The Queen's Guard

Chapter 8

Maya, despite not having traveled far outside the village before, had meticulously studied the maps to the point where she felt intimately acquainted with the terrain they were about to traverse. The guards stood at attention, awaiting the queen's arrival. Victoria, ever dutiful, escorted Her Majesty outside, gracefully handing over the responsibility to Maya, who assisted the queen onto her horse, ensuring everything was all right before mounting her own steed.

Despite Maya's attempt to concentrate on the task at hand, riding behind the queen proved to be extremely distracting. Even as she endeavored to focus on the surroundings, her eyes involuntarily kept drifting back to Carina, captivated by her every movement. Maya found herself so engrossed in watching the queen that one of her guards had to call her title multiple times before successfully getting her attention.

Maya had lost track of time and signaled for a halt, allowing the group to pause and take a break. Another guard assisted the queen in dismounting her horse, and Maya got down as well to ensure her well-being. The rest of the guards scattered around, attending to their duties while keeping a vigilant watch. Carina looked around with curiosity, appreciating the natural beauty of the area.

Maya approached the queen, ensuring her comfort. "Your Majesty, would you like something to eat or drink?"

Carina smiled, appreciating Maya's attentiveness. "Water will suffice, thank you."

Maya quickly returned with a flask of water and offered it to Carina. "Thank you. Have you had a moment to rest as well?" Maya nodded.

"Then, I assume we should resume our journey soon," Carina said.

Maya conveyed the queen's wishes to the rest of the guards, and after a brief respite, they continued their journey through the unfamiliar terrain, with Maya maintaining her watchful gaze, both on the landscape and the queen.

As the night enveloped them in its dark embrace, Maya's vigilance heightened. They rode through the night, letting the moonlight guide their way. As dawn painted the sky with hues of pink and gold, they continued their journey. The next day unfolded with the same rhythm—riding through the changing landscapes, taking shorter breaks when needed, heading toward their destination.

Finally, on the outskirts of the neighboring kingdom, they were met by the king's guards. A formal exchange occurred, and the two groups merged, creating a unified escort to the royal palace. Maya, despite the warm welcome, couldn't shake the underlying tension.

The royal palace, an imposing structure with towering walls, came into view. As they approached, the gates creaked open, revealing the grandeur within. The king's guards led the way, and Maya stayed close to her queen.

The grand hall of the royal palace was adorned with opulence, a setting fit for royalty. The king, Travis, welcomed the Queen with a gracious meal. Maya, standing by Carina's side, observed the proceedings with a watchful eye. While the king's words spoke of amity and alliance, Maya couldn't help but harbor a seed of distrust.

The atmosphere shifted when the king, in an ostentatious display of camaraderie, placed a hand on the queen. Jealousy, camouflaged as concern, coursed through Maya's veins. She forced herself to suppress the emotion, reminding herself of the diplomatic dance they were engaged in.

Carina, seemingly unfazed, reciprocated the pleasantries. Maya, on the other hand, continued her vigilant watch, her eyes narrowing as the king's touch lingered. Beneath the guise of duty, Maya grappled with the undeniable surge of protectiveness and possessiveness.

- - -

The grand hall's ornate doors closed as the staff was dismissed, leaving the royals alone for their closed-door meeting. Maya, still present, felt an uneasy tension settling in the pit of her stomach. She exchanged a quick glance with Carina, the unspoken worry evident in her eyes.