Kelsey changed as quickly as she could and then took a minute to look in the mirror. What she saw amazed her. Curly dark brown hair falling in ringlets, ice blue eyes, and rosy lips stared back at her.

"I never look this good after Council meetings…." she murmured. She smoothed down the thick leather tunic, cinched the metallic buckles on her boots, and slung her sheath across her body before leaving her quarters. She made her way through the musty corridors and took the short cut to the training grounds through the garden. Three girls sat on an elaborate bench, their arms and legs crossed.

"Look at her! She must think she's a boy!" one of the girls said in a not-so-quiet whisper. Kelsey kept walking. She knew those girls. Marietta, Ophelia, and Charlotte were three of the court's up and coming, prim and proper, perfect ladies.

"I know! That shirt is not flattering in the least! She should dress like she's the princess!" Charlotte said. Her voice had an ever present gasp, due to the very tight corset she wore under her dress.

"She won't be princess for long…" Marietta said sneakily as Kelsey kept walking away stiffly, trying to ignore them.

"What do you mean, Mari?" Ophelia asked with a confused expression.

"Do you seriously think that she'll get a suitor within two weeks? I don't. And then my father will be the King, and I the princess!"

"What'll happen to Kelsey?" Charlotte asked in a fake-innocent tone.

"I'm a good person. I wouldn't throw her out. Of course not! I'd keep her on as cleaning staff!" All three girls burst into uncontrollable laughter. Kelsey stiffened and turned around, drawing her sword in one smooth motion.

"How about you repeat what you just said two my face, and not my back?" Kelsey growled. Marietta sniffed disdainfully.

"It's not proper I tell you. Carrying an overgrown sewing needle is not for ladies,"

"You've got a lot of nerve, Marietta! Considering that I've got a sword, and I know how to use it!" Kelsey's face was growing red and her eyes had taken on a dangerous light. "Now, I don't want to waste my time on you slugs. I'm leaving!" She stalked down the worn path her head held high. Suddenly, a mysterious voice cut through the afternoon air.