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Crimson Moon ( Mojito & wolvenrogue )

Ms Mojito

Ms Mojito

Star
Joined
Apr 2, 2011
Location
Florida
Ava sat in her bed chamber before her vanity. Her ladies attending to her hair. Upon the cherry wood surface of her vanity sat a pile of parchment letters that had been sent back and forth from her friend from afar. Crystal blue eyes gazed down at the red velvet gown she now dawned for such a special occasion. A gold corset that laced up the front, holding, what didn't threaten to spill over, against her chest. Ebony locks hung in curls, cascading about her slender shoulders. A gift from her dear friend lay nestled just above her breasts. A radiant ruby hung by a gold chain.

"Thank you ladies." Crimson lips smiled and her ladies-in waiting were dismissed. The ball was to take place at the Lockland Keep. It was a surprise when it was announced that the knights were returning from battle after years upon years of war. Oh how she crossed her fingers that he would be able to take a time of reprieve from the war. A look at the moon told her it was time to begin. The hostess was needed to welcome her guests. A trip down the stone corridor with tapestries hung down the hall led her to a gorgeous ball room. Pillars of marble and a fountain of wine in the center. The orchestra was already playing. A high table brought in for their Highness'. Fellow Lord's and their wive's, Counts, Duchess'. Anyone of decent rank would be arriving this night. However there was only one person she was dying to see.

Ava carried the poise and grace of a Lady caring for her own castle so it wasn't trained into her to pounce upon her General at first sight. Her dear friend had always been serious about upholding his manners and loyalty to her family. Things had changed in the few years he had been gone. Ava herself had grown fully. Where as he had left as a young general and was to return a man. Guests began pouring in but he had still not arrived. Her duty as the greeter was soon over and she now conversed with her mother, the Queen Eloise and her father King George de Lock, while glancing frequently at those heavy front doors, hoping to see him walk through. A goblet of wine held between her fingers got her reminiscing of the first time she had even met him.

Always in the library he was. The son of a general drilled to become a general himself. There was the only heir to her father's land and fortune. Crystal blue eyes peeking in on him. Quite unsuccessfully a few times. He was hardly allowed to play as a child but one night Ava did confront him and giggled in his direction as she threw him a ball. Unfortunately his father had smacked it out of his hands and demanded he concentrate.

A soft sigh escaped her lips as she came back to reality. Every suitor that approached her for her hand in marriage had been turned away at the doorstep. Why? She knew not. She was simply not in love with them. No one really. Or so she thought.
 
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Sir Robert of Lockland, young general of his army, had just returned home to his country after five years of fighting the Norsemen to protect his country's northern borders. The Norsemen were valiant fighters but barbaric in nature and had little respect for the honorable ways of war. Many of Robert's fellow Knights had fallen to their swords. However, in the end, the Scotsman had been victorious, and were returning to their country heroes.

At 6 feet, 180 pounds, Robert set tall in the saddle of his warhorse, and dressed out in full armor was a very imposing threat to an enemy. However, to the Scotsman assembled at the ball waiting for Robert and his fellow heroes to return, their arrival dressed in full armor was a thrill, and something to be savored. As the company of Knights approached the drawbridge, the trumpets sounded heralding their return, and a cheer rose from the assembled crowd in the courtyard. As the drawbridge fell, the knights, paraded in formation into the courtyard and stood to be recognized. Upon receiving a nod from the King, each man raised his visor so his face could be seen. As Robert did so, his eyes met with the object of his affection seated next to the Queen. He had faithfully written, for so many years now and finally he would have the opportunity to be with her in person again. Though he recognized her face, he was unprepared for the transformation that the rest of her had undergone. Before him sat not the girl he had once known, but a vivacious and beautiful woman. As her shining eyes met his, his heart left in his chest, and it was all that he could do to remain seated upon his horse until the appointed time.

At the conclusion of the welcoming ceremony, the grooms arrived and helped each night down from their seat then took the horses to the stable. Robert Squire arrived, and held him out of his armor. Finally, he was free to seek out the lovely Ava. He had dreamed of this moment, almost since the day he had left Lockland Castle so many years ago. Now, at 28, the blue-eyed, sandy haired Robert strode across the courtyard and approach the throne. Dropping to one knee, and bowing his head, he said "if it would please the King, I should like to accompany his daughter to the ball this evening." The king nodded his assent, and Robert rose to his feet and offered his hand to the lovely Ave, as he bowed deeply before her.
 
