Darkness, Outside Woods
Owen rushes to Kaiser's as he heads for the stream.
"Lord Kaiser, Sir." The Youth grasps Kaiser's shoulder meaningfully and blocks Kaiser's path.
"Yes, My Prince?" His tone suggests irritation.
"Sir have you noticed the . . . condition of our company?" Kaiser's eyes flashed dangerously and he raises an arm across his chest, unconciously in a guard stance.
"What do you mean, My Prince? A bit dirty and weary they are, but that is all due to road travel."
"No." he says firmly. "These are men that are supposed to guard my life with their life. I don't think they are suited for that purpose."
"They are suited for the purpose. My Prince, I promise no harm will come to you during the journey." Prince Owen relaxed and bowed his head. Kaiser, assuringly slings his arm around his back. "My Prince, why do you trust me so?"
"I feel. A kindredness. We can relate. Have the same motives. We share a rule under which we stand."
"No My Prince, we do not have the same motives. We stand under the same rule but act differently. Your trust goes too far."
"No." Owen stands proud and optomistic. "These men feel differently towards me than you do. We are kin." Owen walks towards the fire as Kaiser whispers after him.
"Blood does not bind. Blood must be cleaned. Blood stains."
At the Campfire
©Astri_Amaroq 2002
