Disclaimer: I don't own anything, except Rhovan's Blade, that's my assasin. Everything else is Kristen Britain's genius mind at work

All was surprisingly quiet at this hour. The evening watch had just changed. The captain of the castle guard, and the king especially, would not be happy that some of the soldiers arrived bleary eyed and slightly swaying. Apparently they had enjoyed in some of the celebrations being held for the new Rider Sir G'ladheon, Knight of the realm, and Fergal Duff, both honored for their brave actions in saving the damsel and Lady, Estora from her captors.

Rhovan's Blade chuckled. "Knight of the realm," the watcher mumbled to the quickly cooling air. "As if that will save you."

The Blade turned from her vantage point, walking along the castle wall toward the main entrance. She had just passed one of the ill-guarded side entrances when the door opened. The Blade quickly hid in the darkness and watched as the person emerged from the doorway. They were formally attired in what looked to be a green uniform, although it was somewhat difficult to be sure in the darkness. Everything about the unexpected arrival set the Blade on edge, who automatically noted everything about the rider, from the formal coat, to the gold sash around their waist, to the well-made, but well-worn boots on their feet. Most of all, the Blade took note of the saber hanging at their hip. The sheathed blade didn't bounce about against their leg as it would with an inexperienced swordsman, but moved with them as they walked, suggesting an experienced wielder.

The Blade's feet moved silently through the grass as they followed the unknown rider, curious what should draw them away from the celebrations being held in their fellow rider's honor.

Karigan trudged toward the stable, mumbling to herself about pirates and secrets and trying to forget the feel of king Zachary's warm and calloused hands holding hers as he brought her back to her feet. She shook her head again. "Love just isn't for me," she said with a sigh as the stable materialized in the darkness. She walked over to Condor's stall, but no nicker greeted her, no nose explored her hands, nor sniffed her pockets looking for a treat. He was asleep for the night, and Karigan didn't have it in her to disturb him.

She stood back, leaning aginst one of the center posts, at a loss of what to do. Confusion tore at her heart. She wanted to believe that the king had moved passed whatever it was they had had. But the look she had seen in his eyes tonight told her otherwise, and it scared her. He would be marrying Estora probably in the spring, as soon as the weather warmed and the ground dried from all the snowmelt. Summer by the latest, she figured. And yet his relationship with his future bride still seemed forced. She knew the marriage was desired by neither party, but the contract was signed and sealed, sealing their fates along with it.

"And mine as well," Karigan said ruefully.

She heaved a sigh, pushing herself upright, and gave up trying to understand it all as she strode toward the entrance. Let the others enjoy their festivities, she thought, determining to call it a night. Drent, she was sure, would appreciate the frustration on the practice field tomorrow, as it always made her a fiercer fighter, even if it did nothing for her focus.

She thought of the days ahead as she walked through the darkness toward the castle, not noticing the figure that shadowed her steps.

Karigan's shadow thought against following her into the castle. Dressed all in black, the Blade was dressed to blend in with the night. Infiltrating the castle would have to wait until tomorrow. Tonight, the Blade thought, I must make sure everything is ready.

Yeah! my first fanfic! I guess now the tables are turned if I'm too slow to update...