Untitled - Part One

Warning: I am marking this series as 17+, because I do plan sexual explicit scenes. I don't mean like in my other novels either. This should be considered a romantic fantasy novel.

       The city of Goutine was within sight, and it wouldn’t be long before the escorts were relieved of their ward. Princess Charday was to be married to King Ilgar’s son in three days, but with the war ongoing, it was decided it would be safer for her to leave for her new home early. Unfortunately, the early departure didn’t fool for them for long, and they had been attacked several times on their way.
      Pryene was the princess’ personal guard, as they had gone up together, and she would be remaining in Goutine with Charday. Pryene was from a race of human called the Zsusanu, which claimed to embrace their inner beings, and had no use for gods. They were strange in appearance as they had two different hair colors. Pryene had white hair on top, and a hidden dark red layer that could clearly be seen when she wore her hair up. Her eyes were also inhuman as for a majority of the time they were either a dark silver or gold color. The Zsusanu had the ability to remove all color from their eyes allowing them to see in the dark by seeing the heat that living creatures give off.
      Though the Zsusanu were a peaceful race, they were fierce warriors. Masters of martial arts, as well as swords. Pryene, however, never had any formal training with her people. Her grandfather was saved by a man who would one day become the King of Aluke. The Zsusanu have a scared belief, that states if someone goes out of their way to save your own life, your family line is indebted to them for five generations. Pryene was the third generation tasked to uphold this oath.
      Though her father had married another Zsusanu, and therefore gave birth to pure blood children. Pryene knew that would prove to be a difficult task for her, so far away from Aluke. When she was ready, she would have to send word to a relative in Zsusa that she was in need of a mate. It was imperative for her to continue her family’s bloodline and bare children to serve Charday’s. If not, she would shame not only her family but her people.
      Riding in front of the carriage, she stared quietly into the horizon. Her brother Faraji rode beside her, his hair the same as her own, but he kept it short to show of the bi-coloring. Most Zsusanu do so, even the females, but Pryene preferred her hair long.
      Speaking in Zsusan so that the others could not listen in, Faraji grinned and began to speak. “We are almost there.”
      Pryene nodded, and looked back at the thirty some guards that had been tasked to bring the princess here. “So we are.” She swallowed deeply before turning her head back to the approaching city.
      “Do you fear the coming change?”
      “I worry about the unknown, yes. I do not believe I fear it.” Pryene sighed. Though neither of them were trained in Zsusa, their parents had ensured that they knew the ways of their people. Serene thoughts, seek knowledge, remain open minded, and listen always were just part of their everyday lives.
      “You should not worry yourself. This is a learning experience, a time to live among a different culture, a different people.” Faraji reminded her of the words, her own mother had spoken when they left.
      “I suppose, but I have heard that the southern counties do not care much for our kind.”
      “Do not judge before you have seen for yourself, and when you have, still do not judge.” He spoke the old saying of their people.
      Pryene nodded, “Yes, I must remember that always. See, this is why I worry. I am not trained fully in the ways of our people. Who will advise me?”
      “You must teach yourself, be your own mentor, your own reminder of our customs and our beliefs. Mother nor father believed that you are ready, Pryene, otherwise they would of never let you come.”
      “I am bound to Charday, they had to let me leave.”
      He shrugged, “There are other children at the castle that you could be place in charge of.”
      With a deep breath, Pryene looked up at the large gates of Goutine’s walls. “I shall accept my fate and find strength when I need it.”
      Faraji grinned at her, as the captain of the guard spoke to the sentinels. After a moment, the gates were lifted and they began their journey into the heart of the city.
      Everyone within was excited to see that the princess had arrived. They gathered along the sides of the road, and threw flowers at the carriage, as well as welcomes. Several times, Charday’s white gloves hand would appear from her window and dropped a handful of gold coins. It was a custom of her people for the nobles to show generosity when first entering a city.

      “Princess Charday is on her way to the castle, milord.” Adrian kneeled down in front of the king, who was sitting in his throne.
      The room was filled with guards, generals, and advisors. The king was an elder man in his fifties, but still as built as he had been when he was young. He grinned at the news. “Excellent, ensure she finds her way.”
      “Yes, milord.” Adrian stood and began his way down the hall, waving several guards to come along with him.
      They positioned themselves along the edge of the castle entrance. Adrian noticed that a large lock of his dark hair had fallen from it’s tie, and hurried fixed it before the carriage entered the castle’s courtyard. Afterwards, he checked to ensure that his armor was in good condition, though there was nothing that could have been done if it wasn’t.
      The first thing that Adrian noticed was the two Zsusanu that lead the caravan. It caught his curiosity immediately, being a fourth himself, he had always been interested in their culture. Though his father had died when he was young, and had not been able to teach him much. His mother tried to tell him what she knew. It was something he did try to hide however, like the small patch of white at the back of his head, which he cut. He couldn’t hide that his left eye was silver, though it was mixed with the green that his other eye carried.
