A week into her working for the King, Prudence was exhausted. It was Saturday evening and the King had been meeting with many of his diplomats to work on ways to win or end this was with a rival nation. She had been there with them the entire time, waiting hand and foot on the King and his advisors.

            Now it was evening. She would bathe, lay out her dress for tomorrow, pray and go to bed. The next morning, the King would be expected in church and Prudence was in need of some soothing of her spirit.

            There was a banging on the door that led to the King’s royal chamber. Quickly, she went to it and opened it, expecting one of his servants. Instead, it was Leopold. “Your majesty.” She curtsied.

            “Just what are you doing up here, Lady Biscan.” Just those words from his mouth and she knew she was in trouble. Because with those words was the smell of wine.

            “Ma’Lord, this is my bed chamber. I hate to remind you, Sire, but it is very inappropriate for you to be in my chamber.”
            He turned towards her and smiled. “Yes, it is, Lady Biscan.”

            “Prudence, Sire. My name is Prudence.”

            His hand caught her arm. “Well, Prudence. My brother’s dear sweet Prudence. Why don’t you come with me?”

            “Where are we going, Ma’Lord?”

            “Riding.”

            “Riding?” She questioned, even though she knew it was wrong to question the king himself.

            “Yes, riding.” He dragged her down the staircase. Halfway down the dark and dank corridor, he stopped and pushed a stone. At that point, a door opened. Leopold shoved her into the second passage. It was even darker and very cold. Her thin dress, no matter how nice, was not enough to go out in, but she did not say a word. Prudence had already upset the man by questioning the riding; she would not do it again. After five minutes of walking, they arrived at the outside door to the castle. Once they were outside, he put his hand over her mouth and walked her to the stables. He let go of her and grabbed a saddle for his horse. As he secured the straps, he looked over at her. “Have you ridden before?”

            “Yes, Ma’Lord. Only when I was younger.” She looked at her feet. “Sire, may I ask a question?”

            “You may.”
            “Why are we going riding tonight?”

            “Because I am the King and I want to.” He finished securing it and turned around for Prudence. Leopold picked her put bridal style and then helped her over the horse. He did not put her on there side saddle. Then he climbed up behind her.

            “Sire…”

            The blond man leaned into her ear. “Yes?” His voice was soft and sweet.

            “Why am I not on my own horse?” She tried not to let his voice work its magic on her.

            “Because, my dear Prudence, I did not feel like saddling two horses.” He laughed and then leaned closer. Leopold pulled some hair back with one hand and pulled her closer with the one that was holding the reins. “Why? Do I make you nervous, My Dear?”

            “No.” She tried to stay still even though she knew she was not in control.