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Princess Charming Ch. 01

By: ladyofdark1981



This is a bit of an experiment and has bisexual themes. If you are not into samesex erotica then you might want to give this one a miss. I hope you don't as it is a different twist on the classic damsel in distress and it has been in my mind for quite some time.



Chapter 1: Suitors

Princess Athanasia sat by the window and completely ignored the beautiful winter scenery for the preference of watching her lady-in-waiting pick out a gown for her. Lady Jelena loved her job if you could call it that, if she ever imagined ten years ago that she would be so happy with receiving the summons to court she would have laughed aloud. The Lady cursed as she dropped one of the finely made silk dresses required for the day.

Athanasia's eyes followed the curve of her lady-in-waiting's bottom through the heavy skirt. "Jelena," the Princess spoke with the education and breeding of one in the position of power and authority, "Have I told you today how delectable your derriere is today?"

The lady stood up and spun around in mock horror, "You're highness," she gasped, "Such praise should be received by your ears not given by your lips!"

The princess laughed, "My dear Jelena," she stood up and pulled the young woman into her arms, "you of all people should know what my lips are like." Athanasia drew Jelena into a passionate kiss, their tongues meeting in a slow sensual dance which left Jelena breathless. The princess pulled away, "And the only place I wish my lips to be is on yours."

Jelena blushed, "Highness I do not believe the suitors will be happy to see their prize in the arms of a woman."

The princess laughed loudly, "I believe you misunderstood which lips I spoke of, but no they would not." She released Jelena and walked back to the window watching the noblemen from near and far enjoy each others company in the snow covered gardens below, sizing each other up, "Though I do find men attractive, why do these ones appear to have lost a fight with the ugly tree?"

The two women chuckled and resumed the arduous task of dressing the princess. "Do you have so little faith in those men?"

"Most certainly," the princess cried, "They are of noble birth and can barely see past their own reflections when it comes to their love. If I were to choose any of them I would not earn any respect until I birth a son." Jelena pulled on the lacing of her corset, "I could never give any of them my heart, they will love my dowry and any sons I have."

"Where ever you go," Jelena reached out and caressed Athanasia's cheek, "I will go with you."

The princess leaned into Jelena's hand, "I know you will," she sighed deeply, "I'm afraid of who I will marry. If I do not choose soon, I fear my father will choose for me."

"Well let us hope that there is someone down there that will suit you perfectly," Jelena began the slip the chosen dress for the day over her head, "someone who will not be arrogant or ugly, but will be handsome kind and honourable."

"I hope that he is strong and brave," Athanasia gave Jelena a cheeky grin, "And is well endowed."

Jelena gasped, "the size of his ... of his ... you know, shouldn't matter."

"And yet it does."



Sir Axel Fletcher stood stoically by his liege the Count Dirk Gott of Venic as he tried his best to make himself look more handsome than he really was. Sir Axel sighed heavily, contrary to the count's name the man had never lifted a sword in his life and only loosed an arrow for recreation whereas Axel had earned his knighthood from his king for saving his son, the Crowned Prince of Oraland, who also awaited an audience with the King Talus of Balany and his daughter.

Dirk fussed with his hair, trying to brush it in such a way that he would cover the birthmark on his forehead that looked suspiciously like a piece of male anatomy. Finally the count was done smiling at his refection in the mirror, "Axel, how do I look?" he asked his silent knight as he scrutinised his appearance from different angles.

"Very nice sir," he diplomatically replied, in truth the man looked like the love child of a rat and a pig and just as hairy as Axel had discovered by accident years before.

Dirk turned towards him and clapped his hands, "right, let's go." He headed for the door to his room and left for the gardens where all the suitors were requested to be.

Axel followed with disgust, he did not know too much about the Balany princess only that she was beautiful and had a dowry that rivalled the fortune of his kingdom Oraland. Inside he felt sorry for the young woman who had to choose one of the greedy men who waited for her outside. She had a tough choice and not from many good matches most men were only after the dowry others for an alliance with the wealthy and powerful Kingdom of Balany. His count was one of the former the man was the definition of greed, already more wealthy than their king Count Dirk Gott collected jewels and businesses in trade mining and a few others for his own ends. Axel knew that with the fortune of Princess Athanasia he would finally be able to make a play for the throne. Prince Ruben had the same idea, not wanting to remain under his father's influence with grand ideas for their kingdom. Axel wondered if remaining in the service of such treacherous men was a good idea, sure they had a lot going for them but honour and virtue were not among the traits they prided themselves on.

The winter landscape of the southern garden was breathtaking, the snow covered the bare oak trees like frosting on an expensive cake. Axel looked around in awe as the ice crystals sparkled in the morning light. Dirk quickly began to check out the competition while Axel drifted towards one of the snow-covered trees and leaned against it. He watched the men scurry about to size each other up. The princess had successfully remained unmarried for the last six years as she had rejected every man who asked for her hand, many of those same men were trying their luck again at the king's insistence.

A figure in the window above caught his eye, a woman with long black hair and pale white skin. She was too far away to make out the features of her face but his heart leapt nonetheless. The figure was joined by an equally beautiful shorter figure with wavy chocolate hair and light mocha skin. Axel silently prayed that neither of those women were the princess, hoping to join at least one of their beds that night after the ball.

Several of the suitors were in a heated discussion of some sort drawing Axel's attention away from the two beauties in the window, one of them was Dirk and another was Prince Ruben. "Shit," he cursed as he stood upright and made his way over to the men, "Gentleman, may I be of assistance?"

"Yes," Prince Ruben smiled, "your master has insulted me ..."

"Only after your inappropriate comments about my birthmark!" Dirk retorted. Ever since Dirk was a child rude remarks about his phallic birth mark lead to many scuffles and once a duel which Dirk had Axel fight in his place. Yes the comments were juvenile in nature, but Dirk had no sense of humour.

"Don't you think this is too childish to make waves about?" Axel asked the two men, "Surely a mark from birth is not that funny regardless of its shape or location. I am sure that most men here have birthmarks and not all of them are in nice places either." He watched the men nod, "Please we must endure each other's company for some time yet and it would be best if conflict was kept for the battlefield."

The crowd dispersed and the two arguing men went their separate ways, Axel's relief vanished when he looked up to see the two beautiful women had gone, "Damnit!"



Also in the garden but not near the main group was a man with intensions for the beautiful and wealthy princess, King Baldassare of Galnoa. The king did not need a fortune or an alliance with Balany, no he only wanted a beautiful wife to carry his sons and Athanasia had all the traits he found beautiful, though the alliance and dowry would be nice too.

Baldassare had aspirations for his kingdom, as a sorcerer he had over thrown the Galnoa royal family dooming them to a prison within a painting that hung on his bedroom wall. Standing at a height of well over six feet tall he appeared more regal than the royal family who all had a rather short stature with common features and Baldassare could not allow the throne to be polluted with common features ever again.

Yes the man was conceited but with ebony black hair violet eyes and chiselled features that could weaken any woman without the need of magic he believed he had a right to be. The reason for his choice of bride was the close similarity the princess had to his own looks, he only hoped that the power he felt from another in the palace belonged to her. He would find out by tonight.

He watched the blond knight diffuse the argument that had erupted between the two nobles with amusement, to think a commoner like the knight could have the wit about him to talk down two gentlemen with their blood up. "Simpletons," he murmured under his breath as he watched the large group of greedy nobles, "you will soon all bow to me." He smiled at his plans to rule all of Anata, the known world as they knew it. He looked up at the princess in the window, yes it was her the long black hair and pale skin awoke his body. Her hair was braided up with a single elaborate cord draped over her shoulder, she seemed to watch the men below her with bored eyes. Athanasia turned away from the window leaving it empty. Baldassare continued to stare at the window, he felt no fluttering in his heart nor any twists of anxiety in his stomach, what he did feel was an overwhelming urge to take the woman and rob her of her innocence in a primitive way. "Soon my dear," he whispered to her, "you will be queen of the world."



"Jelena," The princess called as she sat at the window, "you should see these so called noblemen squabbling like children in a playground."

Jelena quickly made her way to the window to see two men in fine tailored clothing, "You're right," she mused, "though I think children are more civilised with their squabbles, these two seem to be enjoying the petty name calling."

The two women watched for a little longer, "ah, watching men fight is so boring, let's go to the library," Athanasia suggested, "I'm sure we could find something more entertaining there."

"Your father's in the library and will probably tell you which suitors to focus on," Jelena informed her.

"Damn," the princess cursed, "is the conservatory free? Maybe a wander through the exotic flowers will be enough to lift this boredom."

"Your mother is in there with a few ambassadors who no doubt will try to advise you to focus on their masters," the lady-in-waiting continued, "and your brothers are in the ball room, the armoury and the grand dining hall."

"Then we are heading to the town to visit the blacksmith," Athanasia smirked.

Jelena smiled, knowing that the princess was only trying to escape the palace and all its formalities to the princess's only friends other than her were the gentle old blacksmith and his wife in town who treated her like a person and not an elevated noblewoman with importance. "Looking to stress your father again?"

"Yes," Athanasia smiled as she took her black riding cloak and wrapped it around her shoulders, she turned around to look at her friend and lover, "are you coming too or are you going to just stand there?"

Jelena laughed and reached for her blue riding cape to join the princess. Athanasia opened the wardrobe and pressed a secret panel to open a hidden door for them to escape through. The door led to a passageway that made of cold green stone. A torch sat in a holder on the wall and with a click of Jelena's fingers it lit up in a small explosion of orange flame. She gave Athanasia a wink and was about to pick up the torch when the princess spun her around her pressed her against the stone wall her lips covering Jelena's in a heated passion.

Athanasia broke the kiss, "you should know better than to do something like that in front of me," she huffed wantonly, her hot breath dancing across Jelena's lips.

"What?" Jelena questioned innocently, "Light a torch with magic?" the lady-in-waiting grinned when her effort to keep the naïve expression failed.

"No," Athanasia smirked letting her eyes absorb the flustered girl's face, "you winked at me."

Jelena giggled and winked again playfully pushing the princess to make another move. She did, passionately kissing her once more with one hand sliding around Jelena's waist and the other grasping her breast firmly. Jelena pushed her hips into Athanasia's and wrapping her own arms around her lover's neck surrendering to the sensual assault. Both young women moaned as their kiss deepened, Jelena's hands began exploring the more delicate areas of Athanasia's neck causing the taller girl to shudder deliciously. "Jelena," Athanasia hummed between kisses, "I need you."

"I need you," Jelena echoed as the princess dropped to her knees, sliding her hands up Jelena's silk covered legs to the heated apex that she knew was left exposed just for her.

Athanasia traced the moistening opening lightly with her finger, teasing the soft brown curls. "Tell me what you want, mon sucrée," she purred as she slipped a finger in and tickled the throbbing nub inside.

The helpless lady-in-waiting whimpered her lover's finger knew exactly how to tease her, dragging desire from within her to the surface yet denying any climax. "Taste me!" she cried, thrusting her hips against Athanasia's hand trying to ride it to achieve her pinnacle.

The princess chuckled at Jelena's futile efforts to control the attentions Athanasia gave her, "keep that up and will leave you hungering until tonight." Jelena's shot a pleading look down at her, begging her to give her release from the blissful torment. Athanasia returned an evil grin and disappeared under the many layers of her skirt. A moment of nothing had Jelena hanging in frightened paralysis anticipating the warm and succulent tongue to work its magic. Finally, after what felt like an eternity of waiting the skilled muscle began to work its way up her thigh, lapping up the escaped honey. Athanasia's fingers opened Jelena up for her pleasure, her aching pearl twitching in expectation. Athanasia's tongue began tracing lazy circles around the sensitive nerve bundle, ripping small gasps from its owner.

Jelena fell against the wall panting in ecstasy and frustration, her hands reaching for something to hold onto as the gradual build to her orgasm crept slowly up weakening her knees in the process. She almost cried as the princess sucked her button into her mouth nibbling it firmly with her lips as she worked a finger into the tight canal flowing gently with her sweet nectar but carefully leaving her maiden's veil in tact. Athanasia dipped her tongue to catch some of the delectable fluid which was sweeter than all the wines of Balany. She worked the finger in and out as she now forcibly dragged Jelena to heaven, sucking the tiny bud until her lover trembled and slid down the wall in a pool of bliss.

The princess emerged again, crawling over the woman she loved and kissed her letting Jelena quiver at the taste of her ambrosia. "I can never get enough of you," Athanasia's now husky voice nearly growled in her more dominant position.

"Please let me return the favour," Jelena managed to reply as she caught her breath.

"When we return," the princess said helping Jelena to her feet in a manor of a storybook hero, "Right now we have to get out of this horrid place."



An hour nearly passed since the argument, Axel continued to look up at the window where the two visions of heaven had disappeared. "Are you a suitor also, sir knight?" someone asked behind him. Axel turned around to see a tall man with jet black hair and kind blue eyes.

"No," he responded, "just passing the time until my lord either is rejected or accepted ... though I believe it will be the former."

The man laughed, "Then you must be Sir Axel Fletcher, Count Gott's personal body guard."

Axel nodded, "is it that obvious?" He smiled gently at the man.

Again the man laughed, "I am Crowned Prince Castor," he held out a hand to the knight and shook it, "I am so pleased to meet you Sir Axel, I have heard so much about you."

It was Axel's turn to laugh, "I swear I didn't do it, it's a terrible fabrication I'm sure," he jest, grinning heartily at the prince.

"You are too modest, surely you take some pride in your heroics?" Castor was genuinely surprised at Axel's demeanour, "And I am also shocked to know that you do not consider trying for my sister's hand. You are more than eligible." He flashed his eyes to the window where the two beautiful women sat looking out before they left. "You do keep staring up at her bedroom window."

Axel nearly choked at the information, "The princess's room?" he choked feeling guilty for lusting after the prize his lord coveted.

"Yes," the prince grinned, "You have been looking up there for around an hour or so, since my sister and her lady-in-waiting Jelena looked out to the men below."

"What is the princess like?"

The smile on the prince's face fell for a moment, but quickly recovered, "she's picky about who she associates with," Castor shrugged his shoulders, "she is also quick to temper if offended and is never without Jelena at her side. Without the pretty little brunette to help her with everything, I am sure my sister couldn't get out of bed in the morning."

Axel looked up again, hoping they had returned to gaze upon the men below, "are there any here you would put money on to succeed in winning the Princess's hand?"

Castor looked around at the assembled men, his eyes falling on the knight at his side, "until I discovered you were not in the running I would have said you. However, now that you are not I would put my money on the King of Galnoa, Baldassare."

Axel shuddered, "he is here?" he surveyed the area until he found the man in question sitting under a tree with a good view of the Princess's window. "Why was he invited?"

"He wasn't," Castor leaned into whisper in Axel's ear, "he came claiming that though he did not crave the fortune nor was he in need of an alliance with our great kingdom. It is said that he saw a portrait of my beautiful sister and fell in love with her the moment he gazed upon it." The prince gave a cautious glance to the sorcerer king and continued when the man made no signs of hearing the conversation, "Axel, please do not let that man win my sister's hand I fear it will end with bloodshed. I hear that he is a wizard of some kind and is offering amnesty to all mages who are persecuted in the known world."

"I am of humble origins, the son of a master fletcher in the city of Averny in the lowlands of Oraland. If I had not been conscripted into the war and saved the king's son I would be sitting with my father, stripping feathers and dyeing them for each arrow he produced."

Castor rested his hand on the knight's shoulder, "every noble line comes from humble beginnings, our own family began as farmers nearly two millennia ago when one of my ancestors discovered a white metal that was soft and malleable like gold yet much prettier to behold. Our family then became jewellers and supplied every royal family in the world at the time with legendary pieces that we now own again due to the fortune we amassed over the next hundred years bought our family a title in your own kingdom of Oraland where our family then became warriors and the rest is history."

Axel smiled, "But your family had a noble title they could call their own."

"If you succeed in winning my sister's hand, I'll grant you a title of earl and a large plot of land in the west with your own private forest to hunt in." The prince seemed desperate to have Axel included among the suitors.


Princess Charming Ch. 01



"How can you be sure that Baldassare is not a good man? Do you know him personally?" Axel asked still thinking about the promise of land and a title.

"No I don't," the prince gave the king another glance, "I fear what he plans to do." Baldassare had moved to the stone folly where a fountain stood frozen in as though time had stopped. The prince hoped that his concerns were not known to the sorcerer king, it could prove dangerous for the entire family.

"I will try to gain the princess's attention," Axel answered finally, pulling the prince out of his momentary distraction. "But I doubt she will look at me."

"Don't write your self out before you meet her," the prince laughed at the handsome knight, "you are too modest for your own good."

Axel shrugged, "Well, if I fail with the princess perhaps her lady-in-waiting would give me the time."

"No," Castor nearly yelled, "I have plans to marry her once my sister is settled in her new life."

"Does she know?"

"Who?"

"Both," Axel cocked his eyebrow, giving the prince a smile.

Castor sighed, "Athanasia has no idea and I doubt Jelena does either. The two are inseparable. I have yet to see either of them alone since Jelena arrived here ten years ago."

Axel laughed, "Perhaps you should sneak into her room at night and declare your love to her."

Castor slumped, "I have tried, she spends her nights with my sister and returns to her bedchambers later than the rest of the palace."

"Then ask her to dance tonight at the ball," the knight suggested, "when your sister is occupied with another gentleman."

Castor smiled with hope, "Yes, I think I will."



Athanasia and Jelena stood out the front of the Blacksmith's workshop, the forge burned hot enough to keep the snow from the doorway. Inside the balding smith hammered away on what looked like a horseshoe.

"Elric!" the princess called smiling at her soot covered friend.

The tall muscular man looked up to see the princess and Jelena waiting at the door of his workshop. "Come in out of the cold!" he playfully ordered them waving them in to warm by the furnace. The girls gladly entered and stood by the fire. "Why are you out here when you should be choosing a husband?" he chided the monarch as he rested the horseshoe in a bucket of cold water.

"Please," Athanasia scoffed, "the likelihood of any of those men capturing my heart is slim at best." She turned to Jelena and smiled.

"You can't keep running away from your responsibility," Elric mover closer to the girls shaking his head, "you only have a few more years before you are labelled an old maid and not allowed to marry at all."

The princess rolled her eyes, "When the men are honourable, then I will choose." Jelena chuckled at the princess's statement. "Though, it cannot be that bad. Not having to be at the beck and call to an over sexed man who really is fantasizing about your dowry rather than you."

The blacksmith laughed, "One would start to believe that you want nothing to do with men," his face softened, "did my son truly capture your heart?"

Athanasia stopped laughing, the thought of Agathon caused her chest to constrict and her heart to drop. A small tear formed in the corner of her eye.

"You know," Elric sighed, "even if my son still lived, your father would not have allowed the two of you to marry."

"I know," Athanasia's voice cracked the pain of loosing her first love still raw. The tears formed quickly and Elric regretted mentioning his child to the girl Agathon loved more than life itself. If it were not for the war he was sure that the two of them would have eloped. "And I know it has been years since he died but I cannot help it."

Ignoring the soot over his leather apron, Elric pulled Athanasia into his arms and tried to calm her. "I'm sorry sweetie," he cooed, "For what it's worth, I would have risked my own life to see the two of you happy."

Athanasia looked up into the older man's eyes, the same deep brown her Agathon had. "I miss him so much."

Jelena sort out Elric's wife Minerva in the adjoining house who was working hard in the kitchen over a large mound of dough, "Jelena, how are you?" the plump older woman grinned. Her face apron and bodice were covered with a thin film of flour.

"I'm fine, Minerva," Jelena sat at the table where the woman kneaded the dough, "bread?"

"As usual," the gentlewoman stopped and stretched her back, "my beloved Elric eats more every day."

Jelena chuckled, "Maybe you should give him a night off every so often."

"Oh you cheeky girl!" Minerva blushes a deep crimson at Jelena's comment, both knowing that since the older woman went through her midlife change her libido increased tenfold. Athanasia and Jelena had the misfortune of finding the happy couple in the throes of passion in the workshop not to long ago.

"I think it's beautiful that you still love each other after so many years," the lady-in-waiting smiled sadly, "I only hope that Athanasia and myself are so lucky."

Minerva began to divide the dough and place the portions in baking tins, "you girls are lucky that Elric and me are of the old faith or the two of you could be flogged ... or worse."

"Athanasia made an oath never to love another man after your son," Jelena explained, "we do love each other and I will go with her wherever she end up living with her new husband, whoever he may be."

Minerva's kind eyes settle on the determined young woman, "I have heard whisperings of another outcome, the crowned prince is said to love you but is unable to get you alone to propose."

The colour drained from the young woman's face, "Castor?" Minerva nodded. "But I do not love him, or even paid that much attention to him. Why does he love me?"

"You are just as beautiful as the princess," Minerva said flatly placing the bread tins near the oven to rise. "Apparently the whole palace knows and the king even gave Prince Castor his blessing."

Jelena slumped in her chair, "that is not how things are meant to be. Athanasia would choose a husband who was kind and pleasant to the eye and the both of us would go with him. Castor has never talked to me!"

"Things never turn out the way we plan them," Minerva shrugged, "you know that my son planned on marring Athanasia since they first met when they were children. The war was not meant to happen and the two of them were to run away to another country and start a life together as a blacksmith and his wife." The woman felt a twinge of sadness, "she had no idea of what he was planning but I suspect that she would have gone along with it."

"I know she would," Jelena sighed, "She still loves him more than me."

Minerva sat next to her, "she loves you differently, but not any less."



"Come with me," Elric said as he lead her to the store room.

"What are we doing?" Athanasia asked as he opened the door revealing a silver set of armour with matching twin swords a bow and quiver full of arrows and several small daggers.

"Fulfilling a promise to my son," Elric replied, guiding her to the spectacular piece of artistry before her.

Speechless, the princess ran her fingers over the intricate detail of the grapevine pattern in gold that covered the breast plate. "Beautiful," she breathlessly sighed, picking up the bow and delicately traced the same design down its length.

"When Agathon was called up," Elric explained, "He made me promise to make sure you had the ability to take care of yourself ... in case he never returned." Athanasia shot her head around to see the blacksmith with a sad smile, "I have only just finished it, feel the breast plate it is still warm from the forge."

She did just that, paying attention to the faint warmth that radiated from the shinning metal. "He wanted you to make this for me?"

"He designed it the night before he left," Elric sighed, "It was one of the reasons I encouraged you to train with your brothers, it was all part of the promise I made."

"Thank you," she said sadly, picturing her childhood sweetheart standing next to her, "it is truly worthy of royal blood."

