Chapter 6
Andrew

She knew something. Skylar knew something was up. She had to. There's no way she'd act like this if she didn't. Skylar knew I was studying her too. Was it possible..... No. No Skylar was not at the door last night. She could've never heard General and I talk. Truthfully though, I was only doing this because I didn't want to return home....
* * * *
I was at the dinner table with my family. My father was speaking intently with my mother, every now-and-then stealing a glance at me. He was never good at hiding information. From me at least. He's had everyone else fooled for years. I focused on the plate in front of me, thinking. My life had taken a turn for the worse. Instead of the usual care-free way I was used to living, they started pouring studies and problems on me. I was only five! I didn't have to deal with those yet. Let me enjoy life will you?!
My father cleared his throat. I looked up. Mother was staring at me sympathetically. Father's stare always sent chills through me. Everyone saw him as a peaceful man. I knew better. He wasn't murderous, but quite a... strict enforcer. He cleared his throat again, but there was no need. My eyes were already upon him. "Andrew, your mother and I have decided that you will not be allowed to neglect your duties any longer. You know the consequences so I wish to know the reasons." He wouldn't let his eyes leave my face. I knew better than to look away. Even for a second. But that doesn't mean I wasn't terrified. I was. The explanations that sense to me might not to him. "I don't see why I have to do all that when I'm only five. That's stuff for when I'm older." Father narrowed his eyes. "I see. You don't think our kingdom is important enough to sacrifice so little." I was so tempted to interrupt. But I also had learned not to from experience. I winced. I knew he wouldn't think like I did. Or he would at least try to set me up. I saw mother get an extremely sad and regretful look on her face. I knew what was coming my way before I even left the table...
* * * *
I absentmindedly touched my back and cringed. The first of many scars left to remind me of my mistakes. I didn't notice Skylar watching me until she spoke. "What's wrong?"
I looked at her and silently cursed myself. Of course she would be watching me. How could I be so stupid? "Nothing." I reply. She lifts an eyebrow. I can tell she doesn't believe me but she doesn't push the matter. Instead she says, "Whatever. I've decided that, I'll probably regret this, but I'll come with you." I was so close to jumping up and saying thank you a million times, but I held myself together. For her sake and mine. "Alright," I say standing. "We leave tomorrow." I swear she almost fainted. I laughed inwardly.