Famous Flower Of Serving Men Part Four

The King of Gotham slammed his fist into the vaguely man-shaped padded dummy on the practice courts. It had been three days since the news of Baron Treverus' death had been revealed and he was still furious. It had to be, he reflected, the most horrible things that a man could go through; to lose a friend and be unable to claim revenge on those who had wronged him.

He sighed and stared over at William, who was sparring with Clark. And winning. He could see the anger in the other mans movements, the rage that was barely controlled beneath the surface. The King came to the sudden realization that, no matter how angry he was his rage was absolutely nothing compared to William's.

He stopped his fervent punches, and walked over to the two dueling friends, making sure not to get too close.

William brought his sword up and twisted it around Clark's, trying to disarm him. The bigger man evaded his attack, but just barely. Both combatants were breathing hard, and he could see sweat beading on Clark's forehead. Soon it would drip in his eyes, rendering him unable to see. At this realization, Clark attacked in earnest, using brute force to drive William back. While the smaller man himself to lunge, Clark tried to take the time to swipe his hand over his forehead, but William was too quick.

With a spinning high kick that connected solidly with his chin, Clark found himself in the dust, a boot on his chest pinning him to the ground, and the point of William's magically sharp sword at his throat.

"That was a stupid move," William growled, sheathing his sword. "I wouldn't try that again, were I you." With that he turned and strode off, promptly running into the king.

"Hello." Bruce stated.

William stared up at him for a long moment, then executed a stiff bow.

"My King." He said, rigidly, trying to slide past his ruler. Bruce, however, was not about to let that happen.

"Oh, no you don't," He half growled, grabbing William's arm, stilling him. "I need to talk to you."

William tilted his head in that…way he had. "Of course, your Highness." He said neutrally.

The king led the knight through the admittedly puzzling maze of the palace corridors until they reached his private chambers. They entered and he locked the door.

"Sit." He gestured to one of the several rough-hewn chairs that surrounded a circular table. William sat and Bruce sat across from him.

"I have an assignment for you." He said. William raised an eyebrow.

"You're sending me on a quest?" The slender man asked. The King shook his head.

"Not exactly." He replied slowly. "You see, occasionally, I'll go on an all day trip, and completely disappear. I like to be by myself on occasion. Unfortunately, Clark doesn't really understand my need to be alone. I need a…a chamberlain of sorts, someone who will fill in my duties when I'm away. You, my friend, have already shown a tremendous gift for leadership. I'd like you to take that position."

William looked shocked. Never in a thousand lifetimes would he expect the King to honor him like this. Slowly, he rose to his feet.

"I would be honored, your Highness." He said. The King smiled.

"Good." He replied. "Oh, and, please do me this favor? Clark must not know when I m to be…absent. He is terrified of assassination attempts."

William smiled.

"Do not worry, my friend." He said. "I won't breathe a word."

"Good." The king said. The two began to walk out, but suddenly the king stopped.

"William?" He asked.

"Yes?" The knight replied. The king smiled slowly.

"I do believe I am winning you over, William." He half-smirked. "After all, even knowing you for a relatively short time, I know you enough to realize that you don't simply call just anyone 'my friend'." With that he clapped the knight on the shoulder and strode down the hall.

***

Damn him, Diana thought. That was the last time she ever spoke in his presence without thinking.

***

Authors Notes: Ta-daa! Updated. All grammatical errors have hopefully been taken care of. Having just gotten over a severe bout of writers block, I shall post the next chapter soon. I promise!

Thanks for your patience

-cat