41 Exposed (1/2)

Upon my return, Cody provided both of us a more befitting change of clothing similar to what the supposed late delegates would be wearing. Both Cody and Jake were surprised to learn of their demise, it was an unfortunate circumstance to befall them, but it would only aid us going forward.

We didn't need to have to watch our backs constantly in fear, although it pains me to find a sense of comfort in their demise, it seems wrong and it probably is. As I stripped and changed I asked.

”Are we able to carry weapons into the castle, or will they just be confiscated?”

”They'll be detained for the entirety of your duration there, but I'll stash both of your equipment in a shop close to the royal castle. It's called Rex's Arms if you need them then just tell the clerk ”A good soldier follows orders.” and he'll show you where they are. Don't worry he's a good friend of mine.”

I gave him my equipment and armor, and before we left I asked. ”How are you going to get the original papers back into his office?” Since the ones Jake and I were going to use were copied from the documents I retrieved from that captain's office.

”Don't worry about it, he won't notice their absence, he's usually drunk by this time anyway. Honestly, he's probably going to be ”Sick” for the next couple days and recover at one of the brothels like he usually does. ”

I couldn't argue with his logic and I didn't really want to explore any more of the captain's exploits, other than those already stated. Jake and I adjusted our disguises, then left for the royal castle.

We walked through the bustling cobblestone streets drowned out by the outcries of vendors and merchants alike trying to sell their wares. If you hadn't already known the continent was in anarchy, then you would have never realized it walking these streets.

Kids ran through the sidewalks yelling cheerfully as they did, people talked openly with each other laughing and joking, and everyone wore a bright smile. Even still I could tell something was amiss, even with the cheerful atmosphere, I couldn't but help sense the apprehension that hung heavily in the air. People's eyes darted cautiously behind their forged smiles. War was here too, they just tried to ignore it the best they can. It won't make it go away, they just hid being their high walls hoping it would.

We strolled through the garnished roads, passing by the richly furnished stores until the well off houses turned to affluent surroundings. Modest housings morphed into mansions and estates all overlooking the surrounding area.

We approached a gate guarded by another watchman, he like Cody, observed us with minimal interest. When we became close enough to speak he said.

”Present your identification and state the reason for your visit.”

I retrieved the forged parchment tucked away in my tailored duster's pocket, after handing him it, I said.

”We are representatives from the King's Council, we're here to speak with the king about current circumstances that have transpired,” I state with hopefully convincing formality.

He squints at the documents before asking. ”You're Sue Smith?” I keep my face even, but inside I began to panic. I faked a grimace and said.

”My father was quite a comedian, he thought it would be humorous to name his son Sue. If you don't wish to share his fate, then I urge you to refrain from referring to me as such.” A dangerous glint passed in my eyes, causing him to swallow a dry gulp, he continued without pushing any further, asking Jake.

”I can assume you are Johnny Coine?” He nodded gruffly with his eyes narrowed following my attitude with the strong silent persona. The guard then returned our papers and stepped to the side saying.

”You're cleared entrance into the castle, someone will direct you once inside. You will have to forfeit any weapons you may be carrying, just know this before you enter.”

We walked past him, I kept my composure until we were a good distance away, then a sigh of relief escaped my lips. Jake wiped the nervous sweat from his brow and said.

”I thought we were done for, I completely forgot about the name whenever I was forging the documents. I remembered to change the gender, but I neglected to change the name. Sorry about that, but I'm glad you were thinking on your feet.”

”Trust me, I thought we were done for too. I just said whatever came to mind, I'm just glad he bought it. Just call me Drew from now on, ok?”

After registering we were escorted to the throne room, where the king would hear us. Over the many days of our travels, I had mulled over what I would say to the king when we met him. I have an idea of what I was going to say, but the revelation of some cryptic plot against the king had somewhat muddled my thoughts and what I would say.

We need the king's support, that was the entire reason for this visit. If we can denounce the Forsaken Order, then there's a chance that we'll be able to sway the other Kingdom's to join us. We will need to gain his trust.....I don't know how we'll be able to do that though.

Those thoughts are quickly put behind me as the colossal swung wide open for us, lining the long crimson carpet ahead were knights outfitted in full plate mail. They stood at attention, lining the entire path to the throne, watching our every step behind the slits in their helms.

The escort stepped to the side and bowed, as we walked forward one of the many people standing on both sides adjacent to the throne announced.

”Representatives of the King's Council, Sue Smith, and Johnny Coine. You are welcomed to the royal court of the Lord's Union, present yourselves, and your case before the enamored king of this kingdom.

His majesty, the revered Sir William the brave.”

I whispered quietly to Jake. ”Follow my lead.”

I kneel before the king and Jake follows suit. The king then asked with obvious disinterest.

”Ah yes, my friends from the King's Council. To whom do I owe the pleasure? At any rate, I'm grateful you made the arduous journey here at such short notice. It was but a week prior I received a notice of your imminent arrival, I was barely able to prepare myself for the annoyance that was sure to proceed after your arrival. Truly I can't decide if I'm angered or impressed by your prudence. So I shall allow you to speak your message before I throw you into the streets.”

I politely ask. ”Would you allow me to stand your majesty?” He scoffs but allows it.