The Four Swords

Chapter 155: Unwelcomed

Chapter 155 - UnwelcomedPrincess Alina and Lady Calista rushed into the medical tent with Alejo's frustrated expression peaking in behind them. Upon taking in the sight before them, neither progressed more than the few steps they had taken inside.

Lady Calista paled in response to the seeping wound. Her eyes frantically

Cali looked into my eyes defiantly. Something told me that she still felt she did the right thing. I guess a moment to check on Jacobson meant more to her than my somewhat hollow words.

Princess Alina did not look up. Her face was still flush. Her embarrassment ran deep.

"Please forgive us, Alejo. You serve our wounded well." Alina began.

"It is forgotten, Your Highness." Alejo responded with a click of his heels into attention. He was a better soldier than I was.

"My apologies, Lord Holden. You have been trusted with larger tasks than this and have never failed. We ask forgiveness for our impatience." Alina meekly voiced for the pair.

Princess lessons must have an entire course on diplomatically apologizing. It certainly ranked high in eloquence.

"Thank you. I accept your apology." I responded before the silence settled in between us.

The group outside the tent did not bother with small talk, which suited me most of the time. This was the exception. Without the distraction of chatter, every groan and pained inhale could be heard from inside the tent.

Sir Gavin took the pain from however the doctor was treating him well enough. Even the strongest among us still express discomfort.

"There you are. I did not mean to worry you both, my Princess and my dear sister. I was not injured in the match." Lord Carrion oozed in a sickeningly sweet tone. Finally a distraction!

The newest swordsman led a squinting Sergeant Agnar by the hand. Upon closer examination, I have no idea how my clansman saw anything to continue his match.

"I am simply bringing Sergeant Agnar to get cleared for duty by the doctor." Carrion continued, even though no one asked.

Something rubbed me the wrong way about another clans Swordsman trying to 'clear' my men for duty. I almost opened my mouth before thinking better of it. Carrion did not exactly have the best record of taking kindly to advice lately.

"The doctor is only receiving the injured at this time." Alejo offered.

The injured and my mother, I corrected in my head. At least Benate was not hearing Sir Gavin's moans. Part of me wanted to see the doctor and my mother fight a battle of wills. Perhaps I could add that to tomorrow's tournament bracket.

Agnar stepped forward and I opened the tent flap for him.

"Thank you, Lord Holden."

"Well fought, Sergeant. You made me proud." I responded as the man passed me in the tent.

Carrion got a chance to take in the sight of Sir Gavin through the open flap. When I looked back in his direction, his eyes were as large as saucers with his mouth hanging open. Glad I did not take a look.

Carrion cleared his throat and the girls shared a look. I hope this time it does not get me in trouble.

"Since we have now found each other, would you ladies like to celebrate my victory today in the town market? I can not think if a better way to spend the day!" Carrion offered.

Lord Carrion seemed carefree and content. Surely this was not the same brooding child I had come to tolerate.

"Congratulations on your victory, Lord Carrion." Alina trailed off, unable to find the right words to decline the offer.

"Indeed, congratulations, Brother! As appealing as your offer is, Queen Valerie sent Alina a+nd myself to lift the spirits of the injured. We do not want to take away from your celebration and I cannot say how long we might be. Please do not let us keep you." Lady Calista lied.

"Oh. Perhaps I should lift their spirits too." Carrion attempted to yet again to join his sister and her best friend.

"You deserve a celebration and you also need your rest for tomorrow's match. I do not think there is time for both." Princess Alina added.

Surely he will take the hint. His face fell, accepting his fate.

"I suppose you're right. Enjoy the day, ladies" Carrion walked away without a spring in his step.

A moment of peace fell upon us before the tent flap opened again.