His Cross to Bear
Arthur bleated annoyed by the man. He would never hurt a young girl whatever form he may be. Well not unless she posed a threat.
The girl, Freya, Arthur amended turned to look him over then move to stare into his eyes. She gasped as her eyes flashed gold for a second cause Arthur to take a step back.
Magic.
It was then that Arthur's eyes narrowed down to the girls clothing. She were a simple peasant dress, but the druidic symbol on her shoulder peaked through.
"Freya come here now."
Freya nodded raising her hand up softly and backing away her eyes never leaving the Arthur's. Once she reached the man he placed her between himself and the creature.
"What did you feel?"
"It felt different. Like there is magic placed on it, but-"
"But?" The chief prompted his own eyes narrowing on the beast who was contemplating running.
"- it feels almost human."
"Freya go get our guest here some food." The chief spoke raising his arms slightly and moving closer to Arthur.
"Is it…he human?" the girl asked.
The man ignored her question and waved her off with one arm to do what he said. After a moment she eventually decided to do as she was told.
The prince watched as the man, no druid, got near. Arthur knew that there wasn't much he could do against magic but perhaps he could strike first. The man was right when he said his antlers were dangerous.
"I don't want to hurt you, so for the time being I suggest you keep the peace."
Arthur tilted his head, how could he possibly… He paused. Could magic allow the man to read his thoughts? Could he help him? Maybe turn him back?
Arthur brayed at him and moved to lie down similar to earlier with Freya to show he was willing to keep the peace. He tried to remain still as the man lay his hands on him. Still gentle, but far harsher than Freya had been. He watched as the man stared his eyes turning the demonic amber before returning to green.
"There is a curse placed upon you."
Arthur brayed again in response, annoyed almost as if saying 'obviously'. Arthur knew enough about deer to know that not many deer would just lay themselves at a human's mercy.
"Hmm… while certainly meant to change your form, it does not seem evil in nature."
Arthur snorted roughly, All magic was evil! He was a deer for crying out loud.
"Unfortunately for you, I do not think I am capable of lifting this curse." The chief moved to stand. Turning towards the forest were Arthur came from. "My people and I mean no harm or trouble, people who are cursed can bring several problems. None with which we need to involve ourselves with. After Freya returns you may eat, but then you must be on your way."
Arthur rose shaking his head. He needed help. He couldn't leave!
"I am sorry, but it seems you have done this to yourself."
Arthur let out a loud exasperation. The prince was so tired of people blaming him. He didn't choose to turn into a deer. How was he supposed to know that killing a blasted unicorn would turn him into a deer.
Arthur could hear and smell Freya before he could see her, she smelt of strawberries, fish, and the forest's natural musk. He could also smell… carrots?... and something sweet.
"Hello! I am back, Mr. Deer. I've brought sugar cubes for you and some carrots too." The girl said cheerfully ignoring the frustrated look coming from her chief or the tense posture of the stag.
"Freya leave the food here."
"I can feed him."
The chief sighed, but nodded, "Alright. Be careful once you are done return back to your tent."
Freya smiled, "I will. What about him though? He is human right?"
"Yes, child."
"Is he cursed?"
"It appears so."
Freya's smile dropped and a large cloud of sadness fell over her, "Poor thing. Is there anything we can do?"
The chief remained silent, causing the girl to connect the dots on her own. Quickly her features softened but her eyes were cold and distant a harsh wave rushing over her as she imagined what could happen to this person in need.
"We can't abandon him! He needs our help."
"Darling Freya, we don't need the attention or the danger he'll attract."
"But he's all alone."
"Perhaps that's the cross he must bear alone." The druid chief spoke before walking off trusting enough to know that the creature would not hurt the person trying to feed it.
