Chapter 2

Marcus:

Marcus lay in his bed, staring blankly at the ceiling. It had been two days since the news of Princess Jocelyn’s murder had spread throughout the city of Terre and the land of Almira. In only two days his life had been changed forever and today was likely to only make things worse. Today was the day that Marcus had been dreading, it was the day that Jocelyn’s body would be laid to rest and he wasn’t sure if he had the strength to deal with it.

A soft knock came at Marcus’ door. He called for the visitor to enter as he slowly pulled himself up into a sitting position.  A tall wiry boy with light hair stood at the entrance to his bedroom, his arms laden with clothes and armor.

“Good morning sir” he said “It’s time to get ready”

              “Thank you Dustin, I appreciate it” replied Marcus pulling himself from his bed

              With a sombre look on his face, Dustin carefully helped Marcus dress himself in his proper knight attire. Although things fit a little tighter than they used to, Marcus found an odd sense of comfort being back in his armor. Though it had been a long time since he had found himself in a battle, it felt familiar and made him feel secure.

              Once fully dressed, Dustin did a slow inspection of his handiwork, making sure everything was in its proper position. Throughout this whole ordeal, Marcus noticed that Dustin refused to look him in the eyes.  Marcus could see the pain that the boy was trying to hide from him and felt a slight sense of pity. Among everything that he had been feeling, it was easy to forget that other people felt the hole of Jocelyn’s absence just as much as he did. Unsure of what to say to comfort the boy, Marcus placed a comforting hand on his shoulder. The two stood for a moment in silence before moving on towards more impending matters.

              “My sword?” asked Marcus

              “Oh yes sir, of course”

              Dustin turned to where he had piled Marcus clothes and grabbed his broadsword, gently handing it to Marcus who briefly inspected the heavy blade before sheathing it at his left side.

               When the two of them were finally ready, they made their way through the castle and towards the stables where they were to meet with the others. The two walked alongside each other in an unusual silence, neither knowing what to say to the other. As they approached the stables, Marcus noted how many people seemed to be in the area getting ready for the procession. Caught up in watching the chaos, Marcus was caught off guard when a small pair of hands shot out from nowhere and grabbed a hold of his arm. Looking down, Marcus saw that it was one of the stable hands that had grabbed him and followed the boy’s lead as they walked towards the middle of the stable, leaving Dustin behind.

              The stable hand had left nearly as quickly as he had arrived and now Marcus stood alone. He made his way over to a familiar stall on his left, peering inside. On the other end of the half door stood a beautiful grey warhorse who walked up to the door upon seeing Marcus. Marcus reached over and gave the horse a gentle pat on the neck before entering its stall. He found his horse to be completely ready to go so now all he had to do was wait for the rest of the members of the processional to arrive.

               When the stables had grown strangely quiet, Marcus peeked his head around the corner of the stall and noticed that the King and Queen had finally arrived. Quickly, he exited the stall and moved forwards to acknowledge their arrival.

              The first people of the royal party to enter the stables were the attendants of the royal family, all dressed in black, walking with their heads down. A short distance behind them walked the King and Queen of Almira, hand in hand trailed closely by some of the King’s knights. King Charles’ mere presence commanded attention as he entered the stables. He was dressed in a regal looking black robe with the finest gold and emerald detailing woven intricately into it. He stood tall and proud, his golden grown firmly on his head as he greeted those in the stables. His eyes momentarily connected with Marcus’ as he gave him a slight nod of his head which Marcus returned with a stiff bow. The exchange between the two was as awkward and uncomfortable as Marcus expected it to be.

 Next to King Charles stood the delicate Queen Isabella who looked beautiful yet fragile beside her husband. She wore a simple yet elegant black gown that flowed all the way down to the ground. Her light brown hair was pulled loosely from her face accentuating her soft, delicate features. Her brown eyes were bloodshot and Marcus was certain that he could see a few tears glistening on her cheeks. She politely nodded her head to those in the stables and they greeted the royal couple with deep bows.

Marcus stood by silently and watched as King Charles helped Queen Isabella climb into a dark green, open top carriage led by two jet black horses.  Once the Queen was settled in, King Charles climbed in beside her and took her hand gently in his own. Marcus and the rest of the party that would be travelling with them took this as their cue to mount their own horses and prepare to head through the city.

 “Everyone ready?” called the king

He waited for the series of grunts and yes’ to cease, then gave the signal for the party to proceed. Marcus rode beside the King and Queen, only an arm’s length away from the carriage itself. The carriage, along with three other knights in addition to Marcus made up the front of the procession. Behind them followed the rest of the knights and the additional attendants. For now their processional consisted of less than 20 bodies but once they met up with Prince Emmett and his men, the group would double.

Slowly the funeral procession made its way down the road leading from the stables into the city. Once they passed through the gates surrounding the castle grounds, they were greeted by the many residents of the city of Terre. They held their heads respectfully low and made a wide path for the group as they passed on by. Marcus looked down at the citizens as he rode past them noting the genuine sorrow that they were showing. It was nearly impossible for him to believe that a few days ago, these same people had been yelling insults and throwing things at the kingdom’s prisoners.