A sweet smile lingered upon her lips as those eyes watched the Queen's attention shift to the door. Quickly she turned and looked. There he was. Looking quite polished and uncomfortable. The first thing she noticed where his eyes. Oh how many times had she threatened to gouge out his eyes to keep them for herself when they were younger. "Robert." The name was but a whisper upon her lips. All the guests grew quiet and parted the floor giving him a pathway to the King and Queen. King George cast a smile in his daughters direction. His sign or approval. Not a second later the King cheered and ordered the music to continue and that all men be given a tankard of his finest mead.

A moment of silence filled the air for a quick second as all awaited to see Ava's reaction. "You are late." The only words that sprung from her sweet crimson lips while slender fingers accepted his offering. "Leave it to you to be late to your own ball....General." A small laugh accompanied her words. Oh how handsome he had become over time. "The King wishes to speak to you in his studies later. Clearly he has something to tell you. Pardon me if I put a few notions in his head as to a day or two off...." Ava caught herself. The dear girl had a tendency to talk on and on. Something Robert loved to point out to her. The air filled with cheers and praises as the men serving his Highness were welcomed back with open arms. The loud clang of armor as the army joined in the crowd.

"Don't say a word...." a warning with a smile. An arm wrapped about his own. Women of the court began circling like hawks upon their first sight of prey. Nervously her fingers fiddled with the ruby gracing her neck. After a year it became a habit of hers. The heart beating beneath her chest sent blood rushing to her cheeks. The few goblets of wine weren't helping either. All around, girls could be seen batting eyelashes and giggling in the direction of her dear friend. No doubt in hopes to receive a moment with the praised knight. "General. I trust you are well." The formality of her statement came natural. In public settings her manners, grace, and poise were pin point. Tonight, her nerves were on edge. A canopy of stars dotted the sky. The moon light reflected in his eyes. By now she found it difficult to even look at his face. The smile nestled upon her lips was going nowhere, no matter how hard she tried to hide it.
 
As she took Robert's hand, he rose from his bow, and placed her hand on his right forearm to escort her from the reviewing stand to the ballroom. Before them lay a gauntlet composed mainly of adoring women, each hoping they might catch the attention of one of the returning Knights. These men were heroes in everyone's eyes. Robert were the king's daughter on his arm like a badge of honor, both because of her position in stature, and because he had loved her from afar for so many years. Talk in the pocket of his doublet was her handkerchief, a token given him as a young knight, and carried proudly into battle on each of his victories. She had been terribly young, when it was given him, but despite her youth at the time, he took the honor seriously, and had written her whenever he could. When times had been toughened battle, and his courage had waned, his thoughts had been of her, and what it would have meant to her had their cause been lost.

On this day, as they walked through the adoring crowd, he enjoyed the honor. In truth though, he wanted nothing more than time alone with his lady. Knowing he would have audience with the King, he determined that he would take the opportunity to finally claim her for himself. And ask the king for her hand in marriage. Once he had an answer, he would ask her.

As they wandered through the sea of adoring subjects, he found his way to their place at the table and seated her then stood to address the crowd. The hall was silent as he regaled them with the stories of their victories and gave most of the credit to the fallen, who had made the ultimate sacrifice for their kingdom. He raised a glass to their honor and everyone cheered. The service began serving food, and the party began in earnest.
 
The beating of a heart had never been more distinct than now. There stood her hero and best friend. Not years nor distance could put a dent in what bond they shared. Silence filled the air for moments, only to be broken with occasional cheers as Robert held all attention with his tales. The scent of a meal meant for heroes filled the air. Venison, veal, meat pie, sweet pastries, and plenty more. Ava simply had her goblet refilled and a small assortment of foods brought over. With a soft sigh she said casually with a soft familiar smile, "Cheers." Taking a sip of the best quality wine any human could ever come across. The warm liquid arrows of wine shot through her body, giving a bit more color to her fair skin. An endless relaxing smile settled on her face, without her even realizing it as she looked at him.

