A/n: I wrote so much that I had to divide the chapter. So the next chapter is already part way written. As I continue to rewatch the series, I find that there were more notable Smithy moments. I'll be sure to list them once I get a chance, but one of my favorite moments is how eager Smithy and Jester are in the Shall we dance episode to see who won the dance competition. Oh, and the quick hug exchanged between Jane and Smithy at the end of A Pig Of A Problem. Anyway, in this chapter I do continue with the headcanon that I believe she would have been trained to play at least one instrument during her lady in waiting training. As always, I would like to thank Fluffymarshmallows and awes0mesaucer for comments that encourage me to post faster and for all who are still following this story. Please enjoy!

Chapter 25: Trouble Follows

For some, there seemed to be a rightness in the world, but for others, there was a discordance. Unlike Jane, who had taken the absence of a friend as damaging as a slap to the face which stung externally, but had been a chronic internal pang which otherwise should have been hidden, the fool had taken it well and was better at pretending than anyone else so as not to betray the truth; having the slight advantage of manipulating Jane's time until the blacksmith had returned. Painted smiles, comedy, and tragedy, he was the master of deception. A fool of fools, his title rang, and in the laughter of his willing victims his pride was nurtured, but it was of little consequence to his closest friends; titles, positions, and power could not buy a seat at Peppers table, but kindness, care, and loyalty could procure its invitation. Whatever person he had been before his transformation; when his heart was good and his intentions pure, he sought the warmth and was drawn to his distraction; to Jane.

His youthful goal, had he been brave, would have been to be the hero his fair beanstalk deserved; the man who would have been able to protect his lady fair from harm, but she had bested him in that regard; she could save herself. More precious than any jewel found in the royal treasury, many longed to be the possessor of the rare beauty. Although knowledge and philosophy had planted the firstfruits of affection in his bright mind, at times it seemed pointless if he could not persuade his way into the lady knight's heart as easily as he could with addle-brained royals. He had tried to garner favor; telling jokes, sharing dances, being a friend, and to be at her beck and call, but for what? So that a common stable hand, someone who he once thought to be his friend, utters a handful of words or glances her way but once or twice and has her drawn to him like a moth to a flame?

It was not fair, and it was not to be borne. Jester had known her longer, was smarter and had a better station which might allow him to marry her, but Smithy had what he did not; the ability to see what others could not; an intuition and discernment that guided him on how he should act. Why, the fool had been jesting for so long, he scarcely knew how to be serious if not for his great affection for Jane which gave way to his better nature. No matter, he still had a few tricks up his sleeve; a servant girl with dreams more grandiose than the king's ability to spend.

At the mid-day meal, there was no sign of the fool, but the others did not worry, for Jane reported that she had seen him accompany the king; telling him an embellished version of some great romance which had stirred a town about a century or so ago. Unlike hours before, the cook appeared a bit more refreshed; not so much in appearance but in her countenance; the earnest, enthusiastic young woman with more fancifulness than she knew what to do with; ready to speak of the events from the night before. "Jane," She started; gentle amusement coloring her voice. "you were in great form last night. I cannot remember the last time I had seen you dance."

Confused by her comment, the lady knight reminded, "Did you forget the princesses coming out celebration a few months ago?"

"Oh, that is right. Forgive me Petal, but I was so busy that evening. However," The cook brightened; excited to share minor details as to engage the blacksmith's attention. "I do remember how lovely your gown had been. It was only second in beauty to the Queen's gown."

The lady knight could not help but roll her eyes, for that must have been an exaggeration, but by no means did this deter the cook in her romanticism or bother the blacksmith who listened with rapt attention. "Do not remind me." To be sure, it had been an honor to wear such an extravagant gown, but it would not have been her first choice in attire. She continued. "It was all my mother could boast about for weeks. If the Queen had not commanded it," And if it had not been a personalized gift from the princess, "I would have gone in my knight's tunic."

