"What a great hat!" thought Maxime immediately as anger really started to go to his head.
While he wasn't an idiot, he didn't live to be insulted like that.
If he had to, he'd fight against the Kingdom.
He would dare and start a rebellion.
With his talent, anything was possible.
Aveline, hitherto silent, brought her horse forward a step. Her voice, soft but firm, rose above the tension.
"Chevalier Garlan, your devotion is commendable, but I am under the protection of the saber-toothed tigers by order of my father, Count Ardan. These masked men are necessary for my safety."
"If you have any doubts, I invite you to accompany us to the capital."
The soldiers exchanged uncertain glances, surprised by the authority emanating from the young woman.
Garlan, however, did not let his guard down.