A curl of hair was tucked behind her ear as her pale blue eyes focused on her plate. Nothing was catching her eye. No doubt her knight needed a good meal and merry time. Many guests began dancing to the festive music filling the air. "I kept your chambers as you left them." It wasn't entirely true. A roaring fire was lit beneath his mantel. Warming the room. A tub filled with water settled before the fireplace to keep it warm. Fresh linens sat atop his bed. Everything was dusted and cleaned. Ava wouldn't tell him that it was she who personally tended to his room. It wasn't necessary for his knowledge. Just the thought hiked up the temperature of her body.

By now, her soft lips hadn't moved and her mind wandered as Robert sat at her side. Goosebumps suddenly raced across her flesh. A familiar feeling washed over her. Pale blue eyes scouted the room and instantly collided with the Earl of Laden, Fillip. The sight of his brown eyes disgusted her. An incident occurred a few months ago that nearly lost her her maidenhood. Bruises secretly hidden upon her ribs where she was grabbed. All knew Filip as a sweet and handsome man. Ava knew better when she was shoved in a broom closet. The secret assault remained a buried secret to be forgotten. A soft smile faded as all eye contact was avoided and she focused on her untouched plate.
 
Robert couldn't help but notice the instant change in Ava's countenance as Fillip of Laden entered the room. He leaned over and whispered in his darling's ear. "What troubles you my dear", he said. He looked at Fillip from across the room, trying to distinguish some reason for her distress. "Does the man Fillip probably you?" He asked. "If so, he shall keep his distance, or deal with me!" Robert didn't know the man, but the very fact that Ava was upset when he walked in the room, was enough to make Robert dislike intensely. Robert called the waiter over to him and whispering in his ear said "that man is to be seated as far away from us as possible" he said pointing in the direction of Fillip.

As the music started again and in earnest, Robert took her hand and led Ava to the dance floor. Almost instantly the floor cleared around them and the guests stood back to watch as Robert danced with his lady. She felt light as a feather in his arms as he guided her around the floor, showing excellent grace for someone so large and muscular as he. He spun her like a toy top and then pulled her back elegantly again and again as the dance had them Promenade about the floor, the crowd clearing in front of them and closing in their wake. He smiled at her, as they enjoyed this intimate moment together even in the midst of so many. As the song ended, Robert took her on his arm and walked her to the Kings table. He bowed before the King, and asked if he might have a moment of the Kings time. "Absolutely", the king answered, "I always have time for so brave and knight as you. Let us go to my chambers, this party will be fine without either of us." Robert left Ava in the Queen's care, and followed the King to his chambers.

"Sire, I have carried this token from your daughter into battle for the country many times this last five years(he held up her handkerchief to show the King). My heart is pined for her, and I sent her many letters written the height of battle. She is my lady, and my love, and I come before you today to ask for her hand in marriage. The King look at him straight in the eye, and said "I have often prayed that this day would come, the you would return from battle, safe and alive, and asked me that very question. You have my most heartfelt permission to marry" Robert bowed deeply before him and said "I beg you excuse me sire my lady awaits me, and I have news I wish to share her" "go with God's speed" the king said.
 
A small breath escaped her lips when she heard Robert mention Filip's name. I film of comfort surrounded her at the sound of his voice. Before she could utter her thanks, she found herself gliding upon the floor. An art of music and dance in an intimate display that caught everyone's eyes. All other didn't matter at this point. No one else exhisted at this point. Ava was speechless to find herself dancing with the man she had deep feelings for. Before she knew it, the dance was over. Music came to a hault. Witnesses clapped on admiration of the performance as the duo headed towards the King and Queen.

Queen Eloise had rarely seen her daughter so genuinely happy these days. Mother and daughter watched as the men took their leave. Ava felt her mother's familiar soft touch encasing her hand before she could even take her pale blue eyes from Robert's parting figure. " You need not worry Ava." Her majesty whisper to her daughter in a comforting tone. " He won't be leaving again. "

A small smile claimed her lips. A tender kiss was placed upon her mother's cheek as her mother's arm's wrapped around her. Ava winced. While the bruises were diminishing in appearance, the pain continued to linger. She would allow nothing to sdamper her happiness for this joyous occasion. After that moment the Queen and her daughter were seen socializing , beaming with smiles, and laughter.
 