"Of you," he corrected her, "regardless of your origins, Agathon only thought of you. You have a natural leadership within you that he saw when you were only children. You should rule the kingdom."

"I don't think Castor would like that very much," she chuckled, "He is not only the eldest but male too, a woman would never be welcome to sit on the Balany throne as long as this new religion remains strong."

"Then find yourself a husband that will allow you to be you," Elric sagely advised, "Teach your daughters to be strong."

Athanasia nodded, "do what I can," she said stoically as she stared at her first love's final gift.

"You should head back to the castle, princess," the blacksmith suggested, "I am sure you are already missed."

Jelena found them in the storeroom, "Athanasia, I think we should go back I need to talk with you about something."

"I'm coming," she replied and turned back to Elric, "I will have to come back for this tomorrow."



Axel wondered what was taking so long for the introductions to occur, the other men were getting restless and he could feel the tension building.

"She's missing again," Castor had returned his tone suggesting it was a common occurrence.

"The princess does this often then?" Axel asked not bothering to hide his amusement.

"Only when something important is happening," the crowned prince sighed, "She promised not to do it this time."

"She sounds very independent," The knight said with a hint of pride in his voice.

"She should know better," Castor spat angrily shocking the knight at his rage. "My apologies, but she must learn her proper place as a lady."

"In Averny the women are strong willed and independent," Axel chuckled, "you learn very quickly not to stop them doing what they want."

Castor relented with his anger, his mother had been submissive to their father and had expected Athanasia to be the same, instead she was more like their father a strong wilful person who never backed down from a fight. "Sounds like you would be the only man who would know how to handle her."

Axel shook his head smiling, "You do not handle a strong woman, you let her lead. And trying to break them only causes you hurt." Fletcher laughed at the prince's stunned expression, "I learned from my mistakes."

The two men laughed as the king's advisor entered the garden, "Gentlemen, you may be happy to know that there will be no more delays," he informed the men who acknowledged the news.

"So she is back from her little trip," Castor smiled, "Wherever she goes to must be a wonderful place because she leaves for there every chance she gets."

"Perhaps it is an escape from her regal responsibilities."



Jelena hurriedly fetched a new dress for Athanasia, the soot from the Elric's smock had turned the yellow silk day dress into a useless rag. She pulled out a sky blue gown with pearls sewn into the plunging neck. "I really wish you had not allowed Elric to hug you, your black cloak will hide the soot but your sun dress is ruined," the lady-in-waiting grumbled, "I really liked that dress."

"It's only a spot," the princess chuckled at Jelena's behaviour, "I could fix it by embroidering a flower over the stain after it's been washed."

Jelena scowled at her, "We should not have left the castle, we are late because of it!"

Athanasia stopped her chortle and frowned, "What is bothering you?"

The shorter woman sighed, "I am sorry, but I have learned something that has alarmed me."

The monarch motioned for Elena to come closer and pulled her into her lap, "what is wrong mon sucrée? Tell me."

Jelena took a deep breath, contemplating whether to tell Athanasia about the prince's interest in her or not. "I have heard that there is someone at court who seeks my hand in marriage," Jelena's face burned with anger, "I will protest to the king only I fear he will reject my pleas."

"Who has asked for your hand, love?" Athanasia was angry now, the one person she loved in all the world was being forced into a marriage that would separate them permanently.

"I can't," she sobbed clinging to the princess.

"Who!"

"Prince Castor."

Athanasia was shocked, "My brother wants you as his queen?" If she did not have to leave after she is married she probably would be happy for her, "I had no idea he was interested."

"I don't love him," she wept, "I have never talked to him." She looked Athanasia in the eyes, "I only love you, I have never looked at man in that way and I never will."

Princess Athanasia let it sink in, Jelena loved solely her and had no interest in male companionship. "That could be dangerous for you," Athanasia said worriedly, Jelena nodded. "Perhaps you should feign interest in a few of the suitors tonight."

Jelena shook her head, "I would rather stay with you," she whined and nuzzled into Athanasia's neck, "I know you are to choose a husband tonight so I will not hinder your endeavour."

The princess sighed, "I will not leave you behind, ever." She sat there stroking Jelena's hair until the young woman slowed her breathing. "Come, let us go meet the hopeful suitors and break some hearts."

The lady-in-waiting sniffed and nodded her head, "Yes, lets."



All the suitors stood in the throne room waiting for the princess to make her entrance. Axel had not spoken to the count about the prince asking him to enter the competition for Athanasia's hand, he knew the count would react badly to the news so he decided to keep quiet.

The king stood to address the men, "Gentlemen, I welcome you to Balany this bristling winters day." He took a deep breath, "I regret to tell you that my daughter will be later that we thought, though it will not be too much longer and as tonight we were to have a welcome ball I have decided that we will delay the greeting for then so please go and ready yourselves to charm Balany's difficult princess."

Axel went to leave with the count when Castor approached him again, "Would you like to go for a walk with me?" he asked subtly pointing to the private chambers of the royal family. "I believe you will see someone you would like to meet," he spoke so quietly that Axel nearly missed what he said.

The knight nodded and followed. They moved swiftly into the corridor outside the princess's room just as she and Jelena came out looking like they were ready for the ball already. Axel's breath froze in his chest as he saw the two beauties glide up to them. "Castor," Athanasia purred with a secretive smile, "Brother, how are you?"

Castor let his eyes linger on Jelena, who was standing behind the princess, "Planning your wedding dear sister," his reply just as silky as hers.

She gave him a lyrical chortle that captured the knight's attention. "You are too hasty dearest Castor for I have not chosen a husband yet," she let her eyes fall on the knight at her brother's side. He was unlike any man she had ever seen, not like any of her previous suitors who tried to court her he had the look of a brave man who had seen the brutal wars that had plagued the continent over the last five years. His eyes were a delicate blue and his hair a common straw blond of the Oraland lowlands. His build told of the hard days on the front line against the Wild Northlanders, broad sword wielding shoulders of a born warrior. "Though not out of the question."

Axel's eyes widened at her remark as she perused his stature. She was not quite as tall as he, less than half his head shorter with a lithe figure and hair like the midnight sky. Her eyes were like jewels, so bright and clear. Then there were her lips, full pouting lips the colour of fresh blood and skin like the snow in the garden. 

Castor cleared his throat and introduced Axel to his sister and her lady-in-waiting, "Ladies, this is Sir Axel Fletcher of Averny."

Jelena gave a shocked squeak at the introduction, everyone had heard of Sir Axel and his gallantry on the battle field, he was probably the only man that she would ever consider attractive not that she had ever seen him before. "A pleasure to meet you Sir Axel," she curtsied with a blush.

Athanasia smiled at the knight, "Well Sir Axel, it seems you have an admirer," she shot a knowing glance at her brother and scowled briefly, "I would make Sir Axel my choice, Jelena," her smile grew wickedly, "but you would be a better choice to be the knight's wife as I am unable to due to his humble origins." Axel saw a fleeting sadness flash across the princess's face before she carefully hardened her expression.

"I am sure that Jelena has higher ambitions than a knighted peasant," Castor glared at his sister.

"You're Majesty," Jelena weakly spoke, "I am also of humble beginnings but I never aspired to elevate my position through an advantageous marriage. I only wish to remain at my friend and princess's side." She retreated behind Athanasia again to avoid the sight of the men.

Axel had ignored the statement the prince made about his origins, the man wanted him to marry his sister. "My Lord," Axel cleared his throat, "Perhaps we should let the ladies continue on their way." Castor nodded in agreement and stood aside to let the young women past. Athanasia gave Axel one last glance and moved on, Jelena mimicked her and hurried to keep up.

"She does not want me," Castor sighed as he watched the small brunette retreat from his view.

"She looks to be easily intimidated," Axel commented, "Give her time to get to know you, highness." Axel felt dizzy, the two women he spied earlier were more beautiful up close than they were from a distance. He frowned at the memory of what Athanasia commenting about his lower status, "I am ineligible as an appropriate suitor for the princess in her eyes."

"She will think twice when I partition for you to be elevated to an earl," Castor slapped him on the shoulder, "though if an earl is not enough for you we have a couple of counties in need of counts and a duchy in need of a duke."

Axel raised an eyebrow at that, "why so many title that need filling?"

Castor chuckled, "A failed coup." The men left to ready for that night.



Baldassare remained behind as the other suitors left the throne room. "You're Majesty," the Galnoa king bowed showing respect for his elder peer, "May I have a word?"

The Balany king nodded and motioned for the northern royal to come closer, "I am puzzled that a king crowned through vanquishing the old and trusted Lunetta family would risk his own safety to vie for the hand of my troublesome daughter."

Baldassare smiled, "Sire, I must confess that had I not seen your daughter's portrait and fell in love with her I would not have." The tall mage grinned charmingly to put Talus at ease, "She is the most beautiful creature I have ever had the privilege of seeing and I hope that I am fortunate enough to meet her just once."

The elder king leaned back in his throne and threaded his fingers together, "surely you did not cross the known world just to meet the princess."

"Indeed I did not," Baldassare smiled, placing his hand over his heart. "My hopes are that I win her heart and she agrees to be my wife."

Talus narrowed his eyes on the foreign king suspiciously, "You are not interested in an alliance or the extensive dowry she has?"

"Any dowry she has will be for her alone and an alliance would just be an added gift." Baldassare sounded so sincere that he almost believed it himself.

The Balany sovereign sighed, "What is the reason for your word?"

"I request that if the princess fails to choose this evening that I am considered as your choice of suitor," he announced. "Know that I will love her. She will not want for anything."

The king cocked an eyebrow, "You actually want my taxing daughter?" The Balany king nearly laughed at the thought, "I know she is beautiful," his eyes steeled again, "No, there must be more."




Princess Charming Ch. 01



"I assure you that my interest are romantic in origin," Baldassare gave a controlled smirk, "What would his highness require to sweeten the deal for your Athanasia's hand?"

"I am not a fool to openly ally myself with you," Talus huffed with amusement, "I would risk my current allies defection."

"Than perhaps I forgo any dowry," Baldassare suggested nonchalantly, "And perhaps offer you fifty percent of my treasury."

A crooked smile erupted across King Talus's face. "You would offer me gold in exchange for her?" the king was dumbfounded, "you are either stupid or truly feel something for the princess."

"My intentions are honourable sire," He returned to his sincere tone. "My kingdom needs a strong queen. I need her or my heart will implode in despair."

"It is a deal then," Talus chuckled, "you will marry my daughter if she fails to choose."

Baldassare bowed, "thank you sire," he turned and left with a triumphant grin. He knew that the Balany king would cave at the mention of money. King Talus was just like every man he had ever dealt with, a business man. In the end the promise of gold out-weighed the safety of Princess Athanasia, Baldassare had no intention of harming the royal beauty as he needed her at full health for her duty as a married woman.



Athanasia and Jelena proceeded to the throne room to meet with the king. They found him pacing around his throne, "Lady Jelena, may I please have a moment alone with my daughter." Jelena curtsied and left the room. Athanasia stood tall and waited for her father to speak. He stopped pacing and huffed with frustration, "Tell me my daughter, how old are you?" his tone was one of deflated defeat.

"Three and twenty," she answered cautiously as her father began to pace again.

The king raced up to Athanasia and yelled into her face, "twenty-three years! I have tried to marry you off for the last six years!" he was livid. "You will make a choice this week or I will choose for you! By this weekend you will be a married woman."

The princess was shaking with rage, she had some idea that her father would do something like this but not to the extent that he portrayed. "If your selection of suitors had not been so abysmal over the years than maybe I would have been settled years ago," she spat back just as vehemently. "Lets face it father, if my dowry was not so big then maybe those more interested in love would be vying for my affections rather than money hungry aristocrats!"

The king laughed, "You are a daughter, your only use in all the world is to form alliances through marriage!"

She stopped, his words cutting her deeply. "So because I was born without a phallus makes me a bargaining chip in diplomatic affaires without concern for my happiness?"

He gave a sarcastic clap, "finally she gets it!"

Athanasia felt a chill shoot through her body, "Fine, I will choose a husband that will benefit 'our' kingdom," she smiled deceptively, "an advantageous match that will give my children much power."

The king slumped into his throne, "why must you fight me?" his age was beginning to show through the façade he studiously worked on each day.

"I am a person with feelings that you willingly discard for your own ends," she turned and made her way to the exit, "I swear to you father. I will choose for my heart rather than a strategic match for Balany." She left the elder king alone in the chilly throne room.



Would you believe that it took me two days to edit this? I do hope you liked this opening chapter and I promise there will be more soon :Þ



Princess Charming Ch. 02



This took longer than I expected, been distracted of late. World events can give great inspiration yet can also break the heart and I sincerely hope that we have seen the worst of it.

As before I warn you that this story involves bisexuality so if you do not like same-sex relationships or divided affections than this is not the story for you. If you are okay with it than enjoy :þ



Chapter 2: The Grand Ball.

Jelena had heard the whole conversation, King Talus had already made up his mind who Athanasia was to marry. She was scared for her Princess as any number of the men who waited for an audience with her could have made a deal with her father. Her choice might not matter any more.

Athanasia marched out of the throne room in a bad mood, "The insufferable bastard," she seethed as she took Jelena into her arms, "He has already sold me!" Her resolve not to shed a tear at the hopelessness situation came dangerously close to failing.

"Then I suggest we think quickly about what to do," Jelena whispered urgently in the Princess's ear, "The one out you have is to pick a man before the deadline."

"But who?" Athanasia swallowed hard to stifle the sorrow she was slowly drowning in, "My precious Jelena, if I make the wrong decision I may never see you again." The gravity of the notion hit Jelena hard. "Hush my delicate flower," Athanasia caressed Jelena's cheek lovingly, "I will not let anyone take you from my side, ever."

The shorter young woman gripped her tighter, "We must act soon or it will be too late."

Athanasia tilted Jelena's chin up and met her lips with a tender kiss, "I love you."

The young women returned to the Princess's room to ready for the evening, neither of them talking as the only topic to talk about depressed both of them.

Jelena solemnly dressed the Princess for the third time that day, a ball gown that suited Athanasia's mood. A midnight blue with black diamonds and sapphires now graced the tall Princess making her pale skin look ghostly, she looked as though she was ready for a funeral and not meeting her future husband..

Athanasia stood before her mirror and took in her image, "Just like the tragic Queen on the way to the executioner's block," she commented, "Though I almost envy the prospect."

"Maybe I could find out who your father made the deal with," Jelena suggested.

"How?" Athanasia broke down again, "Only my father and the man he made the deal with knows that information." The Princess turned to look at her lover but she had already left.



Jelena ran as quietly through the halls as possible, she had her goal in mind and would do what ever it took to make sure that Athanasia would remain close. Her feet carried her to Prince Castor's room, she knew where it was but had never been in there. She knocked quietly on his door.

Castor opened it, the shock he felt at seeing the woman of his dreams standing in front of him paralysed his body to the spot.

"May I come in?" Jelena whispered, her voice filled with fear.

Castor nodded and stepped aside. Axel, who had been sitting with the Prince in a vain attempt to calm his fear of rejection, made his good byes and left. Jelena began to pace in much the same way Castor had no more than a minute ago.

"You sister is in trouble," she informed him, "Your father has already decided who she will marry."

The news had distracted Castor enough to, "What?"

"King Talus has made a deal with someone," Jelena could not hold her fear in any longer, "I'm afraid for her." She collapsed into his arms and sobbed.

Castor had dreamed of holding this precious young woman for so long but not like this. He pulled her into a tight embrace and took in the warmth she radiated. To see her in such a state broke his heart, he wanted to take her pain away to kiss that trembling lower lip. "How do you know my father has already made a deal with one of the suitors?"

Jelena sniffed, "He told her that if she fails to decide then she will marry of his choosing."

Castor began to worry, who could have made a deal with his father so quickly? "And you have no idea who?"

She shook her head, "I was hoping you would know."

"I wanted Sir Axel to be my sister's suitor," the Prince mentioned, "I have to somehow get my father to give him a title."

Jelena's head shot up, "That would be perfect," she said excitedly, "I could see that she was at least attracted to him." She hoped that Castor would manage to succeed, she prayed that he would succeed. "Castor, I know that you have plans for me to become your wife," her statement caught Castor by surprise.

"I had planned to court you after Athanasia was married," he admitted, "I have wanted to court you since you arrived at the palace."

"I will agree to marry you if you can guarantee Sir Axel as Athanasia's bridegroom," she rushed out before she backed out.

Castor's jaw dropped, "What?"

Jelena composed herself, "I said that I will be your wife if you can arrange that your sister becomes Sir Axel's bride."

She chanced a look up at shocked Castor's face, "This was not how I imagined it would be," he finally said sadly. "I had wanted you to fall in love with me, not offer yourself as payment to save my sister from an unfavourable match."

"You don't want me," she sighed, feeling the fear rise in her again.

"I did not say that," Castor reassured her, "I will compromise, I won't marry you but you must agree to allow me to woo you and if you find yourself falling in love with me then, and only then, will I marry you." 

He gave her the same smile Jelena had frequently seen on Athanasia's face, perhaps he would not be so bad as a life partner. He clearly loved her but she still could not feel the same intensity for him as she did for his sister. "Alright," she nodded, "But you must find a way to rescue your sister."

"I will," Castor smiled and kissed her hand, "Promise me that I will get the first dance."

Jelena's face split into a small smile, "I promise." The Prince released her and watched her leave. His heart swelling with hope.



In his room, Baldassare opened the cylinder he had packed with a few choice potion recipes inside. He had one in particular on his mind, a sleeping draft designed for the Princess. The scroll was delicate and old but the information it carried was worth more than its weight in gold. The Wizard King laid the parchment out on the desk in his quarters and began to assemble the ingredients together taking care to place each phial, jar or bundle in its place ready for use.

With a flick of his wrist a bronze urn appeared and floated gently onto the desk, "Eye of newt, virgin's tongue," he chuckled at the cliché use of fake items, "Really smelly stuff." He grasped a jar of ground hollyhock buds and emptied half the contents into the urn, the powder looked like dried blood. "Valerian root juice," he mumbled as he added a few drops along with the powdered remains of an odd ocean fish and a bunch of dried berries.

Baldassare picked up a stick to mix the concoction then added a whole bottle of red wine and sparked a fire under the urn. He let the stick continue to stir as he moved onto something else, a jewelled ring with a hidden compartment, "The classics are always the best," he murmured moving back to the urn that had boiled down to a thick syrup with the berries still spherical though somewhat wilted.

Pouring the contents into a flat dish he pulverised it as it was dried into a powder. Scooping a little into the hidden compartment in his jewelled ring he tipped the rest into a small bottle and slipped it into his coat pocket.

Baldassare had used the sleeping draft many times in his plans to gain power. The night he drugged the Lunetta family was so easy it was laughable. The entire clan had gathered for a celebration and he was invited as a trusted member of court and adviser. It took little effort to drug them as they toasted his loyalty and friendship, ironic that they chose to toast him as they drank the wine with the sleeping draft sealing their own demise. After that it was easy to cast the spell to lock them in the painting that now holds them prisoner, forever to look out at the world but never to walk it again.

His plan this evening would be similar to that night, only he would slip it into the Princess's wine and wait until she excused herself to retire for the night then it was only a matter to follow suit and take her while everyone was still busy with the ball.

With a wicked grin he began to prepare for the ball ahead.



"I tell you Axel," Dirk remarked as he selected another garish outfit to impress the royal family, "Once the Princess is my wife she will not be allowed to wander out of my sight without an armed guard by her side."

Axel rolled his eyes at the obnoxious Count, "I am sure she would like some time alone or to spend with her entourage of ladies."

"And she can," Dirk smiled, "As long as she has someone to watch over her she may do what ever she likes." He turned towards his Knight, "I would like you to be the one to watch over her."

Axel needed to inform his employer to the request from the Prince to also try for Athanasia's hand. "Sir," he began, "I have something to tell you."

The Count chuckled, "Are you to tell me about what you were up to with the Prince?" Dirk turned back to his work, "Putting in a good word for your employer?"

"Not exactly," the Knight huffed, "Castor has told me of a concern he has for one of the potential suitors."

"A trouble maker?"

"The King of Galnoa," Axel answered calmly, "He is one of the likely successful suitors."

"Why would he talk to you about King Baldassare?" The man's curiosity piquing.

Axel hesitated, he had to say something. "The Prince requested that I try my luck with the stubborn Princess."

Dirk glared at him, "You are my body guard, not a suitable suitor for a Princess of the realm!"

"I have been offered a title should I succeed," he explained, "And I have met the Princess, albeit briefly. She is quite beautiful, enough for me to accept the suggestion to try my luck."

The far from handsome Count threw the outfit in his hands to the floor, "How dare you take what is rightfully mine!"

"She is not yours!" Axel yelled, "She will choose who she will be with and I highly doubt you have a chance but by all means try your luck."

"Are you saying she won't choose me because of my looks?"

"I am saying that a woman as intelligent as she is looks past physical appearances," Axel moved closer to the little weasel of a man, "And I am certain that when she talks to you she will see a truely ugly little man who hides behind his title and expensive clothing. Yes your appearance leaves a lot to be desired but if you were an honourable man rather than a fiendish scheming usurper of the throne you would actually stand a chance."

"I think it would be a very good idea that you leave my services immediately, Sir," Dirk snarled at Axel with all the menace he could muster, which was not much.

"Gladly," Sir Axel Fletcher agreed with loathing and left, wondering what he would do about an outfit for the ball in just a few hours ahead.



Castor marched to his father in the throne room, he was a man on a mission to find who his father had chosen to marry his sister off to. He had agreed to do everything in his power to guarantee Axel's proposal would be the successful one but he needed to know who his father had formed a deal with. He prayed that his father was not foolish enough to agree to any deals with the Witch-King of the north but he would not hold his hopes up.

As he hurried through the corridors he collided with Axel, "I am sorry," Castor apologised, lifting himself up off the floor, "I was not watching where I was going."

"My Prince," Axel bowed, "It is I who must apologise for my rudeness."

"Nonsense," Castor shook his head and stood aside to allow Axel to pass.

"My Prince, may I ask a favour?"

Castor was taken aback by the urgency of the request, "By all means."

"I have a dilemma," he explained, "I know you wish for me to be the one who saves your sister from a possible unsuitable match however I am lacking the appropriate attire and with not enough time to rectify the situation under my own control."

Castor gave him his bedroom key, "Pick anything you wish, but my sister will most likely wear something dark to reflect her reluctance to marry."

