Maid Marian vs. Velasca

4. A Moment with Footman

The preparations for the journey were nearly complete, and as the castle quieted down for the night, I made my way to Footman's quarters. There was one more conversation that needed to be had before we set off. I reached his door and knocked softly, waiting until I heard the sound of him moving within before opening the door.

Footman stood at attention when I entered, his usual serious expression on his face. He had always been loyal, despite his earlier... indiscretions.

"Milady," he said respectfully, bowing his head slightly.

I offered him a small smile, stepping into the room fully and closing the door behind me. "Footman, I wanted to speak with you before we leave tomorrow. You've been with me for so long, and your loyalty has never wavered, even when... well, when things haven't gone as they should."

He shifted slightly, understanding the weight behind my words. "I've made mistakes, milady, but I've always done my best to serve you."

"I know," I said softly, moving closer to him. "And I appreciate that more than you know. What happened with... the other things..." I trailed off, choosing my words carefully. "The panty sniffing. I know you've struggled with that, but after everything you've done to help prepare for this mission, I've decided it's time to put that behind us."

Footman's eyes flickered with a mix of relief and something else—perhaps gratitude. "Thank you, milady. That means more to me than I can say."

I smiled gently. "You've proven your courage time and time again, and after this mission, when we return successful... I will dub you a knight. You deserve that honor, Footman. And when you're knighted, I imagine you'll be so popular with the women of Locksley that you'll no longer need to fixate on me."

Footman's face flushed slightly, though he quickly recovered. "That's a great honor, milady, and I am grateful beyond words. But, no matter how many women there are... I'll always have a soft spot for you."

His words hung in the air, and for a moment, I was struck by the sincerity in his eyes. Despite everything, he had always been loyal, and his feelings, though misguided at times, had always come from a place of deep admiration.

I smiled softly, leaning forward and pressing a light kiss to his cheek. "Thank you, Footman. Your loyalty means more to me than you know."

He stood still, his face flushed from the kiss, but he nodded. "I'll follow you wherever you go, milady."

With that, I turned and left his quarters, feeling a sense of closure. Footman had earned his place in this mission, and I knew that with him at my side, we would face whatever lay ahead with strength and courage.