The Hidden Princess: Kingdom's Fate (book three)

Chapter Twenty-Seven: Speak And Your Life Ends

Breakfast was quiet. There were a few whispered conversations, but the task ahead loomed over the room. After breakfast we made our way to the castle where we would meet up and start our march south. I'd always hated goodbyes. Even when I knew the return time for those that were parting. However, to say goodbye and not know if or when one was to return, that was a new type of pain. I held Elias in my arms, smiling down at him as the tears wet my face. "It was hard enough leaving when you were still in Chloe's stomach," I said, leaning my head onto his little one. "I promise to do all I can to make sure your papa returns," I whispered, kissing his head.

"And I promise to do all I can to make sure your aunty comes home," Erik said, walking up beside me. "When we return we will have plenty of time together, without the fear of La Fray in the background," he said, laying a hand on my shoulder.

I nodded and silently handed Elias to his father before turning to say my final farewells. Walking up to Alexander, I didn't say anything as I leaned into him, his arms wrapping around me.

"I hate that I'm not going," he said, his arms still holding me close.

"Me too, but we need people here. We can't leave Jarrow defenseless like we did last time," I said, slowly pushing away from the comfort of my brother's embrace. "I need people here that I trust to keep my people safe," I said.

Letting out a deep sigh, Alexander nodded. "I will do so," he said, kissing my forehead. "I love you, Lettie," he whispered, hugging me one more time.

After I had said goodbye to everyone, I turned and mounted my horse. Leading him to the side, I sat quietly watching as my men said their goodbyes. Looking at each family that was saying goodbye, I promised myself that I would not return until they were safe, until La Fray had been dealt with once and for all.

As quickly as one can get over three thousand men mounted and moving, we were heading out. The roads were lined with the people of Jarrow as we headed south. My throat was dry as I did my best to smile at my people, to encourage them.

Typically it would take only three or four days to get to our final destination. However, with an army things moved a little slower. Our first night we camped just south of Punainen. The second day of travel took us to the middle of Milnora Forest. As a child Milnora Forest had been the prime setting for terrifying stories around the fire. However, being in the forest with three thousand men made it feel like the grove beside Jarrow, harmless. The third day of travel the tension began to rise. We were over half way to where we would be facing La Fray. That night we camped on the northside of Arrowside. Watching the men talk quietly around the fires showed the fear that was starting to trickle into the camp. The following day, we would camp at the ford in the river. As we rode towards the ford, I directed my horse through the men until I was beside Luke. "Any chance your mandolin is an item you pack when going to war?" I asked. When he nodded my face lit up. "Seriously?" I asked.

Luke laughed, nodding his head again. "Yes, I also happen to know a few others have instruments as well. I know it's not your typical battle equipment, but I figured that it might come in handy one night at the fire. Were your thoughts along the same line?" he asked.

"Yes, I've noticed the closer we get the more tense the troops are. Tonight after dinner, I'd appreciate it if you find your other musicians and play a few tunes. I think it would do us well," I said.

"Of course. I'd be glad to, as I know the others will as well," he said.

That night as soon as Luke brought out his mandolin and at least fifteen other men brought out their own instruments, I knew this was the right choice. The band made a quick circle and after a few hushed conversations they dispersed themselves throughout the camp. On a cue unknown to anyone the music started. Soon the camp was filled with the sound of instruments. Smiling, I leaned back against the tree I was using as a backrest and watched as not only music filled the air, but dancing began as well. "You're a good leader," King Syrus said standing above me. I quickly rose to my feet. "We all saw the tension in our men, but weren't sure how to ease it. You found a solution and have put it into action," he said, then without words grabbed my hand and pulled me into one of the circles of dancers.