At the Castle

Princess Kayleen was sitting in the royal palace when a page came in.

“Your majesty.”

“Yes?”

“I am sorry to inform you that Sir Marcus has disappeared.”

King Arthur, who was standing nearby, asked the page, “When did he disappear?”

“Three days ago. We fear he has perished in the mountains.”

“Thank you for telling us.” King Arthur said.

The page left. “Father, when will this end! Dozens of knights and nobles have disappeared!” exclaimed Kayleen, “Why did you have to make such a difficult requirement, anyway?”

“My dear, “said King Arthur, “You know that as my only child you must have a good husband. Also, it is a custom to do so with every third princess born in the kingdom, and you are the third princess.”

“I don’t like it anyway.” Kayleen said, with a shake of her head.

She rose from her chair and left. Going into the garden, she sat on a bench in a secluded corner and let her thoughts go wild. She had grown sick of these constant messages of people disappearing.

A little while back, she had heard that a Ronald Milton had gone into the mountains. She was surprised and a little pleased when she heard. Kayleen remembered the young lad. He had seemed so quiet and gentle. She also remembered the look that he had given her when she walked in. it was a look of surprise, admiration and, she hated to admit it, one of love. She thought she had imagined it, but when she heard he had gone too, she knew she had not.

She hoped he would come back safe from the mountains. Actually, she liked him very much and, secretly, loved him.

Soon after, a servant came out to tell her she was wanted. She lingered for a moment longer, and then she went in.

End of Chapter Ten