Axel gave him a quick hug and raced off to ready himself for the ball. Caster continued to the throne room to confront his father about the rumour.

"My son," Talus greeted him, "What brings you here?" The King did not look amused at the worried expression on the Prince's face.

"A little bird has told me you have already decided who Athanasia will marry," he asked more directly than he intended, "Is this true?"

King Talus laughed, "I gave her an ultimatum," he explained, "If she does not make her choice she will marry someone of my choosing."

"Who?"

The King cocked his head at the simple question, "Why would you wish to know? It will be a very good match and the kingdom will benefit from such a union."

"It sound like you have already accepted this suitor's proposal on behalf of my sister," Castor was worried at his father's grin, it suggested a hidden plan.

"It may as well be," Talus huffed, "Your sister will knock back any who approach and she will be left with my choice instead. The marriage might as well happen tonight."

"Then father," Castor probed, "Who is the lucky, or should I say unlucky man?"

"King Baldassare of Galnoa," Talus chuffed, "And he wishes to pay me the honour of marrying her."

Castor's heart sank, how could his father allow such a man to marry Athanasia? But he guessed that the prospect of gold was more valuable to the King than the happiness of the Princess. Without asking to leave he made his escape.

"Where do you think you are going?" The King demanded, "I have not dismissed you!"

"The warm thighs of a certain lady-in-waiting back in my room," this false yet amusing statement caused the King to laugh and not stop Castor in any way.



Castor closed the door behind him once he reached his room, he was greeted with a very pale and naked Axel as he rummaged through the Prince's wardrobe. Castor made not sound at first, the man was quite the specimen with his lean muscles and broad shoulders. The Prince found himself staring at him in a way he had never looked at another male before. He found him beautiful.

Axel was oblivious to the Prince's presence, he held up a midnight blue dress coat with sapphires for toggles. "That would be perfect," Castor called out, alerting the Knight of his company, "I think it would look better on you than I."

Axel turned, giving the Prince full sight of his body in it's slightly aroused state before covering himself, "You're Grace," he choked, "You frightened me."

Castor walked over with a smile, "This from the legendary hero? I am honoured," he let his eyes drift lower to try glimpse the impressive phallus again, "No need to hide Sir Axel, it is not as though I have never seen a naked male before."

"It is not customary in Averny for men to be naked around other men," he explained, "But if customs here say otherwise than I will have to adapt."

The two men were of similar height and build, Castor slightly taller, enough to look down to Axel, "To tell you the truth, I have never thought about it."

Axel watched him walk over to the mirror, "Does something bother his majesty?"

Castor just smiled, "Would you find it strange to hear that I find you handsome?"

The Knight shook his head, "I have received compliments like that since I was young, I am use to them."

"Men have complimented you before?" Castor asked, curious at Axel's remark.

"Mostly women," Axel thought about the question a little more, "I believe you are the first man to do so."

The Prince walked closer again, taking the outfit out of Axel's hands and laid it on the bed. "Would you be scared to know I find you handsome?" The Knight shook his head so Castor continued, "I am quite use to getting what I want Sir Axel, can I trust you to keep your lips sealed with this secret?"

"You're Grace?" Axel was unsure where this was going but his curiosity won out, "Yes, I will."

Castor ran his calloused fingers up Axel's arm, "Have you ever kissed a man before?"

Axel was not sure he heard correctly at first however when the Prince began to looked concerned he had to speak. "No," he replied, "It is against the teachings."

"I am not a follower of the new religion," Castor confessed, "Once I am King I will allow people to worship how they want and never to impose their beliefs on those who are not so inclined."

"What are you saying my Prince?"

"I wish to know what it is like to kiss you," Castor's deep violet eyes were filed with more than the chaste desire to press his lips against the Knight's, "A real kiss, not what you would give a friend."

Axel was confused, this was a man who wanted him to marry his sister and yet here he is attempting to seduce him. The worst part was Axel found himself wanting to go along with it, the wicked act itself only making the forbidden kiss more desirable. With a subtle nod Castor descended to Axel's waiting lips, clasping his golden locks to pull him close. Axel did the same, entwining his fingers in the elderberry mane of the Prince, all his cares disappearing in an instant. For how long to two explored each others mouths neither of them knew but as they parted they tried to pretend it did not happen and silently readied for the ball to start. Each gave the other glances when the other had their back turned trying to process the new alien feelings that had sprouted within them.



Jelena felt ashamed, she had offered herself up to the one man she refused to marry only an hour before. She slowly made her way back to the Princess's room to find that the Princess was struggling with her hair, "There you are," the Princess sighed in relief, "I was worried my brother decided to kidnap you and rob you of your virginity," she joked but quickly stopped when she saw the worry on Jelena's face. "I jest you know, I do not want to upset you."

"I'm sorry Athanasia," Jelena chocked, "I'm just a little out of sorts."

The Princess hugged her lover, "For the record, you would make a wonderful Queen," she reassured her.

This made Jelena laugh, "If only your brother were King already we would not be so stressed about tonight."

"True," the Princess agreed, hiding her own nerves, "Castor will be a just and wise King ... and he would probably make me marry Sir Axel."

Jelena, who had begun to style Athanasia's hair nearly dropped the brush at the comment, "Why do you say that?" She asked with a distinct wobble in her voice.

"He introduced us today and he has admired him in a hero worship way since the goodly Knight's adventures reached our Kingdom," Athanasia explained, "If Castor were a woman he would marry the Knight without hesitation, but he is not so he will settle for brother."

"And would you?" Jelena queried, "I mean, he is handsome, more so than I thought he would be." Jelena held her hope in check and waited for Athanasia's response.

"He is handsome," she concurred, "And he has a kind face, not one you would expect on someone who had cut down men in the heat of battle." Athanasia grinned, "I wonder if he can dance?"

Jelena felt both happy and jealous at once, she did not want to share Athanasia with anyone but she knew she would have to. "We shall find out soon," the lady-in-waiting said, "We are already late ... again."

Athanasia laughed, "Fashionably late," she corrected her, "There is a difference." The Princess inspected her hair, make up and jewels. The midnight blue velvet dress flowed like water over her form and she silently prayed that she would choose right this night.




Princess Charming Ch. 02





Prince Castor stood by his father with the guests slowly accumulating around them in the grand ball room. Castor's mind was spinning, his moment with Sir Axel had awoken something inside him that he knew nothing about. He chanced a look to the person who clouded his senses and befogged his mind, Axel whose lips were still swollen from their stolen moment. King Talus saw where his heir's eyes were focused, "Why do you look at the Knight so much my son?" He asked suspiciously.

Axel heard the question and shot a worried look at the Prince and then to the King. Castor froze, did his father know? "Well," Castor eventually answered, "I would like to give Sir Axel a title in our Kingdom."

The King chuckled, "He has a Kingdom," the Prince's suggestion sounded like a joke so the King treated it as such.

"He no longer is under the employment of the Count Gott due to a disagreement," Castor explained, "I was thinking an Earl or Baron."

"This is a surprise," the King mused, "But I am guessing that you want the Knight to be an eligible choice for your sister."

Castor conjured the best offended look he could muster, "I believe him to be a great soldier, someone Balany could benefit from if the tensions between us and our enemies ever erupts into all out war." Castor was impressed at his own quick thinking and hoped he sounded sincere enough to convince his father.

"Oraland will not be pleased if we poached their finest," The King sounded unimpressed, "And what of the man's family? Would they enter out Kingdom also?"

Castor had not thought of that, but figured it would be up to them, "Maybe we should ask Sir Axel."

The King laughed again, "My boy you have achieved something I have wanted for years," he slapped his son on the shoulder, "I have been trying to think of a way to get the world's best Knight on our side for some time, but I think the title of Duke would suit a general of Balany."

"You're giving him the Duchy of Anata?" Anata was the only available Duchy in the Kingdom and it was the ideal title for Axel, the one Castor wanted for him.

The King's mood changed as he saw his daughter was late again for another official greeting, "Please go see what is taking her so long."

Castor nodded and left in search of his sister. He did not look for long as he nearly ran her down, "Castor!" Athanasia cried, "Where did you come from?"

"I was sent to retrieve you," he responded as he bowed his greeting to Jelena, who was standing behind the Princess. Jelena's face flushed pink at the attention the Prince gave her. "You are late and father was getting," Castor paused contemplating the right words to use and still sound polite, "Worried."

Athanasia laughed, "Worried that I won't show up or worried that his choice of suitor would change his mind."

"You can ask him when we enter the ball room," Castor suggested and offered his arm to both women which they accepted without hesitation.

"Is the King very angry?" Jelena timidly asked, "For it was my fault that the Princess is late."

Castor shook his head, "Merely annoyed that his introductions are now taking up valuable meal time." Jelena laughed at the light-hearted comment.

"Admit it Castor," Athanasia smiled, "I am a third wheel here at this moment." She withdrew her arm from her brother's, "Jelena clearly would like to walk with you alone ... much to my surprise." The Princess gave a slight bow and confidently walked in the direction of the ball room leaving Castor and Jelena to talk. In truth the thought of her brother taking Jelena away from her hurt more than she was willing to admit but it was clear that Jelena was not so opposed to the idea of becoming his wife as she originally implied. Maybe she would do the same, find Sir Axel and stick with him until the proposal is uttered from his lips. She knew that her time with Jelena would end one day, their love was forbidden and she was always destined to marry for political reasons rather than love. If Sir Axel was as charming as he was good looking then life with him should be tolerable at the very least. She was yet to meet any other suitors but some of them must be coming back for another attempt at her affections.

Behind the Princess Castor and Jelena were held in an awkward silence, Castor had the moment he shared with Axel running through his mind but at the same time his hopes and desires for the young woman next to him made their presence known also. He was so very much in love with Jelena, her exotic golden skin and soft dark hair had filled his amorous dreams nightly yet his voice could not muster enough power behind it to speak to her. Eventually Jelena spoke, "Sire, you look at me as though I am a dish on the menu." The small grin that played on her lips caused his stomach to flutter.

"I am awe struck at your beauty dear Lady," he responded, "I do hope that one day I can show you what it is to feast on a woman such as yourself."

Castor had made an assumption, Jelena had blushed again but the Prince had thought it because of the suggestive nature of his comment and to some part it was true but she would never tell him that his own sister had taught her the meaning of such a phrase years ago. "I am a virtuous girl with only pure thoughts," she explained coyly, "If you continue to speak in such a manner I will glow scarlet for the rest of the evening."

"The colour in your cheeks enhances your loveliness," Castor spoke with an honesty that caused the girl to flush again, "I cannot help wanting you to look so gorgeous. Your natural elegance is the envy of all courtiers."



Athanasia entered the ball room with poise and grace. Her other brothers Devin and Marshall wasted no time chatting to a few of the courtiers, no doubt wanting to introduce them to the carnal pleasures the body can offer, they paid little attention to anything else. The potential suitors had all stood waiting for her to arrive and her father looked mortified that she entered alone. With a few quick steps he was at her side demanding an explanation. "I gave my lady-in-waiting a chance to get to know Castor," She explained calmly, "I heard that he was enchanted by her and I am not one to stand in the way of love." This comment appeared to anger her father which only confused her, she had been informed that her father had approved of the match but his reaction spoke otherwise. "Have I said something wrong?"

"No," King Talus waved the question off, "We cannot start until your brother has arrived as he is my heir." He gripped his robes tightly in restrained frustration, this was not unnoticed by the Princess.

"I am sure they will be here shortly," she offered, "They were not too far behind me." As though summoned the Prince and Jelena entered arm-in-arm, "See, here they are now!"

Talus grumbled something unintelligible in response.

"Father, please forgive my tardiness," Castor apologised and glanced down at his companion, "But in the presence of a beautiful Lady time does not matter."

Talus ignored Jelena entirely, "You have a responsibility to your sister and this Kingdom."

Athanasia stepped in, "I think what father is saying is that there is plenty of time later for that sort of thing," she winked at the two of them.

"Do not assume that you can read me my daughter," Talus growled at Athanasia.

The Princess chose not to argue with her father at that time, the room filled with dignitaries from the many Kingdoms would perceive this as a weakness and she did not want them to think such a thing. "My apologies father, I did not mean to insult you."

With a harrumph the King began his introductions, Castor moved to where he was needed leaving Jelena at his sister's side.

"I see a few familiar faces," Jelena commented.

"And a few new ones," Athanasia added, "And not all friendly in appearance."

As each man stepped up to offer greetings to Athanasia, the Princess would curtsy in a formal fashion and make a rude remark quietly to Jelena who would smile to hold the mirth inside. Once the formalities had passed the two maidens waited for their first dance partners to approach.



Castor quickly excused himself from his conversation to approach Jelena. She stood next to his sister swaying to the jovial tune played by the minstrels and giggling at something he could not hear. She was truly a gift from the heavens, her innocents and purity broadcast to all those around her.

He stood before her, deterring other would be dance partners from her side, "I am here to collect on a debt Lady Jelena," he grinned.

Athanasia cocked her eyebrow in askance of what her brother meant but received not reply as Jelena took the Prince's offered hand and joined him among the many dancers moving around the floor in time to the rhythm.

"You may have just angered my sister," Castor teased, "She does not like to be kept out of a secret."

"She holds so many of her own," Jelena replied demurely, "I cannot see why being left out of another's business would concern her."

The Prince laughed at her wit, "I should fill you in on our plans to rescue my sister from a fate worst than death."

"I am surprised you remembered the situation," the lady-in-waiting smirked, "Your eyes are wandering to places not suitable in public."

Castor chuckled and continued, "I have discovered who my father wished Athanasia to wed." He lowered his voice so only Jelena could hear, "King Baldassare of Galnoa is the man he made the deal with and that is very concerning."

"Why is that?" Jelena whispered back.

"I would not expect you to know the man's reputation as an evil sorcerer who imprisoned the rightful King and his entire family in a painting where they are trapped for all eternity," Castor quickly explained as they danced closer to the King in question. 

Jelena held her tongue until they were away from him again, "How terrible!"

"No body has the nerve to oppose Baldassare so my counterparts in the north will remain imprisoned."

Jelena chanced a glance at the intimidating man whose eyes were focused on Athanasia, "I can feel his evil from here."

"Enough gloom my dear," Castor distracted her, "The other thing I must tell you is that Sir Axel will soon no longer be a part of Oraland as the King plans to offer him the Duchy of Anata."

"Will that make him suitable to marry Athanasia?"

"Indeed it will," Castor's voice held the confidence he felt at the way their little plan was unfolding, "I had suggested that he become an Earl but father admires him greatly and said that a great general should hold a position in court more suiting to his reputation so he will be a Duke."

"That is fantastic," Jelena dropped her head to Castor's shoulder, "Now all we need is for Athanasia to accept any proposal given by him. You know how obstinate she can be."

"Indeed."



Axel watched the Princess standing alone on the side of the dance floor, she blankly stared over the mass of swirling people with a loneliness in her eyes. She waited silently for the suitors to approach but none seemed too eager.

The goodly Knight shuffled his feet, he wanted to approach however she shear presence was enough to intimidate any man. She held herself with honour and that dissuaded many potential suitors deciding to choose other dance partners and avoiding the Princess.

Athanasia's pained sigh was enough for Axel to move, he wove between those on the dance floor with the sole intention of taking the Princess in his arms and making her night. His feet carried him swiftly but he was not quick enough as Prince Ruben of Oraland beat him to Princess.

He hastily changed his direction and approached another woman waiting for a dance partner. The woman clearly was astonished at her dance partner but Axel paid no attention to her, instead he watched Ruben and Athanasia.



"Are you trying to snatch my fortune or an ally against your enemies?" Athanasia jested after a few moments of silence with the handsome Prince Ruben.

"I like the idea of seeing you in the Oraland Crown jewels when you are crowned Queen," he answered cheekily, "And preferably only in the jewels."

Athanasia feigned shock, "Sire, such talk is not becoming of a gentlemen."

Ruben pulled her in closer to his body, "I know, such talk should be kept to the bedroom," he leaned in close enough to whisper in her ear, "And I do plan to keep you in the bedroom until we have conceived an heir."

The Princess choked, "I hope the time is as enjoyable for me as it would be for you," she quickly recovered.

"I assure you Princess," Ruben allowed his hand to drop from her hip to the where her royal bottom would be under the many petticoats, "I will make you glad that you are a woman for you would be jealous of my skill if you were a man."

Athanasia let all that Ruben had boasted about to calm before she returned volley, "So the rumour of your desire to overthrow your father is a just that?" She raised an eyebrow in challenge, "A rumour?" Ruben's brilliant green eyes locked with hers, Athanasia noted a faint tinge of fear in them. When he did not answer she continued, "I jest You're Grace," she smiled sweetly, "Surely you do not take offence at childish rumours?"

Ruben laughed nervously, "No, do not be silly, it does not become you."

Athanasia grinned knowing she had confirmed the rumour she had heard upon his arrival the previous day. The song ended and the two parted with a slight bow.



Axel nearly laughed aloud at the expression on Prince Ruben's face, clearly the Princess had said something to ruffle his feathers and now he retreated to the sidelines to lick his proverbial wounds.

The Knight turned his attentions back to the Princess who now was approached by King Baldassare. Axel panicked momentarily and shot a look to Prince Castor whom had seen the same thing, he too had worry in his eyes.

Athanasia clearly was apprehensive around the Galnoan King but did as she was raised to do, be courteous and polite to the attentions the King gave her. Axel admired her determination and bravery in the face of such an ominous man.



The music took a dramatic edge when King Baldassare took Athanasia's hand, "I will not insult your intelligence by trying to flatter you with descriptions of your appearance in comparisons to inanimate objects," His voice was smooth like melted dark chocolate, rich with a sharp bite.

"An I will not bother with praising your vast power," Athanasia countered, "As I am sure you have heard it all before."

The Wizard King knew the instant he touched her skin that she was not the one he sensed when he arrived but she was in the room. "I probably have," he laughed, "But nothing of my devastatingly good looks."

The Princess smiled falsely, the man had an ego that rivalled her older brother. "I find that true attraction is from the soul," she tactfully spoke, "A package, no matter how beautiful, will never betray its contents until it's too late."

Baldassare did not care that she openly insulted him with such velvety words and voice, he had lost interest in her the moment he knew she was not his target, but his honour said that he must still be a gentleman to her and finish the dance. "You are most correct," he agreed, "The surface of a gift rarely hints at what sits just below the surface." His eyes scanned the crowed looking for who had the energy he could feel flowing through the room like a raging river in the dark. He knew it was there but could not see where.

"Who are you looking for?" The Princess asked curiously.

His eyes fell on Jelena who was standing next to the Crown Prince with a goblet of wine looking particularly nervous. "No one," he replied, bringing his attention back to her, "I am not use to such large gatherings of young ladies in one place." They glided through the dancers with such proficiency and grace that many of the bystanders applauded them. "Balls in Galnoa are rare and somewhat distasteful to the locals."

"If I were Queen of such a noble Kingdom," she smiled politely, "I would make them compulsory as I enjoy them immensely." She chuckled, "It keeps the nobles fit."

Baldassare laughed, "Perhaps I should implement a monthly ball," he laughed some more, "I have many fat aristocrats lounging around court."

The image of fat old men and women filled her mind and imagining them complaining at such a notion as to move to music. "If they are fat then perhaps daily balls until they are thin again?"

Baldassare felt slightly sad at the thought of a woman with a sadistic sense of humour was not the one he was looking for, yes her words were in jest but he knew that this Princess was hellfire when roused to fury. He had heard the rumours. He would have dearly liked to see her enforce nightly dancing among the nobles, perhaps with a big black leather whip in hand. "I would very dearly love to see you force them."



Axel kept glancing between Athanasia and Castor and Jelena, who returned the same worried expression. Baldassare seemed to be charming her, her face glowed with delight at the way the Galnoan King smiled and conversed. The Knight's heart threatened to jump out of his chest during the whole score until the music stopped and the two parted ways.

Castor approached Axel, "Why are you hesitating?" He asked concerned, "Does my sister not please you?"

"She is radiant," Axel replied, "More beautiful than anything I have ever encountered."

"So what is the problem?" Castor asked impatiently.

"I find that my courage is selective," he nervously explained, "A battlefield in action is easier to approach than her serine form."

"You fear her?" The Prince laughed, "Yes she is expressive and not afraid to show it however you yourself said that you are use to women like that."

"She has something about her that befuddles the brain," the warrior continued, "I do not know how to approach her."

Castor spotted Axel's former employer approaching his sister, "Watch what he does and do the opposite." He pointed to Dirk who tried, and failed, to look impressive.



The Princess forced her face not to grimace as the unpleasant Count approached her, "You grow more beautiful with each time we meet," he said as he bowed in respect. 

"Thank you," she replied strenuously, "But I am puzzled as to why you persist." She really was, each of the eight times he tried to gain her favour she shot him down, with great respect for his rank.

"My heart says you are the one who will make me happy," he responded calmly.

"I find that highly doubtful, Sir," Athanasia attempted not to chuckle but a faint huff escaped her lips, "You are so focused on what others think of you, what would you be like with me at your side? Yes your self worth would have risen but your paranoia of wondering if any men were trying to steal me away would increase rapidly and you will be accusing men of inappropriate attentions toward me resulting in either you being responsible for many deaths or I becoming a widow before I grow use to a ring on my finger." The Count looked mortified at her logic, he had not thought about that, he always assumed he would be happy in the knowledge that he succeeded where others had not by winning the hand of Balany's ice Princess. "Dear Count, are you well?"

Dirk Gott felt that feeling one gets when one realises that the dream they had for years was well and truly crushed and it made him sick to his stomach, "I am afraid that I am not." He felt faint, "I think I will take a seat and a snifter of wine."

"Let me help you," Athanasia guided him to the nearest chair and haled a servant to bring some wine for him, "I must go as I have many who wish to dance with me." Dirk gave her a subtle nod and she left sighing in relief that she would never have to deal with that annoying man ever again.




Princess Charming Ch. 02



As she re-entered the mass of dancers as they swirled about happily she caught Sir Axel's eyes, he was standing with her brother and Jelena and all three were looking at her. She gave them a smile and moved to the side of the dance floor.



"Go to her," Castor chuckled and gave him a playful shove, "She's all but begged you."

"What do you mean?" The Knight asked unable to take his eyes off her.

"Get over there, dance with her, ask her to marry you and refuse to let her go until she agrees," the Prince grinned turning his gaze to his sister's lady-in-waiting eliciting yet another blush from Jelena's cheeks.

