《King's Blood》


 Notice

    To anyone who follows the story or have otherwise shown interest inthe story so far:


    Thank you so much!


    King''s Blood is the first novel I''ve ever written - not tomentionpublished - so I''m happy that anyone has cared to read it. The last month of writinghas been a great learning experience as well, so I''m grateful for that.Unauthorized content usage: if you discover this narrative on Amazon, report the violation.


    However the story hasn''t garnered much response, especially compared to my other novel "Say That You Want Me". I suspect this is because of the story''s very slow progression so far and I feel like I could do better and wish to do so. Therefore I''ve decided to reboot the series and to take down the old chapters to start releasing a slightly altered (and hopefully improved) version.


    I hope you''ll stick around during this process, and otherwise I understand and may you fare well from here.


    Love,


    Lauravil

 Episode 1: Who Am I? (rebooted)

    A sharp pain drummed on her temples and she groaned as her eyes fluttered open, her vision hazy. There was a stillness in the air and the soft covers beneath her told her she was lying on a bed. She blinked a few times trying to clear the fog over her eyes to look around. Where was she?


    But before she had the chance to orient herself, the creak of floorboards startled her and she spun her head towards the doorway, spotting a figure. Hasty footstep hurried towards her and a male voice filled with worry, called out to her. ¡°Princess, you¡¯re awake!¡±


    Princess? That didn¡¯t ring a bell. A panic started creeping from the back of her head as she realized: She didn¡¯t know her name.


    She sprung to sit up but had to clutch her head as the sudden movement caused the throbbing to intensify, sending daggers of pain through her skull and she moaned in pain.


    ¡°Princess, it¡¯s okay. You are safe¡± the man spoke, and she heard the sheets rustle as he sat down on the bed next to her. Placing a palm on her shoulder, she lifted her gaze to look at him, the sight starling her. His face was beautiful with deep blue eyes nestled in a perfectly symmetric face with a square jaw and soft lips. The visage adorned by golden blonde locks that fluttered across his forehead as he leaned in over her, his expression that of concern.


    But her fascination lasted only momentarily when the question again beckoned: Who was she?


    ¡°Where am I?¡± her voice trembled, rough and dry like she hadn¡¯t spoken for a long time.


    ¡°My mansion, do you remember what happened?¡± the question sent ripples of dread through her. There was nothing. She had no idea where she was, who she was or what had happened.


    ¡°No¡­¡± she could barely form her response from the tightness of her throat, tears pressing on her eyelids, ¡°I don¡¯t remember anything¡­ I don¡¯t even know my name!¡±


    As she spoke her voice went from a soft whimper to a frightened sob and the man gently wrapped his arms around her stroking her hair as the tears gained free reign.


    ¡°It¡¯s okay¡± he whispered, and she clutched at his broad shoulders, accepting the comfort of his warm embrace. Only when her tears had dried out and her voice stilled, did he gently retract from the embrace, tucking at her shoulders to look at her. With the pad of a thumb he dried a tear from her eye, and she stifled surprised at the gesture.


    ¡°It¡¯s okay. I¡¯ll tell you everything, slowly¡­¡± his deep voice reverberated softly in her chest. It was so warm and gentle.


    ¡°Your name is Leonira enna Xe¡¯tai, a princess of our country. Well¡­ former princess¡± he seemed to hesitate, drawing a breath before he continued. ¡°I¡¯m so sorry¡­ the castle, your home, was attacked¡­ the king was overthrown¡­ killed¡± he paused, gauging her reaction and it took a minute for her to understand his words. If she was a princess, that meant her father was the king¡­ and he was dead. The news rose a cold, empty feeling to form in her chest but her blank memory left her unable to feel genuine sadness or despair.


    She sat a moment staring into the air, her gaze empty. Then she slowly nodded to confirm that she had understood his words.


    ¡°It was¡­ quite violent¡­ My men and I were at the castle when it happened, and we stumbled upon you unconscious as we made our escape¡­ so I saved you. I had to¡±


    There was a warmth to his words, a desperation that made her lift her gaze curiously and the expression in his eyes sent warm shivers throughout her body.Stolen from its original source, this story is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.


    ¡°Did we know each other?¡± she asked on a trembling exhale, mesmerized by the man¡¯s gaze.


    ¡°Yes. Though I more than you¡­¡± he whispered trailing his hand along her cheek, making a heat rise in them.