As the group neared the city walls, the crowds became denser as more citizens emerged from their homes to pay their respects. It wasn’t long after the group had passed through the gates before Marcus could see a dark blur along the horizon which he was able to confirm as Prince Emmett’s people once they moved closer. Soon both parties were face to face with one another.

Prince Emmett rode at the head of the incoming group with one of Marcus’ close friends, Sir Matthew at his right hand. The rest of his soldiers followed dutifully behind the two. In the middle of the group was a small, closed off carriage containing what Marcus knew to be the body of Princess Jocelyn.

Prince Emmett held up a hand, calling for his procession to stop as he rode ahead to greet his parents. They exchanged a few quick words before Emmett beckoned those following him to move forward and merge with the others. As the group came together and began their journey back towards the city, Emmett took up his place beside Marcus. The two exchanged simple greetings then rode in silence beside one another.

Marcus glanced over at the prince as they rode together. Prince Emmett was a handsome young man that look like the perfect combination of both of his parents. He had the same strong bone structure as his father and carried himself with the same amount of confidence. From his mother he had acquired his light brown hair and warm brown eyes. Although he and Princess Jocelyn shared the same father, the two looked nothing alike as Jocelyn green eyes and black hair were the opposite of her half-brother’s features.

Within a short while, the processional once again approached the city gates where once again they were greeted with the citizen’s cries of sorrow. The crowds of people seemed to be larger than when they had left and didn’t disappear until they reached the castle gates. When the gates closed tightly behind them, Marcus couldn’t help but feel a little relieved to leave all of the people behind. The cries and sounds coming from the citizens had started to scratch away at his composure. If he had been among the people much longer, he knew he wouldn’t be able to handle it.

Travelling towards the Royal Gardens, Marcus was happy to see that the scenery around them had begun to change. Vibrant colours and calming smells welcomed them as they walked towards the heart of the garden. Everything here looked perfect. Not a single leaf seemed to be out of place and Marcus was certain that there was no place in Almira that was as beautiful as these gardens surrounding them. The immaculate beauty of this place almost seemed to soften their reason for being there in the first place.

The group didn’t stop moving until they reached the heart of the gardens where a freshly dug hole lay in front of them. King Charles was the first to move as he pulled himself out of the carriage and walked around to lend his hand to Queen Isabella. The two of them walked over to the burial site together and the rest of the party followed their lead. Prince Emmett took up his place beside his mother, placing a comforting arm around her shoulders. Marcus and the rest of the people stood a few paces behind the royal family, arms at their side, standing at attention.

Everyone watched silently as four soldiers approached Jocelyn’s carriage and unloaded a large wooden coffin carefully from it. With solemn faces, they made their way towards the hole in the ground, stopping for a few moments as the King and Queen took a few moments to say farewell to their daughter. Once they were finished, the men carefully lowered the coffin into the ground, tossing the upturned dirt on top of it.

Everyone stood in silence, watching as more and more dirt was piled on top of the coffin. After a few minutes, the hole was filled and all that was left to show for their work was a small brown mound. Marcus’ eyes shifted to the grave beside Jocelyn’s. The burial site was old and covered with beautiful white flowers that flanked a small marble slab commemorating the late queen. This scene seemed uncomfortably familiar to him and he forced himself to look away.

When everything was finally said and done, the royal family slowly turned away from the burial plot and began to walk back to the castle together. Everyone remained where they were until the royal family was out of sight, only then did they remount their horses and make their way back to the stables.

It was in the stables that Marcus met up once again with Dustin and headed back up to his chambers. The two didn’t speak as Dustin helped Marcus out of his armor before quickly scurrying out the door.

              Marcus relished being out of his stiffening armor and was relieved to be alone once again. It wasn’t until his stomach grumbled loudly that Marcus realized that he hadn’t eaten since earlier that day.  It was nearly dinner and Marcus knew that everyone in the castle had been anticipating the great feast that would soon occur to celebrate Jocelyn’s life. There would be an abundance of wonderful food, wine and stories all to honour Jocelyn’s all too short life yet Marcus knew that he was in no mood to celebrate anything.

               Spending most of his time alone the past few days, Marcus had started to become haunted by the unknown details of Jocelyn’s death. He tried to piece together the few vague details he knew with the things he could only assume happened yet something just seemed wrong. He couldn’t get passed the idea that Jocelyn would go somewhere without telling him as she had never failed to do so before. On top of that, the idea that her murderers were still at large infuriated him. He couldn’t just lie around the castle enjoying the food and comforts that accompanied his lifestyle while no one yet knew who was behind Jocelyn’s murder.  This was why he knew he had to leave.

              If had only taken him a few hours after hearing about Jocelyn’s murder that Marcus realized he had to leave.  He knew that he would never be satisfied with what King Charles had told him and if he wanted any clarity he would have to travel to Elenine and investigate things for himself. Marcus had decided that day that he would leave after Jocelyn had been buried and before the feast began.

