And the women—sard, they were beautiful. But their eyes slid right past him in the halls, searching for wealthier, more impressive fare. He saw the problem immediately—he didn’t look like an elegant courtier worthy of their attention. Well, he could fix that. He needed better clothing. A silk doublet or two, and one of those fine half-cloaks that clasped at the shoulder. A pair of suede boots wouldn’t hurt, nor would an embroidered jacket with silver buttons. His wages, when he received them, would just about cover the expense. Perhaps a tailor would give him credit, seeing as how he was in the king’s employ.

With his lessons finished for the day, he was merely wandering. He’d discovered a weapons training room, but didn’t know if he was allowed to use it. And after the mess with his sister, and the king’s displeasure when he’d turned up unannounced, and months late, he didn’t want to risk it.

Idleness was a much safer pursuit. So he sent a servant to fetch him a bottle of wine and some sweets, and then he went out to the castle lawn to feel sorry for himself.

Guinevere hadn’t truly lost an earring back in the gardens. She’d only said as much because Lady Elaine’s company was starting to feel smothering. Still, it was a wonderful excuse, and as she hurried away from her overeager shadow, she felt a delightful sense of calm.

So long as she didn’t remember the part where she was stuck here indefinitely, engaged to a boy who hadn’t asked her to marry him. But why would he, when it turned out his dear friend Merlin was a girl in disguise?

Guin had sensed there was something strange about the young wizard from the beginning. And the look on Arthur’s face when he thought no one was watching, gazing across the dining hall at Merlin as though imagining the two of them alone, at a candlelit supper. She didn’t know whether to be relieved or annoyed that the wizard had been a girl all along.

Relieved, because she didn’t want a husband who pursued boys right under her nose. And annoyed, because actually, she’d quite enjoy having a female court wizard. It was progressive. Modern. And would provide for some interesting company. Unlike the hideous Lady Elaine, who was responsible for nearly having Merlin executed.

Honestly. The first thing Guin would have done was drag the young wizard to her rooms and hear what the castle boys were really like when they thought no girls were around.

Guin wound through the gardens, making a good show of searching for her earring, even though she hadn’t been through this section, which featured a large hedge maze and was shaded by ancient oaks. But appearances were important, and Guin always tried to keep up appearances.