      In all his life, he had never met a full blooded Zsusanu, and he prayed that they would stay long enough for him to speak with. With a shake of his head, he placed those thoughts in the back of his mind. His mission was to ensure that Princess Charday got the welcome she deserved, since Prince Edric was away for the rest of the day.
      When the carriage stopped in front of the gates, he began the short journey down the stairs. The female Zsusanu dismounted her white horse, and opened the carriage door for the princess.
      In a blue gown with white trim and gloves, Princess Charday stepped from the carriage. Her strawberry blonde hair in large curls, her body delicate. She held a smile on her face, as if she were pleased to be here. Adrian frowned when he noticed the small white dog in his right hand. The king did not allow pets within the castle, and knew this would cause tension. It wasn’t his place to say anything, so he only greeted her with a smile.
      “Princess Charday, it is my most honorable duty to receive you. Please, come this way King Ilgar is awaiting you.” He extended his arm, and she laid her small hand upon the crook.
      “Thank you, I am most anxious to meet him. I must admit.” Charday’s voice was soft and gentle.
      Adrian grinned down at her as they walked up the stairs, “Between you and I, the entire castle is anxious to meet you. We do hope we live up to the standards by which you are accustomed to living.”
      “From what I have seen of Goutine thus far, you have surpassed them.”
      It was then that Adrian noticed the female Zsusanu following behind them. Her back straight and her hands folded behind her. There was no expression on her face, and she looked tense and alert. One other person walked behind them, though it wasn’t the other Zsusanu, but instead the captain of the guards.
      Stepping into the castle, Charday gasped at it’s beauty. The walls were white like the outside of the castle had been, she had grown up in a gray stone castle. Beautiful paintings of previous kings and queens were hung along the walls, draped by purple velvet curtains.
      “Stunning.” Charday mumbled, but kept up with Adrian as he lead her to the throne room.
      Entering the throne room, everyone bowed to greet their new princess and future queen. Charday curtsied when she was within speaking distance of the gray haired king.
      “Princess Charday, it is a distinct pleasure to welcome you here. I am only sorry that my son is away at the time.” King Ilgar stood from his throne, and took her hand.
      “Please do not be sorry, I have received such a warm welcome from both the people and those in the castle. It feels like home already.” Charday patted his hand.
      Ilgar grinned, “Speaking of home, Adrian will show you to your room. The wedding has already been taken care of. I was told that you were bringing servants, was this correct?”
      “Yes, I have three ladies in waiting and. of course, my personal guard.” She gestured towards the Zsusanu behind her. Pryene was dressed in black leather pants, boots, and a top that showed a majority of her stomach. Her navel was pierce with a metal rod, and she carried a boomerang on her belt, along with two short swords and a dagger. On her back was two longer swords, she looked ready for battle.
      Adrian was excited to hear that the Zsusanu would be staying.
      Ilgar cleared his throat when the small dog barked, he looked down at it for a moment. “Are you certain that she is necessary?”
      “It’s my dog, she won’t be of any trouble…”
      “I meant the Zsusanu, I was aware that you were bringing a dog.”
      Charday kept her smile, “Pryene has been with me since we were children. Surely, you want my adjustment to be as comfortable as possible.”
      He nodded, “Of course.” The king’s eyes turned to Adrian, “Escort the princess to her room.”
      Adrian bowed and offered his arm to the princess, who took it immediately. Upon turning around, he saw the three female servants holding Charday’s luggage. He walked past them and out into the hallway.
      “I hope I did not upset the king.” Charday said after a moment.
      “If you had, you would have been well aware.” Adrian said to reinsure her.
      It remained silent until they reached her bedroom door, Adrian opened it for her and they both stepped inside. A bathing tub sat in the corner with thin silk curtains surrounding it, and the bed across the room was engulfed in the white silk. A fireplace and a small table and chairs stood closer to the bathtub.
      “Lovely.” Charday said, as her servants went to work in putting away her clothing and other items that she had brought. “Thank you, Adrian.”
      “It was my pleasure. A servant will inform you when dinner is ready or when Prince Edric returned, which ever occurs first.” He bowed and exited the room.
      Pryene was positioned outside the door, and shut it when he stepped out. Without ever looking at him, she returned to guarding the door. Her face without emotion, and her eyes unquestioning of his presence.
      Adrian stood silently beside her for a moment, trying to deicide if he wanted to speak to her now. He shook his head and began down the hall, he would let her adjust first before he started bombarding her with questions.

      Once Adrian had been gone for what Charday thought was long enough, she opened the door and pulled Pryene in. Looking down at the short, petite princess, Charday threw herself onto the bed and sighed.