Axel grabbed at a goblet of wine and downed it for added courage and made his way across the room to where Athanasia waited. Her glossy black hair cascading down her back in soft ringlets to where her dress flared at her waist. She was truly a vision to behold, to think that this woman caused many men to feel emasculated was baffling. Her amethyst eyes followed his movements like a hawk seeking its prey. Like a moth flying to a fiery doom he moved towards her, his feet carrying him of their own accord.

"I did wonder when you would come to me," She asked coyly the moment he stopped before her.

The Knight reached for her hand, "All that matters is that I am here now," he brought her hand to his lips for a gentle kiss, "And I do not wish to ever leave."

"Do you have something on your mind , Sir Knight?" Athanasia playfully asked.

"Your brother has secured a title for me," he explained, "For no other reason than to be eligible to ask for your hand, I am to be the Duke of Anata."

"That could be curse rather than a blessing, Sir Axel," the Princess cautioned, "It is said that the Duchy is cursed for the last seven Dukes have either been murdered or revolted." She gave him a smile that seized his heart, "You would be number eight of the cursed Dukes of Anata if you married me," she chuckled, "For I am not easy to live with. As my father reminds me constantly."

"A man with you as his bride would truly be blessed," Axel manoeuvred her to the dance floor, "Without the dowry."

Athanasia smiled slyly, "Are you implying that my fortune does not interest you?"

"Your fortune is exactly that, yours," he explained, "I may not have a penny to my name but I would not dream of taking anything from you."

"Even if I offer it willingly?" She baited with a raised eyebrow.

"I will be a duke," he shrugged, "I will have wealth in time."

The Princess laughed, "That you will, it is a wealthy Duchy with the mine and agriculture." She sobered then sighed, "Perhaps I should choose you for financial gain," her face split into a grin at his shocked expression, "I jest Sir Knight." In truth, she was overwhelmed at the knowledge of Axel's pending ascension to the rank of Duke. Finally a man who was amiable and of the right social status, now all she had to do was wait for him to make the proposal and foil her father's plan to marry her to some unknown man from a foreign land.

Axel felt strange, the beauty he first saw that morning had enraptured his heart but he could not help but make comparisons between brother and sister. Both had the vibrant violet eyes, iridescent black hair and eburnean skin, he wondered if their lips were the same. "Princess," he spoke just over the sound of the music, "Please join me on the balcony alone." His eyes pleaded in sympathy with his words and promised an untold reward if she were to oblige. He lifted her hand to kiss it gently and swiftly disappeared into the crowd.

Castor watched from the sidelines as Axel retreated from his sister after only a few moments of dancing. It looked like his sister and the Oraland Knight were showing a real connection when the Knight retreated without warning. The Prince had to find out why, "Dearest Jelena," he turned towards his demure companion, "I must leave your side and investigate our co-conspirator as to why he has withdrawn when it looked to be going splendidly." The elegant young woman simply smiled and nodded, "I will return soon." He kissed her hand and stealthily navigated to where Axel had disappeared to. "What are you doing?" he asked the Knight who was leaning against the stone guardrail with two goblets of wine with a baffled look on his face.

"I wanted the Princess alone," Axel admitted without hesitation, "It would not seem right to ask for her hand in a room filled with competitors." He watched the Prince's expression change from demanding to apologetic.

"You were going to ask her?" Castor stuttered out, "So soon?"

Axel grinned sheepishly, "That's what the wine is for." He gestured to the two jewelled goblets in his hands. "I have informed her of my ascension to the aristocracy."

"Good to know," Castor huffed in relief, "I should return to Lady Jelena before anyone tries to dance with her."



King Baldassare had been dancing with each of the ladies in attendance with the exception of one, the Lady Jelena, lady-in-waiting to Princess Athanasia. She had been glued to Prince Castor's side the entire night until now. She stood by a carved column and swayed to the music as she waited for the Prince to return, the invitation was too much to ignore. After negotiating a path through the whorl of dancers he stopped at Jelena's side.

Jelena had watched Castor slip through the silk curtains out to the balcony following Axel. Athanasia waited for a moment before following with a smile. Jelena was happy for her, finally she had a chance for happiness with someone who would want to be with her and not the fortune that would accompany such a marriage. She was so withdrawn in her thoughts that she did not notice who had approached her until a foreboding chill ran up her spine.

"Such a beauty should never be left alone," the Galnoan King grinned and offered her his hand, "Let me remedy that immediately." He could feel the power radiating from her like a raging fire, it was incredible.

"I am sorry Sire," Jelena bowed her head respectfully, "I am promised to Prince Castor and it would be inappropriate to dance with you."

Baldassare knew exactly what to say to motivate her into agreeing to his invitation. Leaning in close he whispered in her ear, "I feel your magic my dear lady," Jelena froze, "I seriously doubt the Prince would be understanding of your natural skills."

"Please," Jelena begged, panicking at the potential outcome if Castor were to discover her secret, "I beg you do not! I have hurt no one."

Baldassare's negotiated silently by sliding his hand to her waist and pulling her to the floor to dance.

Jelena had never felt such power from another, her natural magical ability dictated that she could detect another of her kind without effort, however that also meant she could not hide. She was afraid of this man who guided her every move.



Castor exited the secluded balcony to see his beloved in the arms of the sorcerer King and she looked paralyzed with fear and it distressed him to no end. He completely forgot about his sister and her Knight as he stalked the dancing King and Jelena around the room. There was something bubbling up within his soul, something dark, sinister and dangerous, something that would cause great diplomatic trouble of he lost control.

Baldassare was whispering something to her, how dare he get so close to her! The Galnoan King must have know they were being watched as he looked directly at Castor and grinned slyly. Castor became murderous, the Galnoan King was up to something and he had no idea what it was but he did not like it on little bit.



Baldassare found it quite amusing, Prince Castor actually believed that Jelena was his, how absurd! The moment he felt her astonishingly powerful aura she became his. No mere man could ever hope to wed such an omnipotent creature, if she were ever discovered in this land she would be put to death and that would be a terrible waste.

What Baldassare did not see was across the room sitting in an imposing throne with a glower on his face was King Talus and he was angry. His deal with the Galnoan King was that Baldassare wed his daughter not the lady-in-waiting! And where had that daughter of his disappeared to? She was mingling with all the men who wanted to try their luck with her but each left her looking disappointed which made him happy but the last man, his soon-to-be general and Duke Sir Axel Fletcher had appeared to succeed where multitudes of others had failed. He did not know what to think of the man now that he was showing a liking to his daughter, the man's loyalty would never be questioned but he wanted his daughter to solidify a treaty with another Kingdom, it was her duty.

Talus felt his mood sour considerably and demanded another goblet of wine and grumble to himself as he watched the Galnoan King enjoy the company of Lady Jelena.



Axel waited fretfully as Castor left, the music from inside drifted out and it only caused him to become more anxious. His nerves were at the end of their tether when the curtain was pulled back and the vision that was Athanasia appeared with a halo of candlelight. "I do apologise for making you wait," she gave him a small bow, "But I saw my brother enter and decided to wait until your business with him had concluded."

The Knight gazed upon her, she was the feminine opposite of Castor and equally beautiful and the very idea that he compared the two disturbed him. "Wine?" He offered the Princess one of the jewelled chalices with a slight tremble in his hand.

"Please," Athanasia accepted and took a dainty sip, "Thank you, I have been quite parched for most of the evening but wished to keep a clear head so I would not make a disastrous choice when it came to my life partner. One too many beverages and I could have ended up with your former employer." 

They laughed at the image but it did not ease the turmoil Axel still felt, he found that any words he had planned to use to seduce the Princess caught in his throat and now feared that if he did try to speak he would only utter a garbled noise that would frighten her.

"Sir Axel," Athanasia finally said after a moment of silence, "I must confess that I find you handsome and intriguing." She took another sip of her wine, "If your words on the dance floor were truthful, that you want nothing of my dowry than I must ask what is your interest in me?" Her eyes seemed to be begging him to say something meaningful.

"I," he paused and placed his wine on the railing of the balcony, "I must confess that the initial reasons for my elevation into the ranks of the nobility was to make me eligible to ask for your hand." The Princess's expression did not show any shock at the revelation. "Your brother suspected that King Baldassare had come to marry you for nefarious reasons. When Lady Jelena approached Prince Castor pleading that he aide her in finding you someone ... me... to wed you after a dreadful piece of news that your father had made a deal with an unknown party." Still she did not show any surprise to the information. "Your brother and Jelena conspired to have the two of us wed." Her gentle nod was the first indication that she had paid any attention to his speech. "I agreed but found myself paralysed by your beauty," he tentatively moved closer, his lips barely brushing against hers, "I fear that if I continue like this I will find myself hopelessly in love with you." He pressed closer for a kiss that stole both their breaths.

Under the moonlight of the night sky both Knight and Princess lost themselves in the moment, it was the first time Athanasia ever kissed a man. The stubble that surrounded his mouth tickled her in a delightfully wonderful way, his tongue felt firmer than that of Jelena's. His arms encircled her waist and held her tightly to his battle-hardened body. She felt the familiar rush of heat she only ever got with her Jelena but this man almost demanded it and she had little resistance against his assertion.

"Dearest Princess," he sighed heavily, his voice growing husky, "Would you take a chance and become my wife?" Athanasia would have been lying to herself if she said she had not expected this, she was looking for a husband and Axel seemed to tick all the boxes when it came to attributes with the exception of one, she wanted to know if he was well endowed as the stories said. She ground her hips against his softly determining his size and to her pleasant surprise he was clearly feeling what she felt with a rod of steel greeting her that ran a good distance down his thigh. "That will have to wait until our wedding night," he whispered in her ear causing a flush of warmth to spread to her cheeks.

"I will be your wife, Sir Axel," she bit her lip and felt for his masculinity again, "I will give myself willingly to you and solidify your new rank of Duke and if all goes to plan my heart will quickly follow."

It was good enough for him, he had not expected the famous Princess to fall instantly in love with him but she certainly found him attractive judging by her bold sexual advance which, quite frankly, nearly had him whisking her away for a night of premarital debauchery that would have done neither of them any favours. He captured her lips again in a passion filled kiss filled with promises of more later. He let his hand explore up her back as it was one part of her body not covered in many layers of undergarments. Much to his astonishment he found her body firmer than other women, something exotic that had him wanting to encourage more hip grinding but restrained for decency's sake. So lost in her body, Axel had not noticed a distressed looking Prince Castor standing next to them.

"I take it she said yes?" He asked trying to sound casual. Both Axel and Athanasia jumped at the apparent appearance of Prince Castor who sported a smile but a few worry lines on his brow.

"Yes brother," the Princess responded with curiosity, "Your plan to have me wed to Sir Axel has come to fruition." She paused and looked over her brother again, "Something bothers you." She did not ask.

"The Galnoan King has shown an unwanted interest in Lady Jelena," he explained and drew back the curtain to show a distressed Jelena in Baldassare's arms as they moved around the dance floor. Athanasia first paled then flammeously glowed in rage. Neither men saw her reaction. "I need a way to rescue her without angering him."

"I have an idea," Athanasia smoothly spoke, hiding her anger at the way the man clung to her Jelena. She glided out after several calming breaths and approached the dancing couple. "I know it is not customary for my to cut in but I must as my lady-in-waiting has some neglected chores." The ruse appeared to work as Baldassare glowered but reluctantly released her to take Athanasia again.

Castor sighed in relief to see his beloved slink out of the room, "I am glad that both ladies are safe," he finally could congratulate the Knight properly on the successful plan to wed his sister before disappearing to join Jelena in the hall.



The night progressed well, Axel would not let Athanasia out of his grasp once she finished dancing with Baldassare who had congratulated her on her nuptial arrangement. Prince Castor had informed Jelena of the betrothal during their alone time behind one of the tapestries in a hidden alcove. "I am relieved," Jelena nearly cried, "I do hope he will make her happy."

"With what I saw," he chuckled, "They will have a very large family." He scooped Jelena into his arms, "Now to business," he grinned mischievously, "I believe I now have your permission to woo you."

Jelena shivered but nodded, "I have not been this close to a man in my life," She swallowed hard as Castor lifted her hand and pressed it to his heart.

"My dear," he softened to her hesitation, "We have all the time in the world to become comfortable with one another and I do not wish to cause you any distress." He dearly wished to kiss her, to hold her in a more intimate way but Jelena clearly anxious at the closeness of their bodies. "Did he hurt you?" Castor did not need to say his name, Baldassare made his displeasure known at loosing Jelena's company when Athanasia cut in by ending the dance quickly and retreating to wait for the young lady to return.

"No," Jelena finally replied unconvincingly, "He was just too ..." her voice faded at the anger she saw in the Crown Prince's eyes, "I do not like him, he makes me uncomfortable."

Castor would kill the man if he had the chance for any unease he caused Jelena. "He will be gone on the morrow and then you will be safe," Castor comforted her, "And perhaps we should celebrate my sister's engagement tomorrow with a picnic in the garden, just the four of us?"

Jelena smiled shyly and nodded, "That would be lovely."

"My I seal the arrangement with a kiss?" He asked hoping to persuade her with his charm.

Jelena blushed and trembled again, "Alright," she whispered and offered her hand which Castor ignored completely and caught her lips in a quick and playful kiss.

"Slap me if you must," the Prince chuckled as he dodged the swift hand of his lady, "But that kiss, however brief, is the sweetest thing I have ever had the privilege to partake in." His words appeased her somewhat and allowed him another chance for a kiss to her cheek, "Come, I am sure the main banquet of the evening is ready to be served in the dining hall."



With the dancing portion of the evening over the guests migrated to the dining hall and assembled to their assigned seats. Baldassare took the opportunity to see where the Lady Jelena was situated for the evening and slipped the content of his ring into her wine goblet and quickly moved to his seat on the other side of the room. Resorting to such underhanded measures felt degrading, however the importance of establishing his lineage to secure his right to rule in Galnoa required him to produce a powerful heir. Ideally the Princess would give his offspring the royal bloodline but the prospect of the power Jelena possessed was too tempting to pass up.

From his position on the far side of the dining hall at the other end of the main table he watched the object of his plans and the Princess sit down after thanking the Prince and Sir Axel who sat not too far away.

Athanasia reached for her wine and took a big gulp, her lips were swollen from the attention Axel gave her earlier. Her cheeks were in a permanent flush from the extra wine she had consumed since accepting Axel's proposal. She looked up at the handsome Knight and caught his eyes, her heart fluttered at the smile he gave her. She felt like she had escaped a fate worse than death only to have her dreams come true. She reached for Jelena's hand under the table and gave it a gentle squeeze, "Tell me my dear friend," she whispered behind her cup, "What has you face scarlet this eve?" Jelena responded with more colouring to her cheeks. "You vanished for some time with my dear brother, perhaps that has some factor in your current state?"

"He was a gentleman," Jelena finally spoke after sipping her wine, "He kissed my cheek but that was it."

Athanasia giggled, "So you are warming to my brother?"

"He will need to prove himself," Jelena insisted, "But he wishes to know me better before he tries sincerely." Jelena paused and yawned, "Oh goodness!" she exclaimed mid yawn, "I am so tired."

"Maybe you should retire early," Athanasia suggested, "We have had a big day." The young women chuckled.

"I still owe you from this morning," the lady-in-waiting whispered in the Princess's ear, "I am sorry."

"Do not fret," Athanasia consoled, "I will ensure that you make it up to me." She gave Jelena a squeeze of her hand to enforce the promise, "And I expect it to be good."

"Always, my lady," she began to feel normal again albeit drowsy, "I do hunger for something other than you at present." Jelena felt emboldened for an unknown reason, "But some honey for breakfast sounds delightful."




Princess Charming Ch. 03



Again a huge thanks to my editor Jen who saves me from making myself look stupid.

I am pleased with this chapter and I think this story can really get moving now.



Chapter 3: Damsel In Distress

The meal was delicious as it always was, but it was without enjoyment as Athanasia worried for her Jelena. The Lady-in-waiting had been in bed for an hour and the Princess sat near her older brother and fiancé as they ate the last of the custard tart. Athanasia sighed audibly at the empty chair next to her.

"You're not regretting our engagement already are you?" Axel teased before scooping a piece of tart into his mouth, "I was hoping you would not feel that way until after our wedding night."

"I doubt my sister will regret her wedding night," Castor chuckled dryly, "As you are twice the man than any of your competitors." He gave the Knight a wink and sipped his wine.

Axel shot Castor a worried glance, but was thankful that Athanasia seemed to have missed the innuendo. "I do hope the young Lady you have an eye on will not be disappointed when your special night occurs," Axel returned fire.

"My primary concern for that night is I cause as little discomfort as possible," Castor smirked. "I will show her my linguistic skills," a quick flick of his tongue across his upper lip translated his meaning.

"She would like that," Athanasia said under her breath with a chuckle.

"Something funny my sister," Castor asked innocently.

"Not at all," she smiled, she knew her brother was friendly with the palace maids, he only confirmed the obvious; "I must be getting tired as I am finding humour in the most stupid things."

"Yes dear sister, sleep," Castor grinned, "I will have the pleasure of announcing your engagement to our father and begin planning your wedding myself." He helped Athanasia to her feet.

"The King will not be pleased that his choice chose not to in the end," She giggled. "Perhaps Sir Axel would like walk me to my room?"

Axel liked the suggestion, some time alone with his bride-to-be would be nice, and maybe a few more stolen kisses before retiring for the night would give him pleasant dreams. "I would love to."

Castor stepped aside so Axel could offer his arm to the Princess. The Prince was quite happy with himself; his sister was to be married, he himself would follow his sister down the aisle soon after and the thought that he would have to wait until the following day for his own little indulgence of soft supple lips. He hoped that Jelena felt better in the morning, he had a little and somewhat naughty idea to get the two of them alone and with any luck, time to learn more about each other. "Do not take too long Sir Axel," Castor teased. "I would not be too pleased if you give my sister a reputation."

"My reputation is already one that most men find distasteful," Athanasia informed her brother cheekily, "So nobody would believe it anyway. And if they did I willingly offer myself for a test of virtue."

Axel laughed at the thought of ruining this girl's innocence before their wedding night; the women in Balany could be killed for loosing their virginity before marriage, and a Princess is not exempt from such a law. In reality it was a serious situation, but on his honour he would do what was right. "Waiting for such a delectable young Lady will be worth it," Axel explained with a kiss to her hand and contrary to his words, a heated expression clearly designed to ignite passion within her.

"I will count the hours until then," she responded with a flush of heat to her cheeks. The two walked out arm in arm leaving an envious Castor behind.



The walk to Athanasia's boudoir was slow and languid and almost silent if it were not for the directions the Princess gave her companion. The door to her room was solid; as she discovered when Axel waited for the hall to empty of occupants and pressed her up against it crushing his lips against hers. Athanasia surrendered immediately, whimpering at the shear strength he extruded through his touch. Athanasia felt the familiar heat burning between her thighs and was sure that the way he rubbed his own desire against her would leave a damp stain on the fabric of her dress. This was pay back for teasing him on the balcony before; she was in for a rough night.

Axel cursed himself for the hunger he felt for her, she will be his, and that thought alone was enough to drive his lust forward. She did start it, thrusting her hips into his; awakening his primal need to claim her the way the gods of old demanded. He needed to touch her skin, to feel her naked body against his, but it will have to wait until their wedding night and that was yet to be determined. With a groan the knight released her lips and sighed, "I should demand a wedding this very night."

"Jelena would not like that," Athanasia panted. "I promised her that she would stand with me." She giggled, "And I would not like to displease the future Queen of Balany."

Her smile took his breath away and before he knew it, he had captured it again with his ravenous mouth with all the passion only a man of common birth could feel. Athanasia was lifted off the ground by his strong arms and her legs locked around his waist, feeling the full length of his masculinity teasing her intimately with forceful thrusts. Axel took advantage of her now exposed leg clad in the finest silk stocking of all the Kingdoms, he ran his hand up from her knee to the soft, yet firm curve of her royal bottom which was also covered in silk. "You are the image of temptation," he mumbled between kisses that covered her face and throat, "Ambrosial sin in the flesh."

His hard sword of flesh hit her in just the right way, colliding with the petite button that had come out of its hiding place. She bit her lip hard to prevent her cries from notifying others that could be in the area to the pleasure he gave her, but the soft groans in her throat diminished all her efforts. Axel grinned as he continued to kiss her sensually down her neck, he knew what he did was cutting it close, he could feel his own need for release hanging in the distance that would need to be dealt with after his good night kiss to Athanasia was complete.

The Princess could not believe the exquisite sensations running through her, unlike her Jelena's tongue, Axel was hard and so very forceful that her body cried for more, her legs trembled with the oncoming peak of ecstasy. He was relentless in his efforts, pushing her ever closer to her delicious end. A few more moments of his luscious assault and she exploded with lights sparkling before her eyes and a wonderful warmth spread from her recently pleasured feminine cove to her fingertips. Her body relaxed against the Knight who was grinning, clearly pleased with himself for what he caused to happen. His muscled arms wrapped around her and stroked her hair, "That is, but a taste of what is to come," he whispered hotly in her ear, this resulted in another tremble to wrack her body.

"You test my determination to hold myself true," she responded eventually as her heart beat settled, "That was incredible." She gasped as she felt his hand slide down under her silk coverings to the now soaked lips of her womanhood and explore around, "Oh goddess help me!" She slowly rocked against his hand, feeding it more with the fluid he milked from her.

"Yes," he cooed. "Flow like a river for me." This was different, his fingers found the hidden treasure within her and rubbed firmly, and the feeling was otherworldly, triggering her muscles to move in a way she was not use to.

"Axel," she hummed, "What are you doing?" Her answer was an amused chuckle, "Do not tease me, please," she begged whining in desperation as he pulled her towards another blissful release.

"Just let go," his words were the catalyst and she again erupted in ecstasy, gushing with the force of raging rapids, covering his hand with the honey she provided. Her body gave out when he extracted his devious hand and tasted her offering, "Sweeter and more intoxicating than the best wine." He offered her a taste which she already knew; she had tasted it on the lips of Jelena as they kissed. She knew she had to play along with his little game which was quite a lot of fun. Slowly she opened her mouth and tentatively licked his finger, watching his smile grow as her tongue connected, "Good night Princess." He gave her one last kiss, lowering her back to the ground and walked away.



Castor gave Axel a knowing smile as he walked back into the room and sat down, "You have been officially announced," Castor informed him. "Needless to say father is displeased that his plan to marry Athanasia off to Baldassare has fallen through and the Galnoan King is nowhere to be found."

"Has he returned to his room?" Axel asked, shifting to ease the discomfort his little tryst with the Princess had caused.

