Merillial - Day Two
Spoiler! :
I watched the Princess go over to her brother and stared into space as I walked over to Thranack, thinking of the way he had forced me to my knees. My shoulders burned, echoing my ... shame, embarrassment, disgust at being defeated.
"Lude?" he asked as I approached.
I started and looked up at him, suddenly realising that I wasn't paying attention to anything that was going on. "My Prince?"
He frowned at me. "Are you okay?"
"Yes, sir." The conditioned reply slipped from my lips and I was glad for it, though I frowned at it being automatic. Does he ask me that that often?
"Are you certain?" He shouldn't have to worry about me. A prince shouldn't have to worry about his bodyguard.
"Yes. Are you?" Turning the question back at him usually worked, I didn't have to do it often.
"Of course. You were the one the prick tried to hurt." I didn't want to talk about it, I was meant to be able to protect myself. Wasn't he annoyed at me for having lost?
"I'm sorry." Better to be out with it... it probably won't change much...
"I...Me too." I looked up at him. Why is he apologising? He shouldn't have to apologise to me.
"W-what? Why?"
"Because...I...messed...up?" This is probably the one time you didn't mess up. I almost sighed.
"No, you didn't. I did. I'm the one who lost."
"Oh, psh, don't let that bother you. Dae's a good swordsman."
"Mhmm."
"A damned good swordsman." Yes, but he still shouldn't be able to beat me. I'm meant to be one of the best.
"I know." I said quietly, not wanting to think about any of it, even though it wouldn't leave my mind.
"Come on. Let's take a walk-- it'll help you clear your mind." I wanted to sigh but didn't. After all, he's not going to change his mind.
"As you wish."
"Mm." he grunted, turning down the path, walking fairly quickly. I was used to his speed though, and followed him.
Suddenly he pulled off his tunic and smiled. I snapped my head up, not distracted at all by his toned body. Most of the soldiers had a body like his. Keep telling yourself that, Hawkins. Don't let your mind wander.
"Prince Thranack." I snapped.
"Yes, Ludiv?" He folded his tunic over his chest and grinned at me. Your doing this to wind me up, aren't you?
"You really should put your shirt back on." Before I decide to put it back on for you.
"Why?" He grinned at me. Definitely doing this to annoy me. And it's working, a little.
"It's really not proper."
"So? The Princess has gone back into the castle with Dae, and Father's no where in sight."
"Even so, you really should--"
He stopped as we turned the corner, almost making me walk into him and cutting off my sentence.King Megarus was walking towards us, looking at the flowers. As Thranack tried to turn, Megarus looked at him "F*ck me." Yes. This is why you keep your clothes on.
"...In case we run into someone." I finished my sentence. He narrowed his eyes at me, then quickly pulled on his tunic before looking at me.
"You can go, until he's finished talking to me." What? Why?
"My Prince, it's my job to protect you." And to be able to protect myself...
"I know...but...I don't want you to be around him." He glanced at the approaching King, a frown playing upon his brow.
"Because I can't protect you? I mean, it's understandable, I can't even protect myself." It slipped out of my mouth before I could stop it. I almost clapped my hands over my mouth but didn't, not wanting him to see how much I regretted it.
"What? No." He blinked and whispered at me. "I meant what I said about you being a fierce warrior. But you're too nice. Diplomatic. You won't tell him to f*ck off, which is exactly what he needs. He's a--"
"Prince Thranack." King Megarus had reached us and stopped.
"King Angroth. What a pleasant surprise." Thranack bowed. At least you remembered that. "Are you enjoying the gardens?"
"Mm, they're too soft to suit me. I don't know how you ever feel safe here." He had looked contemptuously around the gardens as he spoke. His ressemblence to is son was startling and it took me back to my defeat. I suddenly felt as if he was doubting my worth.
"Our kingdom is most safe, I assure you."
"Is that why you walk around with your guard?" Is he threatening Thranack?
"I enjoy her company." I glanced at him, surprised. I wouldn't enjoy my company if I were you. Thoughts started swirling through my head that made me force the rule to the front of my mind again. Don't go down that road, Hawkins. You'll just get hurt.
Megarus seemed surprised by Thranack's reply too. Then again, he probably only talked to his servants to ask for more wine. "Indeed?"
"Oh yes. I've found some of my best companions in the most unlikely places.The barracks, stables, kitchen..." Now he was just getting full of himself. I wanted to tap him on the back of the head to bring him back into line, but in front of King Megarus, that was impossible.
"And just where did you leave my daughter, Thranack?" The King asked sharply. He had left off Thranack's title and I narrowed my eyes at him slightly. Though he might not be a very good prince, he is one, and you'd do well to remember it, King Megarus. Then I noticed the look that Thranack had on his face and almost did tap him on the back of his head. He was going to say someth-
"She grew tired of my company, I believe." I almost sighed. Thank the gods, my Prince didn't say anything stupid.
"Did she grow tired of your company, or you hers, I wonder?" I'm not liking this King. I thought sourly as Megarus sneered at Thranack.
"Mm, we didn't discuss the reasons for parting ways. It just seemed like the thing to do, at the time."
"And you just left her, to wander about by herself? I need to know my Princess is going to be safe here, Thran...ack." I fingered the hilt of my sword to disperse my rising annoyance at King Megarus.
"She is most safe, I assure you." Thranack replied icily. "No one will lay a finger on her, while she's here."
"I certainly hope you're correct." Megarus said disdainfully. I really don't like this King.
"I am. Our gardens are guarded... Besides, I believe Lord Daerys escorting her."
"Indeed." His eyes flashed. "And do you know where they were heading?"
"That way, I believe." Thranack pointed into the gardens, far away from the way Lord Daerys and Princess Lierre had actually gone.
Thranack waited until King Megarus was far away before saying, "You're welcome."
"You can't honestly expect him to thank you for lying to him." I scoffed, even though I didn't disapprove of what he had just done.
"Well..." He lifted a shoulder and smirked. "He can't expect me to tell him the truth, if he's going to be a jerk."
"You're going to get in trouble."
"Eh...I've been in trouble before. Often." Yes, you have. I frowned as he grinned.
"You wouldn't get in trouble so often, if you'd only put a bit of effort into being more agreeable."
"But why should I, when it's so much fun to make people angry?" I sighed. Only he would find it fun to make people angry. He grinned before turning
"Come on. Let's go do something."
*
I followed Thranack through the gardens until he suddenly stopped and sat on a nearby bench. We had been walking around for a couple of hours and the heat was starting to make me uncomfortable, but I was used to being hot in my stiff leather top. Thranack suddenly stood up again and paced back and forth in front of the bench. I had known him long enough to know that he was either thinking about something, or he was nervous. I wasn't sure which though. He sighed and ran his fingers through his hair.
"It's nearing suppertime?" I knew what approximate time it was from routine. He probably did too.
"Getting there."
"Right..." He evidently didn't want to go to dinner.
"Mhmm..."
"Ludi..." He stopped pacing, looking at me. "Can I...ask you, something?" Pardon?
"Of course, my Prince."
"Lierre doesn't like me." He said. What made you think that?
"I'm sure she just needs time to get used--"
"She doesn't like me." He repeated. Well, now that I think about it... "...Do you know how I can change that?"
"I..." I sighed. How was I meant to know? I wasn't good with this stuff. "Perhaps you could do something nice for her?"
"I'd like to." He nodded. "But...I don't know what. What do girls like?" I don't know. I'm not good with knowing what other women like.
"I...can't answer that, sir." I sighed. "I don't know her."
He sighed too. "Me neither. Girls are complicated." Are we?
"Not really."
"Well then what...do I get her, Ludi?" How am I meant to know? I haven't ever really acted like a girl.
"I wouldn't know. I'm not a typical girl, my Prince." I almost blushed at what I had just said. Why did you say that Hawkins? Why should he see you as anything other than a loyal bodyguard?
"I know that, you're cool." He stopped for a second, and a slight flush crept up his cheeks. "I mean...just get you a knife, and you're happy."
"Mmm, although, I have quite a few knives already. I probably don't need any more. I don't know... get her something she doesn't see in Barqarnon." Barqarnon. His sister. He should know what she likes... What would your sister like, my Prince?"
"Mm...My sister ..." He sighed and started pacing again. "Pretty things...toys, dolls, flowers...flowers!"
"That can't be that hard...we are in a garden, sir." The Princess likes flowers too, juging by her interest in the gardens before.
"I'll get her flowers." He started back through the garden, picking roses and taking off the thorns. Princess Lierre is one lucky girl. I mean, who else has a prince picking roses and taking their thorns off?
*
Thranack stopped in front of Princess Lierre's door and took a deep breath before sighing and knocking on her door. I had stopped further down the corridor out of ear-shot. It wasn't polite to listen in on courtship, and I didn't want to anyway. I watched as he hid the flowers behind his back, then gave them to her. A small white thing bobbed up Thranack's arm and I took a few steps forwards, wondering what it was. It looked like something one of our magicians would make. "It's cute." Thranack grinned. "What spell did you use to make it fly?"
"N-no spell. I just touch them and they wake up." That's some powerful magic she has.
"That's awesome." I frowned slightly.
"Well, I should probably go and.. Unpack. I hope I'll be seeing you at dinner tonight?" I hope? For some reason it annoyed me slightly that he wanted to see her.
"Yes, I'll be there, my prince."
"Do call me Thran. 'My prince' sound so.." He waved his hand. I didn't hear what she said, but his smile widened. "Exactly."
"Thank you for the roses, Thran." He stepped back and she closed the door. His smile turned into a goofy grin.
"Prince Thranack, sir," a messenger boy bowed. I recognised him as one of Sir Brekyr's preferred messenger boys.
"Yes?"
"Sir Brekyr wishes to speak with you, sir. He's in his office, in the barracks, sir."
Thranack sighed, though he had to have been expecting it. He couldn't get away with messing up a Council meeting without being told off. "Okay. Thank you."
The boy nodded and sprinted off. Thranack sighed again and glanced at me. I took a few steps forwards and followed him to the Barracks.