      “It’s more beautiful then they could ever describe, isn’t it?” Charday smiled, and sat up to look at Pryene.
      “I am glad to see that you are enjoying yourself.” Pryene responded and looked over at the servants who were finishing up their tasks.
      “And if the king is any indication of what Edric will look like, then I am content. I have already heard that he is a kind man. That is all that I want.” She stood from the bed and walked over to the window to look over the city. “I am so excited, Pry!” She turned to her, and found that Pryene’s face did not hold the same excitement. “What is the matter, my dear friend?” Running around her bed, she took Pryene’s hands.
      “I fear that I am already home sick, Charday. I am sorry, I don’t mean to ruin your day.”
      The princess frowned, and brushed a stray lock of hair from Pryene’s face. “No, I am the one who should be sorry. You are my friend, and I never even asked you if you wanted to come with me to Goutine. Forgive me.”
      “I would have come if you had asked, and I still feel this way. Nothing that you have done has caused me this grief. It’s just that… I do not know anyone, but you here. Nor am I comfortable with strangers.”
      She grinned, “Don’t you worry, Pry! It’s always been my duty to introduce us into social situations.” She stood on her tip toes to hug her. “Of course, I don’t know how well I can help you with the guards. But Adrian seemed rather nice, didn’t he?”
      “I suppose he was a likable sort.”
      Charday playfully hit her arm, “Kind of odd looking though. I think one of his eyes were lighter then the other, did you notice?”
      Pryene nodded, “Yes, it seemed to be that way.”
      “Still handsome…”
      “Don’t. You are to be a married woman soon. Leading a man on here, could get you in trouble, Charday.”
      She stuck out her tongue and tossed herself back on the bed. “I know. I know.” Her eyes wandered behind Pryene when a knock came to the door.
      One of the servant girls who was hanging up her dresses, opened the door revealing Adrian.
      “Forgive me, milady.” He said without stepping into the room, “Prince Edric has returned and King Ilgar wishes for you to join them in the library for tea.”
      “Did he return early?” Charday stood from the bed.
      “Yes, milady.” Adrian bowed his head.
      Charday walked past him with Pryene close behind her. Adrian tried to meet the Zsusanu’s eyes, but she never glanced at him.
      “I don’t know how pleased the king will be if you bring your guard, milady.” Adrian told Charday as she took his arm.
      “Pryene goes wherever I do, think of her more as my shadow.” Charday said with a smile, “And if he objects, then she can wait outside the library door.”

      That was where Pryene and Adrian found themselves. The king had ordered them both out of the room, which had shocked Adrian to no end. Edric and he had grown up together, much in the same way that Pryene and Charday had. King Ilgar never sent him from the room, he was a trusted servant and knight. To satisfy his own pride, he decided that King Ilgar thought it was only fair to send both he and Pryene out, so that Charday would not be offended.
      Looking at the woman standing across the hall from him, he shook his head. She had taken a soldier’s stance outside the door, while he leaned against the wall. Picking at the dirt under his nails for sometime, he kept glimpsing up at the Zsusanu.
      Never had he imagined that they were so beautiful, if not aloof. Even the male he had seen had left him in a strange awe. He could clearly see the dark red hair in his hair as it mixed in with the white that she kept pulled back. Her muscles defined, her face slender, and she stood slightly taller then the average woman, though she still had curves if all the correct places.
      “Pryene is it?” He finally asked, but she gave no response, only kept her eyes forward. “Your Zsusanu, correct? My grandfather was Zsusanu, though he married a human woman.” He cleared his throat when she didn’t reply again. If he thought the silence before was uncomfortable, now that he talked it is excruciating.
      “I’ve always wanted to learn more about my Zsusanu ancestry. Seems that there aren’t many books on it, I read all that I can though.” Adrian tapped his thigh after he brought his foot up to rest on the wall behind him. “Have a little white patch of hair… I’d show it to you, but I cut it off.”
      That got a reaction from her, for a brief moment her eyes left the distance and focused on him. As quickly as it had come, it vanished.
      Adrian grinned, “I saw you look.” He teased, and when that had no effect, he stood up and walked to stand directly in front of her. “There you can’t help but look at me now.”
      Pryene fought a grin, what an awry bastard, she thought.
      He sighed, “Do you just not like me or are you not allowed to talk?” He didn’t know why, if any other woman would have ignored him, he would of walked away, but this one he wanted to speak to. It wasn’t that Zsusanu ancestry was all that important to him, after all he had gone thirty four years without knowing much.
      Her eyes penetrated his chest, trying to ignore the man. It wasn’t that she didn’t want to answer him, but it was her duty to be silent and listen. If Charday needed her, she had to be ready to respond.
