Winter DO NOT READ

Chapter Four - Edwin

        I trudged through the thick snow, glaring up at the towering castle before me. The snow whirled in the air, slamming into my face. The queen sent me on a dangerous mission weeks ago; which I hardly survived, and now she's summoned me to her court.

    I was now close enough to the gate that I could press my hand against the cool steel. What could she need from me this time? Clearly, I'm no use for her in my state. During my journey I've received a deep stab in my left side, broken at least two ribs, and mangled my right foot beyond repair. If anything, this is just my execution. I must admit, that mission went terribly.

    "Name." One of the guards patrolling the gates drawled, interrupting my thoughts. I shot my head towards him, letting out a low snarl.

    I took a step towards him, lowering the hood covering my head. His eyes grew wide, stricken with fear. Oh, how I love this.

    "Let me pass, before I rip out that vacuous tongue of yours. And believe me, I could very well do worse." I seethed. The guard trembled as he stepped out of my way.  I began to walk through the gate, stopping once he stood to my side. "Before I leave you to continue your miserable life, I ask to know your name."

    "W-why?" The guard stuttered. What a coward. This man is a disgrace to the esteemed Royal Guard.

     "Don't question my motives." I hissed. "Now, give me your bloody name before I skin you alive."

      "Dannon!" The man squealed. He cowered away from me, his teeth chattering. I couldn't tell if it was from the cold or fear. Hopefully, it is the latter.

    "Now, Dannon, I shall leave you be. Pleasure meeting you." I bowed my head towards him; a courtesy we must show to those above us. Apparently, I'm lower than this fool.

    I shoved Dannon aside, storming towards the castle. Time to serve me queen one again. Although, I honestly could spend longer without her breathing down my neck. But never mind that. She's my queen, and my only purpose is to serve her.

    Suddenly, I was stopped when a hand gripped onto my shoulder. The hand was large, clearly belonging to a male. It was covered with many scars. His skin was tan, immediately revealing the man's identity.

    "Keteus." I greeted, shoving his hand away. "What does the queen need so badly that she must send her lap dog after me?"

    "Great to see you too, Edwin." Keteus grumbled.

    I glared at the guard, growing impatient. "I'm on my way to see the queen, under her orders. What do you bloody want?"

    "Exactly that reason, imbecile. The queen is awaiting you at the gallows. Another hanging, and this time she wants you to take care of it."

    "I suppose you're not good enough? Well, that does make sense." I said, smirking at his enraged expression.

    Keteus took a step forward, towering over me. Indeed, he was taller, yet his features were childish. If he was attempting to scare me into submission, he has another thing coming.

    I merely stepped around him, continuing on the right way, ignoring him entirely. Why, I haven't the time to deal with him. He may be looking for a fight, but I only wish to make it to Her Majesty before she comes up with the brilliant idea of killing me instead.

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    "My Queen." I announce, quickly lowering into a deep bow. The queen smiled down at me contently, showing no evidence that the chill wind was bothering her. Quite frankly, I found it unbearable. Once I'm finished with this execution, I'm going to be spending a while sitting before the fire.