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Verdane was often called the country of forests and lakes, but Edain had underestimated just how dense the undergrowth could be. Branches snapped under her feet, thorns scraping her arms as she pushed her way forwards, following the small boy who was her saviour.
“Just a little further.” he called back. “My village is nearby, we can stay there overnight, and get to the border tomorrow.” Though the trees all looked the same to her, Dew seemed to know what he was doing, every step made with complete confidence, as if he’d walked these paths all his life. Maybe he had.
They had lost their pursuers, thankfully. Edain had been terrified when an army was sent after them so soon. If it wasn’t for Dew, she surely would have perished. He was small and weak, yet he’d fought them all the same, wielding his sword like a mighty warrior, swift enough to dodge all enemy attacks. Not a single Verdane soldier fell, but he bought them enough time to make their retreat.
“You shouldn’t have done that.” she had said. “It was too dangerous.”
He’d just laughed at her concern. “I made a promise, didn’t I? I’ll protect you with my life!” He had said it so casually, as if the thought of dying never even crossed his mind.
It scared her. Back when she’d been kidnapped, she watched Midir fall whilst protecting her. If anyone else sacrificed herself for her sake… especially a boy so young…
“I hope Prince Jamke is safe.” she spoke out loud when they found a brief moment of rest. “They discovered our escape so quickly, do you think-” she paused, not wanting to continue, lest she worry herself further.
“He said he’d be heading back to the capital.” Dew shrugged. “He seems smart enough, I’m sure he’ll be fine.” Though his claim had no real basis, a little reassurance was all she needed.
They seemed to be nearing the edge of the forest now. The trees were less densely packed, letting sparse beams of sunlight pierce through the path ahead. Almost sunset now, the pair spotted some soldiers setting up camp in the distance, the first sign of civilization in many hours.
Edain spotted a familiar face in the crowd.
“Lord Sigurd!”
-
Reunited with her friend and exhausted from the long day, Edain was urged to rest. She had offered to lend her staff to the injured, selfless as she was, but her other good friend Ethlyn promised everything was under control. She was to sleep in one of the army’s finest tents, befitting of such a noble lady.
Midir cautiously approached her abode, hoping she was still awake. Of course he would never dream of disturbing his lady’s sleep, but he longed to see her again. He didn’t know how to start apologising for failing to protect her, but he hoped she would accept him as her loyal knight once more.
“Oi, what are you doing here!”
“What?” The yell startled Midir, as did the appearance of the boy it came from. Just a child, must have snuck into the camp.
“I am Dew, sworn to protect Lady Edain from harm! Be on your way!” He had his sword drawn and pointed at the archer. It looked to be a weak blade, and Midir had no doubt that he could disarm him, but…
“Please calm down.” he spoke as calmly as he could. “Stop making a ruckus, or-”
“Is everything alright out there?” Too late. They had disturbed her rest. Edain was just as beautiful as the day Midir had lost her, but she looked different. She had always been slender, but now she was bony, and her gorgeous brown eyes were drooping. She looked exhausted. “Dew, what is-” she met Midir’s eyes, her own widening with shock.
“Edain, this man was trying to sneak into your tent.” the boy declared. “I was going to fight him off to protect you!”
“Midir?” She seemed oblivious to the boy’s ramblings, as she reached for Midir. “Midir, I’m so glad you’re safe.” She caressed his cheek with a trembling hand. “I thought you were lost…”
“My lady, I cannot apologise enough.” He took her hand in his. “If only I had been more vigilant-”
“Please do not blame yourself. The important thing is that you’re safe as well.” She turned to Dew. “Thank you for your concern Dew, but there is nothing to worry about. This is Sir Midir, one of my father’s knights. Midir, this is Dew. He helped me escape from prison.”
Edain let go of Midir’s hand and nodded at Dew. Picking up her message, Midir held out his hand. “Sorry for almost stabbing you.” Dew muttered, shaking it. “Nice to meet you.”
The boy had apologised, but Midir still felt glares on his back as he left.
-
It wasn’t difficult, Lex had said. Just ask to have breakfast with her and ask how she’s been.
The people of the nearby village didn’t seem overly fussed about the army camped on their doorstep. In fact, they were grateful for the temporary protection from bandit attacks. The villagers had offered to provide food – mostly fish from the lake – and had set up tables for them to eat at.