      Suddenly Adrian took a step closer to her, he had gotten the urge to be annoying, though he had fought it initially. Holding out a finger, he slowly moved it towards her nose. She made no attempt to look at it, and stood perfectly still. Gently he placed the tip of his finger on her nose and began to move it from side to side.
      Dropping his hand, he chuckled, and noticed that Pryene had almost smiled. “That’s just bizarre.”
      Pryene finally turned her head to him, humor in her voice. “I would agree, a grown man playing with the nose of a woman he hardly knows.”
      Adrian smiled, “I’ve done worse to women I hardly know.”
      With nothing else said, she turned her eyes ahead of her again.
      “Going to ignore me some more?”
      “Yes.” She whispered after a moment.
      Taking his position across from her, he once again leaned against the wall. “So, what do you think?”
      Pryene didn’t try to ignore him this time, she looked up into his eyes.
      “I’d like to know about my Zsusanu ancestry, think you could tell me…”
      “Being Zsusanu is a way of life, it has nothing to do with blood. Even Charday could become one. Even if your grandfather was born unto us, you are not one of us.”
      “So, you won’t tell me anything?” He didn’t even bother to become offended by her words.
      “I would teach you if you actually wanted to become part of us, but all you care about is history of our people. I also have too many other duties.” She turned her head as the door opened.
      Charday winked at her, a grin plastered across her face. She smiled at the young man who stepped out behind her. “I am so pleased to meet you, Edric.”
      The dark haired man with broad shoulders, smiled back. Taking Charday’s hand into his own, he kissed her knuckles. “The pleasure was all mine, Charday.”
      “I will see you at dinner then, I must prepare.”
      “I shall hold my breath until then.” He released her hand, and watched her walk down the hallway, Pryene close behind.
      King Ilgar shook his head, “You will need to control that charm once you are married son. She won’t appreciate it, if you do so with other women.”
      Edric grinned.
      “I am sorry that I sent you out, Adrian. I didn’t want to offend Charday or her guard.” Ilgar said looking up to him.
      “There was no offense, milord. I understand.”
      Ilgar nodded and returned to his study, and Edric grinned slyly at his friend. “I am… I can’t believe my father picked such a gem for me.”
      Adrian chuckled.
      “And she has a half naked guard, did you see that? Of course, you did, you were out here with her!” Edric wrapped his arm around Adrian’s shoulder as they walked down the hallway. “Wonder if I can talk Charday into letting her be in the room on our wedding night.”
      “That’s perverse, Edric.” Adrian scolded.
      “It was a jest.” The prince frowned, “Why do you like her?”
      “I might try my hand.”
      Edric laughed loudly, “She seemed a little tense to me. Might be a challenge.”
      “I love a good challenge, besides I’ve got a way to get in close.” He watched the prince raise a questioning eyebrow. “She’s Zsusanu, and I’ve always been interested in their beliefs. Think I am going to get myself a mentor.” He winked.
      “You cunning bastard.”

      After sun up the next morning, Charday found herself on a bench in the garden watching Pryene in the distance. She was working her way through her training exercises, which at the moment were just slow movements to warm up her muscles.
      Charday had a book in her lap, she would read it during Pryene’s warm up and meditation times. Though she enjoyed watching her friend work through her combat routine. All her life Pryene had told her that she could teach her how to become a Zsusanu without ever harming her other beliefs. When she was younger she had wanted to do so, but her mother had forbid it. She said it was improper for a woman to act as a warrior. Watching Pryene train versus the male knights, she had never seen anything more feminine or graceful as Pryene practicing her attacks.
      They were all so beautiful, more like she was dancing then fighting an enemy. Then occasionally her brother or father would join in on the dance, and Charday would see how devastating the dance could really be. It reminded her that Pryene was a warrior.
      “Good morning, milady.” Charday smiled, and looked at the two men who had approached her.
      “Good morning, Edric and Adrian. Will you sit with me?” She patted the two spots beside her on the marble bench.
      Edric took her offer, but Adrian remained standing.
      “What are you doing in the garden so early?”
      Charday pointed out in the grassy meadow, “Pryene has to practice every morning and every evening.”
      Both men turned their eyes to Pryene’s slow movements.
      “How dreadfully boring.” Edric remarked.
      “Oh no, well this part yes. She’ll be moving into her martial arts soon. It’s amazing, the most lovely display of grace and combat.” Charday smiled and at that moment Pryene began.
      Edric and Adrian watched as Pryene kicked, punched, and flipped around her invisible foe. Her movements flowed together without any ragged actions as she had choreographed the entire thing.
      Adrian got lost in the way that the sun gave her white and red hair some golden coloring. “Is that a Zsusanu fighting style?” He asked Charday.
      “Yes.” She nodded with a grin. “Isn’t she beautiful?”
      Adrian cleared his throat, and jerked his eyes away from Pryene. “Yes, well, it is lovely, but how effect is it during combat?”
