"I would like to see my daughter again. But is that possible? Our army will need to rest so soon after the battle. We need every able fighter."
Marli settled down in the same spot where she had sat before.
It may be that the kings were not allowed to attack her. But anyone else, who could be bought for money, mercenaries, thieves.
Over the years, Nette had retained her beauty. Only a few scars marred the wonderfully tanned skin of the leader. Unlike some of her sisters, she knew how to protect herself without leaving the fight.
"Don't worry," shouted the leader. She sat down next to her friend. "Go to your daughter. Whether one more warrior stays in the camp is unimportant as long as you come back healthy."
This meant Marli should lower her proud head and not reveal herself as an Amazon. Otherwise, she might end up on the judge's executioner's block. And in Ylora, it was the judge who sent the prisoners on their final journey.
"Thank you," Marli said with a smile. Before her leader sent her off already, she had something to add. "But I will leave no earlier than tomorrow."
The whole village was planning a celebration in honor of their warriors. Whether old or young, everyone would contribute. Even Nala wanted to bake a cake for her mom, with Alesa's help.
The hunters were already out hunting to catch some animals. Additionally, farmers had gifted them two pigs and a cow. Three of their chickens were also included, to be prepared in the old Alesa's own way, just as Nette preferred.
Nette looked at the two girls. The wild redhead Gedana, who was already playing in deeper water, always under the watchful eyes of the two women. And little Nala, splashing in shallow water and watching some fish swim past.
"A refreshing dip wouldn't hurt us either," said the leader of the Amazons, playfully nudging her friend in the side.
Quickly, their clothes were discarded. With a wide jump, she plunged into deeper water.
Envy crept up in Marli as she observed this incredibly beautiful woman. Her silky skin, golden hair, and well-shaped body.
She might have become a full-fledged Amazon, but she had not lost any of her beauty or grace as a noble. No wonder a man wanted to lay his entire kingdom at her feet and still pursued her even now.
This invincible being to whom many entrusted the future of the land.
The warrior took only a few minutes to follow her leader into the lake.
On this sunny day, the cool water was simply a relief. Especially for Nette after the battle and the arduous journey.
Here, she could cleanse her body from the sweat and dirt that clung to it.
Gedana approached them until the water reached her chest. Immediately, Nette cupped her hands with water and splashed it on the child. An invitation to play that both children eagerly accepted. And even Marli gladly joined in.
None of the warrior women suspected that their water games with the two girls also attracted other attention.