Ezra's Second Chance

Court Day

Ezra sat in the King's private office listening to him go on about needing to hold a court day, to listen to grievances. He couldn't be less interested in how the King ran his court, but he was concerned about holding a public day with various unknown threats about.

"It's been long enough, I can't ignore the needs of my people any longer," he was saying.

"A public day like this is just the thing an assassin needs," Ezra said with a tired voice.

"We will have Bridgit and her parole officer distracted and well watched. No one else of concern has entered the palace grounds. This is happening, tomorrow. You're my bodyguard, Ezra. Do your job and all will be well."

"Yes, your majesty." Ezra was exhausted. He wanted this to be over so he could think straight again.

Preparations went into full swing for the court day. It was a day where anyone could come to court and air their grievances to the King. It was anything from land disputes to begging pardon for crimes to begging permission to marry against parental wishes. Literally, anything one could want to ask of the King could be asked. What he could resolve then and there he would, what had to wait would wait and what was out of his hands he'd politely tell them such and they'd get a personalized letter of apology in the mail from the King. The King had always done this, but had postponed when rumors about the Silver Water pack arose. He would postpone no longer. Ezra shadowed the King like glue. His eyes constantly searching for danger. Since he was shadowing the King he couldn't keep an eye on Bridgit or find out more. He had to rely on other men to watch and relay information. Thankfully, Aria was close to the royal action so he could keep an eye on her. She looked even thinner than before and more pale. Her eyes had dark circles around them like she hadn't slept in days. Ezra had suggested the King invite Queen Margaret to be a special guest at the function. That helped Margaret feel more secure in the King's trust of her, it brought them together and it kept Aria near. It all played out well for Ezra. He'd just have to let the Bridgit thing go. They'd be arrested after his three days were up tomorrow and interrogated. Something would come out in interrogations he was sure.

Court day arrived and Ezra was up at the crack of dawn to check over everything. Make sure there were no security breeches, hidden bombs or traps or signs of anything amiss. Not finding anything, he went to the King's chambers. He was dressed and eating his breakfast when Ezra arrived. "Ready for your big day?" Ezra asked.

"More than ever. It's high time I see my people again. And the Queen is coming!" the King looked incredibly happy and at peace. Ezra wished he could feel the same.

"Shall we?" the King said as he stood. "We have to stop at the Queen's chambers. She and Aria will be joining us." The King hurried to her door. "Do I look okay?" he asked.

"Sir, you're a King. Of course you look okay."

The King straightened his jacket and smoothed his hair before knocking. Margaret opened the door and smiled wide, her eyes twinkling. She took his arm he held out offered to her. Aria came out of her room and walked a few steps behind her mother, next to Ezra. He extended his arm and she took it. He offered it both because she looked like she needed the comfort and also the support. She looked very ill. "Are you okay?" he leaned and whispered to her.

She gave him a weak smile. "I'm okay... it's just been rough. My mate has been very busy every night, almost all night long."

Ezra's anger flashed. He'd end this guy the second he was able to. "I'm sorry," he said softly. She squeezed his arm gently.

They entered the hall court gathered in and Ezra saw Aria to her seat next to her mother. They sat off to the side, the King taking center throne. If they were to marry then a Thorne would be made for the Queen and placed next to the King. As an honored guest she sat near, but not centered. Ezra stood behind the King and to his right. He wore an earpiece so he could communicate with his men should something arise.

The day was wearing on and dozens of people had been seen. Ezra began to relax, thinking maybe the King was right and nothing would happen. His moment of peace was shattered when a gun shot rang out.