"No," Castor's eyes focused on Axel's adjustments. "My sister's good night kiss that pleasing?" Instead of a disgruntled frown on the Prince's face, an amused smirk graced his features, "She is a lucky Lady to have such a well endowed man to lay beside her at night." The Prince scrutinised the bulge in the front of the Knight's tights, "I confess; I am jealous."

"Do not be," Axel chuckled, "I find it more of a hindrance."

"How so?"

"Men are envious and women pursue what they believe to be the ultimate bliss only to find that it is too much to handle," he sobered a little at the mirth. "Then they hit you for being so large."

"Well," Castor took one last look. "I do hope you do not injure my sister when the inevitable wedding night commences, it could seriously reduce your chance of producing an heir." He took up his wine again, "Do you need accommodation for the evening?"

"I do," he adjusted himself again as the arousal Athanasia had inspired had not receded. "A private place to take care of my current problem would be preferred."

Castor's mind ticked away for only a fraction of a second when he answered, "I have the perfect place."

Axel chanced a glance at Castor, "Dare I ask?"

"I believe it will help you in your current predicament," The Prince boldly groped the Knight's groin. "I'll reduce that nasty swelling," he whispered.

Axel felt more pressure than before, what was it about the royal family of Balany that aroused his desires? "Are you capable, your Grace?" His curiosity piqued at the nonchalant shrug the Prince gave.

"You will just have to wait and see."



Athanasia had been left with the feeling of her skin crawling with need, she needed Jelena's touch, but she would be happy with Axel's too. A naughty thought crossed her mind involving both in acts that could get them all executed, but that only made the thought more enticing.

Heat exploded between her thighs and moisture gathered like the spring rains around the mountains, she needed the touch of another, but she only had herself. With a frustrated sigh she slid her hand down under her nightgown to the slippery opening within the foliage of black curls, seeking the hardened and already sensitive button. Her skilled finger teased her flesh which had been awakened by Axel, swirling around slowly, so as not to end the sublime arousal she experienced.

She let her imagination take over, she wanted to feel her Jelena's tongue ravishing her feminine cove and Axel's body pinning her to her bed. She wanted to burry her face between Jelena's thighs as Axel pounds into her with reckless abandon, heightened her pleasure to new levels. For the first time in her life she wanted to feel a man along with a woman, she would jest with Jelena about the two of them sharing Athanasia's husband, now she wanted it! Demanded it!

Letting her fingers to enter her enough to feel the virginal opening pulling tight, she wanted Axel to be causing that pressure, she wanted Jelena to kiss it better once her future husband's duty was done. Her thumb flicking rapidly against her pearl, she cried out loudly as the pent up pressure of her day released, pulsating rhythmically around her fingers and flowing over them. She clamped her mouth with her free hand feeling embarrassed at the sound she made. She had always managed to keep quiet when Jelena pleasured her and Jelena was equally controlled, what had happened there scared her.

She rolled onto her side; now that her lust was subsiding she felt guilt. Jelena was sick and she had done something very selfish. Whatever had come over her friend and lover was worrying, but Athanasia would have to wait until the morning to see if Jelena was alright. She hoped that in the morning, everything will be like it was before.



The night wound down and Prince Castor was the one who had to wish all the guests a good night. His fatigue showing with large yawns and long blinks. His only concession being that his new friend Sir Axel stood with him. "Are all royal functions so tedious?" The Knight asked casually.

"Unfortunately," Castor answered with a subtle laugh, "Your wedding will be nearly as bad as mine will be."

"I've never seen a royal wedding before," Axel commented casually. "What are they like?"

"Ever seen a play in a theatre?" Castor enquired in kind, "Ones with all the fireworks and acrobatics?"

"Yes," Axel replied, curious as to where the Prince was going with his questions.

"They look chaotic, do they not?"

"They do."

"They are positively calm and organised in comparison to a royal wedding."

Axel's eyes bulged with fear, "I never knew they would be so hectic!"

"And if you are to believe our father, it never stops." He added jovially.

"My parents are very happy together," Axel informed Castor. "They grew up together and married as soon as they could. I am one of fifteen children."

"And which is your ranking?" The Prince enquired.

"Eighth," Axel shrugged his shoulders to display the commonality of the high number of children.

"Among your brothers?" Castor could not stop smiling.

"Eighth," he repeated.

"Hmph," Castor gave a chuckle, "Male dominant family."

"Yes, much to my father's pleasure," Axel gave Castor a smile, "Runs in the family. All bar one is male; my baby sister is the only girl."

"Fourteen older brothers to keep unwanted attentions at a distance, I bet your sister must have hated you."

"My father was pleased that she had no male contact, but his rule of not until she's thirty won't happen. When I was last with them she had a potential suitor who looked like a little lost puppy around her."

The two chuckled and turned to leave the grand hall. The passages to the Crown Prince's room were cold and drafty, the growing blizzard outside adding to the chill. "The maid had better have lit the fire in the room," Castor mumbled as he opened the door. 

"You're in luck," Axel shrugged and sat on the bed. "Someone will keep their job for now."

Castor closed and locked the door behind him. "It was most likely Laetitia, and she has been very attentive to my needs for years." The Prince chuckled softly, "Well nearly."

Axel shifted nervously at the inflection of the Prince's tone; they were not constrained by the urgency to get to the celebration. It was not like he did not want to be here with the Prince, it was the unknown that frightened him. Castor sat next to him, he too was nervous.

"Axel," the Prince spoke softly, dropping all the confidence he had before. "I am torn," he confessed, "Up until this morning, I knew in my heart that I loved Jelena and no other." His eyes stared out into the room, directionless and unfocused. "Then I saw you and I don't know anymore."

"You still love Jelena?"

"I do, but ..." Castor looked at Axel and sighed, "Now I cannot see my future without you in it."

"I am to marry your sister," The Knight spoke as quietly. "I will be in your future."

"I want you to be more than just my brother," he reached out and touched Axel's cheek. "I feel selfish to want you when Jelena is sick."

"You will see her in the morning," Axel touched the Prince's hand. "And we have the picnic to look forward to."

Castor leaned in and gave the Knight a chaste kiss to the lips. "Come, let us rest for the morrow." He stood and began to undress quietly. He looked distracted as he threw his clothing over the back of a chair.

Axel joined him by stripping down to his undergarments and climbing into bed. "Castor," he called. "You look agitated."

Castor had not realised he was pacing once he was ready for sleep. "I'm sorry. I have so much running through my mind." He sat on the edge of the bed and sighed, running his fingers through his hair, "Jelena looked more fearful of my affection, and you were not that different." He gave dry laugh, "I'm not use to having people hesitant of my attentions."

Axel touched the Prince's arm, "I'm not offering my body to you, but please lay down and rest, we will have a memorable day tomorrow, and I will see you laugh sincerely about your current mood." Castor complied and laid back, resting his head on the feather pillow. Axel began to comb his fingers through the Prince's hair, "My mother use to do this for me when I was upset."

Castor felt the stress ease in his mind. "Thank you," he mumbled. He felt Axel crawl in behind him for warmth, after a short while his arm wrapped around the Prince's waist. Whether the move was conscious or not, Castor felt at ease. It was not about desire, but simple affection between friends.



Athanasia awoke in a cold room; it was a new experience for her. "Jelena?" She called out sleepily, "Are you there?" She heard no reply. The Princess sat up and looked around to find the room empty, the curtains closed, and the fire a smouldering pile of ash. She kicked the covers back and quickly regretted it, the icy air chilling her to the bone.

She reached for a shawl and inspected the fireplace; the pile of wood was untouched from the night before. Picking up a piece, she tossed it into the hearth, kicking up a puff of ash. The fine particles tickled Athanasia's nose causing her to sneeze. Rubbing her nose indignantly and glared at the offending dust. She waited for the fire to spark up again, when nothing happened she tried another piece of wood; still nothing.

Giving up on any hope of warmth from the fire she went to her wardrobe and extracted some clothing. If she thought the fire was a hassle, dressing would prove to be near on impossible. "How does Jelena do it?" she asked herself, holding up her petticoat by the ties. She rattled her brain, trying to remember the details of dressing rather than the conversation she would usually have. Taking a guess, she stepped into the smaller of the two distinct openings, tying the cords together in a messy knot. "I don't remember her doing it at the front," she mumbled to herself. She began to twist it around to the back.

After the effort of donning her petticoat, she reached for her bodice and groaned at the laces up the back, "You must jest," she examined the garment, silently cursing the construction of ladies clothing. Slipping it over her head and pulling the cords, her movements were awkward and frustrating. Another great length of time passed when she finally tied off the laces. It was then she noticed her chemise, she had forgotten to put it on. Contemplating the struggle of putting the petticoat and bodice on she decided not to worry about the chemise and moved to one of her day dresses.

The prospect of throwing a brightly coloured dress on did not seem hard, until the dress she picked up fell into four parts. She sighed heavily, tempted to just go back to bed. Picking the skirt off the floor, she pulled it over her head. Wrestling with the fabric she found the waist band and wriggled it into place, fastening the toggles. Next came the top part of the dress, the sleeves had come away from the rest of it and the whole lot looked like a mess. Plopping onto the side of her bed she began to thread the laces that held the sleeves in place, she had no plan for the pattern of the lace as she did not care any more. The task took next to no time once she gave up caring; she threw the top on without ceremony and focused on the next task, her appearance.




Princess Charming Ch. 03



"I care not what I look like any more," she cursed, brushing her hair with the ferocity a warrior would throw into battle, "I will be fine once I check on Jelena and see she is fine, then," she laughed bitterly, "Then she will help me sort this mess out." tossing the brush down, she walked out of her room and straight towards Jelena's room. "Please be alright."



The carriage felt warm from the magical flame Baldassare conjured up, he could not let his treasure freeze in the winter cold. He spent the entire night watching her sleep in the subtle light of the flame and now with the morning sun peaking over the eastern mountains; her face was bathed in the golden light, her skin glowing beautifully. "She may not have been what I planned for," he commented to himself. "But in my arms I hold the most beautiful creature ever to have been born to this realm." He brushed her hair away from her eyes tenderly, "You will love me, Lady Jelena," he placed a light kiss on her cheek. "And you will be my Queen. We will create a haven for all those with our gift and we will be happy."

She stirred, shifting her position for more comfort. She mumbled something unintelligible and sighed, drifting back into deep sleep.

The Galnoan King smiled, he was sure she would bring more favour to him amongst the non-magical community who refused to leave when he took power, a gentle Queen should make them happy. His thoughts turned to something more personal in nature, he wanted to unlock her magic and conceive his heir as soon as he possibly could. He let his hand drift to one of her breasts, barely contained under her bed clothes; they were firm and plump, unlike his original target. The Princess had a body that was too, well, more masculine. Jelena's body had all the feminine curves Baldassare loved and he could not wait to explore more of them. He brushed his fingers over her sensitive nipple, feeling it harden under the lightest of pressure. Yes, he would enjoy bringing pleasure to Jelena; if she was so responsive when asleep what would she be like when she was awake? He repeated his motion, this time rewarded with a soft moan.

He pulled the neck tie around Jelena's neck and slipped his hand underneath. Her skin felt warmer than the average woman's, her magical heritage giving her internal furnace a hotter setting. Baldassare revelled in the softness of her flesh, her golden skin so smooth and welcoming that he could not help, but touch her.

"Sire," the coachman called from his position next to the driver, "We approach the fresh horses."

"Thank you," he huffed in response, taking his hand back out from Jelena's night shirt. He would not let the men he travelled with touch his bride-to-be, he would sooner kill her, than let another touch her ever again. If he could he would not even let her awaiting Ladies-in-waiting to touch her but he could not run a Kingdom and care for Jelena's every wish at the same time.

The carriage came to a halt and the King gently exited the vehicle with Jelena in his arms. He stood in the snow as they harnessed the fresh horses to the carriage; they looked to be ready to bolt at the smallest of triggers. He checked his woman again when he felt her huddle closer to him when the wind picked up. He had no idea who she thought she was with, but he lavished in the small movement. One day soon she could sleep in his arms for all the warmth she could ever want.

He did not see the driver approach him until the man stood at attention, "Sire," the driver startled the sorcerer out of his musings. "We were wondering when we could stop for a rest and some food?" The tremor in his voice indicated the fear of retribution for the request.

Baldassare smiled, he could not loose his temper no matter how much it would normally infuriate him for being disturbed, this young woman gave him a calm he had not expected. "We will stop at the next town for a few hours for food and sleep," he dismissed the driver with a nod. The driver thanked him and hurried the work so they could be on their way.

The exchange was completed and the King with his sleeping beauty boarded the carriage once again and the party took off at great speed.



Athanasia tapped lightly on Jelena's bedroom door, "Jelena?" She called softly so she would not draw the attention of the other women in the wing. No answer. She opened the door and slipped inside, closing the door behind her. "Jelena?" She called again, "Come on sleepy bones, I need you." The Princess stepped closer to the bed, "You will laugh when you see what a mess I've made of myself," she sat down and instantly noticed something was wrong. There was no movement from Jelena at all. Athanasia pulled the covers back to find a pile of pillows where her Lady-in-waiting should have been.

Her heart felt like it had stopped, where was Jelena? Trembling she rose from the mattress and headed for the door, each step increasing in speed until she was racing from the room and straight to the throne room where her father was pacing angrily.

"Have you heard?" He growled at his daughter when she entered.

"I just found out," she answered her father, "Who would do such a thing?"

"He is as rude as he is untrustworthy," he snapped as he turned on the spot.

"Who?" Athanasia did not understand who her father was talking about.

"King Baldassare of Galnoa," he seethed. "He vanished over night."

"He must have taken Jelena!" She cried, "We must go rescue her!"

The King's temper seemed to abate at the news, "He took your Lady-in-waiting?"

"And Castor's bride," she added, her expression screaming with worry.

"At least there is something positive to come out of this," Talus sat in his throne for the first time since learning of Baldassare's disappearance. "What has happened to you?"

The Princess glared at her father, "Jelena's was taken and I had to dress myself," she snarled through her teeth, "And what do you mean that something positive to happen with my beloved friend abducted?"

"She was the youngest daughter of a count," he explained, "Not noble enough for a crown Prince."

"He loves her," she argued. "How can you just dismiss her like that?"

He looked at his daughter with annoyance, "Your brother must marry someone worthy of his station, a Princess from another Kingdom."

"And what of Jelena?" Athanasia nearly did not want to ask, but she must know. "What would have happened to her?"

A grin filled with malice grew slowly across the Kings face, "I would have had one of my men take her innocence rendering her a whore and forever out of reach of your brother."

The Princess felt sick, "You would have condemned her to death to stop Castor from marrying her? Why not just refuse your consent?"

"We both know your brother would go behind my back," he gave a dismissive wave, "No, better to deal with a problem head on rather than dealing with the consequences of an elopement of the heir."

"So you are content to leave Jelena in the hands of a tyrant just so Castor can not marry her?" She asked rhetorically, tears forming uncontrollably in her eyes.

"It would easier if she just remained far from here," the King relaxed. "It would save any ... drastic problem solving."

Athanasia nodded and left, refusing to look at her father ever again unless it was to put a blade in his belly, she was livid at her father's disregard of her friend.



Athanasia slams the door behind her in the pure rage she was consumed by. Her fury filled her being as she opened her wardrobe and pushed aside the panel that lead to her secret escape. Only a day ago she had brought her lover to bliss and now she was on her way to Galnoa for whatever the King planned for her. The man was an enigma and why he would take Jelena was a mystery. Not a mystery, Athanasia remembered Jelena's magical talent, but wondered why a witch with moderate power at best could attract his attention.

She burst out of the castle and headed to the blacksmith's, she had a plan forming and it involved her rescuing Jelena. "Elric? Minerva?" She called urgently from the workshop door.

The place appeared to be deserted at first, however the agitated voice from up stairs, "Is there any reason you are here so early in the day?" Minerva called.

"Jelena's has been kidnapped," Athanasia choked out, despair finally taking hold, "Taken by King Baldassare."

Minerva ran downstairs in nothing but a blanket covering her nakedness, "Good heavens!" She cried, "We will be down in a minute, dearie."

The Princess heard the mature couple hurrying to dress and discussing the news of Jelena's abduction, nothing clear could be heard, but the anger could easily be heard in the hushed voices chattering back and forth. Eventually Elric emerged in his work clothes, "What's happened?"

Athanasia told him the whole story, her friend's abduction, her father's apathy, and his original plan to have Jelena raped just to prevent Castor from marrying her. "...so now I am going to go rescue her."

Elric's expression spoke volumes, "You're a Princess," he explained slowly, "Not a warrior."

"Agathon wanted me to train to protect myself," she retorted, "I have spent nearly a decade learning how to wield a sword amongst other weapons. And you," she pointed to emphasise her point. "Fulfilled your promise to your son by making that armour for me."

"You were only to use it in case of emergencies," he argued.

"This is an emergency," Athanasia yelled, fighting to keep her tears at bay. "And the longer we stay here arguing about it the further away Jelena gets and the more danger she is in!"

They stood there staring at each other, silently challenging each other until Minerva joined them, "You won't prevent her from going, Elric," she softly spoke. "She will not lose another lover, you know that."

The blacksmith closed his eyes in defeat, "Come with me, Athanasia." Walking into the storage room, they stood looking up at the armour Elric had made. He reached for it and pulled his hand quickly away, "I don't believe it!" He cried, "It's still warm!"

Athanasia boldly reached out and touched the white and gold armour. "I hope it stays that way," she said dryly, "I hate the cold." Without waiting she began to remove the clothing she wore, slicing through the ties she knotted earlier with one of the knives from her kit.

"You ruined your dress," Minerva commented sadly.

"I have no use for it anymore," the Princess stated, tearing the fabric from her in disgust, "Now, how do I put this on?"

The middle aged couple helped Athanasia put the armour on, explaining how to tie it correctly. The padded leather under-armour was simple enough, the soft hide hugging her form comfortably before the chain-mail was added. The weight pulled on her shoulders, but the Princess wore it without complaint. Then the final plate armour was placed over the top and the weapons strapped in their appropriate and efficient positions. Finally, Minerva braided Athanasia's hair to keep it out of the way. "I will make a pack for you with supplies for a week in it," the gentlewoman smiled, "After that you will need to fend for yourself."

"Thank you," Athanasia hugged the older woman. "I will return, you will see." Minerva shuffled off and began packing one of Agathon's old packs with all the essentials she would need on her journey.

"Do you have a horse?" Elric asked her, "You won't get far without one."

"I will take my horse from the stables," Athanasia announced, committed to her goal.

Minerva returned with the pack, "There is some bread and dried fruit and meat in there along with a couple of flint stones for a fire, you will need to take care of everything else yourself I'm afraid."

She gave them one last hug and left.

"I worry for her, Minerva," Elric sighed.

"Me too, Elric," Minerva fell into her husband's arms and sobbed.



It was not hard to sneak into the royal stables, with a snow storm moving in, all the stable hands had moved up into the loft where they were better protected. Athanasia simply walked in, snatched a purse of coins that hung from a nail on a post near the entrance. She had watched the stable hands prepare her horse many times so she was confident she could do it, at least better than she could prepare herself.

Finding the saddle proved to be more difficult than she anticipated; the saddles all looked the same and were stored along the far wall near the fire place along with the bridles, stirrups, and blankets. She remembered her blanket was a crimson and gold one but there were several that had that description hanging on the wall. Losing her temper she just took the first one she could reach along with each part of the ensemble for her horse, Eder.

Now standing at her horse's stall she realised that it would be just as difficult to prepare him as it was to dress that morning. "Eder," she warned the horse. "I am going to dress you today and we will be going for a very long ride." She closed the gate behind her and approached the beast. He danced away from her as she stepped up to him with the bridle. He snorted at her. "Eder!" She chided the horse, "I need to put this on you now!" She tried to keep her voice down so as not to draw attention to her actions. "Come here and do as you're told!"

The horse stayed still and let her put the bridle on. "Good boy," she praised him, stroking his mane, "That bastard sorcerer of Galnoa has taken Jelena and we are going to get her back." The horse nodded as though agreeing with her. He remained still as she finished up saddling him, having to correct herself a few times, but eventually got it.

Holding the reins in her hand, she guided the horse out into the yard where she mounted him. The snow was beginning to fall, but it seemed to avoid her, visibly parting and going around her. "Strange," Athanasia mused aloud before making her way out of the castle walls through the main gate. No one stopped her, nor did they acknowledge her, the guards were more focused on the fires they huddled around to keep warm.

Feeling more confident in her actions with each passing minute, she pointed Eder towards the Great North Road and kicked him into a gallop.



Castor felt the warm breath caressing just below his ear, it was slow, and steady indicating its owner still slumbered. Sir Axel still held the Prince in his arms, the Prince's back pressed into the Knight's chest. Castor could feel the hard ridge of Axel's morning glory which under normal circumstances would have unnerved him, but for some reason he found it more amusing.

Axel shuffled slightly and began to snore, it was too much for Castor who elbowed him in the ribs, "Wake up good Knight," Castor teased. "The morrow has come, and it is a good day."

He waited for a response when Axel sighed, "Then why do I feel a chill?"

Castor laughed. "Should that not have the reverse reaction then?" He gave a slight wriggle to his hips to point out his hardened flesh.

"Perhaps I had a good dream," Axel replied cryptically and flung the covers back to sit up. "I will stoke the fire for you, my lord." Naked he swaggered to the hearth and placed some kindling on the smouldering embers. With the poker he teased the fire back into existence then placed more fuel on it. "Is that to your liking Sire?"

Castor had watched the Knight's every move, feeling his own morning arousal bobbing with satisfaction. The thought occurred to him that if they were discovered in such a way it could mean dire consequences for the both of them. "Is the lock in place?" Castor asked.

"Yes," Axel answered, looking over to the door to see the large barricade slotted against it. "If it were not I suspect that the servants would have entered and stoked the fire during the night."

The Prince smiled at the Knight's logic; however, he had more important things on his mind, "We are probably late for our picnic."

Axel moved to the window and opened the shutters; the snow had caked up around the glass pane with only a small patch to see through. "I think we will have to reschedule," he stepped aside for the Prince to see the blizzard growing outside.

"I hope the girls are not too disappointed," Castor sighed and sat up. "We'll meet them in the dining room and choose something else to do." The memory of Jelena's illness surfaced and Castor felt guilty, "Do you think Jelena would be feeling better?"

The Knight sat beside him, "I think she will be feeling better after a good night sleep." He sighed loudly, "I believe we must hurry, although it is dark outside, I think the blizzard is blocking the sun."

