"Come on! Tell me about all your endeavours." Says krista.
Mia rolls her eyes and answers, "You make it sound like I am on some fun adventure."
"You work for the future of England. Who would not be having fun in that position?" She answers.
"If only you knew what I go through. You would run away if you were in my shoes." Answers Mia making a gag sound.
Krista chuckles as the royal guard announces,"Presenting Lady Saphire and Lady June."
They all go out to the hall to receive them. Mia for one had never wanted anything to do with the prince's guests.
Krista then whispers in Mia's ear,"If you think your life is sad, try looking again." Gesturing at Lady Saphire, the older of the pair. She had clad in a pink dress with her corset failing to hide her belly.
"Aye, she has it hard being the eldest of the twins and yet no suitor has come to her." Says Krista.
"That is a bit sad. Anyway, let us go before somebody notices our presence." Says Mia as they retreat towards their chambers.
***
Everyone stands outside the door as they wait him to emerge. Being curious, Mia asks, "What is the matter over there?"
"His royal highness is refusing to wake up." One of the maids answers.
She rolls her eyes at them and walks towards the chambers. She knocks softly.
"Go away!" Answers the prince.
She then bangs the door loudly and threatens, "If you do not come out, there will be no breakfast for you today!"
"You can't deny me food! You have no right!" He retorts.
"Okay then. Let us see who will cook it for you then." She answers and begins to walk away.
He then opens the door and says, "Wait! Give me a minute. I will be ready."
She curtsies and leaves, leaving everyone shocked beyond words. How could a maid be so casual with the prince? That was never heard of in this part of England. If the queen mother were to hear that, she would have her head that instant.
Mia however did not care about that. Everyone knew that she was destined to be the prince's protecter under all circumstances. It was fate.
***
They walk a distance into the forest before Mia catches a shadow flying above them in the trees. She pulls back Krista. "Did you see that?" She asks
Krista nods her head as they continue walking.
"This looks like a good place to do the hunt. Right brother?" Asks Frederick the elder of Krista's twins.
"Aye, it is better than the last spot you put us to." Remarks Francis the younger twin.
They position themselves with their bows and arrows, ready to shoot down their target.
Mia takes this opportunity to venture into the other side of the forest and meet their assailant.
She tries to focus on what the assailant is focusing on and notices that he is aiming at the prince. Lucky for her, everyone was given a bow and arrow.
Just as he readies himself, she takes her shot and gets him right in the chest and he falls off the tree right behind the prince making him jump a little.