Aina, Her Highness

4. Kalya & The Rage

Everyone stopped what they were doing to respond to Nether's question. One man in a rickety old chair answered her. "She stepped out about an hour ago. Why do you need her?". He eyed Aina although she seemed to not have paid him any attention.

"The Princess Of Centura has come to rebuild this wrecked village". The crowd snickered. "When has any of the royal family decided to give a 'helping hand' eh?". The old man was visibly ticking Nether off. "I'll-". Aina grabbed Nethers wrist. She gave her a look of softness and it made Nether allow her to solve the issue. "On the behalf of my family and the entire kingdom of Centura, I apologize for our negligence against this wonderful Village. I haven't been here for even a day, not even long enough to watch the moon shine above this beautiful place, but I, Aina, will ensure that the protection and perseverance of this place will remain in control. That is, if you allow me to do what I've come here to accomplish".

Everyone seemed taken aback as Aina spoke with such confidence, such boldness. Even the man had sat up in his rickety chair to give the princess his undivided attention. "Now, Kalya is where?". A lady cleaned out a large beer bottle then used the same rag to wipe the glistening sweat off of her forehead. "Raton and the Randets". Was all she said.

Within seconds, both Nether & Aina we're strapped down with equipment heading towards whoever Kalya, and Raton (and the Randets) were. Nether seemed to know who they were and what purposed Kalya played in all of this so Aina put her trust in her once more. As they head out onto one horse Nether began to speak.

"That was quite brave of you, Princess". Since Aina has been born it was normal for people to call her princess but coming from the awkward girl it felt like a strange pet name. Her cheeks began to feel hot and she pretended to fix her suit. "No matter. It's my job". The horse came to a jolting stop. "No. Seriously. Thank you". Nether rotated her body to look Aina directly into her brown, chocolate chip eyes.

The princess was confused. She couldn't take her eyes off of Nether. She wanted to but she just...couldn't. After what felt like ages Nether broke the gaze first leaving Aina feel somewhat empty. The horses began to trot again.

"Who is Kalya?". Nether slowed the horses as they were already back in the main, bustling part of the village. "She's what you call a 'hometown hero'.  Anyone that comes to destroy, steal, or anything else for that matter, goes through Kalya". Aina smiled. It was amazing that they have their own law enforcement system. "So then I assume Raton is someone Kalya would be out to put in custody".  "Hm".

Approaching an ancient building, Aina saw a girl with braids throwing knives at a darting board. Her facial expression was serious and determined. "Nice". Nether remarked as Kalya hit dead on the bullseye. She only turned her head to look at the two girls. "So you've decided to return with a friend". Aina started wondering why hadn't anyone recognized her. "Aina, Kalya- Kalya, Aina". The serious girl stared at the princess in disbelief. "The Aina?". Nether nodded. "Wow. Sorry I doubted you, kid". Aina's companion waved her hand dismissively.

"What're you here for, Pinky?". "I want to do everything I can to help". Kalya smirked. "How exactly do you plan to do that?". Nether didn't like how Kalya was pressuring her. "Anyways, aren't you supposed to be catching Raton?". Silence. "Well..?". "He'll be here in three..two..". And just then a man with chains around his thick black pants came running with moneybags piled on top of his hands, dollar bills and coins dropping as he looks behind him, probably looking for Kalya, Aina supposed.

"You idiots! Hurry before she slings rope!". Shouted Raton. The darts that were left in Kalya's hand, she placed them on the rail, and put her hat on. "I'll have to catch up with you later, Pinky, Raton ain't never satisfied til' he's locked away for life". And with that Kalya disappeared as fast as tumbleweed.

"What now?". Asked the princess. "I don't know yet. We'll set up camp". Nether started rummaging through her bag. "Camp? Here? Must I remind you that there's a lot to be done here and you're worried about..setting up camp?". Aina skipped off the stairs and headed toward where Kalya, and Raton was spotted last.

"And just where do you think you're going?".

"To help defend the citizens of this village. Can't let Kalya get all the glory". Aina smirked before dashing off.