Castor gave a mock shudder, "I do not wish to upset that volatile sister of mine." They laughed and dressed before readying to leave the room, "I will see if Jelena is up."

"Alright," Axel gave the Prince a slight bow, "I will see you in the dining hall." They shook hands and parted ways.



Castor tried not to run to Jelena's room, he felt like a young child racing to the pile of birthday gifts waiting for him. Jelena had always felt so unreachable with her constantly at his sister's side and never making eye contact with anyone other than Athanasia. He had spent too many years watching her selflessly aide his sister in every venture Athanasia ever endeavoured. She was the perfect image the future Queen of Balany should be.

He rounded the corner to see her bedroom door wide open and the bustling of the castle servants fussing over the contents of Jelena's room. "What is going on here?" He demanded.

"The harlot has run away with the King of Galnoa," one of the women gleefully informed the Prince. "Now we get all her stuff!"

"I order everything to be placed back where it was," Castor growled. "She would not have left with King Baldassare, not willingly." His glare broached no argument.

"We are only following your father's orders," the woman bowed. "I will make sure everything is put back." She scurried into the room and began barking orders at the others.

Anger and panic filled Castor's heart; his Jelena was missing and apparently taken by the Galnoan usurper. His father was under the impression that she went willingly with the bastard, he would discuss this problem with him and organise her rescue.



Axel had tried the dining hall, the main hall, and the throne room, but had not found the Princess anywhere. The thought occurred to him that she was still in bed, the desire from the night before returned with vengeance. His arousal nearly crippling him, but he was determined to see if he was correct in his assumption.

Climbing the stairs to the next level he retraced his path to her room where he found the door closed. Rapping softly he tried to gain her attention. "Dearest?" He called, "Are you up?" He tested the door to see if it was open. Luck appeared to be with him when the door gave way to the cold room. Laughing he walked over to the fire to bring it back to life. The pile of fresh timber in the ash told him that Athanasia had already tried and failed. He staked the kindling around the wood and reached for the flint on the mantle piece, letting the sparks catch and ignite the straw. As the fire grew he turned to see the curtains around the bed still drawn.

He stepped up to the bed and pulled the fabric back. "Rise, and shine, beautiful," his smile fell from his face when he found the bed empty and in a state of disarray. It was then he saw through the door to her dressing room, the door of the wardrobe ajar and what looked like a dress sticking out. Axel gave it a quick look to see if she was in there, but found it too was empty.

Disappointed he stepped out into the hall and made his way to the main hall, hoping to find that his Princess had made it there since he last checked only to find Castor marching down the stairs, his face livid.




Princess Charming Ch. 03



"You're Grace," Axel called out to gain his attention, "What vexes thee this morn?"

Castor halted in his tracks, "Jelena is taken by that warlock Baldassare!"

"Can you be sure?" The Knight asked. "Is she not with your sister, they are quite inseparable."

"I would believe that if I had not been told by the castle staff that my father has declared that her property is up for the taking," he punched the palm of his hand in anger. "I will get her back regardless of the cost."

Axel watched his friend throw open the throne room doors and slam them behind him.



Talus sat on his throne still seething from his daughter's outburst about a lowly Lady-in-waiting whose social status barely stands above commoner. Trying to take his mind off his anger he focused in on the naturally polished wood of his throne from generations of Kings' hands rubbing over the arms in frustration, anxiety or whatever reason they had to do so. He suspected his wayward daughter to have gone straight to her brother to inform him of Jelena's disappearance and he too would demand an army to retrieve the power seeking whore. Any second now his eldest son will come in with a face red with rage and yelling for an explanation. King Talus had been going over a way to explain to his son that the young woman went willingly and clearly was not suited to the position of crown Princess when he heard the thunderous crash of the large doors indicating Castor's arrival. "I know why you are here my son," the King sighed. "Before you start I explained the same thing to your sister that Jelena went willingly with King Baldassare and anything else is just a fabrication."

"I care not for your feeble excuses," Castor sneered at his father. "Either you give the order to retrieve my bride, or I will."

Talus struggled to hold back his grin. "I forbid it," his answer was final.

"You would deny me my bride?" Castor asked, containing his anger so as not to launch himself at the King and strangle him.

"I would protect Balany from a woman who so easily gave herself to a King from another country," he watched his son glare at him but Castor said nothing. "I would want someone worthy of you to be your bride."

Castor nodded and turned on his heals, leaving in the same manner he arrived with doors slamming loudly so they could be heard throughout the castle.



Sir Axel jumped at the second echo of the large oak doors colliding with the frame in which they sat. The Prince looked angrier than he had been when he entered the throne room. Not waiting to be addressed the Knight spoke, "Your father ignored your plea," there was no askance in his voice, he had heard most of the conversation as he waited.

"He forbids me to order her rescue," Castor felt defeated, his heart breaking more with each passing second. "She is lost to me and I cannot fight it." He could not stand in such a public place for much longer as his despair grew. He left the main hall, refusing to make eye contact with anyone as his eyes threatened to spill the tears that formed rapidly.

Axel followed, he wanted to comfort his friend, but he also wanted to find his Princess. Triage stated that he help the Prince as he was already there, he silently asked forgiveness to his absent fiancée and picked up his pace. They silently returned to the Prince's room where the door was bolted shut once they were safely inside.

"He never intended to let me have Jelena as my wife," Castor finally spoke, leaning against the side of the hearth. "What devious plan had he concocted to get Baldassare to take her out of my reach I will never know," he wiped the tears from his face. "I will never marry if I cannot have her. I will die with a broken heart, bitter and alone."

Axel waited for his friend to ask the question that he was waiting for upon learning of Jelena's disappearance. When the question did not come after several awkward minutes of silence the Knight took it upon himself to offer. "I will bring her to you," Axel declared. "Please beg my forgiveness from the beautiful Athanasia, but I cannot stand by and watch you fall into despair when I will be joyous with the hand of your sister."

"I was told to order no one to rescue her," Castor spoke brokenly, "I will not risk your new position in our Kingdom for my happiness."

"I recall no order from you my Prince," Axel said matter-of-factly, "The King has not ordered me to stay."

"Indeed," Castor confirmed with a small glimmer of hope taking shape in his pain filled heart. "You will need to move quickly before my father decides to socialise with his newly appointed Duke."

"I leave immediately," the Knight changed into his armour and slipped from the castle.

As a Knight, Axel knew how to travel light, he entered the stables to collect his horse and travel pack. He also had his bow and quiver of arrows with him, which he used for hunting to save on carrying food supplies. He saddled his horse in the stall and began to walk it out when he noticed one of the horses was missing, he made a mental note and moved on.

In the courtyard, the snow was coming down heavily with the wind gaining in intensity. He had travelled in conditions like this before, sometimes worse conditions, but he had made a commitment to Prince Castor and he would not return until Jelena is safely out of Galnoa.



Castor felt guilty for a couple of reasons, first and foremost was the fact he could not rescue Jelena himself, the second was how was he to tell his sister that her betrothed had gone to rescue Jelena, postponing any celebration to formally announce her engagement.

He did not want to leave the room until he had composed himself, it would not be good if the heir to the Balany throne was caught crying, and the show of weakness would open him to others challenging him for the crown, particularly his brothers and cousins. If he was told a day ago he would be so fragile he would have laughed at the person but now he feared the ridicule.

The thought of hiding for the rest of the day was still very appealing, however he owed it to Sir Axel and his sister to emerge and smooth things over for them. Athanasia was a temperamental young woman and if she discovered her fiancé was missing before he had a chance to talk to her it could set all the progress from the night before back to where she usually sat; a royal spinster refusing to marry.

Checking his eyes in the mirror to see if they were clear he moved to the door and opened it. The hall was empty so he slowly walked to the library, where his sister spent the days during unfavourable weather. He hoped that he would not run into his mother, the woman never smiled and it was that kind of person he needed to avoid at present, her continuous depression dragged down all those around her.

In the library he found the exact person he was hoping to avoid, his mother. The Queen was a thin, morose woman; she would always sigh dejectedly when in conversation with someone. She was a Princess from the Kingdom of Volgard, a country to the south where the climate was warm for most of the year. From what he had heard from his entourage of carers and guards, his mother had been displeased with the match her father had devised and lost all joy from her life. "Mother," he greeted her politely, "Sleep well?"

"I have not slept well for nearly thirty years," she replied dryly. "I have heard of Jelena's departure, I am sorry to hear it. I liked the girl."

Castor took several deep breaths to stave off the melancholy he struggled with, "I would like to talk about someone else, have you seen Athanasia?"

"Not since last night," the Queen sighed. "She is usually up by now, perhaps she is upset by Jelena's absence."

The Prince rolled his eyes, clearly his mother wanted to talk about Jelena. The topic was not something Castor wanted to broach, especially with his mother. "I must find my sister urgently," he ignored his mother's displeasure at being denied her choice subject, "It is imperative that I find her." He left his mother alone with her Ladies-in-waiting in the library and headed for his sister's room.

There he found the same thing that Axel had seen, the mess, and no Princess. He did not let that stop him; he assumed she had gone off to her hiding place again. Deciding that patience would be the best action he sat down at the dining table in the dining hall.

It did not take long for the kitchen staff to start placing a variety of cooked food and warm mulled wine in front of him. He thanked them politely and ate what his anxiety allowed him to. He had not been there long when one of the King's guards approached; the urgency of the guard's gate told him immediately that something was wrong. "You're Grace," the guard bowed briefly and continued, "Your father the King requires your presence regarding your sister."

"I will go," he stood and offered his chair to the Knight. "Please eat, I would hate to see it go to waste." The guard thanked him and sat down. Castor headed straight to the throne room, he expected to be placed in charge of his sister, keeping her from doing something stupid in light of Jelena's disappearance.

Stepping into the throne room for the second time that day, Castor noted the change in his father's demeanour since earlier. "My son," Talus greeted through clenched teeth. "I have news as to where your sister has been disappearing to." The King gestured to a stoic man in shackles standing with two guards to the side. "This is Elric Smith, one of the city's blacksmiths and he has something rather interesting to say," the King grinned deviously at the smith who fidgeted from side to side.

"You're Grace," the man spoke more formally than one would expect from a simple blacksmith. "I bring news of the Princess; she has taken it upon herself to rescue the Lady Jelena from the sorcerer King."

"Why are you in shackles if you are to only deliver a message?" Castor's question was relevant; he was not surprised by his sister's actions, though the fact that the blacksmith would know such a thing was puzzling.

"His Majesty believes me to have broken the law and I will be punished justly for it," Elric sounded worried, a fact not missed by the Prince.

"Since when has it been illegal to inform the King of a wayward daughter?" Castor asked his father directly.

"I believe him to be aiding your sister in her little adventure," Talus folded his arms. "He will be executed in the morning for this."

"A harsh punishment for an assumption on your part," Castor did not like his father's attitude, "Sir," he now addressed Elric, who now looked pale and scared, "You befriended my sister and her Lady-in-waiting?"

"I did You're Grace," Elric answered truthfully.

"What has she done?" Elric appeared to hesitate, "I will secure your freedom and complete pardon for your cooperation."

King Talus went to yell at his son for going against his orders, but the blacksmith began to talk. "She took a set of armour with a few weapons and left a few hours ago," the smith sighed heavily. "I care for your sister's safety, which is why I risked my neck to let the King know and bring her back."

Castor took the keys from the guards and unlocked the iron bands around Elric's wrists, "I give you my word that you will not be harmed." The Prince gave his father a hardened stare. "He has done nothing wrong, Father; I am letting him go back to his family."

"You defy me?" Talus glared at his son, "My word is final."

"When you start to kill our citizens for your unfounded suspicions, you incite revolution," Castor waited for his father to concede. The two glared at each other until finally the King nodded. "You are wise your Majesty."

"Let the blacksmith go," the King ordered. "And you, my son, will leave immediately to retrieve your sister from this foolishness."

"As you wish," Castor gave his father a respectful bow and left.



The road north was only distinguishable from the lack of trees; the snow storm had covered the usually muddy path. The light had been fading steadily over the last hour or so and now the twilight gave up the last of its light, giving way to the darkness of the night.

Axel had ridden his horse hard for most of the day, his buttocks were sore, his back was sore and he had the beginnings of a headache. His main task now was to find a clearing suitable for the night's camp. He was fortunate that the moon was bright in the sky, giving the Knight just enough light to navigate his way along the road.

In the distance there was a silvery flash, the infrequent pulse of light had his curiosity interested. He quickly decided to investigate the unusual light source. Kicking his horse into a canter he watched the scene come into view, to his surprise the light source was his fiancée, Princess Athanasia. She had not seen him as she cursed loudly, trying to use the flint to light a fire without any straw or hair to catch the spark. The view was humorous from his position; she looked like a fish out of water as she tried ordering the fire pit she built to ignite when she failed to light it herself.

"YOU STUPID SON OF A WHORE!!!!" She screamed at it, kicking the ring of stones surrounding the wood pile in frustration.

"I never expected a Princess to have the mouth of a fishmonger's wife," Axel responded to her rant, announcing his presence, "It's quite erotic."

Athanasia stood dumbfounded at her discovery; Sir Axel had removed his helmet and grinned at her. "How did you find me?" She demanded; her tone fearful of pending retribution from her family.

"Quite by accident," he dismounted his steed, and approached her, "I am here because I offered to rescue your Lady-in-waiting."

"The King is happy she was kidnapped," Athanasia spat bitterly, "How is my brother?"

"He feels her absence keenly," Axel moved closer. "You should return to the castle, I will secure Jelena's freedom and return her to Castor's arms where she belongs." The Princess' flinch was not missed by the Knight but he chose to ignore it. "I searched for you all day," he reached for her hand and pulled her closer. "I was beginning to think you were avoiding me."

"I will not go back to the castle until Jelena is safe," declared the Princess. "I will not turn my back on her." She stopped breathing as Axel caught her lips in a kiss that caught her off guard. He was very happy to find her apparently.

"We are alone out here," he coyly said, pulling away briefly. "I know not how long this quest will take, nor if I will ever return." Athanasia knew the dangers but could not respond as her mouth was occupied. The Knight poured every bit of his affection into his kiss, feeling the Princess melt in his arms spurred him to continue.

"I am a maiden, Sir Knight," Athanasia shrieked as the heat began to fill her belly. "I must remain pure for our wedding night."

His passion filled eyes spoke that one way or the other he was taking what he wanted. "There are other ways to sate our desires without injuring your virtue," he chuckled warmly against her neck. "I gave you a taste of that last night."

Memories of the incredible feelings he gave her desire more power, "Should we not light the fire? Before the cold gets too much to bare."

Axel laughed in earnest now. "Yes, your technique is in need of improvement." He stepped back and pulled out a small bundle of straw and placed it amongst the kindling, striking the flint the spark caught the straw and began to smoulder. He blew on the hot spot until a flame sprung out then pushed it further into the pile of wood and twigs. After a short time the fire was burning nicely. "Would you like me to get us food?" He asked the Princess who just stood there with her mouth agape.

"I believe I have much to learn about travelling light," she finally said. "Yes, please get up some food as I only have enough bread and dried meat and fruit to last me a week."

Axel gave her a parting kiss and took off with his bow in hand.



Castor chose not to take anyone with him as he probably would only travel a day or two at most before he finds his sister. She would probably be thankful to go back home where the fires could keep her warm. He had left within an hour of Axel's departure so he decided to keep going until he caught up with his friend so they could camp together for safety. He was angry at his sister's foolishness and ingenuity, she should have done what she did, and then he could have avoided the stress his father had given him.

He too had ridden his horse hard, but the poor creature struggled in the cold, he chose to slow down to save the horse's hooves and health. He rarely went riding for long distances which was probably the reason why the horse struggled so much, he now wished he had done.

The wind changed direction and began to blow directly from the north, dropping the temperature rapidly. The Prince shivered and wished this all happened during the summer months. The moonlight, though bright, was not sufficient enough to see clearly; in the summer months he would still have a couple of hours of sunlight left. He was thankful that the snowing had stopped.

He pushed on, pulling his cloak around him tightly in a futile attempt to keep warm. He looked up at the clearing sky to gaze upon the stars when a large black shape blocked the moon for a moment then disappeared again, puzzled by the occurrence he dismissed it, choosing to focus on his task. A loud piercing screech broke the night's silence and a blinding flash of flame lit up the surroundings.

"It can't be," he uttered in disbelief, when another flash ignited the forest he kicked his horse into a gallop to where the chaos raged.



Axel returned quickly with two plump rabbits in his hand, he was feeling smug with being able to provide for his fiancé. "The hunt was successful," he boasted, holding his kills for Athanasia to see.

"They have fur still," she informed him, eyeing the dead animals suspiciously.

"You said you needed to learn more," he gave her a kiss on her cheek as he sat next to her by the fire. "I will also show you how to cook them after we skin them." 

The Princess' stomach churned unpleasantly, "Can you just do it this time, and you can teach me the ... practical side of hunting tomorrow?" She looked up at him hopefully.

He could not make her do something she was not ready for. "As you wish," he stood up to move out of her line of sight when he heard an ear splitting screech. Both he and the Princess clamped their hands over their ears. Both felt the ground under their feet shake, Axel fell from the force of the quake, landing on his back, knocking the wind out of him.

"I don't believe it," Athanasia gasped at the sight before her; two great big orbs of gold set into a shiny black reptilian face, "A dragon!"

"Dragon?" Axel stood again, sword in hand, "I thought they were a myth."

The beast inhaled deeply and opened its mouth.



I am working on chapter 4 as you read this (unless my local time in in the middle of the night then I won't be working on it). I do hope everyone enjoyed it :Þ



Princess Charming Ch. 04



I hope this was worth the wait, mum things got in the way but I'm getting back on track now :D

A special thanks to my editor, Jen, without her this probably would have taken longer to write and it would be filled with the most embarrassing spelling and grammar mistakes. 



Chapter 4: Nothing Mythical About That! 

Athanasia dove to the side, avoiding the jet of nacatat flame aimed at her. Her training kicked in and she rolled to her feet, reaching for her sword and shield. Axel lunged at the beast, swinging his blade at the dragon's leg. He felt the full impact of the strike, the force reflecting back up his arm. "Its hide's as hard as ..."

"Dragon Scales!" Athanasia called out, "Nothing can penetrate them."

Axel dodged the razor sharp claws intended for his head. "How do you know that?" He cried out, landing in a snow drift. The creature turned its head towards the Princess, who now had her shield and sword at the ready.

The dragon shot another burst of fire at her; she blocked it with the silvery shield. "I read!" She yelled. The power of the fiery breath hit the near by trees. She tried to remember her lessons, though nothing could have really prepared her to be fighting such a magnificent creature. She knew that apart from the hardness of the scales that the colour indicated how old it was, but her brain reasoned that it did not matter how old the thing was, as it was trying to kill them.

The Knight could not let the dragon harm his woman; he jumped at it to distract it, "Athanasia, RUN!"

"I am not leaving you," she yelled angrily, "You will die if I leave." She threw a stone at the dragon as it raised one of its deadly claws to swipe at Axel's head. The dragon turned and huffed a plume of noxious gas at her. She rolled to the side to avoid the green cloud, the dragon screeched angrily at her evasion. "We need to kill this thing!" She yelled.

"How?" Axel asked angrily, the hopelessness of the battle only served to invigorate his determination, "We cannot penetrate its hide with all those scales in the way!"

"I'm thinking!" She snapped. Their current tactics of distracting the beast so it would not kill the other would not save them for long, eventually they would tire and the dragon would finish what it started. The Dragon howled and attacked the Princess again, swiping its spiked tail at her, knocking her back against a burning tree, the branches crashing down on her in a puff of golden embers.

Axel growled, torn between digging Athanasia out from the burning branches and killing the dragon that caused the situation in the first place. He was distracted enough that the dragon knocked him back into another snow drift. He quickly dug himself out to see the dragon flick the branches away from Athanasia, remarkably she was unharmed. Her tenacity overrode her fear, striking the foot of the creature with her sword and drawing blood. Blood! How did she do it?

Athanasia was just as shocked as Axel was, her blade coated in the bright crimson of the beast's blood. Her eyes bulged in disbelief as she examined the sword, "How ...?"

"Princess!" Axel called, breaking her out of her momentary stupor, "Hit it again!"

"You jest!" She called back holding the sword before her when her eyes met the golden irises of the dragon, "Or not." She sliced at the dragon's eye, hoping to blind it to give them an advantage. She hit her mark, but the victory was short lived. It shook its head, knocking Athanasia off her feet again, her sword flying from her hand.

The sword landed out of Athanasia's reach in a snow drift. The Princess did not see where, but Axel did; he dove for it while the dragon was approaching her. Athanasia scrambled to take her two smaller back up swords. She tossed the shield aside and stood facing the beast with both fury and fear in her eyes. Axel, with Athanasia's sword in hand, jumped onto the creature's back. The Princess watched her fiancé try to stay atop the dragon, she could not watch for long as the dragon attacked at her distraction. She slashed at the gapping maw filled with deadly serrated teeth. If she could distract it from another fiery breath, she would be safe.

"Athanasia!" A distant voice cried.

"Castor?" Athanasia's face dropped.



Castor's eyes must be deceiving him; a gigantic black dragon looked to be ready to eat his sister. "Athanasia!" He called, panicking at his sister's imminent demise.

"Castor?" She sounded surprised to see him.

"Look out!" He dismounted his horse and ran as fast as he could, pushing his sister out of the way as the beast let a blazing plume loose. The flame engulfed him in an instant. Axel saw the dragon was distracted enough for him to slash at its neck. The fiery breath stopped and Castor fell onto the now bare ground.

"What were you thinking Castor?" Athanasia asked her now unconscious brother as she dragged him to the nearest snow drift. The cold shock woke the injured Prince. "Stay here," Athanasia ordered and took off to the fight again.

Axel had bloodied the creature's neck, but had not slowed it down. "How do I kill this blasted thing!" He cried in frustration.

"You need to sever its head from its neck!" Athanasia answered, jumping back into the fight.

"And how do I do that?" He asked between slashes.

"Drive the tip of the sword under the scales and sever the spine," she explained.

"How do you know that?" He questioned.

"I read!" She yelled impatiently, "Now be ready."

"For what?" His answer came as Athanasia dove for the dragon's feet. The dragon bent down to capture her in its jaws; causing the scales on the back of its neck to lift. Knowing what to do, Axel drove the point of the sword in with all his strength, severing the spinal column in one smooth motion. The dragon fell dead with an earth shaking thud.