    There was a longing in his gaze, and a warm but slightly sad smile pulled momentarily at the corner of his mouth as he spoke. Then his eyes widened slightly as if he had suddenly been reminded of something and he straightened his back, a polite smile forming instead.


    ¡°Forgive me, I haven¡¯t introduced myself¡± he took her hand and kissed the back, his soft lips sending ripples of shivers through her, ¡°my name is Arwin. Marquis Arwin de Raugh, I¡¯m the lord of this mansion.¡±


    A noble gentleman? No wonder he looked well-polished and the room seemed luxurious. Her eyes flickered over the velvet bed drapes, the Persian rug, the sturdy and artistically carved oak furniture and the shiny chandelier hanging from the ceiling.


    She had a feeling she wasn¡¯t unaccustomed to such surroundings, but she had no recollections to confirm it. Her gaze returned to that of Arwin¡¯s, peering up at her after the kiss on her hand. The sight made her blush a little, butterflies fluttering in her stomach, trying to push away the feeling of dread and anxiety gripping it.


    ¡°A pleasure¡± was all she managed to utter, her lips trembling with further questions that seemed to topple over each other before they had a chance to form. The blonde man seemed to have noticed her bewilderment, because he spoke:


    ¡°I know you have many more questions, let me try my best to answer¡±


    She sighed breathlessly as he let go of her hand to adjust his position on the bed, to one more appropriate for serious conversation. She listened closely as he began his explanation.


    The country in which they resided, called Xe¡¯tai, was a land in the east bordering the sea. And although it wasn¡¯t vast it had always been a place of beauty and peace. Until her father had ascended the throne. He was a vicious man, a tyrant, and hungry for power he had exploited the people, started wars with foreign countries, reintroduced slavery and ruled the nation with an iron fist. At first the nobles had watched, some with more distain than others, as the blood spilled, but as it went on unrest started rising. Finally a group of nobles gathered and in a violent coup they overthrew the king, murdering the tyrant and anyone who still supported him. Few of the guests that resided in the castle were spared, but Arwin was and as he fled, he had stumbled upon Leo lying unconscious near a burning building. Unable to leave the princess to die, he had brought her with him to shelter her in his home. Though he feared their discovery, she was safe for now, he assured her. A new king was to be crowned in just a few days and he was already working out a plan to assure her continued safety, she needn¡¯t worry. For now she needed rest.


    Though concern and anxiety clung to her, the warmth in his voice was comforting. She did feel weak and tired, she could use the rest.


    Just as she had the thought her stomach suddenly growled, a loud roar and the sound made Arwin¡¯s beautiful mouth curl in a smile and he chuckled. She wrapped her hands around her stomach startled, like the gesture could mask the sound and her cheeks flushed a deep red.


    ¡°Perhaps some food would be good for you as well?¡±


    She nodded embarrassed. Food would indeed be nice. She wondered how long she had been asleep for.


    As if Arwin had read her thoughts, he spoke: ¡°You have been asleep for four days, so you must both be thirsty and hungry¡±


    ¡°Four days?!¡± she marveled at the statement. She was indeed hungry and weakened, but she should be feeling worse if she had been asleep for that long, shouldn¡¯t she?


    Ever the mind reader, Arwin answered her unspoken question: ¡°I had a healer brought in for you to heal your injuries. With magic he also made sure you wouldn¡¯t wither from lack of nourishment in case you intended to stay unconscious.¡±


    She tilted her head a little. Magic? He chuckled at her apparent confusion, kissing the back of her hand comfortingly.


    ¡°I¡¯ll make sure food and drink is brought to you. Afterwards make sure to rest.¡±


    His words made her brow furrow, disappointed and a little anxious at the implied parting.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry. I¡¯ll back again soon¡± he spoke softly a warm smile adorning his mouth in an attempt to ease her worries. Even though she had only just met him ¨C at least from her perspective ¨C there was something about him that made her trust him completely. So she nodded her head in confirmation, although reluctant.


    At that he rose from the bed and exited the room, her eyes following his broad back not noticing the smirk forming on his lips.

 Episode 2: Introduction

    Light billowed softly through thin curtains, illuminating the bedroom in which Leo awoke, her arms stretching content as she slowly opened her eyes.


    The morning had a softness to it, a warmth. She blinked a little taking it in. Then it hit her. Her body froze still lying on the sheets as anxiety gripped her chest and she remembered yesterday. She was in a mansion in an unknown location, her memories lost and future uncertain.


    In a sudden motion she sat up to orient herself again but started as she spotted a figure sitting in the corner of the room.


