Chapter 68

I was reluctant to come out, but I'm glad I did.

Maxi had been so busy poring over her books that she had not even had time to practice riding with Rem. She slowly made her way to the back garden.

It was the time of day when the marching cadence of the squires could usually be heard, but she did not hear a sound. They, too, must have gone to participate in cavalry training. She was relieved that she would be able to train in peace.

Will it be different this time?

She settled at a sunny spot and rummaged through her pocket for the magic stone. The surface looked almost transparent as it glimmered under the bright sun. After turning the stone over in her hand a few times, Maxi gripped it tightly.

She clenched her eyes shut and waited for the surface of the stone to heat up. But as she had feared, nothing happened. After making several more unsuccessful attempts, she looked up at the sky and sighed.

Perhaps I don't have the talent after all…