I noticed Thranack up his guard as soon as we reached our destination. He and Chief Brekyr had been practicing fighting as soon as they saw each other apparently since Thranack was seven, and I didn't want to get in the way, which was why I took a step back as soon as Thranack pushed open the door. I waited until the noise of fighting had stopped and stepped into Brekyr's office, closing the door behind me as I did so. Sir Brekyr had Thranack pinned to the ground with a blade pressed to his neck. Though I knew that my Prince was in no real danger, I couldn't stop my hand from flying to my sword and unsheathing it a tiny bit. Thranack let his head fall back onto Brekyr's knees, panting.
"You're dead." Brekyr stood up, smirking as he helped Thranack stand up, then bowed. "My Prince."
"Yeah." Thranack rubbed his neck as he pulled a chair out in front of the desk.
"You let an old man beat you...again." Sir Brekyr moved around his desk, placing a few papers back on it.
"Whatever. I'm tired, I've been riding all day." I knew that Sir Brekyr was one of the few people Thranack was completely free with.
"Oh, I didn't realize. I'm sorry." He said mockingly, sitting. "I'm sure anyone trying to kill you will be far more considerate." True.
"Mm." Thranack grunted as he flopped into the chair he had pulled out and I stood close to them, but far enough away to not be intrusive. "Alright. I get it."
"If only you did." Sir Brekyr said as he poured himself a cup of coffee.
"At least I got the Duke's support." Aaaand we get to the reason we're here... probably.
"He threw you off his property."
"A minor detail."
"After you called his son a little bitch."
"I called it like I saw it."
"You can't do that, Thran." Sir Brekyr rubbed his face. "You very nearly started a war."
"But I didn't. He came to his senses." Oh, my poor, dear Prince. That isn't a reason.
"I cleaned up your mess." Sir Brekyr corrected. He was known to be very good at clearing up other people's - mainly Thranack's - messes.
"So quickly?" Thranack seemed slightly disapointed. Why do you enjoy causing trouble so much, Thranack?
"I have people to watch my people." Because you don't trust the people who are already with him?
Thranack poured himself a cup of coffee before lounging in his chair again. "Well, I hope they're more... loquacious than I am."
"Always."
"...What is that supposed to mean?" I almost smiled. Surely you know what he means, Prince. You don't mean to say that you haven't noticed you're completely tactless?
"It means, Thran, that you're a poor, dumb goober who puts his foot in his mouth as often as he opens it."
"I...okay. Fine. I guess you found a good spy to follow me, then?"
"My most diplomatic." Brekyr rolled his shoulders. "Don't worry, Dearie, he's very good at saving your ass...you've given him plenty of practice." Sir Brekyr's habit of calling people Dearie or Sweetie had kicked in, and it reminded me of the times he had visited the Crimson Guards in training. Those had been very interesting lessons.
"No point employing someone who's not good at what he does." he grumbled, and I was reminded of my defeat earlier. Why does this keep coming back up in my head? Let it go, Hawkins. Thranack has already tried to cheer you up...
"I know, but you're good at fighting, so we tolerate your lacking diplomacy in Councils." Thranack glared at Sir Brekyr as the latter smirked.
"Though, you really should try to think before you insult people." That's what I-
"That's what she was telling me." Thranack mumured, jerking his head at me. Sir Brekyr looked over at me and smiled.
"Oh, yes, hi Ludi." Thranack and he were the only ones who called me that, the only ones I accepted calling me that. Thranack because he was my Prince, and Brekyr because he had helped after my father died, when I didn't want to do anything else but stay in a corner holding my father's sword and hit those who came near me.
"Sir."
"Smart girl. Hard headed, but smart." Now they're going to talk about me as if I'm not - hard headed? What in all the gods?
"Tell me about it." Thranack sighed. Don't you start! Maybe I'm a little ... oh fine.
"Well, she might be a bit more agreeable if you were kinder to her." He isn't unkind.
"I try that!" Thranack exclaimed, "It doesn't work. Watch." He turned to look at me. A slight frown creased my brow.I'm not here to entertain you.
"She's not a dog, Thran-- don't try to make her perform." Sir Brekyr reprimanded him and Thranack turned back to him.
"I know she's not a dog," he snapped, as he crossed his arms.
Sir Brekyr glanced at Thranack, and grunted, then looked back at me. "How are you, dear?"
"Fine, thank you, sir...And yourself?"
"Oh, fine, aside from putting up with Thranie's nonsense." Thranie. Brekyr's pet name for Thranack. I repressed a smile. Although, nonsense is a bit far...
"That's a job, sir." I answered.
"Indeed it is." Sir Brekyr agreed. "But what's wrong with you?" Pardon? With me?
"Nothing, sir." Apart from earlier. But I don't want to talk about that.
"I know you better than to believe that, Sweetheart." Sir Brekyr answered, making me ground my teeth a little. "You seem...distracted, distant. What happened?" Why can't people just drop it?
"Nothing, sir." I snapped, my reply coming out sharper than I had intended. The War Chief glanced at Thranack for an answer, his brow raised. Don't tell hi-
"She was sparring with Dae and lost. I think she's still sore about it." Why can't everyone just drop it? Why can't I drop it?
"Oh, there's no shame in that." Sir Brekyr told me brightly. "Dae's an excellent swordsman."
"Yes, sir, I know." I replied stiffly, glaring at Thranack. Why did he feel the need to tell?
"Look at Thranie here-- he loses every time I spar with him, but you don't see it getting him down. If he let losing bother him, he'd have some severe mental problems. But, no, he lets it roll off his shoulders. That's what you have to go-- just let it go. I know it's hard, but after you get as much practice as Thran here has, it's easy. Really, I mean, when he first started losing he'd sulk for days. But now it's second nature, right Thranie?" A smile started to creep over my face. Sir Brekyr knew how to cheer me up. Make fun of Thranack, without really insulting.
Thranack grunted and glared. "Yeah, guess so."
"See? He's even got gracious about admitting how good of a loser he is. Why--"
"Alright!" He snapped, sitting up. "I think she gets the point." I chuckled at his discomfort, feeling a lot better. The defeat no longer annoyed me that much.
"Good. Do you?"
"Yeah, yeah, I get the point-- I can't beat you. Yet."
"See, Ludi, dear? He's been losing for twenty years, and he keeps clinging to the hope that he can beat me one day." I smiled. The day Thranack beat Brekyr was the day he'd become War Chief, which wasn't what Thranack was meant to be, even though it was what he really wanted.
"Yep. Now let's talk about something else."
"And he still seems to think he's got some type of authority here."
"He is the Prince, Sir." I reminded him, even though I did find it amusing the way Sir Brekyr made fun of Thranack and allowed him to be more himself. Thranack wasn't suited to being a prince, really.
"I know. And I plan to take advantage of that fact." He leaned back, propping his feet up on his desk. "I can't tell him to shut up when he's the king and actually has authority over me."
"I'll remember all this." Thranack grumbled and I almost laughed. Your memory isn't that good.
"No, you won't."
"Hm..."
I felt the hairs raise on my arms and the crackling sound of electricity coming from the yard. "Sir, is the Crimson Guard doing magic drills in the yard?"
"Yes, Sweetheart. Want me to take care of Thran here for you so you can go?" The prospect of being able to practice with my brothers in arms was making my eyes shine.
"Can I, sir? Prince Thranack?" I needed their agreement before I could go. It wasn't very professional for me to leave like this, but I wanted - needed to talk, to practice, to lose myself for a while.
Brekyr nodded. I looked to Thranack.
"Of couse." I bowed and left the room quickly, marching down the stairs. I pushed open the door to the yard and hurried outside.
"Hawkins!" The cry came from the instructor. We never stopped learning, even once we were trained. "Are you joining us?" The crackle of energy had stopped as the group waited for my reply. I knew most of them, but some of them were new recruits, just it from the Academy, and they were all men. Most women didn't venture down this road. I smiled and removed my hardened leather top and placed it on a nearby peg, the crimson cotton top underneath hugging my form.
"Prince Thranack and Sir Brekyrd gave me leave to practice during their conversation. And I missed everyone." They came over and we talked for a short while. Most considered me their little sister, and I considered them my older or younger brothers. Some didn't like me that much, because I had stolen the post of the Prince's bodyguard from them. Although, they had nothing to envy. Making sure the Prince didn't start a war was a full time job. Once everyone had gone back to training, Itaph came over to me.
"How was taking care of Prince Thranack?" he asked, a smile playing on his lips. I turned to the closest target and made an explosion in it's centre. "That bad, huh."
"Not really. Just helped to stop him from starting a war again." He came and stood behind me.
"You're giving away your intentions again. Your finger twitched." He grabbed my hands and turned me away from the target. "Try again." I sighed and closed my eyes, visualising the target's centre and released a tiny trickle of power before opening my eyes to the sound of my explosion. I sensed Itaph's mouth next to my ear. "Very good, Lu."
"Itaph, would you please let go of my hands. I'm pretty sure you like your eardrums." He snorted, but let go of my hands, moving his up my arms. I plucked a small dagger from my belt and twisted my arm so that it was me holding his arm and not the opposite. The dagger was balanced right next to Itaph's jugular. "I'm pretty sure you like your blood being in your veins too." He laughed and raised his hands.
"You got me." I narrowed my eyes at him and took a step back just as he drew his sword from it's hilt and swung it in a wide arc. The guards around us had already cleared the space.
"Sure, I got you." I stuck the dagger back into it's sheath and drew my sword, smoothing my fingers along it's back once, feeling the words inscribed on it. Living is dying. "You did the three things I dislike within two minutes, my brother." I grinned as I twirled my sword in my hand once. "You insulted my prince." The centre of the target I had been practicing on exploded. "You called me Lu." The centre of another one was blown out. "And you got waaaay too close." A third centre exploded in a small cloud of straw. "So, come on. I needed someone to boost my confidence. You'll do well." Itaph grin echoed mine. Our fights were routine, and I almost always won, learning new tricks at the same time.
I was the first to test the waters, sending a blow ringing against his sword. He quickly responded with his own blow, and we quickly descended into a glinting dance of metal and skin. A circle formed around our spar, but I hardly noticed, loosing myself in the fight. I reacted on instinct and quickly gained the upper hand. The song of the blades hummed in the air and I lived off of it. Itaph's sword clattered to the ground and I stopped, my sword pointing at his neck. Small cuts fingered our arms and legs, and we were dripping. I grinned at him. "Second blade at your throat today, Itaph."
"You were fierce today, Ludiv." He remarked as I sheathed my sword and gave him my hand to help him up.
