Chapter 4
Sighing I took my hands away from my face and thought about the last thing Sir Hunter had said. My wayward mind struggling to stay on topic.
"I thought you would have destroyed it or given it away after the match." I finally said. Brutal honesty empowering my sad words.
"Why would I do that? It was a gift from the most beautiful woman in all the land. I cherish it. Do other knights just throw away their gifts like they're worth nothing?" Hunter looked genuinely shocked.
"You must have your eye sight checked. I am no beauty. Just a princess that will become a Queen." I scoffed. I could feel Hunter's glare of disapproval at my back. Obviously he disagreed. Can he not see my curse? It's quite obvious to everyone else. The stares I get are atrocious. "As for the favors, its quite a sad story. They do mean nothing anymore. Knights request them just because it's what's always been done. It has turned into a habit and a chore. I hate what the tournaments have turned into. I hate what society makes people believe. That tradition is just a crazy story and turn it into a flippant event. I went to as few as possible. That joust today was actually the first joust I had been to in five months."
"My, I have been known to be lucky. I never thought I could get this lucky, to meet you on a chance encounter. Let us hope my luck doesn't run out. I do agree with you on the favors. Do women usually have more than one? I mean i assume so because of how you describe these events but one can never be too certain."
"Yes, woman have hundreds. These days I don't see one lady without at least five in her purse or up her sleeves."
Hunter was silent for a moment, contemplating what I've told him. "Do you have more than one favor?" I looked over my shoulder at his question. Worried cobalt blue eyes scanned and searched my face. I smiled softly and took the golden cloth from my lap. Gazing down at it, I ran my thumbs over the elaborate stitching of my father's crest. My fingers moved to my name and traced the gentle curves of the letters spelling my name.
"No." I said quietly, Dusk's footfalls almost drowning out my words. "No, this is the only favor I own. The first and last to be made. However, It no longer belongs to me." I twisted around as far as I could go, moving my leg so I could face the knight as much as possible. Gently I took my favor and placed it back in the inner pocket over his heart. My fingers accidentally brushed his skin and I snapped my hand back to me as if he burned me.
Hunter grinned, took my hand, and brought it gently to his lips. My eyes locked with his and again i got lost in their depths. Blue met green in an intense gaze. Dusk suddenly nickered at us, causing us to break eye contact. My noble stallion was standing at the door steps of the castle and I felt foolish. I was so lost in Hunter's eyes and in our conversation that I didn't even realize our surroundings. Blushing heavily, I kicked my left leg over Dusk's neck and slid off. Hunter followed suit. He opened his mouth as if to say something but was interrupted when arms suddenly hugged me tightly. Out of habit I lashed out with my elbows and took the intruders to the ground. I was surprised how easy it was and realized my mistake when i recognized the voices.
"Lucifer be damned!" I heard Mia curse loudly as she clutched her ribs and rolling on the ground. Allison was bent over on her hands and knees, struggling to catch her breath.
"I am so sorry my friends! You should know better than to sneak up on me." I crouched beside them and looked over at Hunter. He smiled meaningfully and started to lead Dusk toward the battle arena. There were royal stables there, where the generals kept their horses. Sadly I turned my attention yet again to my recovering friends.
"You pack a heavy swing." Allison commented, still slightly out of breath.
"Years of warrior training." I said quickly. "What are you guys doing here?"
"You took off so quick we didn't get a chance to say goodbye, or even know why." Mia exclaimed.
"Then we saw the King's flags coming in and knew something was up." Allison serenely added.
"When we found out, we got here as fast as we could. You have done a lot in the past several hours from what we've seen and heard." Mia was bubbly again yet it was tempered with measured sadness.
"Yes I have." I muttered distractedly. I helped the ladies to their feet and my mind wandered away from me. It was with a certain man in a loose black shirt and leather boots. He seemed to always be interrupted when he wanted to say something of personal value.
"Is it Sir Hunter?" Allison asked, giving me a knowing look.
"Oh don't be silly Alli! We haven't seen the black knight since the joust." Mia scolded, dusting off her green skirt.
"You wouldn't have seen him. I took Sir Hunter with me as my guard and escort." I stared off in the direction of my knight, hoping to see him return. Somehow I just knew he wouldn't. With a resigned sigh I turned my full attention to my friends.
"What happened Eva?" Allison asked.
"Nothing actually. We were just riding back after a fight broke out in the square; he took Dusk to the stables after I attacked you two."
