Chapter 7
The next morning Lilliana asked her brother if there was anything he needed.
"Oh, nothing at the moment," he replied. "Why don't you go and take a ride. I may be able to join you later."
"Alright, but don't hesitate to ask if you need anything."
Lilliana rode out of Beruna half an hour later. She was escorted by two young knights named Aiden and Arik. This was their first mission outside of Cair Paravel, and they were, understandably, a little nervous about the responsibility of the princess' safety being laid on their shoulders.
One hour later…
Lilliana had just decided to ride back when she thought she heard a slight noise off to the right-hand side of the trail. A tall rider, dressed in black, appeared out of the bushes. The young guards moved their horses closer to the princess; Aiden spoke first.
"Who are you and what do you wish?"
The rider spoke no words, only looked at the guards with an expression that they could not read. The feeling of unease grew as four more figures approached, effectively circling the small group.
"I repeat," Aiden said again. "Who are you and what do you wish?"
"We wish for the pleasure of the lady's company."
The black-clad figure's voice was cold, and his tone was threatening. Something about him sent shivers up Lilliana's spine. "Now," he said, "you can leave, or if you don't…" The man slowly drew his sword, and the other four men did the same.
Aiden drew his own sword in response followed by Arik. Lilliana had neglected to bring her own sword, but always kept her knife close at hand.
The leader gestured, and the air was soon filled with the sound of clashing swords.