    He sat leaning forward, elbows resting on his knees, his eyes fastened on her and their expression sent a cold shiver down Leo¡¯s spine. His dark eyes, lightly obscured by brown, curly locks were so filled with hate it made her whole body stiffen, her heart hammering in her chest. Those were the eyes of someone who wanted to kill her.


    She felt panic spread throughout her body, and she sprung to her feet, her instincts screaming for her to run for the door. But barely had she moved before he was in front of it, blocking her escape. She took a step back and the man¡¯s eyes followed her, his body unmoving. Then the most eerie smile curled his lips.


    ¡°Good morning princess¡±


    His voice was low and reverberating, hate dripping from it. She trembled, eyes flickering desperately in search of another exit, but they found none and instead landed on the sword hanging from his belt. He was going to kill her; she was sure of it.


    Then a knock on the door. The sound started them both and she gasped breathlessly, while his eyes turned to narrow slits, an irritated growl leaving his throat. He turned to open, and Leo felt like her knees would buckle from the relief when she recognized Arwin¡¯s visage appear in the doorway.


    His expression turned into that of surprise as he saw the two of them standing in the room and Leo¡¯s terrified expression.This novel''s true home is a different platform. Support the author by finding it there.


    ¡°Carsein!¡± his voice bellowed, ¡°what are you doing?¡±


    The brown-haired man sighed, his hand rubbing his neck and his face now completely expressionless. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, it seems I startled the lady.¡±


    Startled? What on earth was going on? He wasn¡¯t an intruder sent to kill her, and Arwin knew him? Arwin sighed, palming his forehead like he was disappointed.


    ¡°I told you to wait outside as not to scare her¡± he reprimanded, ¡°Leo, I¡¯m sorry. This is Carsein¡± he explained gesturing at the brown-haired man, ¡°he is someone I hired to protect you, but it seems he frightened you-¡±


    ¡°You can¡¯t be serious?!¡± she protested before he had a chance to finish, the fear still keeping a tight grip on her chest.


    Leo¡¯s emotions were a complete chaos. Protect her? If Arwin hadn¡¯t arrived when he did Carsein would have killed her, she was certain of it. Arwin started a little at her sudden outburst, confusion flashing his expression, while Carsein¡¯s face was stone, unreadable.


    ¡°I-is there a problem?¡± Arwin stuttered, his eyes flickering between the other two.


    Carsein flashed a confused expression and both of their reactions filled her with uncertainty. Had she imagined it? Was she so out if it that she had hallucinated the whole thing?


    ¡°I¡¯m really sorry if I scared you, that wasn¡¯t my intention¡± this time it was Carsein who spoke and he bowed politely.


    Leo stared at him scrutinizing. There was no emotion in his voice nor on his face, nothing to tell her if his words were sincere.


    ¡°Leo, darling¡­¡± Arwin spoke softly as he approached with careful strides, a worried expression on his face. ¡°Are you alright?¡±


    She couldn¡¯t stop a shiver from traveling her shoulders. Could she not trust her own mind anymore? He placed a gentle hand on her shoulder and looked into her eyes, with a soothing gaze.


    ¡°It¡¯s okay, Leo. You are probably still affected by what happened at the castle, even if you don¡¯t remember. But no one is going to hurt you, not as long as you are here. You are safe.¡± His hand gently stroked her cheek as he spoke, and the gesture was warm and comforting.


    She had to have imagined it, an effect of repressed memories getting mixed with reality. Arwin was too calm for it to actually have happened. She felt the tension leaving her shoulders at the realization. Yes, she must¡¯ve imagined it.


    ¡°It¡¯s okay¡­ You¡¯re going to be fine¡±


    He turned to Carsein who was still waiting at the door, waving him forth. ¡°Let us try again. This is Carsein. Since my duties forces me from my home quite often, I¡¯ve hired him to be your bodyguard during your stay in my mansion. I hope you¡¯ll try to get along¡± he spoke, gesturing at the tall man who bowed at the mention of his name. His greeting seemed polite although his face was expressionless, but something flashing at the corner of his mouth sent a shiver through Leo.


    No, it¡¯s fine, I only imagined it. It wasn¡¯t real, don¡¯t be afraid.