"I needed to get something out of my system." I yanked him up and clapped him on the shoulder. "How are you?"
"Same old, same old. I'm gussing the Prince is harder work since Lord Daerys' family got here?"
"Yes, but then it's not that hard after three years. You thinking about letting one of those suitors get to you any time soon?" Itaph had always had the town girls around him, but had never seemed interested.
"No."
I sat on the fence and leant against the wall as Itaph joined me after retrieving his sword. We had been sparring for about quater of an hour, and I was tired, especially after the spar with Lord Daerys earlier.
"What about you, Ludiv? You're liked in the barracks, you know."
I laughed a little. "No, never. I've got a job that I can't do with a relationship."
"So you don't like anyone?" No one. Definitely not. Don't try going there, Hawkins.
"Nope. No one." I felt a tendril of power creep around me and narrowed my eyes at him. "No one, Itaph. And you know the day you read my thoughts is the day our friendship ends. Why do you even want to know?"
"Because... I..." A conflicted look crossed his face then he seemed to decide something. He suddenly leant in front of me and pressed his lips to mine. I froze and couldn't think as he drew back and looked at me, his icy blue eyes meeting my violet ones.
"Why did you just..." He seemed exasperated at my question, but his voice stayed soft.
"Because I lo-"
"Ludi!" Thranack's voice called from the door leading inside. He was looking directly at me and I realised he had seen Itaph kissing me. Ice dripped into me and I scrambled to my feet.
"I'm coming, my Prince!" I called before turning back to Itaph. "We'll... talk about this." I ran over to Thranack, grabbing my leather top as I passed. I didn't put it back on since my crimson shirt was drenched. I reached Thranack, who was frowning. I realised that my shirt clung to my form and I flushed a little. "Sorry for making you wait, my Prince."
"No, it's fine..."He seemed distracted. "You need a clean shirt. You can't go like that to dinner."
"Okay then, do you want to stay here, my Prince?"
"No, it's fine. I'm coming with you." I nodded and lead him back into the barracks. I walked into the living quaters and up to the first floor, stopping in front of my door.
"You don't have to come in if you don't want to, Majesty." I said quietly. In fact it would be better if you didn't.
"No, I'm fine." I nodded again then pushed open my door.
My room was quite small and sparse. My bed stood to one side with a chest of drawers at it's foot. A shelf with books stacked along it was fixed to the wall above a small desk littered with papers. I hurried over and quickly slid a few papers into an open drawer and slid it shut. Thranack didn't need to see the observations and reports I had made on him. A chair sat next to a screen cutting off the corner of the room, and Thranack went to sit in it after closing the door. I took a half-sleeved crimson shirt from my chest of drawers and looked at it for a second. Perfect, seeing the heat, I thought as I untied the small laces at my neck before slipping behind the screen and placing the clean shirt over one corner of the screen next to my leather top.
The thought of the Prince being just on the other side of the screen was slightly distracting as I pulled the sweaty shirt over my head. The cotton scraped the small cuts on my arms and a small hiss slipped through my lips.
"Ludi, are you okay?" Thranack's concerned voice floated over to me.
"I'm fine, sir. I got a few scrapes when I was sparring with Itaph earlier." I put the dirty shirt over the corner of the screen and studied my stomach. A few bruises were blooming over my ribs, but they didn't hurt much. I smoothed my hand over them then reached for the clean shirt.
"Itaph? The man you were with when I was looking for you." Something seemed strange about his voice, but I couldn't tell what as I pulled the shirt over my head.
"Yes...that man, sir." I tied the laces on the shirt and reached for my leather top, tugging it over my head.
"So...do you like him?" My hands slipped on the laces of the top. Don't think about it, Hawkins. He doesn't really care.
"No, my Prince. We're just training partners." I replied slowly as I finished lacing the top and stepped out from behind the screen. "Whilst I serve as your bodyguard, sir, I will not take a partner. Shall we go, your Majesty?" I started towards the door, leaving him to follow me. It wasn't very proper, but we needed to get to the dinner. I heard my door slam and rapid footsteps indicating that the Prince was following me. He caught up to me as we exited the barracks.
"But being a bodyguard is basically a life-long job!" he protested as we started into the gardens.
"So I won't take a partner for my life. I chose for it to be this way, Prince, and I don't regret it." Not even one teeny tiny bit. I stopped for a second and fell into step behind him as we crossed the gardens at a rapid pace. He didn’t reply to my statement and I couldn’t tell whether it was because he didn’t know what to say or because he didn’t care. Either way, it shouldn’t matter to me… I thought slightly sourly. But then again, my life choices were none of his concern. I chose when my father died that I would be a bodyguard like him. When I had met Prince Thranack, I decided that I was going to be his bodyguard, and I managed to outclass all of the men going for the same spot. It was an honour and a huge achievement to be able to be a bodyguard. Why can’t he see that?
I thought about the way he had acted after seeing Itaph kiss me. He had probably just been angry that I had taken so long. But what if he wasn’t? The thought slipped into my mind and wouldn’t leave. What if he was jealous of Itaph? I tried to chase the thought from my head. Thranack was about to be married, and anyways, why would he care about a bodyguard? I shouldn’t care whether he thought of me in that way either.
Thranack suddenly stopped. We had reached his room and I hadn’t even noticed. Some guard you are, Hawkins. Thranack paused with his hand on the door handle.
"You...you can stay out here. I need a bath and it...wouldn't be proper..." He murmured before slipping through the door. That it wouldn’t. I thought as I stood next to my door. At least his attendants are the- my thought was cut off as the door opened again. "If I won't let Ludi in here, I damn sure ain't going to let y'all in here." The attendants traipsed out of the room and milled around in the corridor. The door slammed shut behind him and I heard the click of the key turning in the lock.
Well it’s nice to know that he trusts me more than them for most things. I thought as I leant against the wall lightly, ready for a long wait. Thranack had seemed distracted and I knew well that that meant he would take a long time. And he had always liked his baths.
I emptied my head and floated in the dark pit that I had created inside. Most people thought of pits as somewhere dark and fearful, but for me, it was reassuring. I could visualise my power as a shining globe, but I didn’t want to see it right now, so it stayed as a glow in the distance. For now I just wanted to relish in the emptiness the pit brought me. I was still alert and heard everything that was going on around me, I could even distinguish people’s footsteps, but I was alone, so utterly alone. I would spend a lot of time here if I would, but I didn’t respond when I was in my pit.
Though it was a place to not think, I couldn’t help but let Itaph’s kiss filter through. It was something that shattered my peace, someone I considered my brother suddenly doing that.
I flickered back to the corridor, and looked in the direction I had heard James’ characteristically light footsteps.
“James.” I called. “Can I talk to you?” I was determined to get the answer to at least one of my questions. The attendant walked over and smiled.
“Ludiv. How can I help you dearie? I see that our Prince is in a mood again.”
“Mmm. James, what-” I stopped for a second, wondering whether this really was a good idea. Then again I had never been one to back down from a challenge. “What does it mean if someone kisses you?” James glanced up at me, surprise painted over his face. I couldn’t blame him. I hadn’t thought that I would ever ask something like this either. But then expect the unexpected. I unconsciously touched my lips, trying to erase the ghost of Itaph’s kiss. James smiled slightly.
“It probably means that they love you. Did someo-” I cut him off with a glare. I wanted to know something else.
“Say someone-” The door opened next to me.
“James.” Thranack’s demanding voice called from inside. The attendant threw another smile at me and hurried through the door leaving it open behind him. I could’ve listened to their conversation, but I was lost in my own thoughts. He was the one person I truly trusted
Itaph probably loved me. I couldn’t get the thought out of my head. I thought of him as a brother and had done since we started the military course. I trusted him more than anyone to watch my back in a fight and I still could, really, but I wasn’t sure that it would be the same. I sighed. Why did he have to change everything? I hadn’t even imagined that he thought of me in that way, but then again, I wasn’t very good with anything to do with love. Hell, I couldn’t even keep my own feelings in check.
"Would you like me to fix your hair?" James' voice emanated from close to the door, and I smiled slightly as I straightened up. James had always been more feminine than other men, but I didn't mind. I knew that Thranack did a little, but not very much. I saw Thranack appear in the doorway.
"No. I'm not a girl, regardless of whether or not I'm wearing this damned rose. You're not doing my hair." The door snapped shut and Thranack looked at me. "Ready?" I nooded and he nodded back before starting towards the dining hall.
He was dressed in a black tunic and trousers, a rose pinned to his chest. I stared at it without really staring at it. He was evidently trying to please Princess Lierre. It annoyed me even though it shouldn't have done. Why do you do this to yourself, Hawkins? He's going to get married and he doesn't really care that much about you anyway.
Thranack suddenly started walking faster and I saw Princess Lierre ahead of us, rounding a corner. "Lierre?" He called and she turned around relief painting her face. Was she lost? I glanced past her and saw King Megarus. I still don't understand. Unless she's afraid of her father.
"Oh, hello King Megarus." Thranack didn't bow and just stared at King Megarus, as if he was throwing him a dare. Brilliant. Start a war in your own country. This man has your sister in his castle. Think of her a little. "I was going to escort your daughter to the dinner. I hope you don't mind?"
"How chivalrous of you." One of the only times he's like this, apart from holding doors open. I thought with a slight smile.
"Mm."
"Don't let her run off." He looked at Thranack in a condescending way again, making me grind my teeth. I don't care if you're a King. You don't look down on my Prince like that.
"She's rather quick." The King quickened his pace, stiding towards the dining hall and leaving us in his wake. After a few seconds, Thranack glanced down at Princess Lierre, who was sighing. I caught a splash of red and glanced at her hair. Roses decorated her dark strands. My heart panged. She was making an effort for Thranack too. They're going to get married, Hawkins. Stop torturing yourself. The Crimson Guards who guard the Royal Family must never let themselves develop any feelings for those in their care. That rule is there for a reason.
"Are those the roses I gave you?"
"Yes, they are. I like them." I dropped back a bit, not wanting to hear the conversation. It wasn't proper and it wasn't helping me get rid of my feelings. I watched from behind as Thranack offered the Princess his arm and she took it. I wonder if the Princess is going to have a bodyguard once she marries Thranack. I thought as we walked towards the dining hall, not really bothered about whether she would or not, just worried that I might have to stop being Thranack's guard. I wasn't sure that anyone else would be able to handle him really.