Robert returned to the table just as the music began again, and offered his hand to Ava, drawing her out onto the dance floor again. This time unlike before, he was not silent, but began to whisper in her ear. "I have spoken with your father, and he's agreed that I may ask for your hand in marriage". At that point in the dance he paused and pulling her close to him looked deep into her eyes. Then in the middle of the dance floor he stopped, and dropped to one knee before her. Seeing him do this, the the musicians stopped playing in the Hall fell and total silence. You could hear a pin drop. Pulling, her handkerchief from his vest pocket, he unwrapped a small gold band crusted with diamonds, and holding it out to her, he said "Ava will you marry me?" The hall was thick with anticipation, everyone hanging on her words. Robert looked up into her shining eyes, focused as though she were the only one in the room, holding the ring in anticipation of placing it on her finger. His expression was one of hope and joy. His heart pounded and his chest and time seemed to stand still, and eternity passing before her first words.
 
Ava smiled and laughed softly as he dragged her off to the dance floor in the middle of the crowd. She looked so playful as he dragged her off like two little kids. As many times as she had told people that Rob was nothing more than a loving, life long friend to her, she was proven wrong and would be eating her words later. While in his company a constant feeling hovered. A sense of comfort deep within the depths of his soul which she could feel. The pain in her chest got worse as he spoke, only because she had yet to confess her feelings for him yet. The feeling was strangling her as she looked at their laced fingers. Her smile even more relaxed. She laughed softly at her stubbornness and fear of telling him of her hidden emotions .Her heart beating against the wall of her chest, almost feeling like an attempt to make a break for it.
"Robert...." she nodded her head as though saying 'no'...but smiled at him softly as her eyes now looked at his with a light blush across her fair cheeks. There were no words that Ava could possibly use to describe what she had felt at that moment; but she knew that he loved her and that she loved him. It was like a lost paradise, one that would blossom more in the passing of time, one she would cherish for eternity. "Of course I will Robert." Tears were fiercely blinked back. If there was one thing Ava didn't like, it was surprises and crying. Both of which he had her doing in the midst of a crowd. How could she stay angry. There was no getting rid of the smile upon her lips no matter how hard she tried. Cheers erupted all around. Her father's distinct voice being the loudest.
 
Robert took her tiny hand in his, and slipped the ring gently on her finger. He stood up and held her in his arms, and gave her a passionate kiss for all to see. He knew it was a bold move, but he also knew that on this occasion it was one he would likely get away with. At that moment, as if on cue, the musicians began to play again, and Robert took his new fiancé into his arms and they continued their dance. His eyes never left hers as they traversed the floor. He had waited five long years for this moment, and now it was finally his. He whispered in her ear "this is the happiest day of my life so far!" He said. He knew that it would be many months before they wed, And he still feared he might be sent back to war before that happened. But for today, he was contented, to have the love of his life and his arms, and know that she belonged to him and him only.

As the dance ended, he took her on his arm, and walked her back to the table where her mother and father sat. He held out her hand, the ring glistening on her finger, and made a formal announcement, "I have asked her daughter to marry me, and as you can see she has accepted." He bowed deeply to the king and queen and they could be excused. At her father's nod, he dipped his head, and led Ava out through the heavy doors, and onto a quiet balcony, where he took her in his arms, and gently kissed her.
 
Ava watched as he placed the ring upon her finger. The caress of his hand sent chill upon sweet chill through her body. She was still in awe when her breath was taken away with a kiss that rocked the very depths of her soul. It wasn't until they began dancing that her lips finally decided to work. Cheeks grew flush at his confession. "Robert ... I really don't know what to say." A sweet smile remained upon her lips as she was escorted to her parents. Mother Eloise looked as though she was to burst with excitement any moment. While father was happy to have another reason to celebrate. The atmosphere on the balcony was tranquil. The sky blankets with stars and the aroma of the fresh flora from the nearby garden. With a heart beat racing with each gentle kiss of his ambrosial lips. A sharp jet of pain shot through her abdomen as an arm brushed her hidden abrasions. Ava flinched and tried to brush it off. The soft palm of her hand rested upon his velvety flesh. "You know how many years I've dreamed of this? Secretly I've been haunted of dreams of the worst. You never returning. "

The palm of her hand now rested upon the chest piece of his armor. Cold and hard. A soft smile sat on her lips despite the single tear that eluded the far corner of her eye. "Come we must get you out of that armor. " A pleading tender kiss placed upon his lips. "People are beginning to take their leave." Oh how she wanted to sit before the fire and reminisce with her best friend and new found love. "Please Robert..." There struck a moment of de ja vu. This pleading had been pulled before many times. Most of the time it succeeded. Ava new not why her pleading tone worked with her father and Robert back then but she hoped it would work now.
 