"We ruined a moment didn't we. He was probably going to kiss you." Mia said.
I laughed at my wild and audacious friend. "I guess I'll never know. Maybe I'm just fooling myself and seeing things I want to see."
My fears were silenced as Hunter walked up. My soul soared with joy at seeing his return. My elation only fell when i noticed his expression was guarded. It had never been that way, and yet I wouldn't know if it was normal. I only met him today. Still, I couldn't understand why.
"Princess, you need to come with me. There are important matters that need to be tended to before you seek rest in your chambers. Lady Mia, Lady Allison, Enter the castle and the royal guards will lead you to guest chambers." Hunter commanded in a clipped tone.
The girls nodded and made way to the door. Faintly I heard them giggling and whispering about 'important matters'. I smiled at their childish behavior before turning back to my waiting knight. "You were about to say something when the girls came. What was it?" I asked him.
He looked into my moss green eyes and smiled. "It doesn't matter now. Why I pulled you away just a moment ago is the most important matter of all. You haven't eaten all day. I thought you would like to join me?" At the mention of food, my stomach growled. We both laughed and Hunter led the way.
"Are you sure you're ready to be queen?" Hunter asked abruptly.
"What do you mean?"
"I mean, you're only 18 years old. It's a lot of responsibility." He sounded worried.
I laughed sarcastically. "Well you're 20. Isn't that a little young to be a knight?"
Hunter stopped and looked at me. "It's not the same thing."
I stopped and then walked back a few steps to stand with him. "No, I think it is. You were raised for your role. So was I. I was trained in politics and combat since I could walk and talk. It's scary thinking I'll be queen so young but it's all I've ever known. I was born to be this. I was raised to be this. I don't want the responsibility. The tiara that will be place on my head will have the weight that will be the hardest to bear. I know this. I'm prepared to hold the weight of the kingdom, are you?" I sounded so sure that I almost convinced myself.
Hunter gently put his hands on my shoulder and looked me in the eyes. "I am ready to stand by you and take on my role. What I am scared for is that you might have to go to war. From what I've seen, you won't let your men fight your battles for you. I am scared for you. I am scared about losing you. Are you ready to die for a kingdom you barely know?"
I smiled sadly at him. "I am willing to fall for a knight I barely know. This kingdom I've known all my life. If I die tomorrow, I die with no regrets because I finally embraced the beginnings of love. So yes, I'm willing to die for this kingdom. I will have lived a full life even though it might not be my full years."
Hunter grunted in his guy language. "I guess I'm not ready to lose something I just found."
"Don't focus on what you might lose. Focus on what you have and what you've acquired."
My knight grinned. "You are of course correct, my lady."
My stomach growled menacingly, sending us into fits of laughter. Together we walked to the dining hall that I stumbled upon during our first brisk walk to the council room. Hunter and I equally got each other lost trying to find the room based off of memory. He talked about some of his jousting tournaments, embellishing the story tenfold. It was obvious by his dramatic movements and his tone of voice. I told of my rides with Dusk through meadows and forests. I talked of my warrior training, embellishing my own victories truth be known. Laughing at my story of Dusk tripping over a fence, we finally found the room we searched for. My unexpected guests were already helping themselves to the prepared food. The aroma of the spiced meats filled my nose with fulfillment. The intoxicating smell made my stomach roar with life. Hunter grabbed my hand and pulled me over to the table housing the food and platters. Vaguely, I heard Mia and Allison giggling and whispering about my black knight; who led me through the elegant tables.
Chandeliers hung from the ceiling casting a golden glow around the crisp white room. Murals decorated the ceiling and golden borders wrapped around the room. Large windows stood tall along one wall, allowing us to watch the slow ascend of the moon. I pulled my hand from Hunter's grasp and spun in a circle, arms out wide. The feeling of peace that the room brought washed over me. The death that hung over me lessened in this atmosphere. It was warm and bright, banishing the darkness that seemed to follow me. I laughed and then jogged over to the food filled table. There was roasted pig, chicken, and beef creatively displayed in many forms. Barely able to contain my hunger i filled my plate with the meat and put on cooked vegetables, fresh fruit, and creamy sauces. Hunter seemed to absorb some of my sudden energy and snagged his favorites with the same exuberance. We made our way to the table the girls sat at and joined them. Barely having a chance to dig into my food, a servant girl strode in carrying a single goblet.
