Lady of the Court

XXVIII

Ava rides along side Leon as they go through the country side. A few other knights ride along with them. They are currently on their way to the kingdom of Mercia. Some plan of a stronger bond. Ava does not want to go really. Bayard is the reason that the couple who raised her are dead. All in a political act.

But Uther wants her to be an ambassador between the two kingdoms. Leon volunteered to go with her. The two have started becoming closer friends it seems. Honestly, a friend is what she needs right now. And Leon more than willing became that friend. The group stops once it starts turning into dusk.

"We'll build camp here," Leon states, sliding off his horse. He goes to help Ava, who just looks at him. "You're in a dress," He reminds her.

"Fine," she mutters. He helps her down as the others go to collect firewood. Once camp is fully set up, they start eating some of their rations. No one is really talking. Ava watches the flames reach towards the stars. She finishes her food and stretches. Standing up, she grabs her dagger.

"Now what are you going to do with that?" Leon asks, chuckling.

"Practice throwing knives," She responds. "Not all of my skills are just natural blessings."

"As you say," He smiles. "Won't it be harder to practice fighting in that though?"

Ava rolls her eyes before going to practice. She goes so far before picking a target. Aiming, she throws the dagger, hearing a satisfying thunk. Hearing rustling behind her, she turns to see Leon walking towards her.

"How may I help you?" She asks, going to retrieve her dagger.

"I'm suppose to make sure you stay safe," He responds. Ava chuckles, pulling the weapon from the wood. She turns towards him, walking up while twisting the blade.

"I can easily beat you," She smirks. "So I don't need you to protect me."

She pushes past him jokingly. His fingers gently wrap around her wrist.

"You are still important to the kingdom as well as to everyone in the castle. So even if you are able to protect yourself, you should let me keep an eye out for your safety."

She nods her head.

"You're right."

He releases her wrist and the two head back to the rest of the group.

~~~

Ava allows Leon to help her down once inside the courtyard of the castle of Mercia. Bayard and his family is awaiting her. She lowers into a curtsey while swallowing her hatred for the king. She is suppose to be a diplomat, not to start a war.

"Lady Ava," Bayard smiles as some of his servants go to move her stuff in a room.

"King Bayard," She responds.

"May I introduce my son, Niklaus."

The prince steps forward. He looks much like a younger version of his father. Quite a handsome face, but Ava knows she can't let that cloud her judgement. The prince gently kisses the top of her hand.

"Welcome to our kingdom," He smirks. "Mercia is at your beck and call m'lady."

She bites her tongue at that name.

"Thank you."

The royal family welcomes the travelling group inside. Everyone moves towards one of the guest chambers.

"Dinner will be soon," Bayard states. "Until then, please rest and feel free to roam the castle."

Most of everyone leaves, only two that remained in the room is Ava and Leon. She starts unpacking her stuff while debating on what to wear tonight.

"Maybe we don't have to be here long," Leon states, looking around. "I know you like it here less than me."

"Then why did you recommend me being the delegate?"

"Because something seemed to be bothering you at the castle. As your friend, I was trying to help you avoid it."

This is one conversation that had to have waited until now. It would have been worse if the others knew because it would travel to Arthur. And with Arthur's help with her last relationship, she doesn't want that. She pulls out a more formal dress for the feast tonight, going behind the changing screen. She sheds the light pink one before replacing it with a green formal dress with silver detailing.

"So you send me to here?"

"Well there was no new beast to slay. Plus a princess should know how to deal with diplomatic relations; even if they dislike the other person."

Ava steps out to see Leon facing towards the wall. She clears her throat and he turns to look at her.

"I hate the idea of being the princess," She confesses. "Because if someone were to happen to my brother, that means I must lead the kingdom."

Leon picks up the small silver diadem from the bag, placing it on top of her curls.

"Though the knights will ensure that Arthur and Uther will be safe," He promises. "You would make a great leader."

There is a knock on the door. While Ava puts on her shoes, Leon opens it. Niklaus is standing there.

"I was wandering if I may escort Princess Ava to the feast," He smirks.

"Of course," The red head responds, standing up. She accepts the Prince's arm and they walk towards the dining hall.