Everything for the throne

Dance of the fest

The siblings strolled across the street, capturing the attention of onlookers. A striking woman flanked by two handsome men made their way to an accessories shop.

Despite Alice's presence, it was the Princes, particularly Felix, who showed keen interest in the earrings and necklace on display.

Henrik, playfully teasing Felix for his purchase, elicited a chuckle from Alice at their lighthearted banter.

Prince Henrik pointed to a bracelet adorned with pink marbles, seeking Alice's opinion.

She graciously complimented its beauty. As Felix completed his purchase, he remarked to Alice

Prince Felix: Are you not going to purchase anything? It is common for girls' eyes to light up with excitement when they gaze upon these shimmering jewels

This observation prompted Henrik to comment on Felix's apparent understanding of women, to which Felix quietly agreed with himself.

Henrik, surprised by Felix's response, and Alice's attention was being drawn to a gathering of people nearby.
Despite not making a purchase, Alice suggested they investigate the commotion.

When Henrik questioned her lack of shopping, Alice simply stated,

Alice: well I am not interested in those sparkling little things

Making it clear to the brothers that Alice was not drawn to extravagant adornments. Her modest attire further reinforced this sentiment.

The crowd cheered as four women gracefully wielded swords, swinging them effortlessly. Alice, captivated and amazed by the Sword Dance, was lost in thought for a moment.

Alice: *No, it can't be possible... unless they are them, no one can dance with swords.*

This thought left Alice momentarily stunned as the performance concluded. While others dispersed, Alice remained, deep in contemplation.

Confused, Felix and Henrik inquired about her demeanor. Startled back to reality, Alice abruptly ran towards the woods, leaving the brothers bewildered as they tried to follow her but lost her in the bustling crowd.

In the dim forest, Alice pursued the sound of clashing swords, eventually coming upon the four women who had just showcased their sword dance at the festival.

Alice: Wait!

Alice called out. The women, their faces veiled except for their captivating eyes, turned to face her.

Dancer: Lady, did you follow us here?

Alice: Yes, I have something to ask you. The Sword Dance you performed in the village, could you tell me more about it?

Alice looked at the women expectantly, hoping for an answer. They seemed hesitant to divulge information.

Dancer: It is... a traditional dance of our clan
one of the dancers finally responded.

Alice was surprised. It was unbelievable to her, even after knowing her clan to be living for 100 years.

Alice: Headhunters

The women looked at Alice in surprise. Only a few people knew about the clan, but for Alice's surprise, the women kept their hands on their swords, looking at her with killing intent.

Dancers: Who are you? What do you want?

The woman's voice was cold as ice, but the heat of fear and anger in it reached Alice

Alice: I am not here to harm you.

She put her hands up in the air, trying to convince them, but the women started running towards the forest, shouting,

Dancer: The nobles are never to be trusted.

The sound of a horse approaching grew near. Alice understood why the women had run away, even after thr word of not hurting.

The horse stopped behind Alice, and the rider was staring at the dark woods where the women had fled.

Alice didn't turn as the rider approached her from behind. The light emitted from the lamp the person carried formed a shadow.

Man: Lady?

Witnessing a young man with black hair that touched his shoulders, tied with a black ribbon. The face that looked familiar had a scar across his eyes, and his well-built body was evident under the black cloak that couldn't fully cover the sword hanging at his waist, making it clear that he wasn't a commoner from the village.

Alice: You scared those women

Disappointment clear in her voice. She had wanted to ask more about the clan, but everything went wrong when they heard the sound of the approaching horse.