Chapter 3: The Gathering Storm
Weeks passed, and Clara's skills sharpened. She learned to fight, track, and think like a warrior. Her true identity remained a secret, but each day, the desire to reclaim her throne grew stronger.
One night, as they camped near the ruins of an old fortress, Clara finally spoke. "I need your help."
Garrick raised an eyebrow. "Help for what?"
"To reclaim Eldoria," she said firmly.
Mira chuckled. "So, the little nobody has a kingdom after all."
Clara met her gaze. "I am Clara of Eldoria. And I will take back what is mine."
Garrick sighed, running a hand through his beard. "Then you'll need an army."
Over the next months, Clara and her allies gathered soldiers - disgruntled knights, betrayed noblemen, and peasants tired of the tyrant's rule. Secret meetings were held in the ruins of fallen strongholds, and weapons were smuggled into rebel hands. Clara trained relentlessly, her sword now an extension of her will. She was no longer just a princess - she was a warrior.