So she did know a way out of this damned forest! There was some hope he could cling too. “I am Prince Henry of Wales. What is your name milady?” He asked, sheathing his sword and trying to appear more welcoming. Maybe she had food or knew where a village was… something… anything! But before he could start asking those questions, he had to show her some respect and learn her name.
Summer startled. The Prince! What was he doing out here in a small skirmish? Something in the back of her brain kicked her, and she dropped to her knees. “Please forgive me, highness, I did not know you in the shadows. My name is Summer, but I am no lady.”
Formalities at a time like this? Hal nearly groaned in displeasure as she dropped to her knees and ushered out words of respect. “Never mind that… Summer. You know a place to take shelter in until morning? If not can you point me in the direction of the main road?” He asked, looking around them to make sure nothing was trying to sneak up on them.
“Yes, highness, I know a place. The charcoal burner’s hut is very close, closer than the road, though the main road is farther yet.” Scrambling up, Summer stepped sideways enough to look up through a gap in the canopy, orienting herself. Yes, just a short walk.
“Will you sheath your sword, highness? I’d not like you to take a fall in these shadows. And will you follow?”
“Please, take me there.” He said and sheathed his sword after she asked. Hal was too damn tired to take into consideration this could be a trap or a ploy to get him to let his guard down. The Prince was hungry, he needed to bathe, and most of all… he needed rest. What harm could following this person do to him? He was armored and quick on his feet. Well, maybe not quick on his feet. Not at the moment, no. He nodded and motioned for her to lead.
Glancing back constantly to be sure of the Prince’s presence, Summer quickly made her way among the tree trunks. Just a few minutes later, she was tugging open the door to a small hut tucked under a gigantic pine. “I’m afraid there is little here, highness, but it will shelter us from the night and the weather, if not the chill, and there is grain and dried meat. Will it suit? I can do no better, I am afraid, and it is not at all suitable, but … ” She sighed.