Gavin wakes the next morning with joy running over.
He is so pleased that even his gruel tastes better this morning.
He celebrates by purchasing his own cask. He cannot have Lady Chalyela seeing him with drink in hand at the castle. He does not want her to see him as just an old tosspot.
Gavin has always thought wine was pleasing when he was in bad spirits, but the pleasure is indescribable when all is well.
“I must deliver this great news to her majesty!’ Gavin decides.
…but not before downing a second goblet of ale.
The castle looks twice as inviting this morning with good news on his lips.
Gavin’s eyes are desperate to behold the gaze of the fair queen, but he does not spot her immediately.
The sound of swords clanging draws his attention. Queen Chalyela is in the middle of a duel with one of her subjects.
The sounds of laughter alerts Gavin that this duel is just for practice, but it does not appear that her majesty is winning.
After an unsatisfying loss, Chalyela is desperate for good news. “Bloodletter Gavin, what news do you have for me this morning?” She asks hopeful.
“I have found a cure! As you are quite aware, we have a visitor from the East, the apothecary Samantha. She has given me samples of a cure that heals immediately!”
“Oh Gavin, this is great news indeed! How can we see more of this potion?”
She continues, “we will need great quantities in order to stop this disease from spreading.”
“Aye your majesty. I am on my way to meet once again with Madam Samantha to order more of this potion.”
“I am most pleased! Spare not another minute here. Go and order more of this cure!” Queen Chalyela’s eyes are lit up with pleasure and her smile is bright. Gavin has never seen her look more beautiful.
He takes a risk. “Your majesty, I pray you forgive me for my boldness, but you have beauty unparalleled this fine morning.”
Lady Chalyela is clearly flattered and surprised at his boldness. Her smile becomes bigger.
Lady Chalyela is clearly flattered and surprised at his boldness. Her smile becomes bigger.
“Many thanks good sir. Now go and secure this potion,” Queen Chalyela instructs.
Queen Chalyela turns to walk away, but appears to be blushing and slightly flustered in her gait. Bloodletter Gavin stares for as long as he can get away with it.
