“Yes, immediately,” Sam said. He looked at me, sure. “And you should know… I’m… I’m sorry.”
“You’re sorry?” I asked.
“For not being here for you. I was locked elsewhere. I had no idea you were in distress. For that, I’ve failed you.”
“I…” I crossed my arms. “Mr. Evergreen was here.”
“Indeed,” he said. “Yes. Thank you, Mr. Evergreen.”
The Princeheartilywrapped his arms around my Sword, ensnaring him in a tight embrace.
“Once again you have proven my truest friend,” he said into his shoulder. “My best friend. Thank you for saving my wife.”
At the Palace, Sameer walked beside us long enough to instruct Mr. Evergreen to take me to my room. He continued in a hurry to find his father. Cyrus and I went through the foyer and down the hall. He was the epitome of ease, calm. I was not.
“You should have Miss Josie draw you a bath,” he said.
“A bath? At a time like this?” I asked.
“Why not?” he asked.
“Is this punishment?”
“Punishment?” he asked. “On what authority do I have to punish you, Swan?”
“You say that, but call me Swan and I cannot be sure if you are dodging the question or being obtuse.”
“I’m sure it’s neither,” he said.
“If I’ve done nothing wrong, why must I be confined?” I asked.
He shook his head. “You’ve had a long day. His Highness wants you safe.”
“I am safe,” I told him. “You saw to that.”
“It was nothing.”
“It wasn’t nothing! You saved my life. If anything, I should remain in your company, and, seeing as it would be improper to bathe near you, I shall accompany you to see the King.”
Cyrus frowned. “First of all….” He stopped. “Bathing comments aside, I, I’m not seeing the King, love.”
“What? But you informed Sameer you would spread the description,” I said.
He nodded. “I told Sam. Sam will tell his father. That’s where he went, remember?"
The distinct rattle of Oreian armor came from the far end of the hall. We shot our eyes to where it had begun, and despite the fact that Mr. Evergreen took a deliberate step toward the wall to distance himself from me, the arrival of Ser Elías came with his knightly, protective prowess.
He seized the swordsman, bringing him close into his face. “Oh, son,” Elías muttered. “Can you not learn?”
“We’re nowhere near each other!” I hissed, prying them apart.
Elías rolled his shoulder, releasing the Blade by my request but he scowled.
“Leave him alone!” I cried. “Mr. Evergreen was told to deliver me. You suggest he disobey the Prince?”
“The Prince?” Elías asked.
“Yes! The Prince.” I cleared my throat. “Did you not cross his path stomping over here?”
