IT WAS A COOL MORNING as the sun broke through the mist, low in the sky. Emilie met me on the stone road outside the castle gate. You rise early, Hugh De Luc.
And you, lady. I'm sorry to have brought you out so early in the morn.
She smiled bravely. It is for a good purpose, I hope.
I hope so too, I said.
She had on her brown cloak, which she always wore for matins. She cinched the collar against the mist. I stood before her in my ridiculous jester's outfit. I did a sprightly hop and a jump that made her laugh.
I hear it is you I have to thank for the new duds. I bowed.
What thanks? She curtsied. A jester could not do his work without looking the part. Besides, your other clothes reeked of a particular smelly beast.
I smiled, fixing on her soft green eyes. I feel the fool in front of you, my lady.
Not to me. You look quite dashing, if I say so.
The dashing jester... Not what is normally thought of as right.
Emilie's eyes glistened. Did I not tell you, Hugh, that I have a penchant for not doing what is considered right?
You did tell me. I nodded.
We stood and stared at each other for a long while, the space empty of words. A rush of feelings rose in my chest. This beautiful girl had done so much for me. If not for her, I would have been dead, a bloody mound on the side of the road. I reached my hand out to hers. There was a spark between us, a warmth against the cool of the morning.
I let my hand linger, longer than I could have dreamed. She did not pull away. I owe you so much, Lady Emilie. I fear I owe you a debt I can never repay.
You owe me nothing, she said, her chin raised, but to be on your quest and to complete it safely.
