Page 13 - RotalTutor

“Two years, Your Majesty.” “And before that?” “The University and Royal Guard Academy.” The queen still relayed no emotion, but her line of reasoning was easy to follow. She was feeling he moved up too fast. Perhaps she was feeling he had received the assignment because of his father, more than for the hard work and training he had put into it. The queen continued. “How long were you at the University and Academy?” “Three years, Your Majesty.” The queen looked right at him, her eyes narrowing slightly. “Quite impressive. You moved up quickly, and sixteen is very young to qualify for the Academy.” Jacob could stand it no longer. He knew where this was headed, and he had to get it over with. He felt desperate to present his side of the issues at hand. He did the unthinkable and spoke without being spoken to. “If Your Majesty is concerned about your safety, you needn’t be. My men and I are extremely proficient at our work. I can guarantee there will be no harm...” The queen raised her hand to silence him. Even though she still showed no emotion, he knew he shouldn’t have spouted off like that, and he realized it would just make his case that much more bleak. The queen smiled at him, the first emotion she had shown. Her smile was unexpected and confusing. When she spoke, her voice was soft and kind. 11