Robert gave her a gentle kiss. She was quite right, the sweetness of her begging, was more than the man's heart could resist. Perhaps it was a simple sweetness of her voice, or the gentle way that she spoke. Robert like her father responding to it was instinctive. Whether deliberate or not, she was an expert at manipulating a man, and knew all the right buttons to push. What she had asked wasn't difficult, but the way she asked it, made her all but undeniable.

Robert walked her back to his chambers where she left the fire burning to welcome him home. The pair collapsed into the sofa that set before the fire in his room. And he pulled her into his lap holding her gently and listening as she talked of how the many months and years of home alone, all he was in the Norse country, had affected her. Robert too, shared stories of the exploits of his army, and the many dangers that they faced, as they battled the enemy. He also took the time, to tell many tender stories, of how in the heat of battle, he had remembered her as he held her token in his hand, and how that realization had given him the strength to persevere when others simply failed or quit. Once again, he professed his love for her, and promised his devotion to her whatever the situation.
 
The heat of the flames licked at her flesh. Relaxation washed all over her. The story of his tales brought her more comfort. Her head of ebony locks resting upon his shoulder. Her fingers mindlessly twirled the gorgeous ruby nestled between her breasts. "I've worn this ruby since it arrived. It was once ripped from me but I managed to get it back." Ava's eyes began to grow heavy in the comfort of her love. A soft yawn escaped her lips. "Robert...." she whispered in a tired voice ."I really must get to my bed." A tender kiss was placed in the crook of his neck. "Promise me I'll see you in the morning." The soft palm of her had caressed his cheek.

The night grew so long. Despite what she said, she was very reluctant to leave his company, let alone his lap. "I love you Robert..." she whispered as she slowly dozed off. This night could not have turned out more perfect. Her mind slowly began to wander, dreams of the future with dreams of the past. Her husband to be protecting her from this point on.
 
As she nestled down into his arms, though she was sound asleep Robert noticed that she grimaced in pain as her ribs came in contact with his arm. Experienced in battle, he knew that reaction well. He was certain she was injured, but couldn't think of a reason why she should be, until he remembered her comment about the Ruby being ripped from her chest. As she slept soundly, he decided to see for himself if his suspicions were true. Me he unbuttoned her corset and lifted it from her ribs. Even through the thin silk camisole she wore he could see the ugly bruises on her ribs. The thought of such an injury sickened him, and he burned with anger whoever was that might have done such a thing. He gently picked her up, being careful of her ribs and carried her to her chamber and laid her on the bed. He summon her chambermaid, and gave her instruction that she should see her undressed and put in bed. With that completed he vowed that come the next morning, he would find out just to injured his love and need out appropriate punishment at his own hand.
 
Ava was in such a deep sleep she was hardly woken with her clothes stripped. Leaving her in nothing but her chemisole. The familiar comfort of her bed kept her in the slumber that aroused a nightmare she was was having too often. Silent tears began leaving her eyes and landing on the silk pillow. The princess gasped and a small shriek escaped her lips while her heart threatened to burst from her chest. The bruising hurt as she sat up. A cruel reminder as to what had her waking up every few nights with cold sweats and a painfully aching heart.The covers were thrown off of her as she sat up awake. Tears were wiped from her very cheeks. Why was he haunting her in her dreams. Now betrothed to her love, why do such nightmares continue to haunt me so? It was all she could do was contemplate this. Her tear glazed eyes continued to stare at the fire beneath her mantle in a trance like state.
 
