So I became impatient and wanted to post another chapter today, so that's two chapters in a row, I hope you're liking the story so far! J
It was now or never, strike or give it up entirely, he couldn't waste any more time or he would simply waste away.
Porthos eyed the oncoming butlers silver platter as if he hadn't eaten in years, the beautifully stacked selection of food that no rich snob dared to scarf down- due to the eyes of others-was just begging to be eaten!
He could just shuffle up to the butler as if to pass him and swipe the delicious treats from the tray as he walked past in an arc and then return to his position and watch over the ball.
No one would notice, surely!
Besides, he couldn't think on an empty stomach! How was he supposed to be fit for duty if he couldn't think straight, he reasoned.
The butler came waddling ever closer, unaware of Porthos eyeing his platter like a predator on the prowl as he began to innocently wander towards him, seemingly looking in awe at the paintings on the opposite wall.
Closer, closer, then BAM. Got one!
Porthos almost felt like celebrating. And no one had been any the wiser, making his victory all the more glorious.
He held the heavenly smelling pie in the palm of his hand as he began to circle the ten paces back to the bench where he had left his comrades to chatter boringly about the upcoming storm.
Raising his treat to his nose, Porthos inhaled the heavenly scent, his mouth watering at what it would taste like before popping it in his mouth -and chewing air.
Porthos blinked and looked down at his hand to see only his open palm below his chin.
Looking around bewildered, he noticed Athos walking back towards Aramis and D'artagnan, munching on something and wiping his hands together.
Narrowing his eyes in suspicion, his face setting like stone, Porthos darted over to Athos who merely smiled at his smugly. His other brothers taking notice of his rushed return and eyed his stony expression with curiosity.
"You did not just do what I think you did, Athos" Porthos growled threateningly, locking his eyes onto Athos' half lidded, cool blues.
Athos smirked, "You know better than to eat on the job, Porthos, I was merely punishing you for stealing beverages on the job while demonstrating the need to be alert of your surroundings. You would be wise to take my advise" he finished smugly.
Unable to comprehend the audacity of his leader and friend, Porthos mouth hung open limply. The only indication- besides shock- that Porthos had heard Athos, was the twitching of his left eye.
"I could take a look at that twitch for you- if it bother you Porthos" Aramis stated, his tone serious but his eyes twinkling mischievously, exacting his revenge on his brother now that their roles were reversed.
Porthos' head swivelled between Athos and Aramis to glare at them both menacingly, though they both remained un-phased and instead slightly amused.
"Growing up on a farm, I've learnt never to leave my mouth hanging open lest a fly nestle inside" D'artagnan hinted, Porthos closing his mouth quickly with an audible snap of his teeth.
The three brothers snickered as Porthos stomach rumbled.
Their fun was quickly interrupted however by a butler carrying orders to meet Captain Treville by 'the west wing stairs promptly to discuss their shifts for this evening.'
One by one they embarked across the dance floor, doing a dance of their own just to avoid oncoming elbows flying at their faces and polished heels from descending on vulnerable feet, until finally they reached a tiresome looking Captain Treville- of whom did not bother to hide his amusement at Porthos' scowl.
Upon discussing their rotating positions of two men on the dance floor, two on opposite ends of the balcony above, and the times in which to change, the four men once again departed to fulfil their duties.
Each became a little more sombre now that they only had their minds with which to amuse themselves with for the next few hours. Oh the joys of being a kings musketeer.
Half an hour had gone by since the beginning of the event and all was running smoothly- or at least it appeared to be running smoothly- for one could hardly tell if anything disastrous was happening, due to all the twirling couples dancing, loud band playing, gossiping, eating and clinking of wine glasses.
This meant that all were oblivious to the coming storm outside, the merriment and warmth of the indoors a most pleasant distraction to the sleeting hail and strong winds that continued to climb outside.
However, there was no reason to be alarmed, the kings' musketeers were all present and ready for anything at all times- and as a plus all the guests were fed, warm and remaining entertained. All was well.
Alas it could always be worse-as it was about to be…
Yay, a cliff-hanger! Im sure we just love those! ;) I know I hate them, but I have a lot in store yet- we haven't even met the main plot- cruel I know!
Please leave a review! Thanks ;)
