This Is A Man's World

by easyl0ve

A young noblewoman finds joy in the sport of tournament. With the help from her loving father and her families workers she finds a way to do what she loves, even if it means she is pretending to be a man. Will her secret be kept? Is there a traitor in the mist? Or will her heart be her downfall? HIATUS (If you're interested in continuing this story on your own, contact me!)

4. But I was still myself

Short chapter, but I am finally getting somewhere! Enjoy reader!

Chapter 4: But I was still myself.

At the tavern my friends joined us.

"Sir Charles, I am so glad you made it."

"Well, I could hardly pass this up." We sat and drank into the night. I let them do the talking, but occasionally I would laugh. As the night progressed more and more people trickled into the tavern.

"Sir William, join us!" Roland said to a man walking up to us.

"This, my liege, is Sir Charles and his friends Franklin and Christopher." Geoff motioned to us. I gave a curt nod, and remembered briefly upon seeing his form that I was still a woman under my façade. I quickly shook the thought with more ale. William remained as silent as I was being, but the conversation was managing without us.

Until there was a lull, "It appears I am unlucky enough to have to face a champion on my first tournament." I laughed, looking at William, then at Geoff. "How long have you been back on the circuit?"

"This is William's return."

I returned to my silence for a few more minutes before standing up. "I am sorry, gentlemen, but I must take my leave. As I am still a young man, I require much sleep. Have another round on me," I set down some silver and made my way to the door, trying to keep my footing as best as I could. The street was quiet, besides the rumble of the tavern. I walked a few feet, breathing in the cool night air.

"You treat your squires kindly for a nobleman, Sir Charles."

I looked back to find Sir William also walking the road. "At times I think they may be my only friends, and I would never treat a friend poorly."

"How old did you say you were again?"

"Nineteen, Sir."

"Tis a good age." We began walking together.

I couldn't help the thoughts in my mind that came from Charlotte, my hidden self. I broke the silence, "Any champion's advice for me?"

"Don't fall off your horse." I laughed, but he didn't.

We approached the tents. "Well, this is where I leave. Sleep well, sir."

"Same to you." He spoke as he continued walking. As I slept that night I couldn't help but wonder about the quiet widower. Was he the same man that saved me from my sorrow after Edward's death? Or had he changed as I had? What I did know was that tomorrow I would have to train hard. There were champions to topple soon.