Alanis thought letting go of her first love would be the most painful thing she would ever endure, but little did she know, the path the light goddess set before her, would be paved in heartaches beyond compare.
With her past and Berthold behind h...
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Outskirts of Ati Harei Furisre Sreuni Afternoon
Lord Fulton led Alanis to his horse and lifted her to the saddle. He mounted up after she was settled, sitting tall behind her. As they neared Ati. she requested they walk the rest of the way. It wasn't because of his company, after he rescued her she truly began to appreciate his noble gestures, and felt at ease to have him near.
No, her worries now were on what the others would think, seeing them riding so closely. She didn't want rumors to spread about the pair, nor did she want word to travel about her near brush with death.
He agreed, but surprised her, by keeping close as he walked her back to town. While they walked, the captain assured her that he'd let her explain what happened, should anyone question them about her day. That gave her plenty of time to come up with a cover story for her facial injuries and for Trista's disappearance. She was hopeful that her horse would be found wandering near the stables—her steed was familiar with the area, so it was a good possibility.
The city guard greeted them when they reached the southern tower. They informed Lord Fulton that King Stronghold was back at the castle, awaiting his company. On the walk back, Wesley had told her that he was out scouting for the king when he came across her and the attacking man. He was supposed to escort him back to town and debrief him on the city dealings. She hoped he wouldn't be reprimanded for his absence, it was her fault, her stupidity had brought it on.
Back at the royal stables they found Trista, just like she expected, but her heart started to race when she realized who found her. She was placed in the stall next to Faris' steed, and something told her the prince had stalled her. He would definitely want to know why her horse was wandering Ati unattended.
This wasn't good, she worried biting her swollen lip, she flinched from the sudden sting. The salty taste of blood filled her mouth and she let up on her lower lip, realizing she had irritated the wound. No, this definitely wasn't good, she groaned frustrated by her brilliant plan to find him this morning.
Fulton hitched his steed and sauntered towards her, watching as she examined Trista's head for any open nicks.
"The king expressed interest in meeting with you when he returned. Would you like to accompany me back to the castle?" he asked, watching her eyes lift from Trista, back to him.
"Yes, that will be great." She was looking forward to meeting the king, she never had the chance to introduce herself before her departure from Berthold.
Fulton's smile crinkled and fell into a telling frown. She lowered her face, hiding her busted lip from view, she could tell that was the cause of his sympathetic stare. She had caught him peeking at her face several times throughout their walk back, but this time it wasn't such a quick glance, it was an uncomfortable stare she didn't need.
