Like a royal damsel in distress would

The sudden release of fear shakes away anything but the purest gratitude and you throw your arms around Broderik's neck.

"Oh thank god, I thought he's going to hurt me!" you say and don't even have to try to make it sound girlish. He gently embraces you back and then releases you, to give you a moment to compose yourself.

You straighten your skirt and adjust your hair. You can feel yourself blushing for your reaction, hardly fitting for a royal heir. Still, you got yourself in this mess by your own actions and despite what a man who just saved you told you to do.

"I would like to apologize for my behaviour from before, Sir Broderick. I can see that you are fully dedicated to keeping me safe. After all this business is done, I shall be happy to oblige any request you might have. Money, power - anything" you say with much more dignity, while holding your hands on your belly, still shaking slightly from the encounter with the ruffian.

"You think me a shallow man, your majesty. I have no desire for money or power. In due time, I am sure we can find a way to repay my services. However, at the moment we are still in the vicinity of the keep and already in trouble. I suggest we ride out as soon as possible, especially because I don't like the storm clouds over the mountains. We will need to find a good camping site." says Broderick and then wipes his sword clean. Is it the light changing or did he somehow get more handsome?

Before exploring that particular mystery further, he gestures for you to follow him and you do, strange feelings filling up your head. One thing is for sure, after you tasted the powerlessness in the hands of the attacker, you now feel safe, as long as Broderick is in sight.