The Elven Princess wlw

Chapter 9

I will be updating the book from the start, just to make some changes!

Damion stepped forward, clapping enthusiastically. "Well done, Gabi! Never back down. This is a lesson that everyone should learn. In a mere moment, the tide can turn and everything can change. Laer may have had the advantage in size and experience, but it just goes to show that it's not everything." He then came over and offered me a hand to help me up. Laer, standing next to me, unexpectedly pulled me into a hug. "That was amazing, Gabi," he praised, applauding me. As he released me from the slightly awkward embrace, I turned around and noticed a pair of golden eyes watching our interaction. 

The Princess appeared uneasy, but I couldn't determine the reason behind it. It seemed like she wanted to speak to me, so I approached her cautiously, while the others continued with their training. "I'm sorry, I wasn't sure if you were coming, and he asked me to spar," I explained quickly, barely taking a breath. The Princess, dressed in a simple earth-toned robe and matching trousers, looked down at me. Although she appeared more casual, nobody here could compare to her regal presence, with her golden hair tied back in a neat ponytail. "You did well, Gabi. Damion has filled me in on your training. It won't be long before my father oversees your test," she acknowledged.

 It was the first time she mentioned the test, something I had momentarily forgotten about, but passing it was a crucial part of the terms I had agreed to for this training. Princess Lily then turned around abruptly and gestured for me to follow her. Cautiously, I trailed after her as she led me towards the area where the horses were housed. Was it finally time for my riding lesson? We rounded the corner of the stables and entered, passing several stables until we reached a particularly large one that housed a magnificent palomino horse, standing tall. Lily went into the stall and began cooing at the horse, confirming my assumption that it was indeed her horse.

Lily skillfully lifted the saddle with grace, effortlessly placing it onto her horse and expertly fastening the buckle. I couldn't help but be amazed at her capability, a trait that continued to surprise me about the Princess. With ease, she secured the reins, showing her comfort and familiarity with the task. As she pulled her horse out, I instinctively took a step back, never having been around horses before, everything felt new and unfamiliar to me.

"Careful," Lily scolded me, her voice firm. "Come here," she demanded, beckoning me over. Nervously, I approached, cautiously eyeing the horse to ensure my safety. Lily knelt down, extending her hands towards me. "Place your foot here," she instructed, "and then swing your leg over." The thought of getting on the horse unsettled me, and I hesitated. "I'm not putting my dirty shoe in your hands," I refused, hesitant to burden the Princess. It just felt wrong, considering her high status.

Lily was visibly annoyed by my defiance, huffing and rolling her eyes in frustration. "You either do it or you won't learn how to ride and fail the test," she retorted, playing her trump card. Annoyed at her response, I grumbled in annoyance, finally giving in and cautiously placing my foot in her hand. Lifted effortlessly by Lily, I swung my leg over the horse and settled into the saddle. To my relief, Lily followed suit, jumping up onto the saddle behind me. Though pressed up against her, I found comfort in her presence, grateful she wouldn't leave me alone with the horse. Yet, the proximity unnerved me, and I could hear her rhythmic breathing, causing my heart to race.

Securing her feet in the stirrups and reaching around me to hold the reins, Lily gently tapped the horse, prompting it to start moving. As we left the barn and ventured into the fields, away from the city's hustle and bustle, I couldn't help but feel surprised that Lily would go this far without any guards accompanying her. Trotting along, I gradually grew accustomed to the horse's movements, silently absorbing Lily's advice. "Just go with the movement, don't fight it," Lily whispered into my ear, sending a tingle down my spine. Focused on mastering the art of riding, I refrained from speaking, solely concentrating on the horse and its actions.

Curiosity finally got the better of me, and I couldn't help but inquire, "Am I doing it right?" Eager to succeed, I desired confirmation. "Yes," Lily assured me, confident in my ability to quickly grasp the skill, given my previous progress. Unbeknownst to me, Lily had been observing my every move, intently studying my face. Inhaling deeply from time to time, she found herself relishing in the scent of my lowly elven being. Internal cursing ensued, as she reminded herself of an upcoming suitor, set to arrive within a day or two.