She couldn’t believe she was entertaining the idea.
The inquisitor didn’t even ponder before answering. “Obviously not, witch. You are a means to an end, a tool at best, and nothing more.” He turned to her. “If you are done eating, let’s leave. We are losing daylight.”
Maybe she could find another piece of bread so he could choke on it.
Chapter 07
Herroangeldingstoodat the edge of an ocean of moving people, horses, and bags.
Next to Semras, the men mounted their steeds and rode them in circles in front of the inn. Sir Ulrech sat on a rose-grey destrier in the middle of it all, hurrying stragglers and organizing the chaos of departure with the tone of a veteran commander.
Semras looked around, brows furrowing. The sidesaddle was already secured on the horse at least, but she had no idea how to prop herself up on her own. By the looks of the single stirrup and the two pommels sitting at different heights, she doubted she could do it alone, but she’d still have to attempt it. Asking for help from a sword-bearer was out of the question.
The witch stared into the eyes of the roan gelding, and its ears flattened back. The horse looked docile, but to someone as inexperienced as she was, it still looked quite imposing.
Gathering her courage, Semras stepped closer. “We meet again, horse. Could you bear with me while I try to figure this out on my own? I’m afraid I’m not surrounded by friends right now.”She hovered her hand mid-air, hesitating, then set it down on its nose. “I really could use one, if you—”
The horse jerked its head away and loudly snorted. Startled, Semras stepped back with a little cry. Her back hit something solid behind her.
“Careful. Horses are prey creatures. You mustn’t approach them too fast or they will spook,” Themas’ voice came from over her shoulder.
Semras glanced back at him. “I-I didn’t mean to scare it.”
He walked past her and gently raised his hand toward the horse. This time, the beast didn’t react, and he rubbed its neck in circular motions. “Beautiful, isn’t he?”
The knight’s blond hair shone under the morning sun. Lips graced by a gentle smile, he gazed softly at the gelding. Not a single scratch or impact marred his armour. He looked like the exact image of the gallant knight, as told in children’s tales—almost too perfect to be real.
Themas grabbed the horse’s reins and led it back to her. “Please allow me to assist you, Miss Semras.”
She thanked him with a lopsided smile. It seemed that every time she was in a difficult situation, he would come to save her. A true fairy tale knight indeed.
“I told you to drop the ‘miss,’ Themas,” she said, still smiling.
“Am I forgiven then? After last night, I did not dare assume …”
Semras exhaled softly. “You are. I was … a bit unfair too. You’re a Venator knight; of course you have to obey Velten’s orders even if you disagree with them.” She paused, then added, “I’m sorry I was so harsh with you. Let’s put the past behind us, if you don’t mind? I’d like to have at least one friend around here.”
“You have one in me. It is an honour once more to be of service to you, Semras.” Themas took her hand, then left the ghost of a kiss on its back. “I deeply apologize for the offence I gave you. I thought back then that you were on … um, familiar terms withInquisitor Velten, but after this morning I realized that—well, that I was wrong. If he is not a ‘friend,’ then what exactly is he to you?” His gloved hands still delicately clutched hers.
“He asked for my help with his investigation,” Semras said, shrugging. “He needs an herbalist. As for my relationship with him, as he would kindly inform you himself: I am merely a tool.”
The knight frowned. “Please tell me he did not say that to your face.”
“You know the vile man well, Themas,” she replied, chuckling.
“He did, then. Calling you a tool. How very like—” Themas cleared his throat. “I would apologize in his stead, but you will tell me not to bother, I suppose?”
She winked. “Now you’re starting to knowme.”
A light blush spread over his cheeks, and Semras’ smile deepened. Themas was younger than her by a few summers, and it showed at times like these. With his warm hazel eyes and the dimples framing his boyish grin, the knight looked quite handsome.
His thumb softly grazed the top of her fingers, and Semras ripped her hand back; their touch had lingered for far longer than appropriate. “We-We should probably …”
“Yes! The horse! Allow me—”
A hailing voice interrupted them. “What is holding both of you up?”
Riding his towering stallion, Inquisitor Velten expertly guided his steed around them and then stopped in front of Semras. His questioning glare jumped between her and the knight.