 Episode 3: Closing the Trap

    Arwin sent him a scowl as the door closed behind them and further down the hallway he hissed: ¡°Carsein, what were you doing?¡±


    Carsein shrugged indifferent to the other man¡¯s scorn and they descended the stairs to the ground floor, ¡°nothing, just scaring her a little...¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t do that. I know you hate her, but she¡¯s mine now ¨C I paid for her. I hired you because I wanted someone I trust to watch over her but if you can¡¯t contain yourself, I¡¯ll send you packing immediately¡± Arwin growled.


    Carsein suppressed the urge to roll his eyes and sighed, ¡°fine¡­ but what¡¯s the harm?¡±


    A sly smirk flashed across Arwin¡¯s face momentarily before it returned to his usual fake, polite smile.


    ¡°We need to show her kindness, Carsein. A woman in love is the dumbest creature and she could regain her memories at any moment. I need her to trust me completely when she does, so you can¡¯t go around scaring her like that. It would make things suspicious.¡±


    As they turned the corner Arwin spotted a maid dusting of a vase, nestled on a table decorating the hallway. ¡°Oh, could you send someone to make sure the Lady is properly dressed for breakfast?¡± he asked her in passing and the maid bowed politely in confirmation.


    ¡°Why is that so important?¡± Carsein asked when they got out of earshot, nearing the dining hall.


    ¡°We still don¡¯t know if she¡¯s learned any magic or combat skills that could pose a problem later on¡±


    ¡°Hmm¡­ If she does, then what?¡±


    Arwin smirked again, eyeing Carsein up and down. An expression that always gave him cold shivers.


    ¡°If so, you might just get to kill her after all¡±


    Carsein suppressed the urge to grin. God, he hoped she had learned all sorts of skills that made her real dangerous.


    He saw before him the vision of her as she¡¯d sprung from the bed. Pure instinctual fear burning in those emerald green eyes, her auburn locks falling in cascades over her shoulders and her visage clad in a thin nightgown, hinting at the womanly figure underneath. He¡¯d like to take her for a spin before killing her, though.


    ¡°What do you want her for, anyway?¡± he inquired further, curious and slightly envious at the recollection.


    ¡°Well¡­ I¡¯ve always liked her. She¡¯s beautiful, isn¡¯t she?¡± Carsein nodded, ¡°she rejected my marriage proposal, you know after what happened to your family, and since¡­ I¡¯ve just wanted her so badly¡­¡±


    Carsein frowned at the mention of his former bond to the princess. That was a long time ago, they were only kids back then and he had yet to grasp what monsters the royal family really were.


    ¡°Now, now¡­¡± Arwin chuckled as he noticed his discontent expression, making the frown deepen.


    Arwin was an insidious snake with obscure motives and sadistic tendencies. He was glad he wasn¡¯t Carsein¡¯s enemy. And though he¡¯d rather see the princess dead with her head speared on the castle gates along with the king¡¯s and all those other filthy nobles who supported his reign, he could at least comfort himself that the rest of her life would be miserable now that Arwin had dug his fangs into her.This story has been stolen from Royal Road. If you read it on Amazon, please report it


    He sighed.


    ¡°Swift justice is more my style, but you do as you like¡± he scoffed and Arwin¡¯s grin widened, a satisfied hum sounding from him.


    ¡­


    ¡®This girl¡¯ Carsein thought to himself as he tried to mask his hateful expression, watching the princess stroll carefree around the garden smelling the flowers and enjoying the spring breeze.


    It didn¡¯t take long for Arwin to wrap her around his finger and now all she did was pine for him, whining about what he was doing, when he¡¯d return, when she could see him. Irritating. She was so na?ve, and he really hated seeing her running around all happy like this. He hoped Arwin would strike soon, otherwise he might not be able to contain himself.


    ¡°Princess, I think that¡¯s quite enough!¡± he heard himself yell and the young woman spun on her heels, jolting slightly at the sight of his frown but then her face lit up in an innocent smile.


    ¡°Oh, just a little while longer. It¡¯s been so long since I spent any time outside¡±


    He scowled. The princess had spent the last week confined in the mansion to recover and to give Arwin time to finalize his deal with the new king. Though the snake had spun a tale for the princess about her being in danger if the king knew she was still alive, that was a complete lie. The king already knew and had handed her as a price to Arwin for masterfully orchestrating the rebellion. The snake himself might have become king, had he had such interests, but he preferred running things from the shadows and was more than content just gaining a pet and an elated title. Duke Arwin de Raugh. Carsein spat a little.


    He hadn¡¯t come here because he liked working for the man, but he had to see the princess for himself. He wanted to be there when Arwin broke her, see the last of the royal bloodline succumb to the fate they all deserved; One of death or misery.


