"For a time, a squire of night ... tis a moment's time ... soon servant of royalty."  These words danced in Theadric's head, the poem his mother would read to him from time to time.  Until right now, he did not understand completely what it meant.<br/><br/>How could Theadric go from peasant to squire?  He had never even stepped into a royal castle or been part of a royal company.  He and Lillian followed Lady Averlee, though both were nervous and were unsure how close or how far away to stay.  Looking around, he realized he would take care of her royal horse and that he would see her fight in many battles.  There was much to learn.<br/><br/>Occasionally he would turn to look at Lillian and smile as the heavens seemed to have looked down favorably upon them.  Now that they had vowed their service, if he lied and was caught - it could be punishable by whatever she saw fit.  The old Theadric sometimes had to lie to survive or get his way; the new Theadric would now have to tell the truth if he wished to live.<br/><br/>Still, he would struggle with the horses.  He had tended horses all his life; they seemed to have an unspoken agreement.  Take care of me and I'll not hurt you ... too badly.  Don't even think about riding me, I'll just throw you off.  Hah!  And now he would have to learn how to ride one.<br/><br/>Still, he hoped to also have time to speak to young Lady Averlee in private; there were still questions he had about her, especially why her royal insignia necklace reminded him of home so much and why did she take a special interest in he and Lady Lillian.