The coronation, it is supposed to be the happiest day of my life, and I can't hardly stand to breath. I find myself standing here, looking at my kingdom with wonder. How is it that I am supposed to run my kingdom with love and care, when I've just heard the most awful news not one hour ago? I almost gasp as his words hit me like a thunder-clap once more;
"My Queen, I must leave. This is no place for a mere huntsman now that you are safe. After all, I'm sure William will not allow you to get hurt, or into any trouble." He gave her a mischievous grin, and I could have expired on the spot.
"What if I did not wish you to go?" I asked, holding my emotions back as best I could. This is not good news, after all. I had come to think of Eric as my best friend since escaping the tower, even though he had meant to kill me in the first place. I had practically forgotten, after all.
I found that my heart could hardly stand it when he turned to exit the study, but before he opened the door he turned and gave me one last look and said, "I will of course see your coronation, and then I will take my leave."
His formal words set me off, and the tears came unbidden as the door closed.
Well, that was an hour ago, and this is now. You are Queen, do something about it.
My eyes gazed feverishly over the many eyes staring back at me, but only one set drew my full attention. Such blue set into a face that could make me quiver where I stood. And before I knew it…
"For my first order of business!" I spoke loudly so I could be heard over the tremendous applause. After it had died to silence I spoke again, quieter, "I would like to call on the Huntsman."
My eyes never left his, and I watched as his expression changed to that of curiosity, his words still in the back of my mind; I'm sure William will not allow you to get hurt, or into any trouble. Well, Huntsman, he can't get me out of this one. A smile crept across my lips.
Eric was soon in front of me, and I then turned to William, "Sir William, step forward, please." He did so quickly, "Your sword, please."
Both men were giving me quizzical stares, but William was the first to catch on and I watched his eyes bulge with surprise, and I was sure there was a hint of irritation as he unsheathed his sword and held it out to me, hilt forward.
I took it carefully and turned back to Eric without hesitation. "Please, kneel, Huntsman."
And then I saw realization hit as Eric almost flinched at my words. Oh, I'll hear about this one after…
"I proclaim thee," I moved the sword from shoulder to shoulder as I spoke, clear as day, "from this day on, Sir Eric, Head of the Royal Guard, and Grounds."
Instantly I heard about twenty gasps, and I think at least seven of them came from the dwarves. I ever so carefully handed William his sword back and turned back to Eric, "Please, rise, Sir Eric." And he did, though now without giving me his extremely harsh glare that only I and William could see. I gave him the sweetest smile I could muster, and I visibly watched his eyes soften.
