The Lonely Ones

Chapter Thirty-Seven: Searching For a Boy

Artemis refuses to admit, even subconsciously, that he continuously searches for Wren. He definitely doesn't watch the door of the shop, waiting for a familiar blonde to pass through. He certainly doesn't spend a bit of extra time wandering the woods in search of a cool breeze. And he would never be peeking towards the window while laying in bed, pretending to be asleep. Because Artemis can last a few days without Wren, just like he lasted the majority of his life without him. But when one has been starved of affection, their hunger for it shows when it is finally given.

Wren said he'd be back. He had to attend a revel to keep up appearances. Artemis understands that, but can't he come visit at night for an hour or so just to check in? Although, knowing Wren, it won't only be checking in.

Artemis blushes at the thought, then feels a tad guilty for being unsure if he can give Wren what he wants. It's not like he doesn't want to partake in sexual activities... he isn't sure if he's ready for more. There's always that brief moment of panic followed by guilt because Artemis knows now that Wren would never push him. Why can't that be enough to quell his fears?

Sudden commotion outside the shop garners Artemis' attention. Villagers pass by while others stand in place, staring in awe to the north. Then there's a noise. Marching steps one after the other and horses. Through his window, Artemis spots a few bewildered neighbors. They whisper to each other until a man approaches them.

Artemis understands their shock now. The man who approached the couple isn't a mere villager or a traveler from across the sea. He stands tall, eyes like steel, and shoulders broad. A cape of crimson rustles behind him and he wears a well kept uniform. He's no mere knight either, something much more, and he looks towards Artemis' shop when the couple suddenly points at him.

The stranger wastes no time. He throws open the shop door mere seconds later. Artemis keeps his usual disinterested expression, although he's anything but. Who is this man? Why is he here? And why do two more knights follow him?

"Can I help you?" Artemis asks, hoping the answer is in the negative.

"We're here to retrieve a boy who can traverse the Grim Woods," the stranger says.

Artemis remains poised, feigning ignorance. "Is there such a person?"

"Based on the stories of survivors and this village, yes." The stranger rests his hand on the handle of the sword at his side, as do the two soldiers behind him. More soldiers wait outside. Artemis catches their movements out of the corner of his eye through the window.

"I hope you find who you're looking for, Sir," Artemis replies. He keeps his eyes locked with the stranger's when he approaches the counter.

"Don't play a fool, boy. We received the same descriptions and--" the stranger nods his head towards the window where soldiers speak with the villagers. "The locals have informed us that you are the one we're looking for. Artemis Redbrook, correct?"

"Why are you searching for me?"

"We've been tasked by His Royal Majesty to bring you to the capital."

"The capital?" Artemis repeats. Hasn't enough strange occurrences happened recently? He doesn't need another. "Why...?"

"His Royal Majesty will speak to you upon your arrival. Now, come with us." The stranger steps back and gestures to the doorway like he isn't asking for something ridiculous.

"I can't just leave. What will happen to my shop? My home? My..." Artemis nearly let slip that there's a boyfriend who would be very upset to discover him gone without explanation. It would be more trouble for the soldiers than Artemis.