A/n: Here is the update I promised. Next chapter will be fluffier :3 so look forward to that. I'm going to go back to past chapters to fix and revise the spelling issues after I'm done editing the next chapter. I'm having fun working on this again and hope that those reading are enjoying as well. Until next time, please enjoy!

Chapter 17: Interruption

The clank of his protective boots echoed in the narrow passageways, and whether he was alone or moved aside for rarely seen staff, his heart felt little relief from his thoughts or these minor distractions. Smithy slowly but surely made his way towards the Knights quarters after he had finished his duties for the day. He thought of all that he had wanted to do, all of what he had accomplished, and everything that he was going to leave behind; a forge, his old friends, the animals, and her. With the castle as understaffed as it was, Smithy felt it only right to inform Sir Ivon and Sir Theodore of his decision; allowing them enough time to search for another. There was no doubt that it would not be long until Jane knew, but what else could be done?

Along the way, he stopped by an open window, and he saw her. From the upper walkway, he watched as she seemed to dance with the practice dummy. He must have repaired it dozens of times; always sure that it would be ready for her use. By now, her skill had surpassed its usefulness, but Jane preferred to use it for light evening exercises in order to stay in tip-top shape. Unlike Jester, Smithy had never offered to allow her to fight him instead, but while he could, he should have asked; at least then they could have known who the better fighter was; if it was him, she might have respected him for it.

Despite his disappointment in how it would soon come to an end, her grunts of exertion and agile moves could not help but bring a gentle smile to his face. It might not have been the Jane that everyone preferred but it was the Jane he was proud of; the one he would always remember; strong, determined, honest, and brave. And as though the she knight could sense that she was being observed, Jane glanced upwards and made direct eye contact with the blacksmith. Visibly, he would not show his surprise, but inwards, he felt it keenly; the disparity of their worlds.

They had not had a proper conversation in months, and associated with one another only when necessary but with a single glance, he felt renewed in his affections; a burn hotter than Dragon fire. How could he leave matters in this state, and not resolve and repress his feelings? However, he had not forgotten what he had intended to do; what he felt was in her best interests. Yet, another had spoken what he dared kept silent. "She will not know what plagues you if you continue on in this manner."

The statement left little room for excuses, and there was no use to cover up his fault. Turning towards the aged knight, the blacksmith explained with stormy eyes and a turbulent heart. "How can she know sir? How can I…how can I share what she despises?"

There had been rumors, although not prominent, which had made their way past his ears; of a handsome blacksmith who admired a lady of the court, but neither ignored nor encouraged her affections. There seemed to be little merit in such rumors until Sir Theodore had taken to studying the young man, and spying upon their interactions; considered what the Queen had observed; on Smithy's schedule and habits; of how he treated those around him. Why he had gone so far as to question a couple of the servants who brought his meals to his study about what was new about the castle. Knowing of the Smithy's character and honorable reputation had worked towards his favor. And it was not so surprising that light amusement colored the aged knight's response. "There is much that she does not care for, but the care of a well-meaning friend is not one of them."

Smithy was almost tempted to laugh with bitterness at this situation but refrained from doing so, and let out a heavy sigh instead. "I have not been a good friend to either Jane or the rest. If Pig could speak, I dare say she would tell me likewise."

Humbleness was another positive trait that he could mark off his list. A knowing twinkle in the knight's eyes said more about what he thought of the blacksmith's feelings for his old apprentice than what he might have expressed otherwise. "Perhaps it may seem that this is a battle you must fight on your own, but a good captain puts faith on his most trusted comrades and allies, and then forms a strategy which may allow him to win the battle."

"A battle sir?"

Although advanced in years, Sir Theodore's mind was still as sharp as ever. Yet, his way of explaining life lessons through war tactics was odd in its own right from time to time. "Yes, a battle. There are many uncertainties upon the battlefield. However, it is up to you to take the first step towards failure or victory. I trust you know what this entails."

"I believe I do sir."

"Good. Now see to it and make the peace. It would not do to have a knight distrust a blacksmith. Oh, and one more thing Smithy."

"Yes sir?"

Placing a blue corded, thin, work-worn hand upon the young man's shoulder, Theodore confessed. "You are a valuable asset to the king and his knights. And in saying so, I am afraid your request is denied."

"Of course sir. I understand."

Later, when making his way down towards the courtyard, Smithy did begin to believe that perhaps the rumor of the aged knight's ability to read minds might have been true for he did not remember mentioning his secret to anyone. However, if Sir Theodore knew, and had not discouraged him, there might have been hope for the blacksmith yet; as minor as there could be.