"For you my Queen." She said, offering the goblet to me. I took the cup and gazed at it's red contents. I scrunched my brow in thought and turned my gaze upward to the girl's face, eyeing her skeptically. She shifted uncomfortably under my scrutiny.
I set the goblet down and fully turned to the girl. "First of all, I don't drink wine. I find the taste foul and I hate the unclear head you receive upon drinking it. The palace chefs and servants know this or at least should. Secondly, why did you call me Queen? I am still the princess until I hate accepted my title at the Coronation." The servant girl looked nervously at the abandoned goblet.
The girl continued to press . "Please, I insist. Your first drink at the palace should be memorable. What better day than today? Your first day as the acting Queen."
Hunter rose out of his seat slowly, putting a hand on the hilt of his sword as he stood. "You heard the princess. She said no." He growled.
"I'll take it! I've never turned down a glass of wine." Mia said reaching for the discarded goblet. Before Mia could grab it the servant girl snatched it away and brought it to her chest.
"It's only for the Queen!" She hissed. Then she caught my cold gaze. "What i mean is, it's from the King's private cellar. Only royalty of his bloodline may taste of it."
"I'm not Queen yet, but please, share it with me." I replied knowingly. Curious looks from my friends were cast in my direction.
"No, it's not proper."
"I won't drink it until you do."
"Very well." The girl took a large gulp of the thick red liquid before shoving the drink into my hands. "Here, now your turn."
Still not trusting the goblet, I set the drink down once more. "I am not quite thirsty yet. I may take a sip in a few minutes." The girl shifted around and just stared in outright fear at the cup. Barely a minute passed before her eyes rolled back and she fell to the floor devoid of life. I sighed and grabbed Sir Hunter's hand, seeking comfort in the small gesture. Comfort which he freely gave. Another dead in my name.
"Not even Queen yet and there have been two threats on my life. These vikings are determined and go through terribly great lengths to disguise themselves." I muttered quietly.
"Maybe I should sleep with you tonight. Keep you safe." Sir Hunter whispered in my ear while Mia and Allison gossiped hysterically.
I raised my eyebrows in shock at him. "Not with me, but I'll allow you into my room. The guards can lay out a bed roll and cot. I don't care if I've known you my whole life, you're not sleeping in my bed."
"I can live with that." He said simply. "You should know I did not mean what you thought I meant. My purpose in that request was only for your comfort and protection." I nodded but didn't change my mind.
The rest of the evening wasn't as peaceful or relaxing as before. I found myself looking over my shoulder whenever there was a break in conversation. I was wary of everything I ate and drank from that point on. I was fearful that the spies knew of the girls failure or that they look precautions in case of failure. Every now and then I gazed down at the poor girl still lying in the floor. Mia and Hunter combined their efforts to lighten my mood. They were terribly hilarious and I managed to laugh at them, yet my mood remained I the ever dark place where death haunted me. I began to feel exhausted and looked at the position of the moon. It was very near its' highest point in the sky. I rose to my feet and excused myself to my chambers.
"There is much to do tomorrow. I am leaving to gather my rest. Please make yourself feel at home and help yourself to whatever you may need."
"As you wish, Evangaline. We will see you on the morrow." Allison called out as I reached the door. Nodding in their direction I left into the hallways. I heard Hunter rise and follow me. Silently walking with me. The only sound was his leather boots echoing in the hallway alongside mine. My mind wanted to my fears and wondered about his being here. Why is he still here? He could have a life, a good one in fact. He could be the greatest knight, yet he is here with me. He chooses to walk beside a cursed princess who is constantly in danger. This could get him killed. What's in it for him?
"A shilling for your thoughts?" His voice filled the air around us with his musical sound.
"What?" I asked distractedly, turning my head to look at him.
He smiled. "You looked deep in thought. You were biting your lip and your forehead was scrunched together. What were you thinking about?"
"I was just…" I broke off from my excuse. Groaning internally I opted to tell the truth. If nothing else at least I'd get answers and put my mind to rest. "Honestly, I was wondering why you're still here. What does this bring you?" I flung my arms out in an action of frustration and distress.
Hunter's deep cobalt eyes clouded with thought. He remained silent as we walked. Anxiety gripped me but I refused to press for information. If he chose not to tell me, I guess it will just be unknown.