Robert heard her shreik from down the hall. He got up and pulling a cape over his naked body, took his dagger and left his cahmber in the direction of the sound. There was only one other chamber on the corridor, Ava's and when he arrived at her door. He called out softly, "Ava! are you alright? I heard you scream. May I enter?" He waited in the cold dark hallway, listening intently for any indication from her chamber. He determined that should none come soon , he would enter any way, as he feared for her safety. The seconds seemed like hours "Ava? its Robert, I'm coming in if you don't answer", he said a bit louder than before.
 
Roberts voice brought her back to earth. "Yes Robert ...come in." She was more. Concerned with hiding her tears that what little clothes she dawned. While the tears may have slowed down theu continued down her face. "I'm sorry. It was just a nightmare. " she rubbed her arms in a feeble attempt to be rid of the chill bumps on her exposed flesh. After these nightmares she could never go back to sleep no matter how tired she was. She winced once more and a hand cradled the unseen wound. "I'm sorry to have startled you. Everyone else has grown use to it by now." She blushed from embarrassment .
 
He sat on the bed beside her, and set his dagger aside. Seeing she needed comfort, he pulled her into his lap. In the dim firelight, he hadn't noticed that she was wearing only her camisol, but as he wrapped his arms around her he realized she wasn't dressed for his company, and now all that was between them was the thin cape. It was an awkward moment, and he considered pushing her from his lap and running out, but then thought better of it, and tightened his hug, and kissed her gently. Ever the gentleman he averted his eyes from her exposed maidenhood, and instead looked deep into her eyes, which shown like saphires, even in the flickering firelight. "It's alright" he said, finally speaking between kisses. "What caused the bruses on your ribs?" he asked, knowing the real question should be "who?"
 
She rested her head against his chest. The rhythm of his heart beat clearing her head. Her eyes closed as he pampered her with kisses. Relaxation began to seep into her head. If she were not as tired as she was the truth may not have passed her lips so easily. A soft yawn escaped her lips just before she whispered his name. "Filip." Another chill grazed her flesh causing her to hold on tighter to her betrothed. Ava was falling asleep in his arms. Her head all clear of her assault. One last tear streamed down her cheek, even in a slumber. Ava could now sleep until the morning on her own, hardly remembering what had happened in the middle of the night. The sun would shine through the window as the maiden slept soundly. Without a care or fear.
 
Robert picked her up and again laid her in her bed and covered her, but not before looking carefully at what the man Filip had done. Fire raged in his soul against Filip. He had damaged his lady, and vengence would be meated out to him at Roberts hand. He picked up his dagger and returned to his chamber where he prepared himself for the conflict that was coming. When he was ready , he went to his armory, and selected a cudgial with which he would meet out the punishment Filip had coming.

He then went to the training field in search of the man, Finding him he removed a glove, and standing in front of him slapped him hard across the face with it. "How dare you sir!" You have injured my lady,
and I am here this moment to take out vengence on you body. Arm yourself"
 
A bird perched on the lady's windowsill chirped, waking her up. Relaxed and refreshed, arms stretched and blankets tossed as she began getting dressed. Her handmaiden assisted her into a royal blue dress and braided her hair into a single braid with diamond tipped pins flowing down it. Her ruby necklace was placed about her neck and fastened as it continued to sit between her breasts. Completely oblivious to the fight ensuing in her name, Lady Ava had breakfast brought up to her. It was fairly early in the morning and she dare not wake Robert if he was still sleeping. A platter was brought up, with a tankard of water and a goblet of wine. She took a seat upon a chair and began reading a book as she nibbled on her food. A knock interrupted her quiet moment, "Come in..." It was her Lady-in-waiting. "Yes?"
"M'lady ....." the young lady was panting from having run as fast as she could.
"Breath dear, here have some water..." the shook her head as she fought to get her words out.
"Lord Robert has challenged Lord Filip in your honor." Ava gasped as the book slipped from her hands and fell to the floor.
"B-But how...." she had no time to think. She left her chambers quickly, following her Lady-in-waiting. "How could he have found out?" It was not that Ava didn't have faith in Robert's indefinite success, but revenge could have been achieved through different means. The training grow was all the way across the grounds, Robert could be done with Filip by the time she got there.
 
