The main entryway of the castle led four ways. First, to the Great Room. Second, to a large stairwell to the rooms where the king and the permanent members of court resided. Third, to the other rooms for guests, such as ourselves. And fourth, to the pathway outside.

The same gravel path lined with large circular posts awaited me with the cool night air. King Quinten must have felt very safe tonight. The only guards I could see were right by the front gates. None walking the grounds, none here watching the entry. It was, in the midst of so much chaos, quite peaceful.

I stood there, arms across my chest, thinking things I wasn’t prepared to, asking questions I had no answer for, until a familiar voice brought me back.

“Hollis?”

I turned to see Etan bounding outside, his expression concerned. I eased his worries quickly.

“Well, if it isn’t Lord Jouster Supreme, Defeater of Old Men, Master of Large Sticks. To what do I owe the honor?”

Etan rolled his eyes, relaxing. “Ha ha. I noticed you were gone and assumed you might need someone to guide you to an appropriate place to vomit. I’m merely here to help.”

I smiled. “Lucky for you, I’m just fine. It was a little too warm is all. You may return to your adoring crowds, if you wish.”

He made an exhausted face, stepping closer. “That has to be the most extended vapid giggling I’ve heard in all my life. It’s still ringing in my ears.”

“Oh, come now. I’ve never known a man who didn’t enjoy being the center of attention. Even for all his humility, Silas flourished when he found himself in the middle of everything.”

Etan tilted his head, allowing that. “Silas and I are different men.”

I nodded. “I’ve noticed.”

He looked down at me, eyes focused as if he was trying to ask me something without a single word. His intent gaze was too much for me, and I glanced away, smiling.

“Next time you’ll have to do something ridiculous, like drop your lance or ride in circles. They’ll leave you alone after that.”

He stood there quietly for a moment before tucking his hands behind his back and smiling himself. “I’m afraid that’s quite impossible. I’m far too talented, as you can see. I couldn’t be foolish if I tried.”

I rolled my eyes. “Speaking of looking foolish, I didn’t get to thank you. I didn’t want to admit it, but I was feeling a bit awkward before you took my favor. I know comforting me wasn’t exactly your goal, but you included me in the day, and I appreciate that.”

He gave me a playful shrug. “The least I could do for the girl who threw up into the king’s vases. Which some people may have heard about, and I cannot imagine who started such a rumor.”

I chuckled, jokingly pushing his arm. “You don’t have to keep that handkerchief, by the way. I can take it back.”