Liridia

Chapter 6: Hywel

Hywel
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My mother's court was so inexplicably boring that I nearly fell asleep at the long table 57 steps west of my rooms in the high tower. Everyone attending was of high rank, therefore, extremely egotistical and bland. The whole day consisted of me waking up, getting dressed into the slightly itchy outfit picked by my mother, and walking 57 steps accompanied by two guards and Red, my friend who I sparred with in training camp and never judged me because I am the 5th king's second son. The court was mostly made up of women, all vying for my attention, and the rest officials in my father's army or dukes that came 'far and wide' for the the ball.

The long table was decorated with four centerpieces and runners adorned with bright colours, one lady was talking to me about her life in Garriff (the Westlands somewhere) and the farm she once went to. I was only half listening while looking for some exit that wasn't guarded or some window I could dive through to get out of here. She stopped talking when I fully turned in my seat, still looking for a window as there was only two doors that were guarded by leather clad men with glittering swords.

"Who are you searching for, your highness?" She asked anxiously.

"No one, don't worry. I was seeing how many people were here. Now go on about the rest of your day, how did the horse escape? Did you find it?" I say locking eyes with her and smiling, just begging for her to blather on about her boring day at the farm. I can't even remember what her name is. Petunia? Rosemead? Something along those lines... I see Red flashing a sly smile from across the table and I keep my blank face trained in his direction.

The hours roll past in a seemingly sluggish pace, I chat with my mother, then back to what's-her-name, and seeing who would laugh first with Red. Finally it ends when my mother dings her glass and finishes in a toast. And I thought it would never end. I hurry to my rooms, Red close on my tail and I nearly slam the door in his face because I'm running so fast.

"Oi, Hywel! Watch yourself cheeky!" He huffs rubbing his forehead.

"Apologies Red, I didn't think you would have caught up with me, you are getting a bit slow." I say scrunching my nose playfully. He punches my arm and walks into my rooms swiftly.

"I think you know what time it is. The King's ball has finally arrived after only two months have past in the new year. It's time for our monthly bet. You know the rules, nothing too ridiculous and nothing boring." He pointing a finger accusingly at my chest. I roll my eyes.

That was one time.

"Okay, but it's your turn to make a bet. Nothing stupid, you know I like a challenge."

"Get a woman at the ball you don't already know to fall in love with you. I'm sure you're up for the challenge?" he tilts his head with an eyebrow raised. I nod, already concocting a plan, it won't be hard, basically everyone I've met likes me. But a woman I don't know? That's the challenge. Everyone that has been to a ball has met me. That's not what I want if I do want to win.

"What do I get if I win?" I ask crossing my arms, now in negotiation mode.

"My sword." he says confidently. He's that sure of himself that he would bet his sword. It never leaves his side and I'm pretty sure he sleeps with it every night. I nod again and shoo him out the door, "Before my mother comes and scolds you for yapping and not doing other 'important things' like actually working."