Resonated the voice of the king throughout the grand hall as he posed his question. His lone eye poring down at the skeleton kneeled at the base of the imposing throne – a skeleton clad in armor as dark as the night, with a white one on the left and red one on the right light emanating from its sockets. And most notably, a red scar beneath its right eye running from his right cheek up to his eye socket. This skeleton was named Cross.
And Cross was a skeleton unlike any the king had ever known he had to admit. Having run away from his unknown home and willingly living in a Kingdom not of his own. One day the king noticed the skeleton on a short visit and decided to give Cross a chance as a knight, and he used that chance better than anyone else.
The majesty must admit though that it was foolish to give some common monster such special offer without even having known them for that long. It must’ve been the determination in his eyes that spiked his interest. But now he can comfortably say that offer wasn’t a mistake.
In a matter of a few years, Cross rose to the top and was appointed the best squire, and eventually also as knight. Even the king admitted he was fascinated by Cross’ fast pace.
Now, Cross was kneeling before the king, still being expected to answer his question. The king had been contemplating about sending Cross to the neighbouring kingdom as a "gift for the royal couple" as he has said. He gave Cross some time to think about the offer and Today was the final day for the final decision . After a week or two of consideration, Cross had chosen to accept, driven by his inherent obedience.
Cross could still remember the day King Nightmare had offered him a opportunity like no other. Even if he prefers not to remember he still remembers his time as child, training to become a royal guard and protect his friends and what he once considered family. And then, after he thought all that training might’ve been useless the King of the Land has given him the opportunity to fulfill his childhood dream.
People from the kings castle had watched him as if he were a marvel, and only later did Cross understand the cause for their reaction. And he had to admit, if he were in their shoes, he might have reacted the same way.
As he has heard from other squires and coworkers King Nightmare had always been known as a cold-hearted skeleton, so offering such position included with the care to someone that was from some mere village, no less from a different Kingdom was seen as a miracle for everyone. However, Cross suspected something different.
Someone of high class that is known for their cold heart offering such assistance to a complete stranger doesn’t happen without a reason. Cross speculated that the king might have been someone else long ago, until maybe something might have happened that made him to the Monster he is now known as. But not only was the king skilled at hiding his life and history from others, but it was no business that should concern Cross as he has learned a lot of times. Thus, Cross avoided such questions as best as he could nowadays.
"I am certain that I am capable of protecting the kings from any harm, even if it costs me my life. And if I fail, I am ready to accept the deserved punishment."
Every time in the presence of the King Cross becomes so “dramatic” with his vocabulary and behaviour as the others have described it. And to be honest to himself, it makes Cross curious how the King hasn’t become annoyed with it like he usually does with others. Cross had always been dramatic in matters like this, especially with the King. And he doesn’t even no where or who he got this trait from.
But In the end Cross was just trying his best, to alleviate his king's burden and to prove that there was no need to worry about him. Deep down, he knew it wasn't as simple as he wished, but he was a determined skeleton, hoping his efforts wouldn't be in vain.
And in the end, his response was likely the only one expected of him.
What felt like minutes of contemplation were, in reality, just a few seconds between the question and his answer. And it seemed the king was satisfied with his response.
The king sat up straighter than before, his cold gaze directed downward. With a less-than-friendly grin, he spoke: "Very well. As you already know, your belongings and attire are packed. You have until tonight to rest before tomorrow's departure. Meanwhile, I will send attendants to securely pack your luggage so that you find everything upon your arrival."
Cross, unsure of how to reply, simply nodded and nervously looked up at the king, hoping this answer would suffice.
And it did. King Nightmare, who was now leaning his head on his hand at his own throne, appeared bored as he said, "Now go. I have no further reason to speak with you today. Tomorrow morning at six you will meet me at the entrance steps, where we shall bid farewell. Since today is your last day here, feel free to spend it however you like, but don't cause any trouble, or I might think we need to delay your departure."
Swallowing his nervousness for a moment, Cross bowed his head before the king before he stood. With a simple "I understand," he headed toward the doors to finally begin his last day off in this Castle.
"Oh, and Cross,"
The king called out before Cross could grasp the door handle.
"Be so kind as to pass a message to my brother, Dream."
[ Fin ]
Cross belongs to Jakei95
Nightmare belongs to Jokublog
To be honest I would’ve preferred if I wrote more but I literally just wrote what I would’ve drawn if it were a comic(and got no experience with writing) ;3;
