The Land of Grimney - The Illustrated Adventures of Cora Pearl, aged 12

You fuss too much Derias, there are many others in this hospital that need more attention and care than me. Many who make a greater sacrifice... but I will always do what I can to protect the father of my child.

*She accepts the wine and looks at Derias with a frown*

What new bodyguard? I am protected enough by Vortigern and if I want to have an additional guard it is to be someone I handpick myself.

*Philomena takes a deep breath and wipes the tears from her face*

I have more need of a lady's maid than a bodyguard so unless he can lace up my corsets and style my hair, you can find him another post in the castle.

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A silent guard who slinks in the shadows... yes that would suit you very well, Master Baal.

*Philomena looks bitter*

Vortigern is all I need... not some guard dog of my husband's watching my every move.

*She watches Karn as he exits and gestures to a maid. She talks to her quietly and the maid leaves*

If he is so loyal to Darl then why does he not become Darl's bodyguard instead?

*The mermaid stands up, her curiosity aroused*

But who is this hero that hides rather than face me? Am I more terrifying than swords and arrows? Perhaps my tongue is a bit too sharp sometimes...

*She looks a guilty as she thinks about Vortigern.*

Perhaps sometimes when I am angry I wound with words the people who I love.

*Philomena glances at Darl*

He looks as though he will rest easy now... perhaps Derias you can stay by his side for a while so I can rest in my room.

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A ghost...

*Philomena turns white and whispers*

I would swear that Saygin has raised the dead... you look so alike to one who died a long time ago. But I suppose one knight is much like another when splattered in the blood of their enemies.

*Her eyes look down at his blood splattered armour*

You saved Darl's life...

*The princess maintains her composure*

Was saving him not reward itself? You ask to be my guard? I suppose Darl would not wish me to refuse one he owes so much...

*She takes a deep breath*

You must be one of those knights still loyal to Sir Robert Pearl. A few more have joined my father since his rescue of Sir Robert from imprisonment by the High Coucil. They see now my father is a good man...

*The mermaid looks cooly at Derias*

So as my husband's most trusted advisor, you think I should take an additional bodyguard?

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The boy speaks in riddles.

*He shakes his head*

The decision to appoint is to be yours alone princess... although perhaps...

*He coughs delicately*

... While Darl is indisposed it would be better for you to have two guards rather than be attended by Vortigern alone.

*Philomena looks at Kalvos with coldnes*

You look remarkably well for a ghost...

*She sighs*

Very well. You can be my guard on a temporary basis as Saygin and Master Avalay seem to think it a good idea.

*The mermaid looks down at her bloodstained dress*

I must bathe and change my clothes. Come now Master Bodyguard or whatever you wish to be called , you can do your duty and escort me to my room. Captain Savvi will stand guard over my husband and send for me if he wakes.

*She holds her hand out to Kalvos*

You may kneel and kiss my hand... I trust you have already sworn allegiance to my husband and me? You are to take orders from no others.

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