Well, I finally had a major procedure done. Taking a while to recover. Finally, have use of my hands pretty well, so I figured I would write. It may not be much, but I'm trying. Again, please review and if you see something that needs to be fixed let me know. Stay well!- dmp012
Enydmion was anticipating the evening for once. This celebration would be much different than all of those he had endured recently. He would be able to freely converse with competitors, instead of having women foisted on him constantly. He was genuinely looking forward to meeting the young lad, Stellan, after Zoisite was able to speak with him briefly.
To say the generals and the prince were stunned was an understatement. Call them arrogant, but they had assumed they would sweep this tournament and be giving the money to the second or even third place holders, depending on how the brackets worked out. As a joke, Endymion had even said if they were beaten, he would add them on to his personal guard. Watching the young Stellan dominate his generals in archery, had made him have a serious discussion with his generals about it.
"We don't know anything about him just yet, Endymion," said Malachite. "You can't tell me the idea, at least doesn't intrigue you. The lad obviously has skills, and I for one want to see what others he possesses when it comes to the battlefield. He needs to at least be given the opportunity. His archery skills alone are unparalleled," said Endymion.
They agreed, and checked each other one more time before leaving for the ball. Each wore a finely cut, black tuxedo. Prince Endymion's crown was in place, signifying his role. They made their way to the ballroom and could hear the extreme amount of noise before the midway point. "This is going to be some party," said Jedite. "No kidding. At least for once, I won't be the sole focus of a ball. It's going to be a nice change," said Endymion.
They entered the room, and a herald with a large, booming, voice announced their arrival. Many cheered and clapped. The room was fuller than normal, since many more visitors were attending from the surrounding kingdoms. Dancers filled the floor, while bodies huddled together to watch and converse along the walls.
The revelry was infectious, and for once the prince and generals felt compelled to move about the room. They discussed the day's events with many they passed. Congratulations were doled out and of course there was always the same question on their lips, which even they could not answer. Where was the victorious archer, Stellan? No one had apparently laid eyes on him since the ball began.
"Surely, he must be here somewhere," said Zoisite, "a young lad of his station would never refuse the prize money." "True, so let's figure out where the young lad has disappeared to," said Malachite. They each took off in different directions throughout the room. Endymion came upon the open doors which lead to the gardens, while many typically walked them during balls, tonight the majority of people were inside. They were awaiting for the ceremonies to begin and did not wish to miss a second of it. He stepped out, just for a moment to get fresh air and there he saw the now familiar hooded figure of Stellan. Standing in the middle of the garden, admiring flowers of all things. Walking briskly, Endymion reached him quickly. "Ah I have finally found the young man of the hour. Everyone has been looking for the victorious archer from this afternoon," said Endymion.
Stellan turned toward him, but kept his face down. "Your majesty, it is an honor to see you again." "There is no need to be frightened boy, you can look upon my face," continuing to notice his downcast face. "I would, your majesty, but I do not wish to bring you or others discomfort with my appearance." "Well, now Stellan many realize where you reside and your circumstances. They will excuse your lack of typical ball wear. Is that why you are hiding out here, in your cloak?" "No, your majesty, it is more than that. I was a burn victim as a younger child and do not wish to scare others with my appearance. It is why I wear my cloak, even during the evening. I just wish to claim my reward and be on my way."
Endymion looked at the young lad sadly. He understood now why he was so uncomfortable to be in a room full of people, let alone be presented upon the stage. The idea of him joining his ranks as he and his generals had discussed was slipping through his fingers. "Let me speak to my father about this, and we will see if I can deliver your reward personally. Then you could be on your way. However, please share with me about where you learned your extraordinary skill." "I learned from my father, your majesty. He taught me a great deal, before he left this world" said Stellan. "I am sorry for your great loss," said Endymion, clapping Stellan on the shoulder. "I will return momentarily."
True to his word, Endymion returned with the reward in hand, his father immediately agreeing to honor Stellan's wishes. "Thank you, your majesty, for your consideration of my circumstances. This money, you have no idea what this will do for my village." "Your village? Do you not plan on changing your own circumstances with such a sum?" "I will, by helping my village grow and thrive." Endymion considered Stellan's words. Instead of taking the money for himself alone, he planned to share it and help those around him. An honorable young man stood before him. "Stellan, I have a proposition for you. After you have helped your village, I request you to consider becoming a part of my guard. Your skills, at the very least with a bow, would be welcomed as a part of my team. What do you say?"