Gazing At The Moon

Prologue

The armour is heavy. But it's grand. It is an honour to be wearing this. The patterns are intricate and detailed, unlike anything I've worn before. I've finally made my way up the ranks. My blade strapped to my side, the helmet comfortably on my head, I think I am ready.

The doors are huge. This is the throne room, isn't it? Am I on time? The two guards regard me silently, before opening the doors and letting me in. I take a deep breath and walk in.

Before me is a sight I never thought I would see. The King, the Queen, and even the Princess. Right in front of my very eyes. We are alone. I am glad to be wearing this helmet, my expression must be nothing short of unbecoming.

I glance at the princess, whose dark eyes are averted. Her pale white hair spills down her shoulders like a velvet river. Her beauty is, as I was told, remarkable. I turn back to the King and bow my head.

"Sire."

"So, you have come." He speaks, voice intimidating as it is reassuring. "I have been told great things about you."

"Thank you, Sire." I bow my head deeper.

"I had you come here for a reason, which I'm sure you know."

I don't respond. I don't need to.

"Yes, you do." The Queen smiles, and the King quiets down to let her speak. "We have decided that you shall become our princess's personal guard."

Yes.

"Come closer, kneel, and remove your helmet." She orders.

Though hesitant, I obey. I take a steady few steps forward, and kneel. Lifting both hands to my head, I take off the helmet, taking away the certainty I had before. I tuck it under my arm, and lower my head out of respect. My hair is tied back just so it doesn't hang in my face.

The king speaks, once again.

"Do you vow to protect the princess with your very being?"

"Yes, your Highness."

"Do you vow to be a loyal servant to only her?"

"Yes, your Highness."

"And do you vow to treat her with the utmost care and respect?"

"Yes, your Highness."

"Very well. Your name shall be Sir Abel. This is an honour. Treasure it."

"I shall." I glance up briefly, at the King and Queen. They both look pleased. The princess, finally looking my way, looks as unreadable as a blank page. Her expression has not shifted, nor has her pose.

What does she remind me of?

--

"You're insane! You'll never get into the castle, let alone work there!"

"I have a chance."

"You do not. We're women, child. That's just the way it is."

"I don't care! I refuse to live that way!"

"You don't have a choice! Especially considering what we are! We're werewolves, man wants to hunt us down. If they so much as see a glimpse of you during a full moon-"

"That won't happen! It hasn't happened for twenty five years, I don't see why it would now."

"It only has to happen once."