Athanasia crawled out from the hollow under the dragon's neck, "I knew you could do it," she beamed up at Axel as he climbed down.

"Don't you ever do anything that stupid again!" The Knight scolded her, "What were you thinking?"

"My brother is over there," she pointed to the dark shape in the snow drift, "He is burned to a crisp, but alive."

Axel's heart dropped, he found Castor with his eyes. The Crown Prince was trying to get out of his armour with little success.

Athanasia crouched by his side and helped him. "What are you doing out here?"

Wincing, Castor allowed his sister to aide him out of his armour. It was hot to touch, but the longer it stayed on Castor the more damage would be done. "I was sent to bring you home," He explained as his breast plate fell away from his body.

"I'm not going back until Jelena is safe," she argued.

Castor grunted, he was not as badly injured as he felt; the padding of his armour protected the majority of his body. The right side of his face was another story, it was charred and blistered. "Axel volunteered to rescue her," he ground out through the immense pain he was feeling.

"You did not go yourself?" She shook her head, "One would wonder if you actually loved her at all."

Castor seized her wrist, squeezing it hard. "I was unable to rescue her myself," he snarled. "Our father commanded me to stay and not to order anyone to go in my stead. I believe I now see the man you have always seen, a man who cares only for his own power. However, I also know my place in the kingdom, so I obeyed his decree, but do not take that as a sign that I do not love Jelena!"

Athanasia pulled out of his grasp, "Point taken," she sneered, "But I will not go back with you!"

"You must," Castor stressed, "Father will kill us both if you do not!"

"And how will he know?" The Princess challenged, "Who will tell him?"

Castor's rebuttal died in his throat, she was right. No one in the vicinity would tell the King anything; they were close to the Duchy of Anata, Axel's title, and the people here were not fond of the King. Athanasia pressed some snow wrapped in a silk handkerchief to his burn, jolting him from his thoughts. "Ow!" He cried, the sensation of the ice cooling his burn was a strange one; it relieved the heat, but it hurt in its own way.

His sister smiled warmly at him, "You have decided not to take me back," she spoke as though reading his mind, "Haven't you."

"You know me too well, Athanasia," he gave her a lopsided grin, "And three have a better chance of rescuing Jelena than one."

"I would embrace you if you were not so sore," the Princess patted her brother's arm instead; "We will deal with father upon our return."



Axel had recovered their dinner; remarkably it was only scorched on the outside, still edible. He looked over at the Prince and Princess as they conversed and Athanasia treated Castor's wounds. His heart still pounded from the fight with the dragon, never before had he been so frightened, he nearly lost Athanasia and Castor. He should be over there, helping Athanasia treat Castor's wounds.

He looked around at the now ruined clearing, "We should move," he called out to his companions, "It no longer looks safe here." He pointed to the smouldering trees and debris.

Athanasia looked up, "Castor's hurt so we should get him to the nearest village," she informed him from her brother's side.

"I'll be fine," Castor argued, "I'm just a little tender." He gave both his sister and friend a lopsided smile. "How are the horses?"

Axel had forgotten about them in the heat of the battle, anything could have happened to them. As though reading his mind the three horses waltzed back to the demolished encampment looking bored with the random fires burning near by. "I think they're fine."

Castor's horse wandered closer and sniffed his wounded face. "Leave it," the Prince playfully chastised his mount, slapping the curious nose away.

Axel moved closer, carrying the rabbit that would be their dinner, "I think Athanasia is right," he said upon seeing the burn on Castor's face, "We will head to the nearest village so you may recover." He took advantage of the embers near by and placed the rabbit in them, "But first we eat." Both Castor and Athanasia scrunched their noses up at the remains of the rabbit, but did not complain. Axel laughed at their expressions and shook his head. "I am not letting this rabbit go to waste," Axel explained with a smile on his face, "You have had privilege all your lives, and this is how we commoners think: waste nothing." The Prince and Princess begrudgingly accepted his choice of food. Axel laughed again at their reaction before helping Athanasia tend to Castor's wounds.

Castor whimpered when his shirt was cut away, "That was silk," he complained, not worrying about the large bruises appearing around his torso.

Athanasia averted her eyes at the sight of her brother's bare chest, "Darling," Axel called, "This is no time for modesty; he needs to be checked for injuries."

Castor smiled at Axel's term of endearment for his sister, "Perhaps you should take over, my friend," Castor suggested.

"She needs to learn," Axel said seriously, "I am guessing you are accompanying us in our endeavour to rescue your beloved?"

"No," the Prince began, "Not at first. I was to bring my sister home, however, she refuses to go and I am in no shape to argue." Castor sounded more amused than angry at the outcome. "If only I had been more careful, I would not be the burden I am now."

"You are no burden," Athanasia reassured him; "After we eat that char-grilled rabbit we will get you into a proper bed." She finally looked at the black and purple splotches that covered his body. "By the gods," she blasphemed and gave his ribs an explorative prod.

"Athanasia," Castor moaned as a sharp stabbing pain radiated from the point she touched, "That hurt."

"Sorry," she apologised. Looking up at Axel she queried as to what to do next."

"Stop poking him," Axel explained, "Use the flat of your hand to check how his ribs feel, if it feels bumpy, then they are broken."

She did as instructed and Castor cried out. "You don't press that hard!" He exclaimed in agony.

"Well I established that they are broken," she said a little louder than necessary at her brother. Calming some what she turned to Axel again, "How do we fix them?"

"Are they bumpy?" Axel asked.

"No, but he is very insistent I leave them alone," she replied dryly.

"We bind them firmly with bandages," Axel nearly laughed at the indignant look on both their faces.

"And where would we get said bandages, Sir Knight?" Athanasia asked him arrogantly, placing her hands on her hips.

"In my pack, gorgeous," he replied patronisingly, flicking her nose playfully before getting up to move to his pack.

As he walked away the Princess turned to her brother, "Tell me brother," she began, "Why did you want me to marry him?"

Castor smiled as best he could, "I have my reasons."

"If you want him to control me, you will be disappointed," she quickly argued.

"More like someone I could trust to treat you right," Castor disclosed honestly, looking off into the distance, a shining flicker catching his eye, "We have company."

Athanasia looked in the same direction; her eyes bulged at what came into view. "AXEL!" She cried, pulling her two blades from their scabbards. She stood in front of Castor, ready to protect him if she had to as the two gigantic golden dragons flew towards them.

Axel had just found the bandages when he heard his beloved call, he saw what she did and ran back to them with Athanasia's sword in one hand and a bandage in the other. The two beasts were much larger than the other one, but there was something different about these two, something he could not pin point. Standing with the Princess, they stared wide eyed at the dragons as they landed next to the dead black one. They were unreadable as they appeared to be talking together. "Did you know they could talk?" Axel asked Athanasia.

The dragons both shot their heads around to look at the source of the sound. "No," she answered quickly, adjusting her stance for the impending attack, "Good hearing too it seems."

The dragons stopped and both laughed at her comment. "Yes, we do have good hearing," one said jovially.

"They speak?" Castor asked, "Then why didn't the other one speak?" It was a valid question.

"Canan suffered a great loss," the other dragon spoke, the voice was like thunder and it was assumed by the group that it must be male. "She lost her mate and brood."

"That is no excuse to kill random people," Athanasia argued, much to the displeasure of the others. Axel felt his stomach drop out as he was sure the arrogant Princess had not helped their vulnerable situation.

"No, it is not," the female agreed, "I am Rhetta and this is Tivada, my mate. We were assigned to kill her for her crimes."

"Pleased to meet you," Athanasia gave a courteous bow, "Canan attacked us without provocation while we were settling down for the night." 

"She was dangerous," Tivada spoke again, "She began killing hatchlings, eating them when their parents were not watching." The two dragons sat back on their haunches. "Who delivered the killing blow? And how?" He sounded surprised that a trio of humans could defeat a magical creature like a dragon, particularly a crazed dragon like Canan.

"I did," Axel admitted, "With Athanasia's help."

"Is that the weapon you used?" Rhetta asked him, looking at the sword he still held defensively. "It has dragon blood on it."

"It is," the Knight lowered the sword so they could see it.

The dragons studied the blade with great interest. "It is difficult for two gold dragons to kill a black dragon, but for a human to kill one is unheard of," Tivada uttered as he considered the blade, "The metal is not of this world."

"The blade is nothing without skill," Rhetta added, "You made Canan's death quick, by doing so you showed her a great honour, one she should have given you." She looked at Axel now, "What is your name, my good Knight?"

"Sir Axel Fletcher," he replied.

"Duke of Anata," Castor called out, reminding Axel of his full title.

"Duke of Anata," Axel repeated nervously.

The dragons grinned, "A recent title," Rhetta correctly guessed, "More proof of your gallantry and honour." She stood up and moved to the body of the black dragon, "Come, Sir Axel Fletcher, Duke of Anata."

Doing as he was told, Axel followed the dragon. "Axel," Athanasia stopped him, "Be careful, we just killed one of them; this could be a ruse to enforce justice."

Axel kissed her passionately; if he was going to his death he would taste her mouth one last time. "I will be careful," he reassured her as their lips parted.

Athanasia was breathless and blushing, she turned to see her brother looking away. His wounded side facing her, so she could not see his expression.

Castor did not like seeing Axel kiss his sister in such a way, the way he had done just the day before with the Knight. He would speak with the Knight later, once the dragons had gone.

Axel now stood by the body of Canan with Rhetta. The dragon was tugging scales from the corpse and piling them at her feet. "By our laws, Sir Axel," Rhetta spoke once she finished removing the scales, leaving the dragon's body bare, "The scales must be removed when one of us dies, letting our bodies return to the soil from which we are born." Axel did not understand the sentiment. "Our scales are too hard to turn to soil and they do not burn, normally we give them to the fae, however, you have earned these scales as being the first of your kind to kill a dragon, let alone a black dragon."

"Ah, thank you," he kneeled down and picked up a scale, blood congealing on the ends. He hoped he was not offending the large beast next to him.

"The smell of blood is offensive to you," Rhetta chuckled, "It is calling to the beasts of the forest to come feed."

"Oh, you don't bury or cremate your dead?" Axel could not understand where this was going, Rhetta was talking about returning to the soil, but then she says that the blood calls to the beast of the forest.

"Flesh of the dead gives life to others," She explained, noticing the confusion on his face, "Canan will give life in death where she gave death in life, everything in balance." She turned from the body completely and began walking back. Axel began to pick up the scales, collecting as much as he could to take back to the others.

"You," Tivada addressed Castor, "Canan injured you."

"She did," Castor responded cautiously, "I was saving my sister."

"You will be happy to know your appearance won't be damaged," Rhetta informed him as she approached, "You will also have a higher tolerance of fire now."

The two dragons looked at each other. "We will bid you a good evening," Tivada bowed his head as he spoke, his mate coming to his side. Rhetta did the same and both began to beat their wings and took off into the night sky. The fires around the clearing had died away leaving them in darkness.

A few moments passed as they watched the gold dragons fly away, their scales reflecting the moonlight. "Axel," Athanasia called out, "I'm going to need you to show me how to start a fire again."



If it were not for the pain in his face and body, Castor would have been laughing at his sister's obscenities as she tried to light. Axel wanted to take the flint out of her hands and strike to ignite the kindling, but she would not let him. "I can do it, Axel," She glared at him, "I am not a child."

"I can see that," he responded with a cheeky grin, "You have all the bumpy bits I like." While Athanasia stared at him is disbelief, Axel snatched the flint out of her hands.

"Hey!" The Princess protested, "I thought I was going to do it!" She pouted childishly at her betrothed.

Axel looked over to Castor, who refused to meet his gaze. "Your brother is cold," he told the Princess, "Look, he shivers." Athanasia looked over at her brother and sighed. "He may be burned on his face, but his body still needs warmth." Still looking at Castor, Axel smiled, "Go to him and hold him until he stops quivering from the cold, I'll light the fire and retrieve the rabbit."




Princess Charming Ch. 04



"Alright," she huffed, standing up, "Do we have to eat the rabbit?" She gave him a hopeful look, clearly not wanting to eat the charred rodent.

"Yes," Axel dashed her hopes, "It gave its life for our dinner and we will eat it." Athanasia moved to her brother's side, wrapping her arms around him. "It works better if you take off the armour," Axel called out after he lit the fire.

With another huff she began to remove her armour, Castor watched her curiously as she yanked at the bindings in an infantile way. Seeing her get more frustrated the more she struggled with the buckles. The Prince began to chuckle at how ridiculous his sister looked. She shot around to glare at him, "What's so funny?" She demanded.

"You haven't done that before," the Prince chortled, "Have you."

Athanasia stopped and looked at the odd angle she was tugging at the leather straps of her armour, "Obviously," she giggled.

"You are not supposed to do it yourself," Castor informed her, "That's what squires are for." He adjusted himself as best he could, shaking from the cold, "Come here before you get injured too."

Athanasia did as she was told and once her Armour was removed she cuddled close to her brother and waited for the fire to flare up and the rabbit to be served. Axel had watched their interaction while he lit the fire, he was warmed at how close the two really were; Castor may have said some harsh words about his sister, but he did love her.

He went back to preparing the now cooked rabbit; it would be a little dry, but after such a big evening the food would be appreciated anyway. Cutting the rabbit into portions, he offered it to the monarchs warming by the fire. "Here," he offered, "It's not much, but it should sate any hunger you may feel."

Castor wasted no time in reaching for his share, Athanasia still had not warmed to the idea of eating a rodent. "Not hungry?" Castor asked after taking a big bite.

"Famished," she confessed, "I just don't think I can keep that down if I ate it." She swallowed the bile threatening to surface.

"You might like it," Axel argued light-heartedly, "Just try it." He placed a leg in her hand and waited expectantly for her to taste it. Begrudgingly, she took a bite. The flavour was a little gamey and near tasteless compared to other meats she had eaten. Axel saw the disappointment in her eyes, "It tastes better as a stew with spices, vegetables and herbs," he explained.

"Promise me that you will do that next time you cook up a rabbit," she grumbled, taking a second bite.



Axel began to set up his tent, Castor too attempted to erect his tent while Athanasia sat and watched the flames dance in the fire pit. "You should ready for sleep, Princess," Axel advised Athanasia. "Do you need help readying your tent?"

"I do not have a tent," she admitted with a sigh, "I have no bedding either."

Castor laughed, "You really didn't think this rescue through, did you." His sister glared daggers at him and turned away from him in a huff.

Axel shook his head, "You left without bedding equipment?"

"I've never done this before," Athanasia shrugged as though it was nothing, "I would have figured it out eventually."

"Before or after you died of frost exposure?" Castor chirped. The amusement of his sister's obvious mistake, overpowering niceties.

"The two of you have done this before!" She argued, "I was not allowed to go camping or hunting or anything other than some lessons in combat."

Castor shook his head and chuckled some more choosing not to say anything else on the subject. "You can have my tent I'll sleep next to Axel tonight," he suggested, "We will buy some provisions for you in town tomorrow."

Axel looked up at Castor, uncertainty in his eyes. Athanasia voiced his concerns for him. "Men are not permitted to share bedding," she announced defiantly.

"Would you be sharing your bedding with Sir Axel?" Castor challenged, "Or me? Both are as illegal as two men sleeping next to one another." Athanasia huffed angrily, "I will not risk your virtue, my dear sister."

Calming once more she conceded, "You are right, Castor," she sighed, "Tomorrow we will have bedding enough for all of us." She rummaged through her pack and found the purse with the coins she stole from the stables. "I do not think I have enough finances to sustain me either." She tossed it at her brother who caught it with his good arm.

The fact she only had one pouch said she did not have enough; the few coins in it would not let her have enough to feed the following day. "Oh sister," he mused, "You have next to nothing."

"We can earn money along the way," Axel said, "Knights are always in demand to help villages take out a band of thieves or an ogre terrorising them."

"Just as long there are no more dragons," Castor grumbled, "I do not think I could handle another one."

It was Athanasia's turn to laugh, Castor chose to ignore her. When the assembly of the tent grew too difficult, Axel offered his hand. Together they competed erecting the tent and setting the bedding inside. "Your room is ready, Your Majesty," Axel bowed to her playfully, scooping the flap aside so she could enter.

"Thank you, Axel," she smiled at her fiancé and turned to her brother, "Thank you Castor, I am sorry for depriving you of your privacy this night."

"I will live, dear sister," Castor responded.

"May I give my betrothed a good night kiss?" She asked her brother quietly. Castor nodded and turned away to give them some privacy.

Axel wasted no time in taking her in his arms, "I have been looking forward to this," he grinned down at her, devotion in his eyes. Athanasia licked her lips, nervous all of a sudden. Axel took this as a sign to wish her a good night, pressing his lips against hers. Athanasia melted into his grasp, letting Axel's tongue dominate her with powerful strokes. His hand drifted to the curve of her bottom, squeezing it in time with his tongue. Athanasia whimpered at the heat spreading throughout her lower regions, in that moment she was ready to throw caution to the wind and let him take her and to hell with the consequences. Axel sensed the change in her demeanour, her willingness to submit to him was so tempting, but with her brother near by and the threat of her death if he were to give in was enough to stay his hand. Reluctantly he pulled away, "We will have Jelena safe soon, and then we can be married," he assured her.

Athanasia made no secret of her disappointment, her pained moan at the loss of his touch agonising to hear. "Damn the law," she lamented, "It serves to subjugate all the women in the kingdom, all because of that faith that gives power to those who have no right to have it."

Axel smiled and Castor chuckled, "That faith is what governs the laws of many kingdoms in the land, you had best remember that," her brother enforced light-heartedly, the seriousness of the statement underlying his words.

"All the more reason to succeed quickly in our task," Axel murmured in Athanasia's ear, giving it a quick nibble, sending shivers down her spine, "Then I will worship your body the way it was meant to."

The Princess gave him a look of astonishment, her innocence and hidden sensuality warring for supremacy in her eyes. It was enough to make Axel groan this time. Turning away, he adjusted his fiercely throbbing staff, easing the pressure.

Athanasia slipped into the tent, closing the flap behind her.

"We should also go to bed," Castor announced ambiguously.

"I need a moment to calm down," the Knight whispered to his friend.

"Who says you need to?" Castor asked provocatively. "I can ease your burden." Axel swallowed hard, the look in Castor's eyes resembled Athanasia's a moment ago, their similarities not helping at all. Castor rose to his feet and entered their tent.

Axel looked down at the prominent bulge in the front of his tights, he needed relief, but was he willing to let Castor do that for him? Would Castor ask him to return the favour? He eventually joined Castor, trepidation coursing through his veins.

The Crowned Prince was under the covers of the bed, his injuries clearly visible. Axel sighed; he was quite handsome, his broad pale chest honed from years of sword practice, the faded scars from conflict in the past, his present wounds will just add to the story told across the expanse of his magnificent body. Axel dropped silently to his knees, shaking slightly as he removed his tunic. "Are you sure about this?" He asked the Prince, "What if we get caught?"

Castor sat up, propping himself against his good elbow, "Then we will be careful not to get caught." The lust flaring in his violet eyes, eagerly feeding on the Knight's pectorals and down his toned abdomen.

Axel pulled the drawstring of the breeches he wore, pushing them down past his hips slowly. His erection stood out, weeping and angry, wanting a gentle touch to relieve the tension. "This one time," Axel whispered urgently to Castor, "Only this once, we cannot risk our necks for this forbidden pleasure, your kingdom needs you."

Castor sat upright fully now, reaching out to the blond Knight, his finger trailing down his sternum, past his navel to the stramineous mat of hair, teasing it lightly. He was lost, marvelled at the way Axel's masculinity danced at the slightest touch of the patch of curls. As though frightened, Castor drifted to the turgid muscle, tracing the veins that popped out along the surface. "You are so incredibly hard," the Prince finally said, "It's beautiful."

Castor's husky voice was tantalisingly erotic to Axel's ears. The Knight lowered himself next to the Prince. "How do we do this?" Axel asked naively.

Looking in Axel's eyes, Castor moved closer and kissed him, pulling the Knight over the top of his body. Castor ran his tongue across the seam of Axel's lips, begging entrance. Axel acquiesced, parting his lips and letting Castor plunder his sweet mouth. Axel surrendered into the decadence of their kiss, how strong and demanding it was. Axel could feel the throbbing below, more dew formed, leaking down to Castor's own painfully demanding erection. Like two swords ready for battle, crossed en-garde in erotic mêlée, grinding against each other, teasingly building the pressure in both men.

Axel was the next to move, caressing his hand down, grasping Castor firmly, slowly pumping his hand up and down the entire length. The sudden pleasure of Axel's hand caused Castor to gasp, the sound being captured by the Knight's skilful lips. Not wanting to be left behind Castor mimicked Axel's actions, gripping the velvety rod of iron, spreading the liquescence seeping from the tip with his thumb. It was Axel's turn to groan, the sensation much more enjoyable than when a whore would perform the same motion, Castor wanted to do this, needed to do this. 

The Prince gently guided Axel onto his back as painlessly as he could, taking control fully. Leaving his lips, Castor trailed down the Knight's neck and collar and chest, down to where his hand worked effortlessly. Axel could only lay back and watch as Castor kissed the rounded head, sweeping his tongue across the small opening. "Have you done this before?" Axel asked, a quiver in his voice.

Castor stopped to answer, "I only do what I would like myself." With a flash of teeth in a shy smile, Castor took him into his mouth. Axel was overwhelmed, his back arching in shock. He clamped his hand over his mouth to stop any noise he might make, the soft whimpering barely contained. The Prince took great delight in giving Axel such pleasure.

Never before had Axel had a mouth around him, not even the whores would take him orally claiming he was too big for their mouths, but here was Castor sucking on him like a piece of sweet fruit or boiled sweet. His hips lifting up to meet Castors waiting mouth, his hand threading through the Princes long sable hair, directing Castor's head up and down. "I'm so close," Axel mewled, "You should stop." But Castor continued, increasing his efforts until Axel erupted in a pulsing stream of salty white elixir down his throat. He kept sucking until no more came. Axel's heart raced, his chest heaved from exertion and his body slicked with his musky sweat. He was speechless; it felt so good, so wrong. Guilt spread through him for a moment, and then Castor's mouth began moving again, down the underside of his manhood to source of his bravery, the hairy wrinkled skin shifting, contracting and expanding with the heat of Castor's breath. "You're not finished yet?" Axel asked in disbelief.

The Prince sat back, "Get on all fours," he ordered with a secretive smirk, "I'm far from done with you."