In front of me, Thranack opened the dining hall door, letting Lierre though before letting it go for me to catch. I slipped through behind him and took up my place at the back of the room after having bowed to everyone in general. I watched as the Princess curtsied and took the seat that Thranack offered her. He bowed to King Megarus, then to the King, who eyed him. I smiled slightly. Sir Brekyr and I weren't the only ones who could tell what Thranack was thinking.
"It's good to see you on time."
Thranack sat down and I stared at his back for a second. "Yes, sir. I even took a bath this time." Is that really something you want to be declaring to the whole table.
"And we all appreciate it."
I saw him rub his nose and knew that he was trying not to grin. I held back a sigh. [i]Grow up, Prince. "Good to know my efforts are appreciated."
"Indeed they are, when you make them." I held back a small laugh. He has a point. "You seem to have a talent for disappearing, though." And taking me along with him. Sorry I'm not able to stop him from hiding.
"Thank you." It's not really something to be proud of unless you're a child... "...But I'll be sure to be easy to find later?"
"Good." Thranack nodded then emptied his glass in one go. Getting drunk isn't a solution. And I have to deal with it later if you do.
"Is that a new bruise?" The question caught my attention. It probably is, but when did he get it - oh. Lord Elgan. Of course. Why do men always sort problems out with their fists? Thranack coughed and set his glass down.
"Wh--Pardon?"
"On your cheek. Is that a new bruise?" Thranack touched his cheek. Yes, it is. That wasn't there when we came back.
"No. Of course not." I tuned out of the conversation slightly, tracking everyone's movements closely, only turning back to what people were saying again when the Princess stood up suddenly.
"I'm sorry. I'm not feeling well. May I be excused?"
"You're being rude." Megarus' voice ground out. I really don't think that I like you.
"I'm sorry." There's nothing to be sorry for, really.
"Do you want me to come with you?" Thranack asked. I stood up a little, in case she did.
"No, but thank you, Prince Thranack." She left the room.
"Well, it seems all of the children grew up rude." No. I really don't like you. "What's wrong with you?" He asked Thranack. Probably you. He doesn't do well with arrogant people.
"Nothing...sir." Lie.
"Mm. So, Thranack." Thranack turned to him stiffly. I could tell that he was trying hard not to start a fight for once.
"Yes, King Angroth?"
"I'm glad to see you managed to make it back into the castle, with your poor sense of direction." He has a very good sense of direction. It leads him away from things he doesn't want to confront. Thranack rubbed his nose, hiding a grin again. That's a bad habit.
"Yes, sir, me too."
"But it makes me wonder..."
He took a bite of his roll and I knew that he had an innocent look on his face, just to provoke Megarus. "What do you wonder, King Angroth?"
"Are you a habitual liar, or is that special treatment that you reserve for me?" Are you calling my Prince a liar? Well... He is one, but that's beside the point. King Creyo, Sir Elgan and I are the only ones who can really do that. Thranack choked on his wine again, coughing incessantly. I frowned slightly as he reached for the glass and took another drink.
"I draw, from your obvious dismay, that it is indeed special treatment." Thranack choked again and my frown deepened. I really, really don't like this King. Why do you hate my Prince? He hasn't done anything to you, really.
"King Angroth, I'm not sure such a direct accusation is in--"
"Look at the boy." King Angroth cut the King off, and I ground my teeth. "He's guilty and he knows it. And now he knows that I know it as well."
"No, sir, I assure you that--"
"Shut up." Why don't you shut up? The way he was treating Thranack made all polite thoughts leave my head.
"Yes sir." He looked down, rubbing his hands on his legs. I could tell that he was getting nervous, which was normally when he looked to me for a way out. I started to think of excuses that would make sense. I wasn't going to leave him in a situation that he didn't like, even if he was the one who had started it. He reached into his pocket and looked at a small piece of paper, glancing up at me for a second before turning his glare back to the paper.
"Thranack." King Creyo asked. "Did you lie to the king?" Yes.
"Well, uh, you see--"
"Thranack."
"No, sir. I--"
"Don't lie about lying." King Angroth said coldly and I almost glared at him.
"Thranack."
"I-I w-w-was, I-I." His stutter took me by surprise. Didn't you get rid of that? Even though I found the stutter slightly endearing, it normally meant that we would be escaping pretty soon. I stepped forwards slightly. "M-may I b-b-be excused?"
"Why?"
"I-I-I just rem-remembered that- that L-Lord Elgan w-wanted to see m-me." Right. Okay, I can confirm that if I have to.
"Mm." The King stared at him, suspicious, and I almost opened my mouth to help, but I stopped. If he didn't look at you in that way he does when he needs help, then you shouldn't try to help.[i] "Can't it wait?"
"N-no sir. I've wait-waited too long as it is."
"Hm, very well. I'll chat with Lord Elgan later, to see what was so important it had to interrupt your supper."
"Y-y-yes sir, thank-thank you sir." He stood up abrubtly and bowed, before hastily leaving the room. I hurried after him, bowing before leaving the room like him. He was leaning against the wall, panting slightly with his eyes closed. [i]Poor you. You put yourself in that situation, though
"Are you okay?" I asked, concerned. He opened one eye and nodded. He didn't look good. "Are you sure?"
"I-I'm fine." Really?
"...I thought you said you'd stopped stuttering." My eyes narrowed slightly. Or that Brek managed to get you to stop. "I certainly haven't heard it in a while." At least... two years, I think.
"I-I lied. I still s-stutter when-- stutter when I get-get flustered."
"You knew he'd figure out you lied to him eventually."
"I-I just didn't...expect...for him...to accuse me...of such." He slowed down, making an effort not to stutter. Calm down. Learn the lesson. Megarus is like that.
"Wild men w-who caught and sang the s-sun in flight, and learn, t-too late, they grieved it on its way, do not go gentle into that good night." I'd heard the poem before, the last time he had got this flustered. Brek made you learn that, didn't he? He just wants to help, whatever he does.
"Better?" He opened his eyes again.
"Yeah. I'm okay."
"Good...are you really going to go find Lord Elgan?" I don't think so, but maybe.
"Well... I guess I don't have much choice now." I nodded. Are you a sucker for punishment? He turned around and walked to where Sir Brekyr's room was in the palace. I had rarely been to it, only ever with Thranack. I thought back to the times when I had had to sneak into the barracks to be able to see Brekyr and smiled slightly. I had been so childish then.
We reached the room and Thranack glanced at me. "You can stay here." Hmmm? Sure. You must want to talk to Brek by yourself. He knocked as I stood next to the door, ready to wait.
"Who is it?" He opened the door and walked in. Sir Brekyr won't like that. I heard movement inside as the door shut behind Thranack, then a low thump against the door. Him or Brek?
I leant against the wall to wait. After a few minutes I sighed. If it was like this, then my mind was going to wander, and I didn't really want to let that happen. Letting my mind wander today alwaysn seemed to bring it back to Itaph, or Thranack, and that wasn't what I wanted to let it do. Itaph...Itaph was my brother, and I had thought of him that way for as long as I had known him, really. I couldn't have Thranack, even if I wanted him, so there was no reason for me to get worked up about it. I closed my eyes and relied on my other senses to tell me if there was anything wrong, slipping into my pit again until I heard a voice.
"F*ck you!" Thranack's yelled from behind the door. I straightened up a little. What happened this time? A few moments later the door opened and Thranack came out, pulling his shirt on. I saw a smattering of dark bruises across his ribs and frowned slightly. I should have a word with Sir Brekyr about that, but it isn't really my place, is it? He stormed down the corridor, cursing and I jogged a few steps to catch up with him.
"Dare I ask what happened?"
"He's a motherf*cker. A real asshole." You said that the first time we met. Do you remember that? And I said that Brekyr was kind. Then ran away. I don't do that anymore, do I? And really...
"Isn't that why you like him so much, my Prince?" He glared at me then rubbed his face before nodding. See? Calm down a little and look at the situation properly, and it makes sense more often than not. I followed him down the corridor as he hurried along, watching in case anyone was around. He rounded a corner and screeched to a halt, turning and pushing me back around the corner. What on earth?
"What are you--?"
"Shh!" He hissed, glancing back around the corner. "Megarus is back there." That explains that. But then... I saw King Creyo round the corner in front of us and sighed. From one problem to another.
"You're going to--" He walked straight into the King and I sighed as I stepped away from them slightly. That was what I was trying to warn you about.
"You're trying to avoid King Angroth?" The King frowned.
"N-no sir." The stuttering had kicked back in again. Are you really that apprehensive about talking to both of them?
"Hm..."
"I-I was just..."
"You were just...?" If it wasn't so obvious then I would have shook my head. Just dig yourself further into that hole, why don't you?
"Um..."
"I thought I'd seen you disappear around here." He turned around as King Megarus arrived. Brilliant. This day is just getting better and better. Thranack opened his mouth to say something, but nothing came out. Should I help? I don't think you'e like it if I did...
"Thran?" The King asked.
"I..."
"Thranack?" King Megarus repeated, making me frown. Stop pestering my Prince.
"...What was that?" He jumped backwards with wide eyes. I didn't hear anything... oh, excuse, right. I tried to fall in with his act, touching the hilt of my sword.
"What was what?"
"That--that loud crash?"
"Crash?"
"Yeah! Didn't you hear it?"
"I didn't hear anything." I twitched. Be quiet for once. Leave Thranack be.
"It sounded close. I-I better go check that out." He said before sprinting off, with me following him. It's been a while since you made me run like this away from someone. Normally I have to stop you from running to them to hit them. We slowed down a few corridors over.
"Sir...where are we going?" I asked.
"If Brek asks, to the physician." He leant against the wall, breathing heavily and holding his side. What have you done to yourself? "If Father or Megarus asks, to...I don't even know. A horse got out? And I had to get someone to put it back?"
"And the truth?" He rubbed his face. Don't lie to me, please. Can't you trust me?
"I think I should go clean out Reb's stall." It wasn't a lie, I could tell, but it wasn't the full truth either.
"Why does Lord Elgan expect you to go to the physician, My Prince?" For your side? He glanced at me and shrugged.
"I don't know. I guess I just looked stressed." Liar. I glared at him. So you don't trust me enough to tell me what's really happened? My hands fisted slightly.
