To be Queen - Roses and Rebellion | A Barbie 12 dancing Princesses sequel

Chapter 11: Valant

Dear Ashlyn,

Once you arrive in the city there will be many places you can go, I recommend searching for a marketplace or another venue where people gather.

Use the main road and do not stray from it, it will lead you straight to the city centre. The residential neighbourhoods are too dangerous as they might harbour rebels. Stay safe, and if anything happens, allow the guards to protect you, do not try to fight back yourself or you could get hurt.

Sincerely, your cousin Carlos

Ashlyn reread the short letter for what felt like the hundredth time. She could not help it; her nerves had been making her jittery and jumpy all morning.

Blair had already gone ahead on Galahad in her impatience. For once, the older Princess had not stopped her. It might be good for them to do this alone.

Their small procession had arrived at Rowena's former estate last night. The ten-hour trip had been arduous and tiring but Ashlyn's excitement about finally enacting their plan had made it worth it. Now though, Ashlyn was not so sure anymore and doubts had started to set in upon finally seeing the city.

Captain Ballard, a serious man in his forties that obviously fit well into his occupation, had escorted the Princesses into the estate himself.

Even though she had been exhausted, Ashlyn had still noticed how dilapidated the mansion had looked. There was new damage, no doubt from the recent fighting, as well as older damage, most likely from wear and neglect. It made the Princess sad to know how little Rowena had cared to upkeep her late father's property.

The next morning Blair and Ashlyn had changed into their disguises in preparation for their investigation. Ashlyn had donned a simple linen dress of a greyish color, with a belt, a satchel, leather sandals and a heavy cloak that could hide her face if need be.

Blair had opted for a nice pair of her own pants, a blush-coloured tunic, leather boots and a large brown scarf to wrap around her shoulders and head.

Their guards had also covered their armour and swords with cloaks so they could blend in as they shadowed the Princesses.

Ashlyn neatly folded Carlos' letter and put it back in her satchel as they reached the city wall. A great imposing gate towered before her, shut firmly and guarded well. That must be the result of the quarantine that Captain Ballard imposed, she thought.

"Who goes there? This city is closed off to travellers." One of the guards at the gate said sternly.

Ashlyn removed her hood and reached back into her satchel for the official seal the Captain had given her.

"I have permission, sir. I am here on official Royal business." She said as she handed the seal to the guard, who grabbed it sceptically.

"Royal business you say?" The guard questioned, obviously not recognizing her and finding the situation suspicious.

Ashlyn supposed it was good that they were so wary. She noticed the Valant crest on their armour and concluded that they were not in on their little visit.

The guard took a moment to read the message that accompanied the seal and he visibly relaxed, though he still had a confused expression.

"You are right. Permission granted by Captain Ballard himself. Enjoy Valant miss, though be careful, it is not safe at this time." The guard said, returning the seal and motioning for the gate to be opened.