Although I did not speak to the man with the audacity to sit unbidden at my table this morn, I recognized his cloak when I entered the tavern.  Standing at his side, I had an opportunity to studying him as he lay with eyes closed and head upon the table.  I noticed his neat appearance and realized he had not gone to help at the fire.  My lips pursed in disapproval.  Taking silent steps away from him, I took my seat at a table next to his.  Soon the innkeeper appeared and I smiled in relief as he approached.  "I am parched and would most appreciate a drink."  He chuckled "Not so used to such labor are ya?" He asked.  Feeling a tinge of shame as I lowered my gaze.  "Oh I didn't mean anything by that.  You were brave to run to the fire when so many dared not to lift a finger to help."  With a smile I looked up at him, "More people helped that did not.  Please do not think poorly of your neighbors."  He left to fetch my drink and I looked down at my condition as I ran fingers through my hair in an attempt to smooth my blonde locks.  The thought of the King's expression when I arrive at the palace did bring a soft smile to my lips.  He and his court would have quite the laugh at my expense.  That mattered naught.  What did matter was I had an important mission and I would see it through.<br/><br/>When the goblet was placed before me I noted it was probably a vessel reserved for those of high rank.  Raising the crystal to my lips I drank my fill.  While I noticed those around me drank from crude wooden cups.  I was aware as much as any in the room the reason for the difference had nothing to do with skill or wisdom but was merely a luck of my birth.  It was the way of the world.  It was my parentage that granted me a life of privilege.  I was not superior in wit, strength, or bravery to anyone in the village.  Yet it was money that made the world go around.  And I had plenty of it.  My Grandfather taught me a wealthy man without compassion was poor to the pit of his soul.  I sometimes wondered if God would judge my soul to be lacking.  A group of boisterous men shouted and laughed loudly, drawing me out of my thoughts.  I made sure my placid expression returned to my face so none could guess my thoughts.