    But god was she annoying. His patience was honestly wearing thin. In a few hasty strides he closed the distance between them, grabbing a hold of her arm.


    ¡°I said that¡¯s quite enough!¡± he growled, reveling in her shocked expression as she faced him.


    Though it didn¡¯t last long. In the blink of an eye the fear in her eyes vanished like morning dew and a soft smile spread on her full lips. For some reason she didn¡¯t seem to fear him anymore like that first day when he¡¯d surprised her. Not even when he failed to mask his expression. Irritating.


    His grip around her tightened, garnering a slightly pained expression from her. That¡¯s more like it.


    ¡°Ow, Carsein. That hurts!¡± she complained, trying to pull away, ¡°fine, we¡¯ll go inside.¡±


    Her eyes rolled slightly during the resignation making Carsein suppress a discontent growl. Why was she like this?


    ¡°Carsein!¡± he spun his head at the sound and caught the sight of Arwin stepping out from a side door to the mansion, ¡°what are you doing to a lady?¡±


    The princess¡¯ face lit up in a bright smile, so sweet it almost had Carsein shudder and he lost his grip around her arm as she sprung towards the blonde man.


    ¡°Arwin, you¡¯re back!¡± she exclaimed happily, stopping just before she reached him in an eager bounce. She looked like a puppy happy to see its master. Carsein saw the content in Arwin¡¯s smile as he probably thought the same, but the princess didn¡¯t seem to notice. In fact she seemed completely oblivious to the devious nature hidden behind that that fake smile. Truly pitiful.


    ¡°What seems to be the matter, milady?¡± he asked, flashing Carsein a scorn.


    ¡°Please, Arwin, Carsein doesn¡¯t seem to think I should be able to enjoy the weather¡± she pouted, ¡°but it¡¯s just so nice, can I stay a while longer?¡±


    Arwin smiled at her, an expression she likely thought looked loving. ¡°Oh, I suppose you could¡­ Although I was just coming to fetch you for afternoon tea. I thought you might like to enjoy it with me in the salon?¡±


    ¡°Really?¡± her happy voice sounded, her wish to wander the yard now completely forgotten.


    ¡°Yes, but if you wanted to stay outside longer¡­¡±


    ¡°No, that¡¯s okay! We can have tea together¡±


    Carsein rolled his eyes. You could almost see her tail wagging and the contentment on Arwin¡¯s face was sickening.


    Truly pitiful.

 Episode 4: Proposal

    Turning around the corner Leo suddenly found her nose in collision with someone¡¯s broad chest. A little startled she sprung back, lifting her face to meet Carsein¡¯s cold gaze.


    Initially Arwin¡¯s behavior had convinced her that she¡¯d just imagined the incident in the bedroom when she first met the scary mercenary, but seeing the continued distain in his expressions, she was now certain she hadn¡¯t. However Carsein seemed content just sending her hateful looks, showing no signs of further harmful intent. It still always gave her cold shivers, but she didn¡¯t want to give him the satisfaction of showing him fear, so she did her best to smile. ¡®Kill them with kindness¡¯ as they said, although she didn¡¯t know who, her memory still being a big blank.


    ¡°Oh, hello Carsein¡± she nodded, ignoring the frown forming on his face at her apparent lack of terror.


    ¡°Princess. I am to escort you today as well¡± he growled, ¡°follow me.¡±


    She sighed and shrug her shoulders as he turned to begin his stride down the hallway, not doubting that she would follow his command.


    This wasn¡¯t a new thing. It had been about a month since she first woke up in the mansion, void of any memories of her previous life as a royal, and for the past two weeks Carsein had followed her around everywhere. Arwin had commanded it, saying it was for her protection and although she hated it, she trusted that Arwin had a reason. Still, she wondered what that was since she never sat foot outside the mansion. The heightened security made her worried. Worried for her future. Arwin had said she was safe at his estate for now, but she couldn¡¯t know when that would no longer be the case. What could Arwin do if the king found out and wanted her executed along with the rest of the former government?


    She dreaded the thought, but almost more so she feared having to leave this place she¡¯d grown so fond of. Arwin was such a kind and beautiful man and she¡¯d begun finding herself dreaming of him both at night and in waken moments. The visage of the handsome man with his beautiful golden hair and delicate, yet manly features always played at the corner of her vision. It was like she was obsessed.


