Dues

Camilla could see so many different emotions on his pale, drawn, yet still beautiful face - focus, tension, anger and sheer unhappy weariness.

She knew William was only taking part in the Moraigthian campaign out of grim obligation. There wasn't a single drop of excitement for it in his veins. He was simply paying his dues for having dared to marry the niece of a madman.

She tried to smile as she nodded in concession. "Let's speak tonight then." She far preferred to give him the news in quiet privacy, not in a stable surrounded by noisy soldiers.

"Thank you." he gave her a quick smile in return and planted a kiss on her forehead. "I must go now and attend to a few things. My uncle seems determined to grind me into the dust from exhaustion before we even depart the palace."

Camilla nodded, trying not to look too defeated. She then trudged away as William was called over by one of his knights seeking advice.