Adventurous

Please No

Morgan sat taking a nap, Pumpkin on her lap. Linda smiled fondly as the sun warmed her friend. She had been so stressed about the kingsmen that she practically collapsed with relief and exhaustion when the approaching men meant no harm. She felt so guilty, jeopardising their home like that, but Linda didn't blame Morgan at all. Even though she tended to get in a lot of trouble because of her fiery spirit, she was the most caring person she knew. And nothing would get in her way when she wanted something.

Linda was abruptly pulled out of her reverie by an alarmed shout through the window. She rushed to the door, startling Morgan awake as she ran past. Opening the door, her eyes were met with a startling, if somewhat absurd sight. Armed and ready, Jaysen's hunters stood in a line; across from them were several kingsmen, clearly frazzled. They were shouting at the hunters, but seemed too afraid to take action.

"We have come to collect the disobedient swine that abide in yonder dwelling! Step aside and let us pass, or face the wrath of the king," one soldier said bravely, but his eyes showed fear.

"What does the king plan to do with the habitants of this dwelling?" Jaysen responded calmly.

"He'll probably throw them in the dungeon, where ugly wenches like them belong," the soldier huffed back. Jaysen, clearly upset by that, responded by drawing his bow and aiming at the soldier. "How dare you insult the women that abide here! It is not a simple thing to insult a woman's virtue, nor should you take it so lightly. Remove yourself, or face the consequences." Simultaneously, the other hunters aimed their bows menacingly. The kingsmen momentarily stood rooted to the spot, then turned and ran. Jaysen waited momentarily, then lowered his bow. His men followed suit. Turning around, he noticed Linda and Morgan standing in the doorway shocked.

"Afternoon, M'ladies. How art thou?" He bowed gracefully.

"F-fine, I guess. What just happened?" Morgan found her voice first.

"Well, those men arrived and claimed that they were commanded to deliver you to the king's dungeon for some slight misdemeanor. I didn't believe that the two of you could be capable of any such offense, so I challenged their claim. And, as you have seen, they were clearly wrong, for they showed no confidence. Therefore, they ran," Jaysen explained calmly, despite the worried look on Morgan's face.

"Well, you see, they weren't exactly wrong. I did refuse to give our land to the king, and now...now we're paying the price for my insolence." With that, Morgan burst into tears, leaning on Linda. Linda patted her back and rolled her eyes slightly. "I didn't mean for this to happen!"

 "Dear, lady, 'tis not your fault. The greedy king is to blame, and no one else. We shall keep you from his clutches while we are able, right men?" The hunters let out a cheer. Morgan wiped away her tears in gratitude.

"Really?" They nodded. "Thank you!" Morgan smiled and hugged Linda. Linda nodded gratefully towards Jaysen, then pulled Morgan back into the cottage.