After several minutes, he finally spoke. "At first, it was the chance for adventure. I won a game for you and thought you were interesting. Different from the other ladies, and not just because you were a princess. After the match, I was just going to walk you home, get to know you a bit more, and then continue on the tournament circuit. Then Sir Henry ran in with the news about the king and said you needed a knight. I was internally begging that you chose me. Mostly because I was smitten by your looks as any man in his right mind would be. I figured once we got here, at the city, that I would incorporate myself in your army and stick around. Of course when we arrived it was nothing that I expected. You immediately got on your knees to help a small child carry a basket through the mud. I kept tabs on you the entire time. You were modest and kind, honorable and incredible. As anyone could see, the instant you stepped in the city and saw the people, you fell in love with them. Despite their state of distress you loved them and helped them. Offering your whole being to them. You amazed me at how trusting you were. I've no doubt you would do anything for them." He paused a moment and pulled us to a stop as we reached my chamber door. He smiled kindly at me. "As I should have expected, you surprised me again. Eva, you put on a warriors' uniform and challenged a man twice your size and way stronger than you. You gave him many chances to back down and then you used the talent of a god to take him down. You followed through on your word and delivered exactly what the challenge was determined. I've never come across someone so skilled with a sword. It was like death personified within you and guided your hand. I don't think you know just how incredible you really are. After merely a day you have me on my knees, falling for you. Who wouldn't? You are the most wondrous person I've ever met. I don't understand how you don't realize you value. Realize why I would want to stay."
My throat closed off with emotion. I didn't know what to think, let alone what to say. Did people really think these things of me?"
"I guess I just…I don't know. I've always felt cursed." My voice was raw and thick. I could barely get the words out. Hunter laughed.
"Cursed? With what? Unimaginable beauty? That you have more kindness in a finger than you can find in the kindest priest? The purest heart in all the land?" He asked incredulously.
"No." I said on the verge of tears. "No. I'm terrified that I'm cursed to be alone no matter how hard I try. Cursed to live a life of war, death, and heartache. Cursed to never find a knight of honor. Cursed to die too soon. Cursed to be afraid. Everyone I've ever loved has dies or left me. This is my curse, my fears."
Tears spilled over down my cheeks. Quickly I closed myself off and forced my tears to stop. I hate tears in front of others. That shows a weakness I cannot afford. I had told no one my fears before. No one truly knew the thorns in my heart. Now, my black knight knew. He knew that on the inside I felt as dark as his armor. He knew the pain behind the smile.
"This is what's inside that pretty little head of yours?" I nodded and turned my face away in shame. I was sure he'd run for the hills. He gently grasped my chin and turned my head to look into his eyes. "Never hide from me. I can tell you several things to ease your pain. You have found your knight of honor, or at least he is trying to be. He stands before you ready to continue to fight for you till the end of his days. You're not alone. You have Mia and Allison. They may not understand your fears but they are still here. You don't have to fight your demons alone. Your father is always with you, in spirit and mind. A life of war is far from what you live and war doesn't always mean heartache. As for your fear, it would be unnatural to be without fear. Everyone is afraid of something. Fear doesn't mean weakness, it just makes you human. The point is to have courage and you have courage beyond comprehension. Just follow your heart. I have yet to see it lead you wrong."
He was going to say more but I threw my arms around him in a tight embrace. His words didn't ease my pain but he was trying and that's all I can say. He was rigid at first but quickly relaxed into me and held me tighter. He smelled of the rain in a meadow and sandalwood trees. A sudden peace washed over me at his embrace. I felt like my time was limited but I wasn't afraid of it. I was at peace with the idea. I was going to do the most good that I could in the time that I had. I wasn't afraid of what I felt for him. Attraction wasn't a sin. I didn't feel fear at what he felt for me. I didn't accept that my fate was planned, I'd make my life mine. I just felt I didn't have much time left. I clung tighter to my knight before releasing him and stepping away. Exhaustion overwhelmed me in a sudden wave.
"I'm going to go in and change. I'll send for a guard to set up a bed roll for you later. Guard my door for me please." I turned and opened the door into my chambers.
"Of course, My lady." Hunter replied as I closed the door. Sighing I leaned against the heavy wood. This wasn't easy. I had a feeling it would only get harder. This was only the beginning and the foreboding sense that it wouldn't last long tugged at my mind. Breathe Eva. Breathe. Focus on today not tomorrow. Tomorrow is never promised. Focus on today. Today.