Not bothering to enquire why, Axel did as he was told. Expecting Castor to move around him so Axel could return the favour, his surprise to feel the Prince's hot tongue part the cleavage of his buttocks was great. His nether hole probed with the malleable muscle, slathering it liberally with Castor's saliva. Axel found himself falling into the pleasure again, the slight discomfort only adding to the experience. Soon Axel was moaning again, the addition of Castor's finger was unlike anything he had ever felt before. Castor slid the digit in and out; working the tight ring of muscle until it began to loosen, repeating it with each extra finger. Once Castor was sure he would not cause any pain, he took his erection in his hand and eased it into Axel.

The Knight was in swimming in pleasure; his voice failed him at the entrance of Castor. Feeling as hard as he was before, Axel shamelessly began to stroke himself as Castor thrust into him. Both moved together, savouring this newfound eroticism between them, it was all doomed to end soon. Castor had found it difficult to hold back and Axel had found a new place to find ecstasy inside a place he never thought possible. Castor was the first to grunt in completion, Axel spilling his own release on the bedding below.

They collapsed, exhausted and satisfied. After a short time, Castor slipped from Axel, sighing sleepily. "That was incredible," Axel finally spoke, leaning across and giving the Prince a deep, impassioned kiss.

"I agree," Castor responded once he could speak again, "I feel sad that we will never experience that again." The sobering comment laid over them like a thick heavy blanket. They were lucky that they were out in the forest, away from civilisation. If Athanasia had heard anything she did not say, perhaps she was asleep. "Come, we have a big journey ahead of us, we must rest."



Athanasia had slept little over the night; the owls hooting frightened her at first, but just became annoying after a while. She had drifted off sometime during the night and now that the sun had risen and the camp fire had gone out, the morning felt gloomy.

Climbing out into the crisp morning air she saw both Axel and Castor had built another fire. "Is camping out always uncomfortable?" She asked her brother, who was closer to her.

"Only in the winter," Castor answered her in an unusually cheerful tone.

"I see you slept better than I did," She grumbled indignantly. She noted that Axel too had a smile on his face. She huffed under her breath, "Men." She shook her head and went about the ordeal of putting her armour back on.

Axel tracked down some eggs of an unknown source and cooked them in a pan he had brought with him. "Are you hungry, Princess?" Axel cheerfully asked her as she wrestled with the buckles again.

"As long as it's not rabbit, then yes, I am hungry," responded Athanasia, jadedly, their cheerfulness aggravating her. "How could you sleep well out in the cold like we did last night?" She finally demanded after watching them merrily eat breakfast.

Axel was the once who answered her, "I have slept in nature more times than in a bed," he explained, "I feel more comfortable out here."

Castor's response was just as unhelpful, "I always enjoyed camping."

"The two of you are impossible!" Athanasia exclaimed, "Why can you not be normal like me?"

"You're female," Castor replied dryly, "You are use to the comfort of a warm bed and food brought to you on demand." He cocked his head to the side, "Perhaps you would be happier back at the castle."

"Not until Jelena is safe," she stated, "So you will not be getting rid of me."

"And lose the best entertainment on this rescue mission?" Castor teased, "Unthinkable."

"If you were not already injured, I would make you so," She threatened.

Axel laughed at their exchange, "Are the both of you always so argumentative?"

"No," Castor answered him, "Normally father would have stopped us by now."

Athanasia finally smiled, "Yes, he would have." She stood up and corked him in the shoulder, "Father would never have let me do that."

"Unfair," Castor disputed, "I'm injured!"

"Children please," Axel laughed at their antics, "You are grown ups now."

Castor stuck his tongue out at his sister, "Jelena would be really confused with us right now," he sighed, his concern for his betrothed weighing down on him again.

Athanasia felt it too, "She would be asking me if we had been drinking."

The Prince felt his anger beginning to rise, "I will part is head from his shoulders if he has harmed her in any way," he declared seriously.

"Not if I get to him first," Athanasia snarled, "She was my friend before you stated your love for her."

"We have to get there first," Axel interjected, "And we are going nowhere while you bicker like this."

"You're right," Castor conceded, "I will help you with packing your tent when I am done eating," he said to his sister."

"That would be nice," she smiled appreciatively, "Thank you."

Finishing their breakfast, they packed and left, continuing north towards the border.



Many miles to the north the carriage raced on; changing horses every few hours. Baldassare slept with Jelena safely in his arms. The road was rocky, shaking and jolting the carriage around like a child with their toy. Before too long, Jelena felt like she was falling. A pair of strong hands caught her before she hit the floor. "I have you, my darling," a distant, familiar voice spoke, something in the way the voice spoke sent a chill down her spine. "You're safe."

Her eyes shot open as she looked up into his stone like eyes, "Am I?" She asked nervously. Baldassare's attempt of a reassuring smile did anything but reassure her. She looked away as quickly as she could.

"You are safer with me than where you were," he explained, "If you were caught using your talents it would have been your neck." He pulled her in for a kiss, Jelena resisted as best as she could. Baldassare found her resistance amusing. "You like to play games, my tasty little witch," Jelena froze long enough for him to claim his prize. Horrified, she felt his tongue enter her mouth, rubbing itself up against hers. She felt the rise of the bile in her throat; she began to struggle again, trying to pull away. Baldassare held her tight, but let her lips go. "Why do you fight me?" He sounded truly astounded at her resistance.

"Where am I?" Jelena cried, "Why am I here with you?" She was terrified, quivering like a scared child.

She flinched as he stroked her cheek with his finger, "I am taking you to my kingdom to be my queen, safe from persecution."

"I was fine," she protested, tears streaming down her suede cheek, "Until you took me!" She struggled with a renewed vigour. "Let me go!"

Baldassare's eyes darkened, "I rescued you, you ungrateful bitch," he snarled, griping her arms until she lost feeling in her hands. "I could have left you there in Balany to be burned!"

"You don't know that for certain," she trembled, angrily, "Athanasia would never allow it!"

"She is a woman in a misogynist state," Baldassare smiled evilly, "She could do nothing to protect you once your powers are unlocked," his gaze turned lustful, "And I plan to be the one to do that." Letting his hand drift down, he grasped her breast firmly, not enough to hurt her, "Our children will be powerful."




Princess Charming Ch. 04



"You would make our children evil," Jelena jerked out of his hand and dove for the door to escape.

With a simple wave of his hand, Baldassare froze her in mid air and returned her to her seat, "You have accepted that we will produce children, good." He sat next to her, stroking her cheek softly. Nuzzling close to her ear he continued, "You will grow to love me, and I you." He looked her over, "You may not be as beautiful as the Princess, but you are much more powerful, properly trained you will rule the world by my side. Galnoa is just the beginning, I will amass an army of sorcerers, and they will be unstoppable."

Jelena could not believe her ears, King Baldassare wanted to conquer the known world and he had chosen her to be his Queen. A part of her felt flattered, of all the women and witches in all the land, she was chosen. For the first time in her life she was the focus of a man's attentions rather than Athanasia. She wondered if circumstances had been different, and the King had wooed her like he should have done, would she have accepted his advances? What of Prince Castor? He had only recently informed her of his attraction to her, she had promised to give him a chance to win her heart. Would he try to save her, like in the stories she and the Princess read. What of the Princess, would she do what she always promised and move heaven and earth to ensure her safety?

Her thoughts were cut off as she felt Baldassare's lips touch her neck, frozen to the spot she could not move away from his sensual yet unwelcome attack. Silently she prayed for help.



Prince Castor took point as the trio travelled along the road. The weather was gentle, a light snow fall fluttering down from above. "Should we not find shelter?" Athanasia asked, wrapping her cloak around her to keep warm.

"Only if it turns into a blizzard," Castor replied. His arm and face, still hot from the burns he suffered, benefited from the snow falling on it. "The town is not too far ahead," he assured his sister, "We will have a warm bed and a mug of ale by a roaring fire tonight." He smiled at the luxury of it; he never had the satisfaction of a good mug of ale back at the castle. Just the thought of mixing with the locals, enjoying a simple night without their father breathing down their necks was enough to make him smile.

Axel quietly watched the siblings bicker over what was comfort. He missed his own family back in Averny; he had not seen them in many years and wondered how they were all fairing in his absence. He was so lost in his own thoughts that he did not hear Athanasia talking to him. "...don't you agree, Sir Axel?"

"Hrm?" He turned his head towards her, "I'm sorry, I was miles away," he apologised and adjusted in his saddle, "Can you please repeat the question?"

Athanasia huffed, "That we should try to spend nights at inns along the way and camp out as little as possible," she repeated her words.

"It would not be feasible," Axel argued politely, "Inns cost money, and we do not have much of it." He moved in closer with his horse, "We could start hiring ourselves out to earn money," his suggestion earned him a glare.

"I must remain pure," Athanasia warned.

"As hired arms," he chuckled, "I look forward more and more to our wedding night with a dirty mind like yours, and it should be something special."

The Princess growled at him and rode ahead, taking Castor's position out front. The Prince fell back, "You are a masochist," he light-heartedly said to the Knight, "She will make you suffer for that."

The men laughed, making Athanasia more angry. She rode further ahead to keep out of ear shot, how dare they mock her, they have no need to protect their purity, there was no physical way to prove a man was a virgin, women had no such luxury. She tried to calm down, taking deep breaths to cool her blood. It was a wasted effort; her horse was stopped when an arrow shot into the path in front of her. Her initial instinct was to draw her sword. Several more arrows planted in the road with the first. The men noticed Athanasia's defensive stance, then the cluster of arrows blocking their path.

"Bandits!" Axel cried, also drawing his sword.

"Noblemen," a cocky male voice called out, "We will not harm you, just hand over your coin and you are free to go."

"And if we don't?" Castor responded, his own fingers itching to grip a bladed weapon.

"Then we will take it by force," the man speaking sounded delighted at the prospect of a scuffle.

Axel grinned at the imminent attack, "Well Princess, you will get to exercise your skills again." Upon finishing his sentence, a man covered in firs swung out of the trees on a rope, Athanasia was his target. She swung her blade haphazardly, slicing through the hemp rope causing the man to crash into the snow bank on the side of the road.

Axel scoped the trees, spotting half a dozen men in the branches armed with bows at the ready. The man who fell into the snow drift jumped to his feet with a cheap sword in his hand. "You will regret that, you bastard!" He roared and leapt at Athanasia.

She jumped off her horse and met his sword with her own. The force of the bandits strike would normally have sent a jolt through the other sword, but with the strange pale metal of Athanasia's weapon being stronger than the other; it sliced through the inferior blade like a hot knife through butter. The amazing sight should have made the Princess look superior, however, her startled cry at the ruined sword falling on her head made her look less than heroic.

Axel had joined her side, knocking the man down and holding his blade to the man's throat. "Call them off," the Knight demanded.

"It's a woman!" Another man from the trees yelled out, "Get her!"

"Oh what?" Athanasia whined and readied for the on coming attack; holding her shield to protect her from any arrows that most likely would rain down on them. They never came as the men descended from the branches.

"Touch her and he dies," Axel snarled, poking the sharp point of his sword into the man's neck.

Castor felt helpless, with his sword arm out of action he could only sit at the sidelines and hope not to be targeted. His fingers itched to grasp his sword and even the odds, his sister not being of much help at all. One of the men aimed straight for her and Castor saw red. Reefing his sword from its scabbard with his injured arm and stumbling off his horse to defend Athanasia. His movements distracted the man and he turned his attention to the Prince who was an easier target.

The Princess saw what Castor had done, with Axel now the focus of the bandits she went to help her brother. With the offending bandit's back to Athanasia, she swung her sword at his neck slicing cleanly through and severing his head. The horrific action should have made her sick, but she was more concerned for her brother than the fact she just killed a man.

Watching the head fall into the muddied snow, Castor stood shocked at what his sister had just done. "Sister?" He began to ask her when she cut him off.

"What the hell were you thinking?" She demanded, "You are in no condition to fight!" She looked around to her betrothed who had successfully killed off most of the bandits who attacked him directly before they retreated.

"I thought you were in trouble!" Castor yelled at her, "He," Castor pointed to the corpse as his feet, "Was going to harm you!"

Athanasia followed his finger to where he was indicating and paled, the dead man's blood was congealing on the snow and it turned her stomach. "I did that?" She whimpered, "I did that!" She began to hyperventilate, her sword falling from her hand and she collapsed on the ground, her body shaking.

Axel came over with a prisoner, "What is going on?" He enquired, pushing the bandit in his custody to the ground. He spied the body and the Princess sobbing. "Oh dear," Axel sighed, his tone almost parental. Crouching down next to his beloved, he pulled her into his arms, "Don't cry my sweet, you saved your brother's life."

"A lot more than that," the prisoner added, "He wasn't a very nice person."

"What do you mean?" Athanasia asked him, wiping the tears away from her eyes.

The prisoner grinned, "He was a nasty piece of work," he chuckled, "Would have taken your maidenhood, darlin' without a thought of your honour or discomfort."

"Watch your tongue, swine," Axel growled at the prisoner menacingly, capturing the man's neck in his strong grasp, "That's my fiancé you're addressing."

"I state the truth," the man defended, "And I do not regret it." Axel glared at the offending man as he continued. "So what is a pretty young thing like you doing in the woods without a proper escort?"

Castor laughed at the indignant look on his sister's face, "I believe I had the same thought last night," he chuckled.

The bandit turned his attention to the Prince as he stood there looking a little more worse for wear, "You smell of dragon breath," he said dryly.

"Sorry," Castor cynically replied, "Had I known we were to be attacked by highwaymen I would have bathed."

The bandit grinned at the Prince's wit, "You may not be too happy with the side affects of dragon's breath," the bandit shuffled into a more comfortable position, "It makes you look like the magical type."

Castor paused to ponder what the bandit meant, also how would the man know? Unless he too had been the victim of a dragon's breath. "What is your name, thief?"

"Vedran, your highness," he gave a bow of his head, "Yes, I know who you are." Castor was not shocked at the Thief's address; Athanasia on the other hand was not pleased in the slightest.

"So much for keeping this a secret," the Princess mumbled grumpily.

Ignoring his sister's comment, Castor continued to look at Vedran, "Good," the Prince gave the man a crooked grin, "I do hate sounding like a pompous git when I introduce myself, the titles I hold will take all day to list." He motioned for Axel to retreat, "So, what would a bandit know about Dragon's breath?"

"A great many things," he grinned, "My mother was a victim of the dreaded beast's breath, and Magic was the result of the injury and a resistance to fire." He shuffled to a more comfortable position, "A trait she passed to her children, unbeknownst to her husband, the Count Branimir of Rungard."

Athanasia gasped, "You are Jelena's brother?"

"I am," he nodded, "I have not seen her since my father threw me out of home for doing magic."

Castor looked shaken, "You are the brother of my beloved?" The information began to sink in, "She's a witch?" He saw that Athanasia was not in the least bit surprised at the revelation, "You knew?"

Axel was ready to slay the man out of fear; he raised his sword in preparation. "Axel, what are you doing?" Athanasia asked after seeing the glint of his sword out of the corner of her eye.

"He is a danger," the Kknight declared.

"The only danger here is you with that nasty looking sword," Vedran sniped, moving out of Axel's reach."

"Magic and those who wield it are no more dangerous than we are," the Princess stated flatly, "Yes, I knew Jelena was a witch." She levelled a challenging glare at her brother, "Not that powerful and no danger to anyone."

Vedran burst out laughing, "Are you kidding me? She is the most powerful witch ever born!" The Princess shot the bandit a murderous look to silence him. "Sorry."

Castor joined his sister and Vedran on the ground in the snow and sludge, "I know now why Baldassare took her," he uttered, "And if I bring her back, father will have her killed."

"Her powers are contained," Vedran tried to appease the shocked Prince, "She must know the touch of a man to unlock it."

"So the bastard wishes to bed her," Castor growled angrily, "I will have his head for the hard he will cause her."

"Can we wind up this conversation?" Axel rhetorically asked, "The sun is setting and we need to get to town."

Vedran stood up, flicking the ropes that bound him into the mud, "I know the Tavern owner in town," he said casually, ignoring the shock on their faces, "I didn't use magic to do that; that was pure skill." He whistled a high note and a grey horse trotted over from the scrub. "Come, you are my friends now, you are going to rescue my sister," he mounted his ride in a swift motion, "I will join you."

Averting her eyes from the corpse, Athanasia nodded and found her own horse, "The more the merrier."

Castor looked hesitant; the man was ready to rob them not too long ago now he was going to join them in their journey north to rescue Jelena, whom happened to be his sister. "I can heal that wound for you if you like," Vedran informed the Prince, "Otherwise it could take months." 

"Once we find shelter for the night," Castor conceded and mounted his horse with Axel's help. The knight brought up the rear and they set off.

Vedran took a position next to Athanasia, "If you don't mind me saying so," he said quietly so as the others could not hear, "I could smell her on you, that is how I knew who you were."

Athanasia blushed and looked away, "Say nothing, if not for me than Jelena."

"My lips are sealed your highness," he reassured her. They fell into an awkward silence for a time, neither knowing what to say, both were close to the little beauty and were equally concerned about her wellbeing. "So," Vedran finally spoke, "My little sister is going to be Queen of Balany one day, bet my father never saw that coming."

"Don't bank on any support from Talus," she sneered bitterly at her father's stance on the marriage, "He would rather Castor marry a princess from another country to forge ties with neighbouring kingdoms."

"And you?" Vedran queried, "Marrying below your station, just a lowly knight?"

"Duke," she corrected him, "I had to choose a husband or Talus would have chosen for me."

"A nasty prospect," the bandit chuckled, "Though does not feel your marriage will mean much, you ran from the safety of your home and in doing so compromised your virtue."

"I don't care," she huffed, still feeling the sting of her father's words the day before, "I am willing to make any sacrifice to save my friend."

Vedran smoothed back his dark brown hair and puffed out his chest, "If brawn ever becomes boring, try brains, I promise to be gentle and devoted to giving pleasure."

Athanasia scoffed, "I am untouched and I will stay that way until I am married."

"Why?" He asked genuinely, "It's not like your virtue means anything anymore and you did say any sacrifice."

"If needed," she added, "I will not just throw away a bargaining chip for a romp in the sheets with a bandit."

Vedran laughed, "So your virginity is a weapon is it?" He laughed harder when she looked behind her to see if the others were listening. "You know that once we cross the border your virtue will not be appetising, men there like a woman with experience."

"So I will be safe," she smugly retorted.

"Maybe with some more training with your weapons," Vedran commented, "You showed some skill but you are too squeamish for a warrior." He motioned to the men trailing them, "Your fiancé and brother are two of the best swordsmen in the land, haven't they offered to teach you?"

She shrugged, "I'll have to train every day to be able to keep up."

"Most solders do," Vedran patronised then laughed, "But not to worry, where is it we travel to?"

"Galnoa," Athanasia answered solemnly.

Vedran swallowed hard, "That's quite a distance, and how will you defeat the man who took my sister?"

"I figured we would figure that out along the way," again she shrugged, "I was placated all through my youth. My father and those around him, including my brother, led me to believe that I was actually learning how to use the weapons I have here," she gestured to her small arsenal of swords, knives and bow. "I left yesterday with under the impression I could defeat any adversary with very little effort only to be confronted with a black dragon with a nasty attitude." She paused in contemplation, "It was fortunate I could read and not led to believe I could do that too."

"A brilliant mind is more deadly to a foe than a sharp blade," Vedran consoled her, "You will be magnificent when you train up some, I pity anyone who stands against you. Talbot learned that today."

"Talbot?"

"The man you ... ah ..." he did not want to tell her the obvious; she clearly did not like her actions.

"Oh," she nodded, "Was that his name?"

"It's what he called himself," Vedran stated, "When your livelihood revolves around robbing travellers you give yourself a name that would sound threatening. I never bothered with that, I never looked threatening." He sounded despondent.

"I bet you're fast," Athanasia tried to make him feel better about his lithe form, "And you do magic."

"Yeah," he sighed, "Not fast enough to escape your lover."

"Maybe you should train with me," she suggested, "I would like to have someone close to my own strength to go up against."

"Sure," he smiled. The pleasantries between the two did not go unnoticed. When Vedran grinned at Athanasia too many times and even reached out to her, Axel cleared his throat to warn the bandit off his girl.

"You have nothing to fear," Castor tried to appease his friend; "Vedran is below her."

"If he even tries to seduce her," Axel warned, "I will finish him, Jelena's brother or not, he has no right to touch my woman."



Stierdörf was a quaint little hamlet on the boarder of the kingdoms of Balany and Hengstry, one of the minor centres for trade between the two countries, not known for much other than a point on a map. The settlement housed two inns, a blacksmith, tailor, small temple, bakery and butcher. A general market opened once a day during the early hours of the morning for trade of fruits and vegetables, craft ware, dairy goods and livestock. It was a town that went quiet as soon as the sun set, save the inns.

The snow crunched under the hooves of the group's horses as they rode into town like legendary knights arriving from a deadly battle. They each looked tired, Athanasia especially as she was falling asleep on her horse's back. She began to topple precariously to the side, Axel reached to catch her but it was Vedran who saved her from a nasty fall. "I have you, sweetheart," he smiled at her as she looked up at him.

"Ah ... Thank you," she straightened, "Um ..." she looked away from both the charming grin Vedran wore and the scowl now gracing Axel's face, "Which inn should we go to?"

"Well," Vedran began, "The popular choice is the 'King's Heart' over yonder," he dramatically gestured to the larger of the two inns. "Or you can choose the more popular inn for the more nefarious of clientele, the 'Bat's Wing'." He gestured to the smaller, dimly lit establishment.

"You can hardly expect us to be seen in a tavern filled with cutthroats and thieves," Axel cut in, silencing Athanasia's response, "I do not know about you but the rest of us are respectable."

"Who do not wish to be seen," Vedran added, "And us cutthroats and thieves have our own rules we abide by and hold more honour than most of the so called respectable gentry." He dismounted from his horse and offered his elbow to Athanasia as she too dismounted. They walked off towards the 'Bat's Wing' leaving Axel fuming at the sight.

Castor also felt somewhat perturbed by the familiarity Vedran had with his sister, "Do not worry my friend," he patted the Knight on his shoulder with his good hand, "I will have words with both of them."



Inside the Bat's Wing was a new and exciting experience for Athanasia, the smells, sights and sounds were so alien to her and she loved it. The lighting was dull, only the occasional table had a candle on it and only a few of those were lit. The odour of ale, stewing meats and tobacco filled the air and the low bass hum of conversing men. The walls were stained with food, ale and blood from fights of the past, to Athanasia, it was fantastic.