"My lady, I do believe I have some time to spare. Would you like to see the gardens?"

The gardens were lovely, with high rosebushes in red, pink, and white. Clusters of crocus and bushes of bluebells sat at their feet. Fruit trees draped with vines lined the walls. Rows of flowers sprung up just in front, and the grass was lush. 'Streams' of still water intersected the garden. A large pond in the centre was filled with lilies, and a single boat sat at the edge. Soft grass covered the ground, crisscrossed with smooth pathways of irregular cobblestone. They crossed the streams at small wooden bridges. There was only sparse furnishing: only a few benches were present at the side of the pathways.

It would be a pleasant diversion from the unpleasant business of earlier. Growing up, he hadn't much appreciated the gardens. Now, though, it was among his favourite places in the castle grounds. He had responsibilities, though, and not much time for the pleasures of noble life.