“It’s rather unsafe leaving the palace without any protections. Your Highness.”
“Good day, Sir Scott. Care to join us?” Sir Thomas asked smoothly. Sir Thomas and Sir Scott were cousins, and both were excellent knights, loyal and dependable. Sir Scott was ten years older the Nicholas, there was friendship between them. He might seem to be strict and cold, but he was just a soft and warm person hiding under the appearance of a serious face.
“As a matter of fact, yes. And Sir Thomas, I don’t believe it is your duty to take future heir of this kingdom outside the palace.” Sir Scott accused.
“It’s not his fault, I wanted to get to know my people better.” Nicholas stepped in Sir Thomas’ defense. A smile crept on Sir Scott’s face; his green eyes sparkled with interest.
“Let’s go then.” Sir Scott said as he took off his cape and revealed the peasant cloth he had underneath. He was wearing a pair of loose fitting pants and a brown tunic. Sir Scott dropped his sword and put a dagger in his boot.
“What’s that for?” Nicholas couldn’t help but wonder.
“Protection.” Sir Scott simply replied as three men disappeared into the crowded market.
“Good day sir! Do you wish to look over some of the products?” an old man asked humbly as the men approached.
“Perhaps later.” Sir Scott nodded slightly as they continued their walk. Finally, after fighting throughout the crowds, they ended up at a dust road.
“Are you sure this is the way to the theater?” Sir Scott asked with a hint of annoyance and suspicion in his voice.
“Well, maybe we made a wrong turn or...”
But Sir Thomas was cut off by a terrible scream of fear. “Help me! Please!”
Sir Thomas and Sir Scott exchanged a quick glance as they stepped up in front of Nicholas and drew their swords.
“Stay back, your highness.” Sir Thomas warned, but Nicholas ignored his friends as he took off running towards the direction of the scream.
“Let me go! Please!” A young, dark-haired woman cried while being dragged into a carriage.
“Let go of her! How dare you do such thing to a lady?” Nicholas demanded.
“This is not your concern! She’s a property of my lord, and she belongs to him!” The servant yelled back as he pulled on the woman’s cloth harder. With one clear rip, the only thing the servant had left in his hand was the sleeve.
“What are you doing to my daughter? Lilyanna!” Everyone’s attention was directed towards the farmer who hurried to the woman’s aid.
“Stop! You fool! You can’t pay the rent, so I need to take a replacement.” the servant drew his sword and slowly backing off to the carriage with Lilyanna in his grip.