The Warrior and the Petulant Princess Read Online Free

sitting up.
    “Um, yes, I think so, maybe a bit uncomfortably,” she replied feeling oddly shy.
    “I’m pleased that this will be the last time I’ll be seeing you straddled in such an unseemly fashion,” he remarked standing up and reaching for her hand.
    “I do prefer riding the way men do,” she sighed as she rose to her feet. “It’s so much easier.”
    “Perhaps there is a compromise,” he offered putting an arm around her and walking them back to their horses.
    “There is?”
    “In public, you will ride in a way that befits your station, as both a woman and a Princess, but when we are alone you will be permitted to ride as you like.”
    “Larian, that’s an excellent suggestion. I approve.”
    “You approve?” he grinned down at her.
    “I do,” she declared.
    Taking hold of Scarlet’s reins he handed them over to her. You have much to learn, Lizbett, and learn you shall.

CHAPTER THREE
    A s they approached the castle the guards in the turrets called for the drawbridge to be lowered. The moat’s baby pink water that appeared so inviting was lethal should anyone attempt to swim across; the pink was created by an algae that stung any living creature, man or animal, to its death. Though the times were peaceful, the King had created that peace through strength, but in so doing had made some vengeful adversaries.
    “There is nothing so inviting as a King who has not been beaten,” he’d once told Lizbett. “Treat the populace fairly, be generous and merciful, and if the Kingdom is ever in jeopardy they will rise to your aid, not side with the enemy.”
    Handerah was in his court listening to gripes and offering advice to those fortunate enough to have been granted an audience. He opened his doors often, and regardless of their reason for wishing to be heard he would listen patiently, then treat the visitor to a sumptuous buffet after their consult.
    But the King was no fool, and lurking in the crowd were trusted servants who listened to the conversations, determining if there was dissent and taking note of any praise. Handerah loved his Kingdom and its people, and he knew it was important to keep an ear to the ground so he could address any unrest quickly, whether by a strong hand or a generous one. The unknown spies in the crowd was only one of several covert methods he had in place to remain informed; his rule was stable and he intended to keep it that way.
    Though Larian didn’t know the details of Handerah’s methods, he was aware of the King’s strong but loving leadership, and how deeply he was respected and admired by the neighboring realms and noble families. Many had tried to emulate Handerah’s style but he was unique; it wasn’t just what he did, it was how he did it.
    For Larian, however, Handerah was a puzzle.
    How could a man so indomitable, have failed to raise his daughter with the same caring but unconquerable will? How was it that the beautiful Princess had ended up such a pampered, petulant brat?
    As they entered the courtyard the stable hands rushed to help her, but as she slid off her saddle and petted her mare the young men hung back, their heads bowed.
    “You may take her,” she finally decreed.
    Tholl had lumbered out to oversee things and recognized Larian immediately.
    “Larian, look at you. What a man you’ve become,” he exclaimed, “and what a steed you have.”
    “This is Thunder, because that’s what he sounds like at a full gallop.”
    “I can well imagine,” Tholl grinned. “Larian, I am so proud. I’ve heard tell of your many achievements.”
    “What achievements?” Lizbett interrupted. “Did you win some contests?”
    “Thank you, Tholl, and it’s marvelous to see how well you look,” Larian replied ignoring Lizbett’s inquiry.
    “Thank you, may I take your horse? What a beauty he is.”
    “Yes, please, he’s had a long journey. He needs water, as much hay as he wants and a soft bed,” Larian said pulling a large cloth bag from the side of