Facing Her Sooner Than Expected

The coachman slowed the carriage when he saw Commander Lothian. 

"Commander," he said. "I have Her Royal Highness, Princess Marie, seeking one of your knights." 

Commander Lothian instantly glanced over at Henry with his eyebrows lowered. 

"Remind your girlfriend that the commoners have work to do," he said. "Better wash the blood off before you face her." 

Henry was about to object but he looked down and realized he was still splattered in blood. 

"Uh…" Henry didn't know what to do. "Can she wait for me someplace warm in your fortress, Commander? I'll wash off quickly." 

The commander sighed and gestured for Henry to go. 

None of them saw Princess Marie pull the curtains back over the window after peeking to see if Henry was there. 

Everyone followed the knights as they moved in, though Henry was the first to arrive.