Opening up

He thinks for a moment. “It’s tough to find a starting point. I suppose I should explain the things you saw when you came in. I’m not sure how much you know, but do you know what a lord’s champion is?”

Evie nods, still looking at him as she eats. “Good. That’ll make this easier. I’ve been Lord Greyheart’s champion for…six years now. Before that, I was a soldier, one of his elite. I fought in the vanguard, the spear tip of battle. I had the honor of being one of the youngest selected to become a champion. A great honor, I’ve been told.”

Kael looks down at his hands. “Now I shield the Lord Greyheart, by blade and body. I’ve always had a talent for battle. It comes naturally to me. And so I fight. I protect. It’s not something I enjoy, however. I fight because it’s what I’m good at. I know no other life.”

He speaks in low tones, practically forgetting Evie now. “I can wash the blood from my hands, but not from my soul. But it’s the price that must be paid. I do it so others don’t have to.”

Kael shakes his head. “I’m sorry, I’m rambling. Not used to talking like this. My point is that yes, I’m a warrior, a killer even, but I am not going to harm you. You are safe here.”

He looks over to see Evie still eating, watching him. Her expression has changed slightly, the fear seemingly fading slightly. Kael sighs. “This is awkward. I don’t particularly agree with the idea of slavery, but I couldn’t refuse the gift from my lord. And so here you are.”

There’s a moment of silence as Kael searches for his next words. To his surprise, Evie speaks in a soft voice.

“Master, what is my purpose here? What would you have me do?”

Kael thinks for a moment. “A good question. What can you do?”

Evie hesitates, toying with the remaining fruit on the plate. She’s eaten a surprising amount. “I am trained in household tasks, master. I can cook and clean. I am not strong, however.”

She hesitates again, and there’s a slight blush to her cheeks, as she looks down. “I have also been instructed in intimate matters, although I have no experience with such things. But if you insist, I will obey, master.”

Kael immediately shakes his head. “Absolutely not. I said I wouldn’t harm you, and I am a man of my word.”

Evie seems to visibly relax, as if this was a big fear of hers. Kael sighs, shaking his head. The elf is undeniably attractive, but the idea of using her in such a way against her will is repugnant to him.

“Well, how about this. It’s been a very stressful day for you, I am sure. I have a spare bedroom across from mine. You can use it. We’ll figure this out tomorrow.”

Evie looks surprised. “Master? I get my own room? Are you sure?”

Kael smiles, standing up. “Of course. It’s a bit disused and bare at the moment, but it’s clean, and the bed is comfortable. I don’t have much to keep you occupied, unfortunately. Can you read?”

Evie nods. “Yes, master. I was taught to read and write.”

Kael nods back. “Well, I have a few books in there. Help yourself. I’ve been using it as storage. I don’t have many guests. Are you finished eating?”

She looks down at the mostly empty plate. “Yes, master. Thank you for the wonderful food, master.”

Kael takes the plate from her. “I’m glad you liked it. Come on, I’ll show you around. As I said, your room will be right across from mine. Don’t hesitate to come to me if you need anything.”