    She barely saw him nowadays and the longing haunted her, leaving her without energy or appetite for anything else than catching a glimpse of him when he returned, sometimes in the dead of night, wearing a glum expression. An expression that worried her. Something was wrong, she could feel it.


    Following behind Carsein, her eyes on his broad back, she inquired: ¡°where are we spending our time today?¡±


    Without looking back he shrugged, ¡°the yard. I need to train.¡±


    I slightly giddy feeling came over her at the prospect of spending the day outside for a change. It was springtime and the flowers bloomed so lovely already. The sound of birdsong and the feel of the fresh breeze always made her more relaxed.


    The genuine version of this novel can be found on another site. Support the author by reading it there.


    Leisurely reading under the pear tree, she hummed a satisfied melody. A blanket covered her lower body, one that Carsein had insisted she wore since the wind could still be chilly even if the sun shone. The gesture had surprised her, she didn¡¯t think he¡¯d care if she caught a cold, but she couldn¡¯t read any emotion in his expression, so she¡¯d just shrugged it off as him trying to keep his promise to his employer to keep her safe.


    She shot him a glance as he stood in the middle of the yard swinging his sword. His naked upper body gleamed with sweat in the sunlight and his form and the way he moved with ease attested to his skill as a swordsman. She was sure he could best even the most skilled knight of the royal order, though she didn¡¯t know where this knowledge came from. If he ever decided to end her life, she would have no chance.


    She shuddered a little as a cold breeze flew over her, gripping the pages of her book making them flutter.


    ¡°Leo!¡±


    She jerked her head at the sudden call of her name and spotted a familiar figure standing in the side entrance of the east building. Arwin. He was home already!


    She sprung to her feet a delighted expression on her face, but as she scurried toward him her heart stilled. There was an expression of concern on his face she had not seen before and it made her uneasy.


    ¡°Leo, I need to talk to you. It¡¯s urgent¡± he spoke as she reached him.


    Following Arwin inside she swallowed in an attempt to remove the tight knot that was forming in her throat. There was something terribly wrong, she could feel it. The usual butterflies that usually appeared in his presence, had all left, leaving room for only cold claws to tear at her insides.


    Arwin opened the door to the east wing¡¯s tea salon and gestured her to take a seat at the table near the window, placing himself across from her.


    ¡°Leo¡± he began, something in his eyes sending cold shivers throughout her body, ¡°we¡¯ve been discovered.¡±


    She gasped, her heart almost coming to a full stop as the words reached her ears and she grasped their meaning. Cold sweat sprung from her forehead and her hands began to tremble.


    But before she could express her fears vocally, Arwin grabbed her hand, squeezing it gently in an effort to comfort her and spoke: ¡°It¡¯s all right, it¡¯s all right. Don¡¯t be alarmed¡±


    She tried to calm her heart. She trusted this man completely, so if he said she needn¡¯t be afraid she had to do her best not to be.


    ¡°I¡¯ve been expecting this to happen at some point, so I¡¯ve been spending my time getting close to the new king gaining his favor. He knows that you are here, and he isn¡¯t happy, but there is a solution¡­¡±


    Hope welled up inside her and her gaze flew up to meet his, the sight almost taking her breath away. His face as beautiful as always, but his expression was so warm, gentle and caring that she felt the butterflies slowly return.


    ¡°Marry me¡±


    Heat flushed to her cheeks at his words and her heart now raced even faster than before, but for a slightly different reason. Marry him? Really?


    ¡°W-what?¡± was all the response she could muster. That didn¡¯t make any sense, how was that a solution? Would he even want to? She peered at his face, hoping to find an answer in his deep blue eyes.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry¡­¡± he withdrew his hand and a dejected expression formed on his face as he looked away, ¡°I should explain. The king was worried you might become interested in revenge or maybe even try to ascend the throne once you gained back your memories. So, I thought if you married me, he could be at ease knowing you would stay under my watch, since he trusts me. It was the only solution I could think of...¡± He peered at her, his expression cryptic.


    ¡°I-I¡¯m not rejecting you¡± she stuttered, realizing her question could have given him that impression, ¡°I-I was just surprised¡­ Do you really want me?¡± She glanced at him hopeful and anxious.


    ¡°More than you know¡± he smiled, the sight rippling through her body forming warm shivers and making her face light up in a joyous expression.


    ¡°Really?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±

 Episode 5: Pitiful

    The sound of a squeal from upstairs had Carsein turn on his bed, an irritated growl reverbing from his throat. Damn, princess. Why did her room have to be right above his?


