Mother.

Her long, dark brown hair cascaded down her shoulders, her breathing gentle as she slept. Peacefully.

Her blue dress, adorned with tiny silver-amber flowers, complemented the lilies on her chest. With a book resting on her lap, her eyelids closed, all I could see was her serenity.

A kind of state she was rarely in in Lorath.

Mostly when her children surrounded her. Sometimes, when old friends came to visit. Never when father was around.

Peace suited her well. I wished she could be like this more often.

As a wild field stretched, the horse came to a halt. The guards whispered to someone outside. I leaned near the window to look out, trying to see why we were stopped.

“A little curious, my sweet?” My mother’s voice caught me off guard.

“I know I shouldn’t let my ears wander where they’re not invited, but I can’t help myself,” I replied innocently with a laugh.

She chuckled at my flimsy excuse, “Curiosity is a valuable trait; it must be used wisely. This world is not kind to those who seek to learn new things.”

“I’m not on the lookout for anything specific,” I clarified. “It’s just surprising to be stopped in the middle of nowhere.”

Her gentle brown eyes gazed at me, filled with love. “My dear daughter, please remain true to yourself. However, I suggest you act discreetly.”

I listened to her with a smile, allowing myself to dream a little. “I wish we could do this every day. Just the two of us, happy and free,” I admitted.

“Life would be easier. But deep down, you couldn’t live with yourself if we left your brothers and sisters behind.”

She had a point. The bond I shared with my siblings ran so deep that I couldn’t bear the thought of leaving them. I’d willingly brave any hardship to stay by their sides.

“They could come with us,” I said.

She chuckled as she cupped my cheek with her hand. “Perhaps one day,” she replied, turning her head towards the window.

The sound of metal clashing drifted in. She furrowed her brow, playing with the tiny charm around her neck.

“Wait here. I’ll be back,” she said, reaching for the doorknob.

“Mama!” I called out, pulling at her arms.

“Don’t move, Alyana,” she begged. “Listen to me, please.”

After a moment’s hesitation, I let go of her. She gave me a reassuring look as she exited the carriage.

Whispers of men echoed, louder but not loud enough for me to hear, and after a minute of waiting, I decided to go outside.

After all, I hadn’t promised her I’d stay here. I shouldn’t have played with words, but I couldn’t help myself. Besides, she’d said I could be helpful in the shadows.

Turning the handle softly to make sure not to make a sound, I exited the carriage.

Not a single squeak or breath was heard.

When my feet touched the ground, I hid behind the carriage, moving slowly towards the voices.

“We must investigate the carriage,” a voice commanded, without any room for argument. The voice was deep. Menacing.

“No need,” Mother replied. I watched the two guards near her. Protecting her.

“You’re speaking to your queen. Be respectful,” one of the guards said.