The autumn night could have been perfect.
The commander sat through a feast and silently accepted the king's kind words. Though it was clear to the knight that the king only said those things because of how Henry had laid the onix sword at his feet and bowed so subserviently in front of the other nobles.
Callum had been in that position before. It was a necessary step in the climb to the top. The king's favor could be measured in gold.
The commander kept drinking through the evening as a way to occupy himself. He didn't have a sweet tooth for dessert and, when there was a chance to escape the large dining hall without being impolite, he was one of the first out.
Alix was distracted by his family and Henry distracted by the princess. It would be the perfect time to escape.
He stood in the hallway, tucking himself conveniently around the corner as he sipped on a fresh ale and took a breather from all the commotion.
