The Raptor Queen

VII - Exercitus del Mortem

Anai

Nightfall

We managed to create quite some distance between the last village and our current location before needing to set up camp for sleep. Most of the men just slept under the stars, but of course King Snobalotos  had a glorious tent arrangement for him to sleep. He is nice enough to offer me a small yet comfortable bed in it. I politely decline of course. I'd rather sleep under the stars with his warriors.

"Are you certain you wish to sleep out here? Your people are accustomed to the much warmer nights of the jungle. We've gone far enough north that you wouldn't be comfortable outdoors," his gaze is flirtatious yet stern, as if his eyes are telling a different story than the rest of his face.

The wind gusts as a few of his men start a large fire. Admittedly, it's a little chilly. My current garb isn't exactly suitable for this climate as it is. But I'm a warrior, I will not give in to his charms and his bourgeoisie ways.

The fire crackles as he continues staring, waiting for me to answer. I nod politely, "I will let you know, your highness." I attempt to sound somewhat interested to perhaps get him to back down. But truthfully, the offer is oddly kind of him. But if I start to like him, it'll foil my plans.

It isn't long before a giant fire blazes, the men are all roasting food and ale is passed around. A few men have even taken to playing a few songs. I'm sitting relatively close to the fire in an attempt to stay warm, assessing everyone's body language and overhearing their conversations. Truly a bunch of brutes. I feel the glares from the men, but none of them approached me. Admittedly my attire is revealing and their stares make me uncomfortable. But again I'm a warrior, and I will show no signs of distress.

When I search the crowd once more, I notice the kings attention on the young woman from the carriage. He's dancing with her. And she appears to be having a grand time. I roll my eyes at the thought that the new King may be a nice guy. The thought immediately irritates me, forcing me to grit my teeth and shake my head. The wind gusts up from behind, a nice cold front on my almost bare back. My skin immediately breaks out into a million goosebumps and I shiver, now struggling to maintain my fearsome dignity. 

Startling me from my indignant thoughts, a warm fur is placed around my shoulders and drapes over my legs, covering me from head to ankle. "Here you are, Daonessa, you looked a bit... cold," an inviting voice breaks my thoughts. An older gentleman in gold armor that appears a little fancier than the others sits next to me. He has engravings on the shoulders and chest pieces, with red ribbons around his left bicep. My first attempt is to not seem too grateful, like I needed it. Even though I know damn sure I couldn't be more appreciative. My second attempt is to not be relieved that someone finally spoke to me. It's been awkward sitting here by myself in the middle of all these strangers.