Forest of Fireflies

Chapter 27

(Daniella's POV)

Several months have passed since Mother declared that we were at war against Snow's kingdom. In these months, Snow had somehow managed to gather an army composed out of our past allies who recently just shifted their alliances. Mother was livid. When there was a war meeting, I would always notice that there was one less member who came out of the room. I could only assume that it was because they were killed as a result of bearing the news that we had lost another one of our allies. Luckily however, the armies of King George and King Midas still stood by our side. 

Even though my mother and I would not be physically involved with the fighting, Mother decided that I should learn to handle a sword. Ever since the day when Snow waged war, mother got her knights to teach me how to fight with weapons. I much preferred using my magic but I have to admit, sword fighting was pretty enjoyable. I knew that the knights were going soft on me but it didn't matter. On the day before the battle, I was training in the practice room when Mother walked in, clothed in the armour that she was to wear to the battlefield. 

I finished the drill with the knight before turning around to face Mother. I caught my breath and asked,"Mama, what are you doing here?"

"What do you think, dear? I've come to polish my skills. I'm a little rusty with the sword."

My mouth gaped open. "I never knew that you could use a sword!"

Mother smirked, "Of course I can. It's just, I prefer my magic."

Quietly, I replied, "Me too."

Then, Mother put her hand out to the side as a black sword appeared in her hand. Nodding towards the knight who was training me, she said, "Alright, let's go."

I stepped to the side just as my mother and the knight began to duel. I was a little shocked to see my mother fight strongly against the him. I mean, I knew that he was careful not to duel too harshly against my mother...but still!

I grinned, thinking that the battle would run smoothly as planned. However, it didn't go as I thought it would...

.............................

(Regina's POV, the following day, night time)

As I overlooked the burning village below me, I heard the sound of one of my knights canter forward. I tugged on the reins and turned Equinox around. The knight hurriedly spoke, "My Queen, we've received word. Snow White and her Prince have defeated King George. His army has fallen. The kingdom is theirs."

What?! "And what of George? What of Midas' army?"

"George's fate is unknown but without his forces, we are now alone. King Midas' army has fled. We cannot defeat Snow's forces on our own-"

"Do not tell me what we can or can't do understand?" 

The knight nervously fell into silence. Then, I lowered my voice and asked, "Where is Snow White now?"

"Alone, on her way to meet the Prince."

I grinned, "Excellent. I don't care how many men you lose. Keep them apart long enough for me to find her. I will not let them defeat me."

I snarled and kicked Equinox, making her canter into the forest. Before leaving the group however, I heard Daniella's horse follow me. I looked back saying, "Daniella! Stay here with the knights until I come back. It's not safe in the forest."

Daniella exhaled and asked, "Then why are you going into the forest, Mama?"

"I'm going to find Snow but I'll be fine, you don't need to worry about me."