Once Upon A Time (Historical Romance) by Constance O'Banyon Page B

soon as we arrive at that place, you are to be crowned. Queen Eleanor thought it best if you entered London as queen of Talshamar."
    "How will this be done?"
    "Cardinal Failsham has arrived from Talshamar to act as Pope Lucius's emissary."
    "I know the cardinal. Do you recall he often visited the convent?"
    "Yes, he came to see you so he could be assured you were doing well. By your mother's request, he has been acting as royal bailiff of Talshamar until such time as you return."
    "I am certain that his has not been an easy task," Jilliana observed.
    "We must hurry now," Sir Humphrey urged. "If you will allow it, I am told that His Eminence has everything you will require for the coronation. Will you agree to be crowned in this fashion?"
    She was silent for a moment as she pondered his words. "The plan has merit—I see no other way it can be accomplished with such speed."
    Jilliana could see happiness in Sir Humphrey's eyes just before he looked away.
    "You cannot know what this day means to your subjects, Your Highness. Long have we waited for you to take your place as our sovereign."
     
    She took notice of his silver armor and smiled. "You look very different from when last I saw you. How could I ever have mistaken you for a humble gardener?"
    "Please forgive the deception, Your Highness. It was the only way I could fulfill my vow to your mother and remain near you."
    Her eyes showed her concern. "Stay near me now, Sir Humphrey, for I fear I shall make many mistakes. I go into a future that I know little about. I must pledge my honor to men I do not know. I admit only to you that I am frightened because I may fail in my mission."
    There was soft reverence in the old knight's eyes. "You will not fail, Your Highness. You are your mother's daughter, and she would have been proud."
    He glanced to the east, where the sky had turned a rosy hue with the rising sun. "We should resume our journey, Your Highness. I would see the crown of Talshamar safely on your head before dawn tomorrow."
    She heard the urgency in his voice and although many questions filled her mind, she did not give them voice. Instead she nodded.
    "Then let us ride on, Sir Humphrey."
    They rode silently all day, sometimes slowing to rest the horses, and sometimes going at a full gallop. Only once did they stop to eat, and at that time Sir Humphrey was watchful and tense, looking for any trouble that might arise.
    It was almost dark when he led her off the road and down a narrow twisting trail. On they rode, until at last Sir Humphrey halted.
    She tried to see his face, but he was no more than a dark outline. "Why do we stop here?" she inquired.
    He dismounted and directed her gaze to a distant light. "That will be where your loyal subjects have gathered to welcome you. They have waited long for this moment, as have I."
    She stared at the distant lights, now able to discern that they were campfires. She could see many figures gathered about the dancing flames.
    "Are they not risking danger of discovery by King Henry? Is it wise for so many to gather in one place?"
    "It is the only way we could think of, Your Highness. Queen Eleanor herself was instrumental in the planning of your crowning. And have no fear, for we are now on the land of a lord who is loyal to the queen. Shall we proceed?"
    She nudged her mount forward and Sir Humphrey fell in behind her as they continued down the narrow path. At last they reached the circle of light and Princess Jilliana was immediately surrounded by knights and solemn-faced barons who dropped to their knees and lowered their heads in homage.
    Sir Humphrey helped Jilliana from her horse and she walked among her subjects, urging them to rise. She was not prepared for the love and adoration they poured out to her. She was further startled when she saw tears in the eyes of some of the men, or was it merely a trick played by the flickering light of the campfires?
    Jilliana could not speak for the lump that was forming in her throat.