Robert stood on the field, cudial in hand, and waited while his adversary Filip went to his armory and prepred himself for the coming duel. As was custom amoung the knights, he also armed himself with a cudial. It was a punishing weapon, a simple six foot staff of seasoned hickory with a blunt end. Rarely was it fatal, but in skilled hands it could easily break bones, and mame its victim. It was the knights weapon of choice for such ocasions. Filip returned to the field, just in time for Lady Ava to take her place on the reviewing stand high above the field. Seeing her, Robert waved her handker chief, he had as a token and tucking it in his armor, closest his face shield. The oponents tapped there cudials together between them as was their custom and the duel was joined.

Filip, seeking the advantage, swung first. but Robert squatted down and the blow missed high. As Filip's body turned side ways Robert jeamed his cudial forward and cleanly into the only truly un protected place in Filip's armor, the hole beneath his right arm. From his crouching position, he was able to exert tremendous force, and the sound of breaking ribs could be heard even on the reviewing stand. As Filip staggered from the blow, Robert swung his cudial hard and swept Filip's legs from beneath him. Filip landed hard on his back, his head ringing in his helmet, and his left leg broken and useless. Robert put a foot on Filip's chest, and placed the tip of his cudial on Filips neck prepared for a fatal blow were it necessary. Filip wisely tossed his weapon to the side, at which point Robert stepped aside, and bowed toward his Lady Ava in the stand. Filip's squire and Armorer came with a streacher, nad carried him from the field.
 
Ava walked up the stairs to her usual place in the stands and gripped at her ruby necklace as soon as she saw her fiance. A soft sigh escaped her lips as he waved the good luck charm she had given him, as a greeting. "Robert...." his name was but a whisper upon her lips. He found out. That had to be a cold hard fact she had to swallow. Her best friend found out what Filip had done and took the noble route to taking revenge in her honor. But how? She could not remember uttering a word about Filip and she was sure that no one else knew. Unless Filip himself had bragged about such things, but that would certainly have cost him his life. Her heart flooded at Robert's flawless victory. Cheers from on lookers filled the air. Robert was the perfect knight. Not a toe out of line. Just the opposite of herself. She didn't know what to think. While she was very flattered, did he have to take it to such lengths? Ava turned her back and left the stand, disappearing in a crowd of servants.

With a sigh she wandered off to her garden, a little Eden created by her own hands. She stood at the base of her favorite tree. Slipped off her slippers and took a short climb to the nearest thick branch. She had hidden in this tree plenty of times when didn't want to go to her lessons. Her legs swung aimlessly beneath her. The sun shining through the canopy of the tree and raining slivers of sunlight upon her skin. How many times had she been told that a princess never took her shoes off in public? That a princess never got dirt on her dress. Robert had been nothing short of a formal perfect gentleman since his arrival. Not that she craved something dramatic, but he was not as she once remembered.
 
Robert returned to his armory and got out of his armor and then returned to the field expecting to see Ava waiting for him, but she was nowhere to be found. Disappointed he went back to her chambers, but only found her maid, of whom he inquired as to her whereabouts. She answered that she had gone to her garden, but she begged him that he not tell her mistress that she had told him. Robert consented and went to Ava's garden and to her favorite tree. He remembered fondly the days they had spent together in that tree when he was but a boy.

Looking up he saw her, and climbed up on the branch to join her in the tree. "When did Filip beat you? and why?" he asked. He leaned over and gently kissed her.
 
Ava had been given plenty of time to clear her mind. It was almost no surprise that he had found her. She knew he would check all of her favorite places if he ever came looking for her. She moved a bit over to make room so that he may sit at her side. Blood rushed to her cheeks as he gave her a kiss. Still getting use to remembering that they were more than just friends. Obediently she answered his question.

"His most recent visit was but three nights ago. He found me in the library, reading before the fire," dull eye continued to look at the ground as she continued on. "I could smell the stench of mead on his breath. He was staring at my ruby. The one you gave me. I haven't the slightest inkling why he tried to take it from me, but he pulled me from the chair and claimed he was sorry. His hands were all over me. I tried to scream in protest and that is when he threw me to the floor." Instinctively she gripped the good luck that hung from her neck. "Thank you Robert. Thank you for fighting him in my honor. "


A soft smile painted her lips. Princess or not, she still had a wedding to tend to. Eventually she would have to leave her safe haven. " How did you find out? " the thought had just settled in her mind.
 
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