"So, we should go." He turned and made towards the stables. I sighed and followed him.
"Lude?" he asked as I approached.
I started and looked up at him, suddenly realising that I wasn't paying attention to anything that was going on. "My Prince?"
He frowned at me. "Are you okay?"
"Yes, sir." The conditioned reply slipped from my lips and I was glad for it, though I frowned at it being automatic. Does he ask me that that often?
"Are you certain?" He shouldn't have to worry about me. A prince shouldn't have to worry about his bodyguard.
"Yes. Are you?" Turning the question back at him usually worked, I didn't have to do it often.
"Of course. You were the one the prick tried to hurt." I didn't want to talk about it, I was meant to be able to protect myself. Wasn't he annoyed at me for having lost?
"I'm sorry." Better to be out with it... it probably won't change much...
"I...Me too." I looked up at him. Why is he apologising? He shouldn't have to apologise to me.
"W-what? Why?"
"Because...I...messed...up?" This is probably the one time you didn't mess up. I almost sighed.
"No, you didn't. I did. I'm the one who lost."
"Oh, psh, don't let that bother you. Dae's a good swordsman."
"Mhmm."
"A damned good swordsman." Yes, but he still shouldn't be able to beat me. I'm meant to be one of the best.
"I know." I said quietly, not wanting to think about any of it, even though it wouldn't leave my mind.
"Come on. Let's take a walk-- it'll help you clear your mind." I wanted to sigh but didn't. After all, he's not going to change his mind.
"As you wish."
"Mm." he grunted, turning down the path, walking fairly quickly. I was used to his speed though, and followed him.
Suddenly he pulled off his tunic and smiled. I snapped my head up, not distracted at all by his toned body. Most of the soldiers had a body like his. Keep telling yourself that, Hawkins. Don't let your mind wander.
"Prince Thranack." I snapped.
"Yes, Ludiv?" He folded his tunic over his chest and grinned at me. Your doing this to wind me up, aren't you?
"You really should put your shirt back on." Before I decide to put it back on for you.
"Why?" He grinned at me. Definitely doing this to annoy me. And it's working, a little.
"It's really not proper."
"So? The Princess has gone back into the castle with Dae, and Father's no where in sight."
"Even so, you really should--"
He stopped as we turned the corner, almost making me walk into him and cutting off my sentence.King Megarus was walking towards us, looking at the flowers. As Thranack tried to turn, Megarus looked at him "F*ck me." Yes. This is why you keep your clothes on.
"...In case we run into someone." I finished my sentence. He narrowed his eyes at me, then quickly pulled on his tunic before looking at me.
"You can go, until he's finished talking to me." What? Why?
"My Prince, it's my job to protect you." And to be able to protect myself...
"I know...but...I don't want you to be around him." He glanced at the approaching King, a frown playing upon his brow.
"Because I can't protect you? I mean, it's understandable, I can't even protect myself." It slipped out of my mouth before I could stop it. I almost clapped my hands over my mouth but didn't, not wanting him to see how much I regretted it.
"What? No." He blinked and whispered at me. "I meant what I said about you being a fierce warrior. But you're too nice. Diplomatic. You won't tell him to f*ck off, which is exactly what he needs. He's a--"
"Prince Thranack." King Megarus had reached us and stopped.
"King Angroth. What a pleasant surprise." Thranack bowed. At least you remembered that. "Are you enjoying the gardens?"
"Mm, they're too soft to suit me. I don't know how you ever feel safe here." He had looked contemptuously around the gardens as he spoke. His ressemblence to is son was startling and it took me back to my defeat. I suddenly felt as if he was doubting my worth.
"Our kingdom is most safe, I assure you."
"Is that why you walk around with your guard?" Is he threatening Thranack?
"I enjoy her company." I glanced at him, surprised. I wouldn't enjoy my company if I were you. Thoughts started swirling through my head that made me force the rule to the front of my mind again. Don't go down that road, Hawkins. You'll just get hurt.
Megarus seemed surprised by Thranack's reply too. Then again, he probably only talked to his servants to ask for more wine. "Indeed?"
"Oh yes. I've found some of my best companions in the most unlikely places.The barracks, stables, kitchen..." Now he was just getting full of himself. I wanted to tap him on the back of the head to bring him back into line, but in front of King Megarus, that was impossible.
"And just where did you leave my daughter, Thranack?" The King asked sharply. He had left off Thranack's title and I narrowed my eyes at him slightly. Though he might not be a very good prince, he is one, and you'd do well to remember it, King Megarus. Then I noticed the look that Thranack had on his face and almost did tap him on the back of his head. He was going to say someth-
"She grew tired of my company, I believe." I almost sighed. Thank the gods, my Prince didn't say anything stupid.
"Did she grow tired of your company, or you hers, I wonder?" I'm not liking this King. I thought sourly as Megarus sneered at Thranack.
"Mm, we didn't discuss the reasons for parting ways. It just seemed like the thing to do, at the time."
"And you just left her, to wander about by herself? I need to know my Princess is going to be safe here, Thran...ack." I fingered the hilt of my sword to disperse my rising annoyance at King Megarus.
"She is most safe, I assure you." Thranack replied icily. "No one will lay a finger on her, while she's here."
"I certainly hope you're correct." Megarus said disdainfully. I really don't like this King.
"I am. Our gardens are guarded... Besides, I believe Lord Daerys escorting her."
"Indeed." His eyes flashed. "And do you know where they were heading?"
"That way, I believe." Thranack pointed into the gardens, far away from the way Lord Daerys and Princess Lierre had actually gone.
Thranack waited until King Megarus was far away before saying, "You're welcome."
"You can't honestly expect him to thank you for lying to him." I scoffed, even though I didn't disapprove of what he had just done.
"Well..." He lifted a shoulder and smirked. "He can't expect me to tell him the truth, if he's going to be a jerk."
"You're going to get in trouble."
"Eh...I've been in trouble before. Often." Yes, you have. I frowned as he grinned.
"You wouldn't get in trouble so often, if you'd only put a bit of effort into being more agreeable."
"But why should I, when it's so much fun to make people angry?" I sighed. Only he would find it fun to make people angry. He grinned before turning
"Come on. Let's go do something."
*
I followed Thranack through the gardens until he suddenly stopped and sat on a nearby bench. We had been walking around for a couple of hours and the heat was starting to make me uncomfortable, but I was used to being hot in my stiff leather top. Thranack suddenly stood up again and paced back and forth in front of the bench. I had known him long enough to know that he was either thinking about something, or he was nervous. I wasn't sure which though. He sighed and ran his fingers through his hair.
"It's nearing suppertime?" I knew what approximate time it was from routine. He probably did too.
"Getting there."
"Right..." He evidently didn't want to go to dinner.
"Mhmm..."
"Ludi..." He stopped pacing, looking at me. "Can I...ask you, something?" Pardon?
"Of course, my Prince."
"Lierre doesn't like me." He said. What made you think that?
"I'm sure she just needs time to get used--"
"She doesn't like me." He repeated. Well, now that I think about it... "...Do you know how I can change that?"
"I..." I sighed. How was I meant to know? I wasn't good with this stuff. "Perhaps you could do something nice for her?"
"I'd like to." He nodded. "But...I don't know what. What do girls like?" I don't know. I'm not good with knowing what other women like.
"I...can't answer that, sir." I sighed. "I don't know her."
He sighed too. "Me neither. Girls are complicated." Are we?
"Not really."
"Well then what...do I get her, Ludi?" How am I meant to know? I haven't ever really acted like a girl.
"I wouldn't know. I'm not a typical girl, my Prince." I almost blushed at what I had just said. Why did you say that Hawkins? Why should he see you as anything other than a loyal bodyguard?
"I know that, you're cool." He stopped for a second, and a slight flush crept up his cheeks. "I mean...just get you a knife, and you're happy."
"Mmm, although, I have quite a few knives already. I probably don't need any more. I don't know... get her something she doesn't see in Barqarnon." Barqarnon. His sister. He should know what she likes... What would your sister like, my Prince?"
"Mm...My sister ..." He sighed and started pacing again. "Pretty things...toys, dolls, flowers...flowers!"
"That can't be that hard...we are in a garden, sir." The Princess likes flowers too, juging by her interest in the gardens before.
"I'll get her flowers." He started back through the garden, picking roses and taking off the thorns. Princess Lierre is one lucky girl. I mean, who else has a prince picking roses and taking their thorns off?
*
Thranack stopped in front of Princess Lierre's door and took a deep breath before sighing and knocking on her door. I had stopped further down the corridor out of ear-shot. It wasn't polite to listen in on courtship, and I didn't want to anyway. I watched as he hid the flowers behind his back, then gave them to her. A small white thing bobbed up Thranack's arm and I took a few steps forwards, wondering what it was. It looked like something one of our magicians would make. "It's cute." Thranack grinned. "What spell did you use to make it fly?"
"N-no spell. I just touch them and they wake up." That's some powerful magic she has.
"That's awesome." I frowned slightly.
"Well, I should probably go and.. Unpack. I hope I'll be seeing you at dinner tonight?" I hope? For some reason it annoyed me slightly that he wanted to see her.
"Yes, I'll be there, my prince."
"Do call me Thran. 'My prince' sound so.." He waved his hand. I didn't hear what she said, but his smile widened. "Exactly."
"Thank you for the roses, Thran." He stepped back and she closed the door. His smile turned into a goofy grin.
"Prince Thranack, sir," a messenger boy bowed. I recognised him as one of Sir Brekyr's preferred messenger boys.
"Yes?"
"Sir Brekyr wishes to speak with you, sir. He's in his office, in the barracks, sir."
Thranack sighed, though he had to have been expecting it. He couldn't get away with messing up a Council meeting without being told off. "Okay. Thank you."
The boy nodded and sprinted off. Thranack sighed again and glanced at me. I took a few steps forwards and followed him to the Barracks.
I noticed Thranack up his guard as soon as we reached our destination. He and Chief Brekyr had been practicing fighting as soon as they saw each other apparently since Thranack was seven, and I didn't want to get in the way, which was why I took a step back as soon as Thranack pushed open the door. I waited until the noise of fighting had stopped and stepped into Brekyr's office, closing the door behind me as I did so. Sir Brekyr had Thranack pinned to the ground with a blade pressed to his neck. Though I knew that my Prince was in no real danger, I couldn't stop my hand from flying to my sword and unsheathing it a tiny bit. Thranack let his head fall back onto Brekyr's knees, panting.