      Charday smiled, “Surely you know that the Zsusanu are the greatest of warriors, Adrian.”
      “Sir Adrian.” Edric corrected, “He is a knight of the order.”
      “Oh, forgive me, I did not know.” She dropped her eyes to her lap.
      “It is quite alright, I never told you.” Adrian reassured her, and gave Edric a quick glimpse of annoyance.
      Edric counteracted it with an impish grin.
      “I have watched her practice everyday of my life since she and I were bound. I never grow tired of it.” Charday stared into the distance at her friend.
      “Bound, milady?” Adrian questioned.
      “Yes, her grandfather’s life was saved by my own. It is the Zsusanu way that if someone goes out of their way to rescue you, then you and your bloodline are indebted to them for five generations. Pryene was given the task of upholding her grandfather’s oath, and I became her ward.” She grinned, when Pryene lost her balance slightly. She giggled, “I love seeing her make a mistake, let’s me know she’s imperfect.”
      “How was it decided that she carry such a burden?” Adrian asked.
      Charday shrugged, “From what I understand, her and I just created a bond of friendship. We are both close to the same age, so it was just easier for her to take on the oath then her brother. Our brothers dislike each other, and with good reason. All of my brothers are spoiled children… my sisters too.”
      “And how is it that you are such a gentle and fair lady, then?” Edric asked taking her hand in his own.
      She smiled, “That would be Pryene’s doing, at least that’s what I think. Her people don’t believe in attachment to material belongings. When I was seven and she was ten, I was throwing a fit because I wanted something that she had. I never asked for it, just saw it and threw myself on the floor.” Charday looked out into the distance, “She took it off her belt and threw it at me. Then I demanded other things, and she always removed them then gave them to me. You would think something like that would feed my greed, but it didn’t. Because by the time I was finished, all she had was her clothes, not even her boots.”
      “What did you do?” Edric asked.
      “I kept them in my room for a couple days, and whenever I looked out the window, I saw Pryene practicing. She had no weapons, no boots, and… and she was happy. I put the things I took from her in her quarters, and the next day she was wearing them again. After that, I never looked at material goods the same again.”
      Adrian watched Pryene for several more moments. Charday had said that Pryene was three years older then her, and he knew that Charday had just had her eighteenth birthday. He would of never guessed that she was only twenty-one, she looked older. Not to say that she looked bad for her age, she was quite beautiful.
      “It seems Sir Adrian has an eye for my guard.” Charday said trying to draw Adrian’s attention, it failed.
      Edric smirked, when he noticed that Adrian hadn’t heard her. “So, it would seem. I don’t believe I have ever seen him so smitten that he has gone deaf before.”
      “What?” Adrian turned his head back to them.
      Both laughed.
      “Have you talked to her?” Charday asked.
      “I tried, she’s not the talkative type.” Adrian responded.
      “She’s shy, oh, and she thinks she has to listen in case I call. Oh, and… never mind.”
      Adrian’s curiosity was whet, “Tell me.”
      “Well, I was told that Zsusanu women are very hard to impress.” Charday’s cheeks reddened slightly, “They will constantly send a man asking for their attention away until he proves that he can not be dissuaded.”
      “What does that have to do… I am not trying to gain her favor.” He lied, and he knew Edric could see through him. He may of told the prince that he was trying to bed the woman, but he hadn’t told him that he hadn’t been able to keep his eyes or mind off her.
      “I didn’t mean to suggest anything improper, Sir Adrian.” Charday quickly said. “I am sorry if I offended.”
      “You didn’t offend, Charday.” Edric said before Adrian could say anything. “You only made him self-conscious of his lust.”
      “She did no such thing, and you should not say such words in front of a lady.” Adrian scolded. It seemed that as of lately Edric needed to be reminded of proper etiquette.
      Charday grinned mischievously, “Do you want me to ask her what she thinks of you?”
      Adrian’s eyes fell on the princess, “No, milady. Thank you for your offer, but I have another woman that I am courting.”
      “Oh, and who is this woman?”
      “She is the daughter of my superior in the order. Her name is Karessa.”
      Edric looked shocked, “Her? You can do much better then that, my friend.”
      Adrian cleared his throat, “Karessa is a kind and gentle woman. She will make any man a fine wife.”
      “As long as you don’t take her outside. She talked too much, and she bosses people about.” He turned to Charday, “She actually demanded that I leave the room once when she wanted to speak with my father. The woman is a nightmare.”
      “I will decide who the lady of my heart will be, Edric, thank you.” Adrian’s words were sharp, but he tried to remain respectful.
      “No one gets to decide that, Adrian.” Edric retorted.

      A half hour past, and Pryene ended her training session. Walking towards Charday, she had already noticed that Edric and Adrian were standing near her. It was her duty to keep watch over Charday at all times, and the two men had made enough noise. She had probably noticed them before Charday had.
