The Shadow Assassin

Chapter 7

Rowan went back to the castle on silent feet, making her way to the stables. Quietly opening the door, she slipped in like she was truly one with the Shadows. She passed by the many stalls of the King's finest steeds and the Prince's favorite hunting mounts until coming to the last stall, which housed her beloved Daisy.

Rowan felt relief rush over her in a wave. Her precious friend was spared, for now at least. She unlatched the door and let herself in. 

Daisy was her only friend or family as far as Rowan was concerned, she loved her with all the love she could muster in her cold heart. She'd raised her from the small filly she was.

After only two and a half years, that horse knew more of Rowan than even the King himself. 

Rowan quietly filled a pail of oats and retrieved a brush, beginning to brush the mare's golden coat until it shown like the honeyed color of Rowan's own once long tresses. After she was satisfied that all the dirt was gone, Rowan put the brush back in its place along with the other tack and supplies.

She got down her saddle and other tack, meticulously cleaning and oiling every bit of it to make sure it was in top shape. She never knew when she'd next have need of it. After she was done, she shut the stall behind her and made her way back to the castle. The King was surely awaiting her return.

"Did you catch the filthy rash?" King Salln asked as Rowan approached the throne, her head bowed.

"No my liege, but I do know who ordered the attempt at your life." Rowan replied.

"Well? Out with it!" Salln said impatiently.

"Garreth." 

"My own little brother? Well then all the more reason to kill him!" Salln laughed mirthlessly. "This is simply perfect! That is your new assignment!"

"What is, your Most Excellent?" she inquired, softly.

"Kill Garreth or don't bother coming back!"

Rowan squirmed an eyebrow, "Now?"

"Go!" Salln demanded, pointing towards the grand doors of the throne room.

"As you wish," Rowan said quietly, with a slight hint of sarcasm in her voice, as she backed out of the throne room and into the corridor.

She turned and stopped abruptly, sensing someone.

"What was that all about?" Evan inquired, who had clearly been eavesdropping.

"Nothing." Rowan replied icily as she tried to get around him. "Get out of my way."

She sidestepped him and began the walk to her quarters in the west wing of the castle. 

"Where are you going now?" Evan asked as he jogged to catch up with her.

"The King has assigned me a new task."