    She had often woken him up at night with loud screams from night terrors. At first, he didn¡¯t mind much, almost reveled in the sound in fact, but slowly he¡¯d begun finding it eerie and uncomfortable. The noises she made right now, though, only irritated him.


    He knew the reason for them, Arwin had already told him. He¡¯d proposed earlier that day and the princess had been ¡®over the moon¡¯, by his own words. Pitiful girl. Carsein almost fell sorry for her, the way the noose was tightening around her neck without her even realizing it.


    He rummaged dragging a pillow over his ear in order to drown out the noises, but to no avail. The princess high pitch had no problem penetrating the thin floorboards and his pillow was a weak armor against it. Scowling he got up from the bed. He¡¯d have to get up there and make her stop.


    The princess seemed so occupied by her own happiness that she only noticed his approach when he burst through the bedroom door. She startled, jolting to her feet at the sudden intrusion.


    Her shoulders shivered and the warm flush on her cheeks slowly faded as she stood before him. She was hugging a pillow, standing barefooted on the floor in her nightgown, her red hair released from the hairpin she usually wore. Her slightly parted lips and her wide eyed expression witnessed her surprise.


    ¡°You¡¯re noisy¡± Carsein snarled.


    ¡°I-I¡¯m sorry¡­¡± she trembled, but then a smirk formed on her face and she threw herself on the bed in an inelegant motion, ¡°I¡¯m just so happy!¡±


    Carsein¡¯s anger flared up again, but she defiantly met his gaze with a sly smile, ¡°Oh, come on Carsein. You must¡¯ve heard; I¡¯m getting married!¡±


    Even his anger and hatred didn¡¯t seem capable of penetrating her immense joy and she rolled a couple of times, squealing happily.


    ¡°I don¡¯t give a damn. Be quiet or I¡¯ll kill you¡± he growled. She jolted at the words and turned to gauge his expression. He really felt like he could kill her right now. She swallowed as she seemed to comprehend the sincerity of his threat.


    ¡°I-I¡¯m s-sorry¡­ I¡¯ll be quiet¡± was her trembling, wide-eyed response and Carsein almost smirked at the reaction. It had been so long since she last expressed any genuine fear in front of him. Satisfied he spun around and left. Hopefully he could gain some sleep from now on.


    ¡­


    Carsein swung his sword, the motion as natural as breathing and shot a glance over at the princess, sitting on the edge of the west garden¡¯s large fountain. She was giggling, petting one of the estate¡¯s hunting dogs that had been brought out for the season¡¯s first hunt. That dog was unruly, and he wondered if he should inform of the danger of playing with it so close to the fountain.The author''s tale has been misappropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon.


    But before he had even finished the thought the dog lunged for the princess with wagging tail, making her lose balance and she toppled backwards into the water. Carsein could hardly contain his laugher as he watched her legs wriggle and the water splashing around her as she tried to gain her bearings. Flustered she finally got up, spitting water and sending Carsein an angry glare that just made his hearty laughter reverberate even louder. Wait was he laughing? Did she just make him laugh?


    Shuddering at the thought has laughter stilled, and he watched her struggle to get up from the slippery basin. Then sighed. In a couple of long strides he made his way over to help her. Though the sight should be cause for amusement, it shouldn¡¯t be to him. He should revel at her misery, not clumsy misfortune. He shouldn¡¯t feel anything for her but hate and discontent.


    So why then was it, that as he pulled the woman out his breath caught, startled by the sight of her? The wet fabric clinging to her slender figure, enhancing her womanly attributes, the water droplets clinging to her slightly parted lips and fluttering eyelashes. And why did it catch once more as she sent him a grateful smile, creasing her rosy cheeks?


    Like he feared she had put a spell on him, he recoiled his hand as soon as she had footing on the ground and turned around to leave. A strange anxiety tucking at his chest.


    Later that night he met Arwin for a drink in the office. The snake seemed unusually chipper and Carsein had a feeling something was up.


    ¡°Why do you seem so disgustingly satisfied?¡± he finally asked, not liking the mood Arwin seemed to be in.


    ¡°Oh, I just made a breakthrough with the king¡­¡± the man smirked, swirling his drink in his tumbler seemingly pleased with Carsein¡¯s curiosity. Carsein found Arwin¡¯s current mood profoundly annoying and he wondered if should indulge him or just leave, but his curiosity got the better of him.