Nothing she wore could hide her true beauty; clothing in itself could only succeed in embellishing what was already there, but despite that, the blacksmith remembered how becoming Jane had been in her blue gown, interspersed with silver threading and how her red hair braided and trailing down her back had become a favorite of his; he had expected such an important occasion would demand it. Though true to her nature, the lady knight had thought she had been inconspicuous as she checked for the dagger which she had hidden up her sleeve; the sight of it amusing and endearing in its own right. Yet, what had made the memory bittersweet was the fact that Smithy had hidden himself the moment she had glanced towards his direction; it was around the time that he had started to ignore her, but if he had not, there is a good chance that she would have seen the depth of his affection. Oh, if he had not been so indifferent, perhaps she would have joined the other servants in sharing ale and fresh bread after the festivities were over. Clearing his throat, he pushed away from the thoughts of past disappointments, and commented, "If I recall correctly, your father had been the busiest of us all during that time. I hope he has managed to recover since then."

"If you mean that he has recorded the exact number of leeks and cabbages that are in Rakes garden, or of the bags of wheat in the storehouses then he is fine. It is only during the time of yearly taxes or grand celebrations that truly stress him. Poor father," She sighed, "I hope it will be a while before a celebration of that magnitude is done again."

"But as I was saying," Continued the cook. "you were marvelous. I cannot wait for the next opportunity for us to rejoice. And you Smithy, where have you found the time to practice your dancing?"

"I have not had the time," He confessed, although in his head he must have rehearsed the steps several dozen times. "but dancing with an old friend makes it easier."

"You are too modest." Jane interjected; forgetting about the spoonful of food that lied on her plate. "It is no wonder you won the dance competition last year."

"Only because Jester was recovering from a malady."

The cook observed her friends more closely and noticed how easily they could shift into a manner of conversation in which they were the only participants. And standing nearby, she witnessed how Smithy's quiet amusement and gentleness fit well with Jane's spirited expressions. Could this mean that her assumptions were correct this time? That would be perfect if it were true.

"I think not." Challenged Jane; forgetting that Pepper was still listening. "While Jester's moves are funnier, you dance with self-assurance, no matter the difficulty."

At that, the blacksmith chanced a furtive glance towards the lady knight and found a soft pair of bright eyes glancing back. They almost seemed to glow in delight, and he thought it odd that Jane would engage him this long in conversation when Pepper was always an eager participant, but he attributed this to the intimacy and affection of friendship that continued to grow between them. Immediately, Jane glanced away when she realized what she had been doing and where she was; changing the subject. "By the way Pepper, this roasted fish is delicious."

"I am glad you think so."

"Where is Rake?" Inquired the blacksmith; also eager to change the subject. "I had repaired his large watering can."

"How wonderful! I know he will be happy to hear it. Hmm, I believe he is pruning the royal garden today. It will be a miracle if we see him at all before sundown. Pity. Now, if you two will excuse me, I have a few pies to bake."

The cook's departure left the knight and blacksmith by themselves, and for some minutes they enjoyed the companionable silence; neither risking to make a pleasant occasion awkward with inquiries. Yet, when he had finished his meal, Smithy commented, "I hope the night treated you well."

Scratching the back of her neck, Jane once again became conscious of the thoughts which had plagued her for a better part of the night. "It did, but I must confess that I am a few hours of sleep deficient. And you?"

"I can say the same, but I suppose that is the price we pay for having fun."

"Indeed, it was tiring, but I agree with Pepper. It would be nice if there were more reasons to celebrate."

"I am sure Pepper must have a few ideas in that respect. I bet if I asked Rake, he could give me an idea as to what they might be. Yet, I had hoped to hear you play the harp last night. Although," He added, "you must be relieved that Jester agreed to play for us."

"Relieved to be sure, but are you really disappointed? Jethro, must I remind you that I am not the musician that Jester is?"

It amused him that she readily felt challenged by his statement, and her answer was to react with a passion and while it could be said that it was mere modesty, there was no telling what the true level of skill was. "I cannot give you a fair judgement until a comparison is made. And may I remind you that I do not have much of an ear for music, but Pig is quite the aficionado."

The spark of competition was evident in the sparkle in her eyes and sweetness of temper that colored her voice. "Very well. Do you have a little time later this evening?"

"Why so Jane?"

"So that I may prove my point. I have a feeling that unless I show you, it will remain a mystery."

"A mystery? I think not. Rather," He explained; leaning forward as though it added weight to his words. "my thought stems from curiosity. As for time, if I get started on my duties now, then there should be time after the evening meal."

