Just as a hefty hand grabs at one of my braids, the assailant behind me grunts and falls to the ground. I rush to Emma's side like she's the last grocery store sample on display, quaking behind her as she raises both fists in an imposing image. Well, as imposing as a 10-year-old can be.
My doubt-filled, somewhat peaceful afternoon has come to a screeching halt.
"Wow! Emma, well done. Up top!" I raise a high five towards her above my head.
"Down low!"
"Too slo- Hey, at least pretend that you're too slow once in a while!" Emma fast reflexes have never lost to me.
The two guards posted out front rush in so fast, I don't even have a chance to see the man Emma just dropped. One holds a sword to the downed man's neck while the other does a formal bow in my direction.
"Forgive me, your highness. It was our negligence that caused this!"
On the floor, a loud gurgle sounds, followed by the supervising guard's low curse.
