This is a short one...sorry. And sorry for the longer wait for an update. I've been a little busy with the holidays. I hope you enjoy it, and as always thank you for reviewing!
The first rays of sun were just beginning to filter through the window, but Kyla had been ready a long time ago. The dress she had been wearing when she arrived would have to do. It was so old and dirty it didn't make any matter anyhow. She reveled in the thought of how this could be the last time she ever wore this servant dress. In addition, she put on a thick pair of leggings which came to her knees. They were not suitable to wear by themselves, but it would give her some added protection and comfort while riding.
Her boots, however, were a different story. They were falling apart quite literally at the seams. Marie had been kind enough to find an old pair of her son's which he had long outgrown. They didn't fit perfectly, but they would make do much better.
Especially if we meet the Saxon, she thought. Kyla shuddered at the thought. She had never met a Saxon and was happy for it, but she realized that it was more than possible they would have to fight on this mission. The Roman family was far in the north and the father of the boy it was their mission to protect would not be a man easily persuaded to leave.
When she arrived at the stables, she found Tristan had already arrived. He was sitting quietly towards the back wall.
"You're up early," he said with an eyebrow raised.
"So are you," Kyla replied.
"Arthur told us you were coming," Tristan said.
"Yes," Kyla shrugged, unsure of what to say.
"He says we can trust you."
"You can," the Woad woman replied confidently.
Tristan took a long stare at her and apparently decided she was being sincere. He picked up his sword and started cleaning it.
The other knights staggered in one by one, each with a serious look. Lancelot gave a brief nod in Kyla's direction before gathering his things. Jols brought Kyla a sword and bow and showed her a horse she could ride on.
"This is Torrent. He will be a good horse for you," Jols said.
Kyla marveled at the horse's beautiful black coat and mane. "He's perfect."
Arthur arrived not long afterwards and began to gather his things as well. Everybody in the stables looked up as Bishop Germanius, Horton, and several Roman soldiers entered. Dagonet pushed past the bishop wordlessly.
"To represent the Holy Court, my trusted secretary, Horton, will accompany you," the bishop announced.
The knights stared incredulously, but Arthur merely turned to Jols and told him to find a horse.
"God be with you as you fulfill your duty to Rome," Bishop Germanius continued.
"My duty is also to my men," Arthur said in a low tone, stepping towards the bishop.
"Then bring them home," the bishop replied with a shrug. He gave Kyla a harsh look as he turned to leave. She knew Arthur had been arguing with him for several hours last night to let her accompany them.
In very little time, the knights finished their preparations and were mounting their horses. Kyla mounted Torrent and was happy to find him a gentle horse. He did not move a muscle as she swung her leg over him.
Arthur was out first, and soon they were all racing towards the north gate. They were on their way.