Warrior Princess

Wartime

The crown Princess, Almire, looked at me with a serious expression. "Sister! Father has ordered you to be sent to war."

"What?" My eyes widened in surprise. "Why?"

"He needs all the help he can get to make this kingdom strong." Almire smiled. "Besides, this could be an adventure."

"I hope it's not anything blazing." I looked down.

Since the weird dream, I've had an issue with fire. My parents made a set of rules to keep me a distance away from it, or else I might pass out. Fighting was a struggle, too. Dad tried to teach me when I was eleven, but when I held a sword, I would freeze up and ask if killing was a sin.

"Try to give it your all out there and don't pass out." Dad said.

I hesitate, but agree. This was for my kingdom. If not, for dignity and pride.

My second sister, Vera, took me to another room and forced me into my father's old armor when he was my age. It was silver with a red cape. Even though I looked like a man, I felt powerful.

"You are going out there as Prince Mark," Mom stated, tying my hair up and putting on my helmet.

My sisters, who loved acting, taught me how to speak manly towards others and how to confront the enemy. This isn't helpful for my fear but it was useful.

I said goodbye at the castle gates, hoping I would see them again. Mom and Vera smiled happily while Almire cried the whole time.

Trying not to do the same, me, my father, and a bunch of men set out for the front. On the way, my Father told me about his maiden battle and how he did something violent.

"This better work." I quiver, clutching on the reins.

"It's gonna work!" Father encouraged me. "Because we're prepared than any Toran scum out there! Let our country ride with glory!"

My stomach acts up out of the blue. "Yeah, let's hope I survive. The sight of blood is making me sick."

Our military camp had multiple tents and mine was placed next to Dad's. He told me to rest up so I won't feel nausious out there, even a few people said so. I lay back on the thin bed I was given, heaved a deep sigh, and closed my eyes.

——

"Your highness, wake up!" A soldier shook me the next day. "Today's the big day."

I woke up in a daze after dreaming of a male dancer. The morning has arrived and the battle will begin shortly. With a heavy heart, I put on my armor and get on my horse with a smile on my face.

The ancestors would be proud of me being here like dad was at my age. He must have been strong-willed and confident enough to kill a human being. By now, our battle will begin and I might not see the next day. I did the only thing I can do now: Pray.

Ancestors, give me strength to live.