Mary adjusted her bow, slung around her torso and balanced on her shoulder, as she surveyed the room. Everyone was in costume, including she as a huntress. Feathers and lace adorned masks that hid the partygoers identities, the crowded dance floor a sea of anonymous mischief.
Tomas had just left in a rage, angered that Mary tried to hide her feelings about Francis from him. Her resolve was a force of steel, but inside she was shaken. How could she go through with marrying this man, this monster?
Francis reappeared at her side after telling off Tomas, drink in hand, and offered her his goblet.
"Here, to calm your nerves," he said with a tight smile
Mary took the glass gratefully and took a modest sip before setting it down on the ledge behind her. Turning to Francis, she spoke with a sad but definitive tone.
"If I only have one more night with you, then I want to spend it in your arms, not Tomas'."
Francis nodded and offered his hand, leading her to the dance floor.
Mary put her palm to his raised one, and began the traditional dance of the court. They turned, and Francis grasped her waist, moving her in the opposite direction, but never breaking eye contact.
Francis blinked and looked around before taking Mary's hand and pulling her off the dance floor, Mary hurrying after him. They rounded a corner, and Mary was suddenly pulled into Francis' body, her lips meeting his in a kiss not unlike the first one they shared on the grounds of the castle.
Francis' hand stayed grasped around hers while his other one moved to gently cup Mary's cheek.
"Mary," he whispered as they pulled apart "I can not let you marry Tomas. No matter what I said earlier, I can't let him hurt you. I won't. Not for a minute and certainly not for the rest of your life."
Mary sighed and leaned her forehead against his. "But how?"
Francis relished in her touch before pulling back once more and searching her eyes. "I have a plan, something I realized after speaking with Bash just before. But I must act quickly. I'll be back soon, your grace, with good news. I know it.
Mary's lips pulled up into a small smile. "I pray with my heart that you are right."
Francis kissed her forehead and began walking back to the party, presumedly to find Bash, before turning back to Mary. "You said once that you would save me if need be. Well, it is my turn to do the same for you."
Mary's smile grew as Francis turned and began to sprint towards the dance floor.
She could only hope that things would work out in their favor.
