9

You start riding. A few minutes pass, and you start to see the outskirts of the village.

We're heading to the Capital," responds Sir Robert.

Your eyes widen slightly. Varys interjects. "I've never been to the Capital. I hear it's huge."

Sir Robert nods. "It is rather large…I guess for people that have never been there, it would be impressive, but I've been there so many times, I don't really pay it much mind, to me it's just another city."

You think for a moment, "Is a tournament being held there?"

Sir Robert grins. "No, but it is on the way to one. I always try to stop by whenever I pass through. Lots of good memories there, plus Melinda and Hannah would probably kill me if I didn't stop by to at least say hello."

"Who are they?" asks Varys.

Sir Robert laughs. "I guess you boys don't know much about royal politics, do you? Lady Melinda is sister to the King, and Princess Hannah is the King's daughter. I should probably use their titles, but to me they're like family. Melinda and I have a lot of history together. We practically grew up together in court. When I was old enough, I even used to escort her through town. My father was on good terms with the King. I guess you could say they were childhood friends. My father is a rich and influential merchant in the Capital. Our families were quite close, or at the very least, my father has connections the King finds useful. When Princess Hannah was born, I was promoted to watch over her as a royal guardsman."