"You're dead." Brekyr stood up, smirking as he helped Thranack stand up, then bowed. "My Prince."
"Yeah." Thranack rubbed his neck as he pulled a chair out in front of the desk.
"You let an old man beat you...again." Sir Brekyr moved around his desk, placing a few papers back on it.
"Whatever. I'm tired, I've been riding all day." I knew that Sir Brekyr was one of the few people Thranack was completely free with.
"Oh, I didn't realize. I'm sorry." He said mockingly, sitting. "I'm sure anyone trying to kill you will be far more considerate." True.
"Mm." Thranack grunted as he flopped into the chair he had pulled out and I stood close to them, but far enough away to not be intrusive. "Alright. I get it."
"If only you did." Sir Brekyr said as he poured himself a cup of coffee.
"At least I got the Duke's support." Aaaand we get to the reason we're here... probably.
"He threw you off his property."
"A minor detail."
"After you called his son a little bitch."
"I called it like I saw it."
"You can't do that, Thran." Sir Brekyr rubbed his face. "You very nearly started a war."
"But I didn't. He came to his senses." Oh, my poor, dear Prince. That isn't a reason.
"I cleaned up your mess." Sir Brekyr corrected. He was known to be very good at clearing up other people's - mainly Thranack's - messes.
"So quickly?" Thranack seemed slightly disapointed. Why do you enjoy causing trouble so much, Thranack?
"I have people to watch my people." Because you don't trust the people who are already with him?
Thranack poured himself a cup of coffee before lounging in his chair again. "Well, I hope they're more... loquacious than I am."
"Always."
"...What is that supposed to mean?" I almost smiled. Surely you know what he means, Prince. You don't mean to say that you haven't noticed you're completely tactless?
"It means, Thran, that you're a poor, dumb goober who puts his foot in his mouth as often as he opens it."
"I...okay. Fine. I guess you found a good spy to follow me, then?"
"My most diplomatic." Brekyr rolled his shoulders. "Don't worry, Dearie, he's very good at saving your ass...you've given him plenty of practice." Sir Brekyr's habit of calling people Dearie or Sweetie had kicked in, and it reminded me of the times he had visited the Crimson Guards in training. Those had been very interesting lessons.
"No point employing someone who's not good at what he does." he grumbled, and I was reminded of my defeat earlier. Why does this keep coming back up in my head? Let it go, Hawkins. Thranack has already tried to cheer you up...
"I know, but you're good at fighting, so we tolerate your lacking diplomacy in Councils." Thranack glared at Sir Brekyr as the latter smirked.
"Though, you really should try to think before you insult people." That's what I-
"That's what she was telling me." Thranack mumured, jerking his head at me. Sir Brekyr looked over at me and smiled.
"Oh, yes, hi Ludi." Thranack and he were the only ones who called me that, the only ones I accepted calling me that. Thranack because he was my Prince, and Brekyr because he had helped after my father died, when I didn't want to do anything else but stay in a corner holding my father's sword and hit those who came near me.
"Sir."
"Smart girl. Hard headed, but smart." Now they're going to talk about me as if I'm not - hard headed? What in all the gods?
"Tell me about it." Thranack sighed. Don't you start! Maybe I'm a little ... oh fine.
"Well, she might be a bit more agreeable if you were kinder to her." He isn't unkind.
"I try that!" Thranack exclaimed, "It doesn't work. Watch." He turned to look at me. A slight frown creased my brow.I'm not here to entertain you.
"She's not a dog, Thran-- don't try to make her perform." Sir Brekyr reprimanded him and Thranack turned back to him.
"I know she's not a dog," he snapped, as he crossed his arms.
Sir Brekyr glanced at Thranack, and grunted, then looked back at me. "How are you, dear?"
"Fine, thank you, sir...And yourself?"
"Oh, fine, aside from putting up with Thranie's nonsense." Thranie. Brekyr's pet name for Thranack. I repressed a smile. Although, nonsense is a bit far...
"That's a job, sir." I answered.
"Indeed it is." Sir Brekyr agreed. "But what's wrong with you?" Pardon? With me?
"Nothing, sir." Apart from earlier. But I don't want to talk about that.
"I know you better than to believe that, Sweetheart." Sir Brekyr answered, making me ground my teeth a little. "You seem...distracted, distant. What happened?" Why can't people just drop it?
"Nothing, sir." I snapped, my reply coming out sharper than I had intended. The War Chief glanced at Thranack for an answer, his brow raised. Don't tell hi-
"She was sparring with Dae and lost. I think she's still sore about it." Why can't everyone just drop it? Why can't I drop it?
"Oh, there's no shame in that." Sir Brekyr told me brightly. "Dae's an excellent swordsman."
"Yes, sir, I know." I replied stiffly, glaring at Thranack. Why did he feel the need to tell?
"Look at Thranie here-- he loses every time I spar with him, but you don't see it getting him down. If he let losing bother him, he'd have some severe mental problems. But, no, he lets it roll off his shoulders. That's what you have to go-- just let it go. I know it's hard, but after you get as much practice as Thran here has, it's easy. Really, I mean, when he first started losing he'd sulk for days. But now it's second nature, right Thranie?" A smile started to creep over my face. Sir Brekyr knew how to cheer me up. Make fun of Thranack, without really insulting.
Thranack grunted and glared. "Yeah, guess so."
"See? He's even got gracious about admitting how good of a loser he is. Why--"
"Alright!" He snapped, sitting up. "I think she gets the point." I chuckled at his discomfort, feeling a lot better. The defeat no longer annoyed me that much.
"Good. Do you?"
"Yeah, yeah, I get the point-- I can't beat you. Yet."
"See, Ludi, dear? He's been losing for twenty years, and he keeps clinging to the hope that he can beat me one day." I smiled. The day Thranack beat Brekyr was the day he'd become War Chief, which wasn't what Thranack was meant to be, even though it was what he really wanted.
"Yep. Now let's talk about something else."
"And he still seems to think he's got some type of authority here."
"He is the Prince, Sir." I reminded him, even though I did find it amusing the way Sir Brekyr made fun of Thranack and allowed him to be more himself. Thranack wasn't suited to being a prince, really.
"I know. And I plan to take advantage of that fact." He leaned back, propping his feet up on his desk. "I can't tell him to shut up when he's the king and actually has authority over me."
"I'll remember all this." Thranack grumbled and I almost laughed. Your memory isn't that good.
"No, you won't."
"Hm..."
I felt the hairs raise on my arms and the crackling sound of electricity coming from the yard. "Sir, is the Crimson Guard doing magic drills in the yard?"
"Yes, Sweetheart. Want me to take care of Thran here for you so you can go?" The prospect of being able to practice with my brothers in arms was making my eyes shine.
"Can I, sir? Prince Thranack?" I needed their agreement before I could go. It wasn't very professional for me to leave like this, but I wanted - needed to talk, to practice, to lose myself for a while.
Brekyr nodded. I looked to Thranack.
"Of couse." I bowed and left the room quickly, marching down the stairs. I pushed open the door to the yard and hurried outside.
"Hawkins!" The cry came from the instructor. We never stopped learning, even once we were trained. "Are you joining us?" The crackle of energy had stopped as the group waited for my reply. I knew most of them, but some of them were new recruits, just it from the Academy, and they were all men. Most women didn't venture down this road. I smiled and removed my hardened leather top and placed it on a nearby peg, the crimson cotton top underneath hugging my form.
"Prince Thranack and Sir Brekyrd gave me leave to practice during their conversation. And I missed everyone." They came over and we talked for a short while. Most considered me their little sister, and I considered them my older or younger brothers. Some didn't like me that much, because I had stolen the post of the Prince's bodyguard from them. Although, they had nothing to envy. Making sure the Prince didn't start a war was a full time job. Once everyone had gone back to training, Itaph came over to me.
"How was taking care of Prince Thranack?" he asked, a smile playing on his lips. I turned to the closest target and made an explosion in it's centre. "That bad, huh."
"Not really. Just helped to stop him from starting a war again." He came and stood behind me.
"You're giving away your intentions again. Your finger twitched." He grabbed my hands and turned me away from the target. "Try again." I sighed and closed my eyes, visualising the target's centre and released a tiny trickle of power before opening my eyes to the sound of my explosion. I sensed Itaph's mouth next to my ear. "Very good, Lu."
"Itaph, would you please let go of my hands. I'm pretty sure you like your eardrums." He snorted, but let go of my hands, moving his up my arms. I plucked a small dagger from my belt and twisted my arm so that it was me holding his arm and not the opposite. The dagger was balanced right next to Itaph's jugular. "I'm pretty sure you like your blood being in your veins too." He laughed and raised his hands.
"You got me." I narrowed my eyes at him and took a step back just as he drew his sword from it's hilt and swung it in a wide arc. The guards around us had already cleared the space.
"Sure, I got you." I stuck the dagger back into it's sheath and drew my sword, smoothing my fingers along it's back once, feeling the words inscribed on it. Living is dying. "You did the three things I dislike within two minutes, my brother." I grinned as I twirled my sword in my hand once. "You insulted my prince." The centre of the target I had been practicing on exploded. "You called me Lu." The centre of another one was blown out. "And you got waaaay too close." A third centre exploded in a small cloud of straw. "So, come on. I needed someone to boost my confidence. You'll do well." Itaph grin echoed mine. Our fights were routine, and I almost always won, learning new tricks at the same time.
I was the first to test the waters, sending a blow ringing against his sword. He quickly responded with his own blow, and we quickly descended into a glinting dance of metal and skin. A circle formed around our spar, but I hardly noticed, loosing myself in the fight. I reacted on instinct and quickly gained the upper hand. The song of the blades hummed in the air and I lived off of it. Itaph's sword clattered to the ground and I stopped, my sword pointing at his neck. Small cuts fingered our arms and legs, and we were dripping. I grinned at him. "Second blade at your throat today, Itaph."
"You were fierce today, Ludiv." He remarked as I sheathed my sword and gave him my hand to help him up.
"I needed to get something out of my system." I yanked him up and clapped him on the shoulder. "How are you?"
