My Unchosen Ex Chases Reborn Me (Soren and Fiona) novel Chapter 17

Chapter 17 Family Tensions Surface

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That power–hungry, iron–willed Helen had eventually begged to be posted far from court. She knew the new monarch would settle old scores, and she could already taste the chill of approaching death.

Later, Pierre Lawson’s scandal would erupt. It became the first crack in the Princess Royal’s family–after that, everything the great residence did was little more than a delayed collapse.

Fiona fell deep into thought. Back then, how could I have slipped into Granny’s residence and solved that coming disaster for her? The Niven family prized self–preservation above all; they never wanted me too close to the Princess Royal’s family’s affairs.

“Why did you not ride out with the hunting party?” Emperor Aldric asked, his voice warm enough to fool the unwary.

“Uncle Aldric, the archery examination is only a month away,” Fiona answered, bowing lightly. “I stayed behind to steady my draw instead of chasing game.”

“And who tutors you in the bow?”

“Ulrich learned that Mr. Xavier studies under Mr. Sunfield,” she said carefully. “He persuaded Mr. Xavier to coach me as well.”

“Since Xavier follows Mr. Sunfield, your mounted archery should be solid,” Emperor Aldric said, twirling his beard. “Princess Aurora keeps clamoring for a match. Naomi injured her ankle, and Roxanne has already escorted her home. The other ladies have all declined. You should entertain Princess Aurora.”

Ulrich’s complexion tightened; even the Sixth Prince’s brow creased.

Across the way, Soren watched the drama unfold with the calm amusement of a man at the theater.

Pain lanced through Fiona’s wrist. She opened her mouth to refuse, then met Ulrich’s heavy gaze–and a cold rush slid down her spine.

She stole a glance at Emperor Aldric. Though he still smiled, impatience was flickering behind his eyes.

She recalled what had followed the autumn hunt, and that was Emperor Aldric’s thunderous rage. Days later, the Ministry of Rites issued new edicts that weighted archery and horsemanship far more heavily–her two weakest arts, which promptly dragged down her

scores.

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Chapter 17 Family Tensions Surface

:

Why that sudden focus on mounted archery? Fiona pondered momentarily.

Most likely, it traced back to this very moment.

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The match against Princess Aurora might be billed as sport, yet if no Duflanan lady dared step forward, the realm would look timid. No wonder Emperor Aldric erupted.

Fiona also understood why the court ladies shrank away. Princess Aurora was fiercely skilled, while Duflanan women valued poise; none wished to disgrace themselves before the young gentlemen.

Emperor Aldric’s mild visage lulled them into refusing, never guessing the stakes.

But an emperor’s mercy was a myth. During the old succession war, bodies had stacked through the palace like cordwood–not even thirty years ago.

At that moment, Emperor Aldric teetered on the brink of another explosion. If she rejected him, his fury might well fall on the entire Niven family.

“Uncle Aldric, I have heard tales of Princess Aurora’s prowess. I have long wished to test my skill against hers,” Fiona said with a bright, unwavering smile.

Her ready assent softened Emperor Aldric’s expression at once. “Then meeting us today has proved remarkably convenient for you, has it not?”

Fiona weighed every angle with the caution of a chess master. Admiration alone would never be enough. She had grown up in manicured courtyards, not on the saddle the way Princess Aurora had. If she fought to win, she would only expose her limits. She needed to lose–and do so gracefully–so that Emperor Aldric would see nothing worth punishing.

With that thought fixed in her mind, she tipped her chin toward Ulrich, a silent cue passing between them like a spark in the air.

“Your Majesty, Fiona has practiced mounted archery for barely ten days. She was gravely ill until recently, and I fear for her safety,” Ulrich said as he dropped to one knee.

Ah, the half–truths we tell. Warmth climbed into Fiona’s cheeks. Two lifetimes of practicing mounted archery, and he makes it sound like ten short days.

Yet she needed Ulrich’s plea. If she lost, the blame would fall on limited training and lingering weakness, not on the Niven family or the women of Duflana. Pride would remain intact, even in defeat.

“Uncle Aldric, I have always revered women who master the art of mounted archery,” Fiona said, voice clear as a bell across the courtyard. “This chance is rarer than sunrise in winter. I

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Chapter 17 Family Tensions Surface

will keep myself safe while I learn from Princess Aurora.”

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