I nodded.
“Now watch this time. He’ll aim for the same spot and if the other rider can’t deflect him or make his own attack then he’ll almost certainly unseat him.”
I watched again as the horn blew and the rider did exactly what Fain had said he would. The rider on the left tried to block the lance but it still struck him hard and he fell, his right foot catching in the stirrup and stable boys rushed forward to stop his horse and prevent him from being dragged along.
“You were right.” I said looking at Fain.
He laughed. “Those are not words I thought you’d ever say to me.” He said.
I felt my face heat and quickly looked away.
God what was wrong with me?
New riders approached. Just as always they bowed to the High King, only this time the one of the right fixed his gaze on me.
My stomach dropped. I shifted uncomfortably as he approached.
“I ask for the favour of the High King’s Fae.” He said loudly.
I bit my lip feeling like every person in that damn arena was watching me, and as I glanced about I was certain they were.
“Here.” Indi whispered, slipping something into my hand.
I grasped it, getting to my feet, replicating the same thing Mira had done, the same thing I’d seen countless other Ladies do. I draped the silk square over his lance.
His face lit up, he bowed his head like I’d bestowed some sort of honour and when he took the fabric he held it high like some sort of trophy.
The crowd cheered. And internally I think I died a little.
I sat back down. Hating the attention. Hating every second of it. I glanced at Nela and she was looking at the Prince. Both of them exchanging a look of concern.
“What is it?” I asked.
“It’s nothing.” Fain murmured. Though I knew it was a lie.
I didn’t watch the joust. I kept my eyes fixed on the edge of the box in front of me. Something was going on. Something was being kept from me. I could feel it.
When the champion was announced he climbed the stairs to so much applause it made my head hurt. The High King handed him a huge golden cup as he knelt down before him.
We waited until the crowds left. Indi and Nela chatted away but I noted Prince Fain hadn’t left with his brother. That he was still within reaching distance of me.
As we slowly descended he kept to my side. Clearly he was back to being protective Prince Fain again.
“You don’t have to walk with us. Nela and Indi will keep me safe.” I said to him after we reached the Lower Castle. I’m sure he had better things to do anyway.
“Is that what you think I’m doing?” He asked.
“Isn’t it?” I replied.
He smirked slightly before answering. “I guess you’ll have to wait and see if anyone attacks.” He said.
I laughed before I could stop myself. “Okay so answer me this then.”
“What?” He said.
“Why didn’t you joust today? You clearly know what you’re doing.”
“I’m the High King’s Commander. If I were to get injured…”