"Same old, same old. I'm gussing the Prince is harder work since Lord Daerys' family got here?"
"Yes, but then it's not that hard after three years. You thinking about letting one of those suitors get to you any time soon?" Itaph had always had the town girls around him, but had never seemed interested.
"No."
I sat on the fence and leant against the wall as Itaph joined me after retrieving his sword. We had been sparring for about quater of an hour, and I was tired, especially after the spar with Lord Daerys earlier.
"What about you, Ludiv? You're liked in the barracks, you know."
I laughed a little. "No, never. I've got a job that I can't do with a relationship."
"So you don't like anyone?" No one. Definitely not. Don't try going there, Hawkins.
"Nope. No one." I felt a tendril of power creep around me and narrowed my eyes at him. "No one, Itaph. And you know the day you read my thoughts is the day our friendship ends. Why do you even want to know?"
"Because... I..." A conflicted look crossed his face then he seemed to decide something. He suddenly leant in front of me and pressed his lips to mine. I froze and couldn't think as he drew back and looked at me, his icy blue eyes meeting my violet ones.
"Why did you just..." He seemed exasperated at my question, but his voice stayed soft.
"Because I lo-"
"Ludi!" Thranack's voice called from the door leading inside. He was looking directly at me and I realised he had seen Itaph kissing me. Ice dripped into me and I scrambled to my feet.
"I'm coming, my Prince!" I called before turning back to Itaph. "We'll... talk about this." I ran over to Thranack, grabbing my leather top as I passed. I didn't put it back on since my crimson shirt was drenched. I reached Thranack, who was frowning. I realised that my shirt clung to my form and I flushed a little. "Sorry for making you wait, my Prince."
"No, it's fine..."He seemed distracted. "You need a clean shirt. You can't go like that to dinner."
"Okay then, do you want to stay here, my Prince?"
"No, it's fine. I'm coming with you." I nodded and lead him back into the barracks. I walked into the living quaters and up to the first floor, stopping in front of my door.
"You don't have to come in if you don't want to, Majesty." I said quietly. In fact it would be better if you didn't.
"No, I'm fine." I nodded again then pushed open my door.
My room was quite small and sparse. My bed stood to one side with a chest of drawers at it's foot. A shelf with books stacked along it was fixed to the wall above a small desk littered with papers. I hurried over and quickly slid a few papers into an open drawer and slid it shut. Thranack didn't need to see the observations and reports I had made on him. A chair sat next to a screen cutting off the corner of the room, and Thranack went to sit in it after closing the door. I took a half-sleeved crimson shirt from my chest of drawers and looked at it for a second. Perfect, seeing the heat, I thought as I untied the small laces at my neck before slipping behind the screen and placing the clean shirt over one corner of the screen next to my leather top.
The thought of the Prince being just on the other side of the screen was slightly distracting as I pulled the sweaty shirt over my head. The cotton scraped the small cuts on my arms and a small hiss slipped through my lips.
"Ludi, are you okay?" Thranack's concerned voice floated over to me.
"I'm fine, sir. I got a few scrapes when I was sparring with Itaph earlier." I put the dirty shirt over the corner of the screen and studied my stomach. A few bruises were blooming over my ribs, but they didn't hurt much. I smoothed my hand over them then reached for the clean shirt.
"Itaph? The man you were with when I was looking for you." Something seemed strange about his voice, but I couldn't tell what as I pulled the shirt over my head.
"Yes...that man, sir." I tied the laces on the shirt and reached for my leather top, tugging it over my head.
"So...do you like him?" My hands slipped on the laces of the top. Don't think about it, Hawkins. He doesn't really care.
"No, my Prince. We're just training partners." I replied slowly as I finished lacing the top and stepped out from behind the screen. "Whilst I serve as your bodyguard, sir, I will not take a partner. Shall we go, your Majesty?" I started towards the door, leaving him to follow me. It wasn't very proper, but we needed to get to the dinner. I heard my door slam and rapid footsteps indicating that the Prince was following me. He caught up to me as we exited the barracks.
"But being a bodyguard is basically a life-long job!" he protested as we started into the gardens.
"So I won't take a partner for my life. I chose for it to be this way, Prince, and I don't regret it." Not even one teeny tiny bit. I stopped for a second and fell into step behind him as we crossed the gardens at a rapid pace. He didn’t reply to my statement and I couldn’t tell whether it was because he didn’t know what to say or because he didn’t care. Either way, it shouldn’t matter to me… I thought slightly sourly. But then again, my life choices were none of his concern. I chose when my father died that I would be a bodyguard like him. When I had met Prince Thranack, I decided that I was going to be his bodyguard, and I managed to outclass all of the men going for the same spot. It was an honour and a huge achievement to be able to be a bodyguard. Why can’t he see that?
I thought about the way he had acted after seeing Itaph kiss me. He had probably just been angry that I had taken so long. But what if he wasn’t? The thought slipped into my mind and wouldn’t leave. What if he was jealous of Itaph? I tried to chase the thought from my head. Thranack was about to be married, and anyways, why would he care about a bodyguard? I shouldn’t care whether he thought of me in that way either.
Thranack suddenly stopped. We had reached his room and I hadn’t even noticed. Some guard you are, Hawkins. Thranack paused with his hand on the door handle.
"You...you can stay out here. I need a bath and it...wouldn't be proper..." He murmured before slipping through the door. That it wouldn’t. I thought as I stood next to my door. At least his attendants are the- my thought was cut off as the door opened again. "If I won't let Ludi in here, I damn sure ain't going to let y'all in here." The attendants traipsed out of the room and milled around in the corridor. The door slammed shut behind him and I heard the click of the key turning in the lock.
Well it’s nice to know that he trusts me more than them for most things. I thought as I leant against the wall lightly, ready for a long wait. Thranack had seemed distracted and I knew well that that meant he would take a long time. And he had always liked his baths.
I emptied my head and floated in the dark pit that I had created inside. Most people thought of pits as somewhere dark and fearful, but for me, it was reassuring. I could visualise my power as a shining globe, but I didn’t want to see it right now, so it stayed as a glow in the distance. For now I just wanted to relish in the emptiness the pit brought me. I was still alert and heard everything that was going on around me, I could even distinguish people’s footsteps, but I was alone, so utterly alone. I would spend a lot of time here if I would, but I didn’t respond when I was in my pit.
Though it was a place to not think, I couldn’t help but let Itaph’s kiss filter through. It was something that shattered my peace, someone I considered my brother suddenly doing that.
I flickered back to the corridor, and looked in the direction I had heard James’ characteristically light footsteps.
“James.” I called. “Can I talk to you?” I was determined to get the answer to at least one of my questions. The attendant walked over and smiled.
“Ludiv. How can I help you dearie? I see that our Prince is in a mood again.”
“Mmm. James, what-” I stopped for a second, wondering whether this really was a good idea. Then again I had never been one to back down from a challenge. “What does it mean if someone kisses you?” James glanced up at me, surprise painted over his face. I couldn’t blame him. I hadn’t thought that I would ever ask something like this either. But then expect the unexpected. I unconsciously touched my lips, trying to erase the ghost of Itaph’s kiss. James smiled slightly.
“It probably means that they love you. Did someo-” I cut him off with a glare. I wanted to know something else.
“Say someone-” The door opened next to me.
“James.” Thranack’s demanding voice called from inside. The attendant threw another smile at me and hurried through the door leaving it open behind him. I could’ve listened to their conversation, but I was lost in my own thoughts. He was the one person I truly trusted
Itaph probably loved me. I couldn’t get the thought out of my head. I thought of him as a brother and had done since we started the military course. I trusted him more than anyone to watch my back in a fight and I still could, really, but I wasn’t sure that it would be the same. I sighed. Why did he have to change everything? I hadn’t even imagined that he thought of me in that way, but then again, I wasn’t very good with anything to do with love. Hell, I couldn’t even keep my own feelings in check.
"Would you like me to fix your hair?" James' voice emanated from close to the door, and I smiled slightly as I straightened up. James had always been more feminine than other men, but I didn't mind. I knew that Thranack did a little, but not very much. I saw Thranack appear in the doorway.
"No. I'm not a girl, regardless of whether or not I'm wearing this damned rose. You're not doing my hair." The door snapped shut and Thranack looked at me. "Ready?" I nooded and he nodded back before starting towards the dining hall.
He was dressed in a black tunic and trousers, a rose pinned to his chest. I stared at it without really staring at it. He was evidently trying to please Princess Lierre. It annoyed me even though it shouldn't have done. Why do you do this to yourself, Hawkins? He's going to get married and he doesn't really care that much about you anyway.
Thranack suddenly started walking faster and I saw Princess Lierre ahead of us, rounding a corner. "Lierre?" He called and she turned around relief painting her face. Was she lost? I glanced past her and saw King Megarus. I still don't understand. Unless she's afraid of her father.
"Oh, hello King Megarus." Thranack didn't bow and just stared at King Megarus, as if he was throwing him a dare. Brilliant. Start a war in your own country. This man has your sister in his castle. Think of her a little. "I was going to escort your daughter to the dinner. I hope you don't mind?"
"How chivalrous of you." One of the only times he's like this, apart from holding doors open. I thought with a slight smile.
"Mm."
"Don't let her run off." He looked at Thranack in a condescending way again, making me grind my teeth. I don't care if you're a King. You don't look down on my Prince like that.
"She's rather quick." The King quickened his pace, stiding towards the dining hall and leaving us in his wake. After a few seconds, Thranack glanced down at Princess Lierre, who was sighing. I caught a splash of red and glanced at her hair. Roses decorated her dark strands. My heart panged. She was making an effort for Thranack too. They're going to get married, Hawkins. Stop torturing yourself. The Crimson Guards who guard the Royal Family must never let themselves develop any feelings for those in their care. That rule is there for a reason.
"Are those the roses I gave you?"
"Yes, they are. I like them." I dropped back a bit, not wanting to hear the conversation. It wasn't proper and it wasn't helping me get rid of my feelings. I watched from behind as Thranack offered the Princess his arm and she took it. I wonder if the Princess is going to have a bodyguard once she marries Thranack. I thought as we walked towards the dining hall, not really bothered about whether she would or not, just worried that I might have to stop being Thranack's guard. I wasn't sure that anyone else would be able to handle him really.
