DRAGONQUEEN: RISE OF THE SILVER PHOENIX

Chapter 28 - A Chance Meeting in Abelone City.

"I think it is best if I practice archery at another time. I do not like the direction that Perion's conversation is going. I have no desire to become the infatuation of another man's fantasies," Rebecca tries to push Perion's attention away from her respectfully.

Rebecca slings the crossbow over her back and starts to turn back the way they came.

"Have I done something to offend you, my queen?" Perion asks innocently.

Now I have to tread lightly. You dare even ask me? The insolence!

"I just don't feel like continuing archery practice anymore. I have just suddenly lost interest," Rebecca replies faking a bored sigh.

I hope my performance was Oscar-worthy.

There is a calculating look in Perion's eyes. He scrutinizes Rebecca's face for any hint of what she may be thinking.

Rebecca remains as cool and calm as possible as she buries her hands into the sleeves of her winter cloak.

"Is there something on my cloak that I need to be aware of, Perion?" Rebecca asks.

"My apologies. I could not help but admire your beauty," Perion replies.

Smooth operator. Best to keep my mouth shut for now.

He makes himself busy with his bow and fires a few shots. Rebecca studies Evelyn for a second and turns to look at Charles. He is not the best-looking guy, but he's got good diplomatic skills. He curses as his shot miss.

"Charles if you will excuse me. I am going to get some rest before dinner tonight. You know where I will be," Rebecca says.

"Just give me a moment then I can escort you to your room," Charles replies.

"I will be fine," Rebecca replies.

I don't need a babysitter!

"Let's go, Garnet," Rebecca commands him.

Rebecca has something else in mind altogether. She is feeling adventurous. She returns to her room in a hurry. She gets into her jeans and with a spell, she is wearing servant clothes.

She comes out and walks a few feet. When she rounds the first corner she hears the suit of armor behind her.

She turns around on the balls of her feet her hand resting on her armor bangle. Garnet isn't fooled by her clothes. "This is ill-advised your majesty."

His brown eyes are sparking angrily at her. She watches as they change color to an amber shade.

I knew it. The situation has caused his shifter form to surface. He is a werewolf. He reacted to my scent. His wolf is angry at Garnet for almost letting me slip.

"Shall we agree not to lie to each other? I know what you are. Then come with me. I am impressed that you were able to see past my disguise. Most people won't spare me a second glance in this dress and are too easily fooled," Rebecca says in a whisper as she taps the armor on his chest. His armor changes into commoner clothes.

"Let's go. I want to explore the city and treat myself to some honey mead. I love it. The less attention we attract the better," Rebecca whispers as she makes her way to the scullery.

Garnet gasps at how easy it is for them to slip out of the castle undetected. Once outside they stroll down the main street. Rebecca visits a few shops out of curiosity.

A boutique owner catches a fit when they enter his shop.  "Good heavens, what is this world coming to? A commoner in my shop! Preposterous! Get out!"

Rebecca looks shocked at the odd man. Long, thin, and with a considerable belly around his waist. He stands with his chin in the air looking down at them. His heavily curled mustache is so big and quivering like flapping wings as he is talking.