             

             

              He walked into his bedroom and grabbed a large bag from under his bed and threw it on a chair. The bag was already half full of clothes and a few other miscellaneous items including a reasonable amount of gold coins. He didn’t know how long he would be gone or what he would encounter so it was best to be prepared for what he could imagine happening. He spent a moment double checking everything he had. All he was missing was some food which he would grab on his way out of the castle.

              A soft knock on Marcus’ door diverted his attention from packing. He wondered who it could possibly be as most of the castle residents would be making their way down to the feast. When Marcus opened the door, he was surprised to see Sir Matthew standing casually on the other side.

              “May I come in?” he asked

              Marcus stepped aside and the knight strode inside. Sir Matthew stood slightly shorter then Marcus but was much leaner. His eyes were wide and eager and the permanent smirk that plastered his face seemed even more troublesome today.

              “What are you doing here?” asked Marcus

              “I just came to see how you are doing”

              Marcus had been friends with Sir Matthew for many years and they always seemed to understand each other well however right now he didn’t want to speak with anyone.

              “I’m fine” said replied flatly

              Sir Matthew looked at him with pity. Marcus watched as his eyes slowly wandered from his to the doorway of his bedroom finally settling on the bag that still lay on his bed.  

              “Are you going somewhere?” he asked

              Marcus let out a deep breath. He had really hoped to slip away without having to explain himself to anyone.

              “I can’t stay here”

              “Look, I get it. You don’t have to explain yourself to me. You were never the kind of man to just sit and do nothing in times of trouble.” He paused, “You’re going to Elenine aren’t you?”

              Marcus nodded

              “You know me all too well old friend.”

              “When will you leave?”

              “As soon as possible. All I need to do is stop by the kitchens, then I’m gone”

              “You won’t even stay for the feast?”

              “I can’t imagine trying to celebrate her life when I still can’t come to terms with her death.”

              A moment of silence fell between the two of them.

              “Well then, I guess I will stop holding you up. Just come back safely ok? I can’t bear the thought of losing one of my best friends”

              Marcus nodded, “You’ll let the King know that I’ve gone? I can’t bear to tell him myself. I fear he blames me for what happened”

              “I’ll let him know but I can tell you that he doesn’t blame you for anything”

              “I’m not so sure of that but thank you”

              The two men shook hands and said their goodbyes and Marcus was once again left alone, this time confident that he was making the right decision. He put on one of his travelling cloaks before slinging his bag over his shoulder. Taking one last glance around his rooms, he said a silent farewell before taking off down the corridor.

              After making a quick stop in the hectic kitchens, Marcus headed down to the stables and was happy to find that they were empty. He found his horse with no difficulties and quickly and soundlessly readied it for travel making sure to secure his bag tightly to the saddle. Satisfied with his work Marcus grabbed the reigns and led his horse from its stall. His heart jumped as he nearly walked into someone standing just around the corner.

              “Sir, what are you doing down here? The feast is about to start and King Charles expects you to be there” spoke the figure

              Marcus’s heart sank a little as he recognized the voice that spoke to him.

              “Are you going somewhere?” asked Dustin, glaring at the bag that hung from Marcus’ saddle “If you wait for a few moments, I’ll come with you”

              “I am going somewhere, but I’m going alone” replied Marcus

              “Of course you aren’t. I’m coming with you and if you wait a few moments, we can leave together” insisted Dustin

Marcus couldn’t help but admire Dustin’s determination and loyalty

“Not this time” he said sternly “This time, I must go alone”

“But, but ...” Dustin started to protest

“Not this time” Marcus repeated, “I’m not quite sure what I’m riding into and because of that, you are to stay here where you’ll be safe. I don’t need to be spending time looking out for you”

“I can look after myself” replied Dustin, puffing out his chest

“I know you believe that but this isn’t the time to test out you’re theory. Besides, while I’m gone you can have some time to yourself. Explore, learn new things and maybe even relax for a little while”

 “I don’t want time to myself, I want to go with you” Dustin stated “How am I supposed to learn how to be a knight when you aren’t even around?”

“You are not coming” Marcus stated firmly

Dustin let out a frustrated sigh.

“Fine, but how long will you be gone?” asked Dustin “Does anyone else know that you are leaving? What about the King? You’re just going to leave him after what happened?”

 “Calm down Dustin. Sir Matthew knows that I am leaving and will notify the King.”

“But how long?”

“I don’t know” admitted Marcus

Marcus placed a firm hand on Dustin’s shoulder and led him towards the entrance of the stable.

“You will do fine without me. Take this time to perfect your swordplay. I’d hate to see you become rusty after all the time I’ve spent working with you.” he said, climbing onto the back of his horse.

Dustin forced a smile and the two said their farewells.

After forcing his way through the crowds of Terre, Marcus had finally made it to the city gates as the last remnants of light faded from the sky. He received no trouble as he passed through the gates and paused for just a moment outside of them. He looked out over the expanse of land that lay ahead of him, his mission finally settling into his mind. With a deep breath, he dug his heels into his horses’ flank and shot off into the night, leaving the city of Terre behind him. He would find those responsible for the murder of Princess Jocelyn and he would make them pay.