In front of me, Thranack opened the dining hall door, letting Lierre though before letting it go for me to catch. I slipped through behind him and took up my place at the back of the room after having bowed to everyone in general. I watched as the Princess curtsied and took the seat that Thranack offered her. He bowed to King Megarus, then to the King, who eyed him. I smiled slightly. Sir Brekyr and I weren't the only ones who could tell what Thranack was thinking.
"It's good to see you on time."
Thranack sat down and I stared at his back for a second. "Yes, sir. I even took a bath this time." Is that really something you want to be declaring to the whole table.
"And we all appreciate it."
I saw him rub his nose and knew that he was trying not to grin. I held back a sigh. [i]Grow up, Prince. "Good to know my efforts are appreciated."
"Indeed they are, when you make them." I held back a small laugh. He has a point. "You seem to have a talent for disappearing, though." And taking me along with him. Sorry I'm not able to stop him from hiding.
"Thank you." It's not really something to be proud of unless you're a child... "...But I'll be sure to be easy to find later?"
"Good." Thranack nodded then emptied his glass in one go. Getting drunk isn't a solution. And I have to deal with it later if you do.
"Is that a new bruise?" The question caught my attention. It probably is, but when did he get it - oh. Lord Elgan. Of course. Why do men always sort problems out with their fists? Thranack coughed and set his glass down.
"Wh--Pardon?"
"On your cheek. Is that a new bruise?" Thranack touched his cheek. Yes, it is. That wasn't there when we came back.
"No. Of course not." I tuned out of the conversation slightly, tracking everyone's movements closely, only turning back to what people were saying again when the Princess stood up suddenly.
"I'm sorry. I'm not feeling well. May I be excused?"
"You're being rude." Megarus' voice ground out. I really don't think that I like you.
"I'm sorry." There's nothing to be sorry for, really.
"Do you want me to come with you?" Thranack asked. I stood up a little, in case she did.
"No, but thank you, Prince Thranack." She left the room.
"Well, it seems all of the children grew up rude." No. I really don't like you. "What's wrong with you?" He asked Thranack. Probably you. He doesn't do well with arrogant people.
"Nothing...sir." Lie.
"Mm. So, Thranack." Thranack turned to him stiffly. I could tell that he was trying hard not to start a fight for once.
"Yes, King Angroth?"
"I'm glad to see you managed to make it back into the castle, with your poor sense of direction." He has a very good sense of direction. It leads him away from things he doesn't want to confront. Thranack rubbed his nose, hiding a grin again. That's a bad habit.
"Yes, sir, me too."
"But it makes me wonder..."
He took a bite of his roll and I knew that he had an innocent look on his face, just to provoke Megarus. "What do you wonder, King Angroth?"
"Are you a habitual liar, or is that special treatment that you reserve for me?" Are you calling my Prince a liar? Well... He is one, but that's beside the point. King Creyo, Sir Elgan and I are the only ones who can really do that. Thranack choked on his wine again, coughing incessantly. I frowned slightly as he reached for the glass and took another drink.
"I draw, from your obvious dismay, that it is indeed special treatment." Thranack choked again and my frown deepened. I really, really don't like this King. Why do you hate my Prince? He hasn't done anything to you, really.
"King Angroth, I'm not sure such a direct accusation is in--"
"Look at the boy." King Angroth cut the King off, and I ground my teeth. "He's guilty and he knows it. And now he knows that I know it as well."
"No, sir, I assure you that--"
"Shut up." Why don't you shut up? The way he was treating Thranack made all polite thoughts leave my head.
"Yes sir." He looked down, rubbing his hands on his legs. I could tell that he was getting nervous, which was normally when he looked to me for a way out. I started to think of excuses that would make sense. I wasn't going to leave him in a situation that he didn't like, even if he was the one who had started it. He reached into his pocket and looked at a small piece of paper, glancing up at me for a second before turning his glare back to the paper.
"Thranack." King Creyo asked. "Did you lie to the king?" Yes.
"Well, uh, you see--"
"Thranack."
"No, sir. I--"
"Don't lie about lying." King Angroth said coldly and I almost glared at him.
"Thranack."
"I-I w-w-was, I-I." His stutter took me by surprise. Didn't you get rid of that? Even though I found the stutter slightly endearing, it normally meant that we would be escaping pretty soon. I stepped forwards slightly. "M-may I b-b-be excused?"
"Why?"
"I-I-I just rem-remembered that- that L-Lord Elgan w-wanted to see m-me." Right. Okay, I can confirm that if I have to.
"Mm." The King stared at him, suspicious, and I almost opened my mouth to help, but I stopped. If he didn't look at you in that way he does when he needs help, then you shouldn't try to help.[i] "Can't it wait?"
"N-no sir. I've wait-waited too long as it is."
"Hm, very well. I'll chat with Lord Elgan later, to see what was so important it had to interrupt your supper."
"Y-y-yes sir, thank-thank you sir." He stood up abrubtly and bowed, before hastily leaving the room. I hurried after him, bowing before leaving the room like him. He was leaning against the wall, panting slightly with his eyes closed. [i]Poor you. You put yourself in that situation, though
"Are you okay?" I asked, concerned. He opened one eye and nodded. He didn't look good. "Are you sure?"
"I-I'm fine." Really?
"...I thought you said you'd stopped stuttering." My eyes narrowed slightly. Or that Brek managed to get you to stop. "I certainly haven't heard it in a while." At least... two years, I think.
"I-I lied. I still s-stutter when-- stutter when I get-get flustered."
"You knew he'd figure out you lied to him eventually."
"I-I just didn't...expect...for him...to accuse me...of such." He slowed down, making an effort not to stutter. Calm down. Learn the lesson. Megarus is like that.
"Wild men w-who caught and sang the s-sun in flight, and learn, t-too late, they grieved it on its way, do not go gentle into that good night." I'd heard the poem before, the last time he had got this flustered. Brek made you learn that, didn't he? He just wants to help, whatever he does.
"Better?" He opened his eyes again.
"Yeah. I'm okay."
"Good...are you really going to go find Lord Elgan?" I don't think so, but maybe.
"Well... I guess I don't have much choice now." I nodded. Are you a sucker for punishment? He turned around and walked to where Sir Brekyr's room was in the palace. I had rarely been to it, only ever with Thranack. I thought back to the times when I had had to sneak into the barracks to be able to see Brekyr and smiled slightly. I had been so childish then.
We reached the room and Thranack glanced at me. "You can stay here." Hmmm? Sure. You must want to talk to Brek by yourself. He knocked as I stood next to the door, ready to wait.
"Who is it?" He opened the door and walked in. Sir Brekyr won't like that. I heard movement inside as the door shut behind Thranack, then a low thump against the door. Him or Brek?
I leant against the wall to wait. After a few minutes I sighed. If it was like this, then my mind was going to wander, and I didn't really want to let that happen. Letting my mind wander today alwaysn seemed to bring it back to Itaph, or Thranack, and that wasn't what I wanted to let it do. Itaph...Itaph was my brother, and I had thought of him that way for as long as I had known him, really. I couldn't have Thranack, even if I wanted him, so there was no reason for me to get worked up about it. I closed my eyes and relied on my other senses to tell me if there was anything wrong, slipping into my pit again until I heard a voice.
"F*ck you!" Thranack's yelled from behind the door. I straightened up a little. What happened this time? A few moments later the door opened and Thranack came out, pulling his shirt on. I saw a smattering of dark bruises across his ribs and frowned slightly. I should have a word with Sir Brekyr about that, but it isn't really my place, is it? He stormed down the corridor, cursing and I jogged a few steps to catch up with him.
"Dare I ask what happened?"
"He's a motherf*cker. A real asshole." You said that the first time we met. Do you remember that? And I said that Brekyr was kind. Then ran away. I don't do that anymore, do I? And really...
"Isn't that why you like him so much, my Prince?" He glared at me then rubbed his face before nodding. See? Calm down a little and look at the situation properly, and it makes sense more often than not. I followed him down the corridor as he hurried along, watching in case anyone was around. He rounded a corner and screeched to a halt, turning and pushing me back around the corner. What on earth?
"What are you--?"
"Shh!" He hissed, glancing back around the corner. "Megarus is back there." That explains that. But then... I saw King Creyo round the corner in front of us and sighed. From one problem to another.
"You're going to--" He walked straight into the King and I sighed as I stepped away from them slightly. That was what I was trying to warn you about.
"You're trying to avoid King Angroth?" The King frowned.
"N-no sir." The stuttering had kicked back in again. Are you really that apprehensive about talking to both of them?
"Hm..."
"I-I was just..."
"You were just...?" If it wasn't so obvious then I would have shook my head. Just dig yourself further into that hole, why don't you?
"Um..."
"I thought I'd seen you disappear around here." He turned around as King Megarus arrived. Brilliant. This day is just getting better and better. Thranack opened his mouth to say something, but nothing came out. Should I help? I don't think you'e like it if I did...
"Thran?" The King asked.
"I..."
"Thranack?" King Megarus repeated, making me frown. Stop pestering my Prince.
"...What was that?" He jumped backwards with wide eyes. I didn't hear anything... oh, excuse, right. I tried to fall in with his act, touching the hilt of my sword.
"What was what?"
"That--that loud crash?"
"Crash?"
"Yeah! Didn't you hear it?"
"I didn't hear anything." I twitched. Be quiet for once. Leave Thranack be.
"It sounded close. I-I better go check that out." He said before sprinting off, with me following him. It's been a while since you made me run like this away from someone. Normally I have to stop you from running to them to hit them. We slowed down a few corridors over.
"Sir...where are we going?" I asked.
"If Brek asks, to the physician." He leant against the wall, breathing heavily and holding his side. What have you done to yourself? "If Father or Megarus asks, to...I don't even know. A horse got out? And I had to get someone to put it back?"
"And the truth?" He rubbed his face. Don't lie to me, please. Can't you trust me?
"I think I should go clean out Reb's stall." It wasn't a lie, I could tell, but it wasn't the full truth either.
"Why does Lord Elgan expect you to go to the physician, My Prince?" For your side? He glanced at me and shrugged.
"I don't know. I guess I just looked stressed." Liar. I glared at him. So you don't trust me enough to tell me what's really happened? My hands fisted slightly.
"So, we should go." He turned and made towards the stables. I sighed and followed him.
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