The Kingdom

There seemed to be a mournful quality to the moment of our passage through the city. Beyond being mournful it was loud. I glanced back to see why there was such a loud noise, only to behold at least 40 riders in addition to my own band and the 10 or so Cronian Knights that had joined us.

Had the King sent these riders to detain me from leaving? They were certainly making no move to do so, seemingly content to be a part of my column of riders.

The men were all Knights of the Kingdom of Philanthia and their horses were laid down with supplies as if packed for a journey. Surely not……..

I glanced to Susori to see her coyly regarding me with a knowing smile, "Why is it husband, that you are so blind to the obvious?"

I glanced from her to the way ahead of us, even as I saw five more Knights drawn up waiting to join into the column as we rode past. I shook my head in consternation as three more Knights trotted out from an adjoining alleyway. Why was this happening? What could I have ever done to warrant this?

Susori's cool touch on my arm had my troubled gaze going to her in search of wisdom.

"You are too humble by far, my husband, of your own notoriety and yet that no doubt plays heavily into why so many men wish to be led by you. You are a great man! Don't think it strange that others have noticed what El Elyon has done in you or that they would not want to be a part of what He will do next through you."

I nodded, taking her words to heart, but the disbelieving part of me broke free and gave voice to disparagement that didn't seem to fit into the moment, "Why so many would follow me, a bastard, despite what El Elyon has done through me is still beyond me."

Immediately I expected to be scolded for my self-deprecating words, but none came for my statement of weakness. Glancing at her was to see the loving nature of a mate that had only my best interests at heart. I relaxed in the knowledge that I didn't always have to be impressive in terms of confidence and self-respect to still retain her respect for me. She believed in me and it never showed more than it did now and I loved her the more for it.

The sound of our passage through the city had grown to a roar of pounding hooves. Subconsciously I had increased the pace as if to somehow escape from my sudden newfound notoriety. It did no good, as the riders at my back kept pace easily.