Ingrid studied the guard once more. His cold, unimpressed gaze met hers, sending a shiver down her spine. She slowly turned to her mother. "May I know... why do I need a guard, Your Majesty?"
The Queen sighed, seemingly irritated at having to explain. "You will be practicing the spear dance at the temple after your studies," she answered.
Ingrid's eyebrows shot up in surprise. "After my studies?" she unconsciously repeated. She gasped softly at her own words.
The Queen shot her a cold glare. "Yes. You will begin in the afternoon and may not finish until it is already dark. For your safety, you will have a guard accompanying you," she said.
Ingrid's heart sank at the prospect of more lessons. She did not know anything about the spear dance, but she did not want to irritate her mother further. Suppressing her disappointment, she forced a nod of understanding. "I understand, Your Majesty," she replied quietly.