      “Ready for breakfast?” Charday asked, jumping to her feet.
      Pryene had her hands folded in front of her, and bowed her head slightly to answer Charday. Since Edric offered his arm to his future wife, Pryene decided to give them some room. No need to walk directly behind her like she was accustom to doing. She knew that Charday desperately wanted to get to know Edric more.
      Adrian walked beside her, allowing the soon to be newly weds their distance. “You worked up quite the sweat.”
      “A lady doesn’t sweat, she glows.” Charday yelled over her shoulder.
      He bowed his head at the princess, before noticing the stream of sweat that was making it’s way between Pryene’s bust. “I was thinking about what you said. You know that being a Zsusanu is a way of life, and if you have time then perhaps you could teach me.”
      “No.” Pryene answered quickly.
      “Pry!” Charday snapped, “Be nice!”
      “And why don’t you act as a lady should, and mind your own damn business!” Pryene barked back at her.
      Edric was about to take offense when Charday laughed, “Fine, be irritable and unagreeable.”
      Pryene stopped walking allowing more distance between her and the princess, to her dismay Adrian slowed with her.
      “And why won’t you teach me?”
      “You asked if I had time, and I do not.” She began to walk again.
      Her stance was that of a well trained soldier, it was something that Adrian had noticed the moment he saw her. Soldier or not, she was still a woman. He touched her inner forearm and ran it up to her elbow. “I can come when you are doing your practices or when you are standing guard in the hall. You could write down what I need to do.”
      Pryene said nothing as they walked into the castle, and through the halls to the small dinning hall. She didn’t even react to his hand holding onto her elbow.

      Adrian sat down at the table with Charday and Edric. Fruits and pastries filled the table before them. Pryene remained at her usual station near the door, but she was inside the room this time.
      The dinning hall was smaller then most of their quarters, but had a large table that sat eight. Edric hated servants running around the room when he ate, they would constantly fill his glass or plate. He started having them set up the breakfast table and then leave before he even arrived. Until recently, breakfast had been something that only Edric and Adrian did together. The two women were a welcomed change to their sixteen year ritual.
      Adrian sighed, had it been sixteen years? He was four years older then Edric, and they had started when he was fourteen. The years flew by so quickly, and here his best friend would be wed by tomorrow evening.
      Charday bit into a sweet fruit filled pastry, and smiled at Edric who began telling her about the day he had planned for them.
      “However after lunch, Adrian is taking me hunting.” Edric said, “It’s customary for the groom to catch a boar for the wedding dinner.”
      She nodded, and picked up an orange. Holding it up, Pryene walked over to the table and took it from her. She pulled the dagger from her belt and made a circular slit around it, and then in the opposite way, crossing the lines. Then orange peel was then removed in four slices, before Pryene gave the orange back.
      “Isn’t she going to eat with us?” Adrian finally asked.
      “Who? Pryene?” Charday pointed behind her with her thumb.
      “Yes.”
      The princess grinned, “She has already eaten.”
      “Can she at least sit down at the table?” Adrian looked between the two women.
      “Is she making you uncomfortable or is it her comfort that worries you?” Edric asked.
      “A bit of both.” Adrian returned his eyes to his food, when nothing else was said.
      In truth, he didn’t like how Charday treated Pryene like she was a slave. The Zsusanu had to get up early for breakfast, she had to stand at the door at all times. Passing her in the hall late the night before, he had witnessed her sleeping standing up, only leaning against the wall. His eyes wandered over to her, she stood straight, her arms behind her, and her eyes firmly ahead of her.
      A small hand touched his, and Charday leaned over to whisper in his ear. “I’ve tried for twelve years to get her to eat breakfast with me. This is the way she wants things to be.” She pulled her lips away from his ear and smiled, before returning to her food.
      The meal continued on, and Adrian tried to forget that Pryene was standing by the door. Engulfing himself in the conversation, though he had very little to say.
      “You do ride, don’t you?” Edric asked, speaking of horses.
      “I have a few times, though Pryene was always leading me.” Charday admitted.
      He rose an curious eyebrow, “You never learned to ride alone?”
      “My father didn’t think it was very lady-like, so whenever I had to he would have Pryene lead me.”
      “Pryene is a lady, he didn’t have any problems with her riding?” Edric asked, it was a question that Adrian was going to ask. He preferred that his friend asked however, as he didn’t want to seem to interested in her.
      “Pryene is a woman, of that, there is no doubt. My father didn’t believe her to be a lady, a Zsusanu female. He believes there are no ladies among them.” Charday answered, she knew that Pryene already understand her father’s standing on the issue, and would not take offense.
      Edric glanced over at the Zsusanu at the door, then returned his gaze to Charday. “I see.” He cleared his throat, “It must seen odd that we have so many questions about your guard?”
