Cedric watched as Kate climbed out of the lake, He watched the water run from her chemise as it clung tightly to her body. She was right, just as she was right years ago in her room. He slowly climbed out of the lake and sat beside her. Her voice sounded soft and gentle, even as it carried her excitement. Cedric lost himself in her words as he caressed her shoulder with his hand, sliding it down her back and around her waist. Protector of Lord Lyon's daughter? A position in the King's Royal Guard? Cedric asked,<br/>"Ask Lord Lyon to be your protector? I.... I will. Do you think asking at the knighting ceremony. Do you think he will agree?"<br/>Cedric let his fingers play with the wet silk chemise hem by her hip as he thought. he then asked her,<br/>"Will Lord Lyon not arrange your marriage for political gain?"<br/>He thought of his rank of junior officer from a common family, and took a deep breath. He smiled and looked to Kate and said,<br/>"You are fortunate to have such a loving father."