“Strong, “she says slightly smiling, “the word alone holds no meaning to me my sisters my mother were strong me nothing more than a mere coward and weak all the reasons why my mother and sisters constantly worried over me.”

“Your majesty you must trust that everything will work itself out in the end.”

“How is it someone who is so young be so wise?”

“Wise no, far from it I’ve just had a great teacher.”

“Gaia, “Alice says.

“Yes, Gaia.”

“She must think highly of you sending you in place of herself.”

“It was a great honor when she choose me for that I vow not to disappoint her nor you.”

“Your relationship with Gaia what is it if you don’t mind me asking?”

“No, not at all your majesty she along with her wife Cybele are like mothers to me taking and welcoming me into their home when I was younger for that I will be forever in debit to them.” Hearing Urena speak of Gaia it was clear to Alice although they weren’t related by blood loyalty had united them as a family. “Please drink some more we must gain as much distance before nightfall.”

Doing as she was instructed Alice drinks and consumes the portion of the loaf bread Urena offered to her earlier. She was thankful for the stop as both her body and mind needed to rest. She slowly begin to learn more and more about Urena the more she engaged in personal conversation with her Alice grew more and more fond of her. Remounting her horse both women continued their journey east.

Lesbiannicus like their neighbors finally fell victim to war. The enemy through miraculous planning succeeded in removing the royal family and defeating the royal army. As word continued to spread about the fall of Lesbiannicus other cities began to panic. Lesbiannicus was the city’s capital providing order, laws, and regulations of the land. Without any controlling government neighboring cities feared additional wars as cities would fight each other in an attempt to gain full control. They also feared the individual who captured Lesbiannicus had their own personal agenda that didn’t include the well-being of others. The mere fact someone had plotted to overthrow the capital spoke volumes about their position and purpose. Anticipating what was to come next and the unknown instilled fear in everyone seeking to protect their cities and citizens. Meanwhile, back in Lesbiannicus the leader of the invasive army has gathered amongst her trusted council and advisors discussing the matter and plans for the future.