"Champion. I will see you later then."

He rose, and with a wave, he left, and Jane reeled; shocked at herself for the boldness of her statement. True, there was no real challenge in their exchange, for rather his actions were like brotherly teasing, but a little part of herself demanded that she show him; to prove that she could do as she had said in passing conversation. Maggots, her pride was as rambunctious as ever. Peeking her head out of the kitchen, Pepper teased, "A little time this evening hmm?"

Jane's face burned at the notion and with a few quick strides, she was close enough to whisper. "It is not what you think."

"Oh really? Well, it is whatever you say it is Jane, but I do think it is sweet that you two are getting along again. He really does favor you best."

In a way, Jane thought so too; giving her a measure of pleasure and something else she could not quite pinpoint. "But he gets along with everyone."

Flashing her friend an all-knowing smile, the cook answered, "So he does."

The unpleasantness of his disagreement with Jester loomed in the back of his mind, but despite that, the gladness which accompanied him after he had made plans with Jane carried him through his activity. Why he found himself smiling, but he still had not come up with a solution on how to quell Jesters fear. Yet, if he was honest with himself, he did not want to acquiesce this time; to ignore his soft inclination. He wanted to be around Jane and to enjoy her wonderful company, but how could he do that, and not make an enemy of a friend?

No one had taught him how, and he knew it would have caused less trouble if he had backed off as the fool had wanted him to, but was this to be his consequence, to avoid what he desired in favor of his duty? Perhaps so. And as he was thinking this, Sir Theodore happened to walk into the stables. "Good day to you blacksmith."

"Good day to you Sir Theodore. Is there anything I can assist you with sir?"

Holding a hand up, the aged knight answered. "Not at the moment. I have simply come to warn you."

With a raised brow, Smithy wondered. "Warn me?"

"The Chamberlain is on his way to inquire on what supplies need to be ordered. If I were you, I would be on my best behavior. As you were."

And not long after Sir Theodore left, the Chamberlain came in with his parchment and pencil. "There you are Smithy." He exclaimed. "If I could take a few moments of your time."

Setting down the brush he had been using on Jane's chestnut mare, Smithy gave him his full attention. "Of course Sir."

"I am compiling a list of what needs to be ordered. Are you in need of supplies?"

"Perhaps more charcoal," The blacksmith started. "though I can make it myself if need be. I hope you will not be offended by my saying this, but the quality of the charcoal we get from the merchant is not always consistent."

Writing down a few notes, he nodded. "I see. Do you need any more iron?"

"Not yet. My work will be slowing down soon, and it would be more costly to risk damaging my tools and pieces of metal under the cold weather. Perhaps at the end of winter, when the weather gets warmer."

Again more notes were written, and the usual somber mood that seemed to follow Jane's father gave way to his softer, though brief satisfaction. "Good thinking lad and thrifty."

Checking a couple more things off his list, the blacksmith noticed that every so often the Chamberlain seemed to be studying him. It was possible that he was aware of the events from the night before and had discussed it with Sir Theodore. And he imagined that if it were the case, then the Chamberlain might use this occasion as an excuse to investigate. Taking a deep breath, Smithy questioned, "Is there anything else I can do for you, Sir?"

Milton's hand slowed at the question, and anxiety lined his brow at his silent ruminations. After a couple of moments, he questioned, "Is what I heard from Sir Theodore true?"

"About what Sir?"

"The celebration in the garden."

"Yes sir."

"I see."

The blacksmith felt it not only his duty but as his opportunity to put the man at ease. "Sir, would you care to hear about it? I do not mind explaining it."

"Well, if you do not mind me asking, what was the reason for the occasion? I have nothing written in my schedule."

"You see Sir, everyone had wanted a reason to rejoice; to relax and to enjoy one another's company. The occasion was informal and to celebrate friendship. If you would like particular details of the gathering, I am sure you could ask Jane."

"I would rather avoid my daughter's contempt, and seeing as how you two work closely together..."

"Right. What is it exactly that you would like to know? If I am at liberty to say, I will not withhold the truth from you."

Softening a little, the Chamberlain wondered. "Did she enjoy herself?"