      She shook her head, “I hear down here not many people come into contact with the Zsusanu. I was expecting many to take an interest in her.” Charday grinned, “But tomorrow, Pryene has promised to not perform as my guard. I have invited her to the wedding as my friend. Her gift to me, I suppose.”
      Adrian looked up, “As a guest?”
      Charday winked, “She has promised me a dress, a curled hair, and prime and proper etiquette. I can’t wait to see it.”
      Pryene rolled her eyes thinking no one had seen her, but catch Adrian’s stare as she did so.
      He grinned, “Well, I look forward to seeing such.”
      Edric nodded, “I second that.”
      Adrian wiped his mouth and stood up from the table, “I have to report to duty.” He announced, “Thank you for your wonderful company this morning.” He bowed to Charday, and winked at Pryene as he walked out.
      “Well then, should we get started with our day?” Edric asked his bridge-to-be.
      “I would love to.”

      After arguing with Charday for half an hour, Pryene found herself getting in some extra practice. Her ward had demanded to be left alone with Edric, and though she fought fiercely to stay with her, in the end she really never had a choice. It may have been her oath to protect Charday, but it was also her duty to follow her commands.
      As the sun began to rise in the sky, she was soon joined by Adrian, who was waiting for Edric to return. “How did she manage to ply you away?” He asked coming to stand beside her.
      Pryene was tempted to ‘accidentally’ kick him, but stopped her movements. “You are standing to close, I can not train.”
      Adrian looked at her soft features, that were staring off into the horizon. He grinned and took a step in closer to her. “What is the point of all this? You move slowly but you don’t use physical attacks, then you do the martial arts, but then you meditate.”
      She said nothing.
      “Oh right, you aren’t going to teach me.” He mumbled, then placed himself directly behind her. “Are you jealous?” He asked placing his hands on her upper arms.
      Pryene wanted to step away from his grasp, but training dictated that she not back down.
      “I mean you’ve had Charday all to yourself, and now Edric will be taking up much of her time. You might find yourself alone out here a lot.” He heard her inhale deeply, but still she didn’t respond. He was trying to get a rise out here, make her saying something, anything. “I know that I am a little jealous. I mean my story is no different then your own. So, why can’t the two of us just become friends?”
      “Because I sense that you are after more then friendship, knight.” Pryene finally answered.
      Adrian grinned, “Perhaps that is my ultimate goal, but friendship is my immediate. What is the harm in that? We both are going to find ourselves with a lot of spare time after tomorrow. The way I see it, you could teach me about the Zsusanu ways or I can just come out here and bother you during training.” He ran his hands down her shoulders to her forearms.
      A tingling sensation was left in the wake of his fingers on her arms. Pryene turned her head to see over her shoulder, her eyes met with his. “Take your hands off me.” She tried to remain calm.
      He grinned, “Or else?”
      “You’ll be attending the prince’s wedding with a darkened eye.”
      His grin widened, he had heard agitation in her voice. Wrapping his fingers around her wrists, he gave a defiant smirk.
      “This will be your last warning, knight. Remove your hands from my person or suffer the consequences.”
      He didn’t stand down.
      As she began to move to counter measure his grip, Adrian quickly pecked her lips, before shoving her forward. Pryene landed on her backside, as she had been spinning around. “How dare you!” She growled, and jumped to her feet.
      Adrian laughed at his victory, but his smile was promptly removed, as she made her attack. One kick to his face, and the other to the back of his knee. He slipped to the ground on his knees, thanking himself for wearing his full body metal armor that day. With all the metal, he had very few vulnerable spots. Though now that he was down in the armor, it would prove difficult to get back up.
      Pryene kicked his upper back, and Adrian fell face first into the grass. Using her foot to shove him over onto his back, she barely blocked the sun from his eyes. To her utter disappointment, he was still grinning.
      “I hope that was worth it, knight.” She snapped.
      He kept his grin, “Yes, Zsusanu, it was.”
      There was a moment of silence, which Adrian used to lift his arm to block the rest of the sun. “You aren’t right in the head.” Pryene finally said, before walking away.
      He laughed, then realized that she was actually leaving. “Hey, wait!” He cried out, “I can’t get up! Come back! Hey, I’m sorry!”

      Edric looked at Adrian, who was riding beside him. He had almost not come along on the hunt, because the heat had gotten to him while he was laying out in the meadow. His face was slightly red, and his pride more damaged then his skin.
      “Exactly, what happened again?” Edric had already heard the story three times, but he wanted to hear it again.
      Adrian glared at him, before looking down at the hunting dogs. “Let’s find us a damn boar.”
      He chuckled, “How long were you laying out there?”
      “Too long, can you believe she just left me? I told her that I couldn’t get up.” One of the men on foot, released the dogs.
