Timely Love ( A were story)

Chapter 15: Small Conflicts

The inn was buzzing with activity as more travelers arrived. Merchants came to trade, nobles to inquire about accommodations, and a few curious spectators had caught wind of Diana’s unmatched riding skills.

It didn’t take long for trouble to find her. A merchant stormed into the courtyard, hands waving in frustration. “Your horse nearly trampled my goods! Do you know the cost of repairing this?”

Diana’s red hair glinted in the sun as she stepped forward calmly. “I apologize, sir. Midnight is trained, but accidents happen. Allow me to compensate you.”

Before the man could argue, Victoria stepped in. “He’s not just any rider—he’s our rider. You can’t intimidate her with empty threats.”

The merchant, flustered, stomped off, muttering, leaving the sisters with smirks of triumph.

Later, during a casual inspection of the gardens, a visiting noble approached, curiosity evident in his eyes. “I’ve heard much about you, young lady. How is it that someone of your… background, can excel so quickly?”

Diana raised an eyebrow, masking her irritation. “Excelling comes from practice, focus, and determination. Talent is secondary.”

The noble scoffed, “And yet you wield magic… how convenient.”

Diana’s hand twitched subtly, her fingers brushing the air, producing a faint shimmer of light. The noble froze, his arrogance faltering as the magical spark danced before his eyes. “Careful,” Diana whispered. “Do not underestimate me.”

Meanwhile, hidden just beyond the hedges, Dylan’s dragon observed silently, wings tucked, eyes glowing faintly. Dylan himself, partially shielded by magic, was studying her reactions. “She handles conflict with skill and calm… impressive. But the barrier… it blocks me still.”

By the evening, Diana had grown weary but satisfied. Every encounter had been a test, every confrontation a chance to show her skills, composure, and latent magic.

Victoria nudged her as they walked back to the inn. “You’re ready for anything now. Even dragons.”

Diana laughed softly. “Even dragons. But I wonder… will they be the ones I need to worry about the most?”