Ah, his question was not a matter of propriety but a matter of a father's concern. With calmness, Smithy explained, "Oh yes, Sir. She ate double portions of food that Pepper had prepared, Jester played music on his lute and told stories. And we all danced."

Milton's voice raised at this. "Dancing you say? And I assume Jester had wanted the first two dances?"

"Yes Sir."

"But he had not been the first."

"That is correct Sir."

"And Sir Gunther?"

"He had also wanted the first two dances."

Furrowing his brow, the Chamberlain commented more to himself than to the blacksmith, "I imagine it must have been most distressing."

No one could deny that Jane's father was not thorough in his questioning or that this might make him any less anxious. "It is hard to know the magnitude Sir, but it did distress her."

Studying the blacksmith again, he inquired. "Then how exactly was it resolved?"

"She chose to dance with me, Sir."

"With you?"

Scratching the back of his neck, Smithy nodded. "If Dragon had been smaller I daresay she would have danced with him. It was her way of avoiding trouble, but it was a dance among friends nonetheless. No harm done."

A familiar warmth passed over the blacksmith's fair eyes; the like which Milton had seen before. And like before, it did not concern the Chamberlain as he thought it should have. Fascinating to be sure, but it could not be as Sir Theodore insinuated, could it? He would have to look into it himself when he had the time. "Hmm, yes. Well, it sounds like it went well. Thank you for your time."

"Anytime Sir."

The Chamberlain reached the entrance of the stables but had stopped in his tracks; realizing where he could start his examinations. "Smithy, would you be willing to assist me in my errands at the market tomorrow?"

"Of course Sir, but I must warn you, I am no master at bartering."

"No matter. With a helping hand, I should be able to finish my errand with enough time to spare."

"So that you could watch Jane return from patrol?"

"Yes. As you were."

With a nod, the older man left and Smithy had to wonder why he did not choose a smarter companion like Jester who knew his letters and mathematics.

After the evening meal, the blacksmith and lady knight had gone their separate ways but met later at her tower. With him, Smithy brought Pig and Jane had brought Dragon. "So leather legs, have you ever heard her play that poor excuse of a bow?"

"You mean the harp? No, I have not. I wanted to know the difference between her playing and Jesters."

"I must warn you, she is the master of carrying a tune in a bucket."

"Dragon," Jane laughed, "are you determined to scare off my audience?"

"No, I am foretelling the inevitable. What say you Pig?"

Pigs answer was a snort, which only Dragon understood. Seating herself on a tall stool by her doorway, Jane shook her head. "Do not listen to him, Jethro. I will show you that I can play well enough."

"I trust that you will." Came the blacksmith's reassurance.

Getting herself comfortable, it felt strange to take up the instrument after so long. At one time Jane had sworn to herself that she would forget all activity that made her appear more as to whom she would have been had she not accomplished her dream. However, the lady knight was willing to do this. She thought she would feel exposed, but it felt almost intimate having some of her dearest friends around her to witness this minor feat she would accomplish. Though, upon further reflection she had become conscious of another truth; that Smithy was a dear, dear friend of hers and not the simple acquaintance she thought him once to be; someone who had become more favorable than Jester, but not in the same way; it was different.

No matter, she would have time to reflect more upon it later. With a deep breath, Jane plucked away at the strings as she had been trained to do so long ago. For his part, Smithy found that the way her hands moved was hypnotic; done with a gentle grace that pronounced her femininity, but the creature he witnessed was the same old friend; who happened to have some dirt on her cheek. Her heart swelled at the intense, fixed expression of his, and whatever strangeness she saw in them that might have disgusted her before, exhilarated her. The upturn of her lips and soft laughter spoke of her daring the fates; for her happiness could not be taken away from her; her amusement and radiant nature glowing because of the blacksmith's wonderment; even Dragon and his widened eyes proved that her playing was still champion.

The music itself was beautiful, but Smithy could not focus on it completely for his wonderment fed his increasing curiosity. It seemed as though everyday he was learning something new about Jane, but this only succeeded in nurturing his admiration for her. The pleasant look on her face calmed him, and although there was a whole world of people and things, in the meantime it felt like they were the only two that existed and that she was playing only for him; forgetting that he had opened himself up to the renewed jealousy from the fool whose bedchamber was only below.