Robert Mayne, Royal Filcher

Robert knelt before a grand looking chest, in one of the finest castles in the land. Reaching into a pouch with his left hand, he pulled out a lockpick. His eyes never wavered from the lock in front of him. It was the challenge at hand; the vault to some hidden treasures. With quickness and expertise, he worked the pick in the lock. Almost as quickly as the pick found the keyhole, the lock was opened. Robert smiled, pleased with his work. He started to move toward the lid, then hesitated. A few nights ago, Robert was careless. He forgot to check a chest for traps. That error landed him a stay in a local healer, as a fellow named Daniel tried to mend his soul to his body. Robert addressed the chest carefully. Finally sure of himself, he opened the lid. Within were treasures beyond his imagination. Gems and jewelry were piled atop a mound of gold. His eyes widened and a smile creased his face. Just as he was ready to reach inside, he felt eyes on his back. Robert had yet to see who it was, but he was sure someone�s stare was blazing a hole in his back. Without turning around, Robert reached in his backpack and grabbed his latest find. He placed a treasure map within the chest and stated, "Well, this will make a nice surprise gift!"

Robert closed the lid and turned to face his audience. Before him was a woman in red and black. "Oh! Hello. I uh, umm.." Robert held his breath trying to force a blush. Opening his mouth again, he stammered, "It was..supposed to be a surprise."

The lady�s gaze lightened and a smile came to her face. "That�s what I figured," she laughed. "I am Queen Shieba. And who might you be?" With a deep bow, he peeled his cap from his head, "I am Robert Mayne at your service your Majesty."