After taking his portion, Azelle sought out Edain. She was sitting with Sigurd, Quan and Ethlyn, but there was a free space next to her. All nice people, of course they’d let him sit with them. He worked up his courage, stepped forward and-
“Edain! Snagged you some extra potatoes!” A blonde boy pushed him out of the way, taking the seat Azelle had hoped would be his. Sighing, he sat at the next table across, hoping he’d be able to strike up a conversation somehow.
“Goodness Dew…” Her voice was music to his ears. “I wouldn’t want to take too much.” And she was still so thoughtful.
The boy – Dew was it? – filled her plate regardless. “No way! Ma says you gotta eat tons. We haven’t eaten since we left the prince, and I don’t know about you, but I’m starving!”
“Were you at least fed well in Marpha?” Ethlyn asked.
“Ah, it wasn’t that bad.” Edain spoke softly. “But this has to be the best meal I’ve eaten since I arrived in Verdane… please thank your mother for me, Dew.”
The conversation continued, as Edain talked a little more about her experiences. She was not the only one kidnapped by the Prince of Marpha. Edain had met a maiden with silver hair, who used a Sleep staff to keep any would-be attackers at bay.
“Our escape was so sudden, I didn’t have time to help her as well…”
A pause in the conversation, giving Azelle a chance. He calmed his nerves and reached for her right shoulder. Edain, I’m glad you’re safe. Edain, I’m glad you’re safe. “Edain-”
“Edain!” Dew tugged on her left arm. “How much longer are you gonna be staying for? My Ma wants you to come to dinner tonight.”
“We came to Verdane to save Lady Edain.” Sigurd stated. “Even though she is safe, Prince Munnir is still a threat. If we leave now, more women may be put at risk. We must continue to fight.”
“I wouldn’t want you to take revenge simply for my sake, but when I think of that poor lady… please, let me help. I cannot fight, but I will heal your wounded.” Oh lady Edain, how kind she was.
“You’re a wonderful healer, Edain, I know that. But I cannot allow you to come to further harm.”
“Then I’ll protect her!” Dew declared.
“So will I!” The words were out of Azelle’s mouth before he knew it, and the table was staring at him.
“Lord Azelle? Have you been fighting for Yngvi as well?”
Azelle did his best to make polite conversation after his embarrassing outburst. In the corner of his eye, he was sure he saw Dew snickering.
-
Countless nights had passed since Edain’s rescue. Battles had been fought, castles had been taken, the King of Verdane killed, but still… no man had been allowed near Edain. Wherever she was, no matter the time, Dew was by her side to stave off any suitors.
It was irritating for Midir. He was sworn to protect his lady, yet this child was standing in his way. And it was awkward for Azelle, never finding a moment to express his true feelings whilst being watched.
Locals said that Verdane Castle had the prettiest views in the nation. Stationed atop a hill, the sea to the west, the magnificent lake to the east, forest as far as the eye could see, it was a truly magnificent sight… and neither of them were sharing it with Edain.
“Look, you can see my village from here!” Dew and Edain stood atop the castle’s tallest tower, the setting sun basking them in a gentle light. Azelle and Midir watched from a small distance, jealous.
“It’s incredible…” Edain mused, “I’ve never seen such sights in Grannvale.”
“We should stop by when we return to Yngvi – Ma still wants to have that dinner with you.” Oh no, it wouldn’t stop when they left Verdane. Dew was so intent on protecting Edain that he’d move to a new country to do so.
“Excuse me, are you waiting for a chance to talk to Edain?” Midir and Azelle were startled out of their longing. Prince Jamke, or maybe he should be called King now, was standing behind them, confused as to what they were doing.
“No, go ahead.” He was told. Maybe it was cruel not to give a warning, but they were curious how Dew would get rid of the prince. Maybe he’d interrupt everything, maybe he’d tell Edain it was too cold and take her inside.
But no.
“Prince Jamke, how lovely to see you. I’m sorry, are we not allowed to be here?” Edain asked.
“Do not worry, I said that you could explore as you wished. I wanted to speak to you, actually.”
To everyone’s shock, Dew started walking away. “I’ll leave you alone then, see you later, Edain.” And he turned to Jamke, no spite or malice in his eyes. “I’m sorry for your loss, sir – King Batu was a great man.”
And then Dew was gone, only stopping briefly to talk to Midir and Azelle. “Hey, dontcha know it’s rude to spy on people?”