Luka

19

Serena

Rigel sputtered, caught off guard. But another bowed respectfully. "Forgive us, Your Highness. Old Rigel speaks out of turn."

I held up a hand. "No need for apologies yet, friend. I welcome honest counsel, however gruffly delivered. Now Rigel, share your views - but choose words carefully."

Rigel eyed me warily. "With respect, Princess, you've yet to face true hardship. War is no place for delicate sensibilities."

I arched a brow at Rigel. "Pray tell, what do you know of my hardships?" I asked calmly.

Rigel shifted, clearly unaccustomed to being questioned. "With respect Princess, I meant no offense. It's just that war ain't no place for a lady."

"Is that so?" I replied evenly. "Then enlighten me, Rigel - what defines a lady, if not her character?"

Rigel opened his mouth then closed it, at a loss. I pressed on. "You assume I am weak or delicate because of my title, my birth? Things over my control. But you should rather judge me for those within - my character, convictions