      “Sounds to me like you got a little brazen. You probably deserved it.” The prince moved towards the sounds of the dogs howling.
      “This coming from a man, who I had to beg to seek his bedroom company outside the castle.” Adrian shook his head.
      “Don’t… don’t tell Charday about that, alright? I don’t want her to think that I have had many women in my bed.” Edric turned his eyes ahead of them.
      “You like her, do you?” Adrian asked, his injured pride set aside so that he could bask in his friends happiness.
      He slowly nodded his head, a dark lock fell into his eye, and he brushed it back. “I don’t know why, but I expected her to be less then sociable at first. After all, I am a stranger, and she is being ordered by our father’s to wed me. But…” A sigh left his lips, “she acts as if she’s loved me for a long time, and that it was her choice.”
      “Loved you?”
      Edric shrugged, “I know, it sounds strange. I look into her eyes when we talk, and its as if she has known me my whole life.” He snickered to himself, “Great, now I am talking like a romantic fool, instead of the charming lady’s man that I know myself to be.” He looked over at Adrian, who said nothing. “And only after two days.”
      “That’s… that’s good to hear, Edric.” Adrian finally said.
      A grin slowly formed on his lips, “You worry, what about?”
      “Nothing.” He tried to shake his head to shake the thought from Edric’s.
      “Come now, Adrian, we have known each other all our lives. Will you start lying to me now?”
      Adrian chuckled, “I am envious now, because of what you have said. And before you apologize, I beg you not too.” He watched Edric grin, still amused that his friend knew what he would say before he had the chance. “Charday is kind and beautiful, and you deserve this. I only wish that Karessa were the same.”
      “You shouldn’t bother with her.” Edric barked out immediately. “She is a waste of time, and you would be more then she could ever be worthy of.”
      “I appreciate your words, but they are not a kin to my own thoughts. You are well aware that I am a fourth Zsusanu. Not many would let their daughters marry one with my bloodline.” He cleared his throat, trying to keep the sadness from his voice.
      Edric watched the dogs ahead of them briefly, before turning his gaze to his friend. “Adrian, I would rather you be without a wife the rest of your days, then for you to marry a woman who treats you as if her love is but a favor to you.”
      “I’m sorry, this is your last day of bachelorhood and I am talking of myself.” Adrian tried to laugh the seriousness away.
      Edric ignored his words, “If you believe that you are so unworthy of true love, then why have you bothered with Charday’s guard.”
      “She knows of my people. My father died before he could teach me of them, and my mother never took enough interest to learn from him.” He lied. The moment he had laid eyes on her, his heart had beat as if he were in battle. He wanted to gain her attention, and craved the moments when she looked at him and not through him.
      “Your mother didn’t exactly want to be married to a half Zsusanu, did she?” Edric had wanted to ask that question since they were children.
      “No, my father helped her family. Saved them from marauding bandits, and so he was given the eldest daughter, along with some land and a title.” A title which his mother gave to his younger brother from her second marriage. She cared for Adrian as a mother should, but he always knew that she despised his presence. It was why he joined the Goutine’s knightly order, so that he had a reason to escape her. Allow her to put both him and his father far from her mind. “In truth, I think my father was embarrassed of his Zsusanu ancestry, because no one ever embraced it. He also left me nothing to learn about them.”
      Edric nodded, “And you are doing the same to yourself. Thinking because of your blood you deserve a woman give your so little regard.”
      “That’s not true, I want Pryene to teach me about the Zsusanu, but she isn’t willing.”
      “Remember what Charday said, that the Zsusanu women test the men. Just keep going back, and don’t make anything permanent between you and Karessa.”
      Adrian frowned, “I didn’t mean that I was seeking the Zsusanu’s favor, Edric. I only want her to teach me of…”
      “I say this with all seriousness, Adrian. Today, we are honest with each other, heart and soul.” The dogs howled, letting them know they had found a boar.
      Both men road up, with several of the men on foot far behind them. Edric held up his bow and arrow and fired at the large, dark boar. It took another arrow, but the creature finally fell.
      “Too small.” Edric told the men as they gathered it up, “But that does make three doesn’t it?”
      The servant nodded, “Yes, milord. The first will make a fine center piece.”
      “Then let us head back to the castle.” He ordered, turning his horse around, he looked back at Adrian. “Ride back with me.”
      Adrian bowed his head respectfully, and followed beside him.
      “As I was saying,” Edric continued, when they were out of hearing range of the servants. “today we are honest. It is my last wish as a man without a wife to influence his desires.”
      The knight chuckled, “Very well, honesty even at the cost of awkwardness.”
      “Now, tell me of this Pryene. Has she shown an interest in you?”
      “Edric, she left me to melt in the sun.” He pointed to the redden skin on his face.
      The prince smirked, “So, she has!”