    ¡°Oh? What kind of poison did you slip his majesty¡¯s ears this time?¡± he asked, sounding utterly indifferent. Arwin smirked again.


    ¡°I convinced him not to abolish slavery just yet. Said that since so many of the former nobles had been killed, he would be more reliant on the nouveau-rich¨¦, low nobility and wealthy merchants. It so happens that the business is a great source of income in this country, especially so in the borderlands¡± Arwin slung back and took a sip, his smile so content one would think he¡¯d saved the country from starvation.


    ¡°Oh, and what is your interest in that?¡± a slight tremor on his hand that held the glass, was the only thing that hinted at the roar of emotions rippling through Carsein, and it seemed Arwin was too busy reveling in his own victory to notice.


    ¡°Oh, I have a stake in the business myself. The money is good and where else would one get nice, obedient pets to play with when there is a shortage of na?ve former princesses?¡± there was a chuckle in his voice and Carsein had to muster all his willpower not to kill the man where he stood.


    Had Arwin not been so consumed by his own superiority he might have noticed the burning fire in Carsein¡¯s eyes. The smoldering rage and the pure killing intent. Unlucky for him. Had he seen it, he might have known to fear the man and to quell his trust in him.


    Carsein downed the last contents of his glass and sat it on the table before the snake, his control amicable so that it didn¡¯t shatter and expose his rage. ¡°Thanks for the drink, I think I¡¯ll retire for the evening.¡±


    Arwin lifted an eyebrow to examine his friend, but his expression had already hardened no emotions leaking from it.


    ¡°It¡¯s fifty year old scotch, are you really saying no to such a delicacy?¡± he probed, puzzled.


    ¡°I prefer my senses sharp¡± he remarked then excused himself for the night, leaving Arwin to enjoy the liquor alone.


    Fucking snake!

 Episode 6: Hands

    Leo awoke in the dead of night, drenched in cold sweat from her nightmare. Slithering tongues had reached for her in the dark, while roaring fires rose in front of her blocking her escape. They¡¯d reached for her, becoming sweaty hands that pinned her down, cutting into her. Her own scream was what had brought her back to her dark bedroom, shivering and disoriented.


    She needed air.


    Quietly she slipped into a pair of loafers and a robe and lit a candle before sneaking out into the hallway. It was quiet except for a few crickets serenading through an open window. Usually when she woke up like this, she¡¯d either sneak into the garden or into the kitchen to grab a snack. Today she felt hunger pressing, so she chose the second option.


    As she neared, she discovered the door was open, dim candlelight bellowing from within and she was about to turn around, afraid the cook would get angry at her intrusion when she heard a sound. Something like a person banging their head against hanging pans and Arwin¡¯s voice spilling profanities. She¡¯d never heard him speak like that before, he was always so formal and polite, so it made her a little curious.


    Silently she snuck forward to peer inside and the sight of her finance made butterflies flutter in her stomach. He looked much less proper than usual, his shirt unbuttoned more than usual and not neatly tucked into his pants. He wasn¡¯t wearing a vest or jacket either and his blonde hair was ruffled in sharp contrast to his usual comb. He was staring at one of the pans muttering about why someone had placed it there and the sight was so astonishing she couldn¡¯t suppress a chuckle.


    At the sound his head jerked in her direction, a scowl on his face but as he recognized her it softened to a wide smile.


    ¡°Leo, what¡¯re you doing here?¡± his voiced slurred.


    ¡°Oh, I was just out for a stroll, I had trouble sleeping¡± she admitted, looking down at her feet blushing.


    ¡°What a nice surprise¡± he smiled, striding towards her. He seemed different from usual, more open and cheerful. There was a slight stagger to his movements as he leaned against the doorway, his gaze fastened on her.


    A strong fermented smell clung to him and she sniffed a little to try and recognize the scent. ¡°Did you drink?¡±


    ¡°Just a little. I had things to celebrate¡± he giggled.


    ¡°Oh, such as what?¡± she inquired, curious as to what he¡¯d been doing all day. She had barely seen him even after he came home from work and she was a little sad they hadn¡¯t spent any time together.


    He looked to be pondering for a moment, then his lips curled in a mischievous smile. ¡°Maybe the fact that I have such a beautiful fianc¨¦e?¡± he teased, ¡°though I suppose that¡¯s cause for celebration most days¡­¡±


    She blushed at his words, feeling embarrassed that he could speak such blatant flattery without batting an eye.


    ¡°Arwin, you tease me¡± she mumbled in an attempt to hide her embarrassment. A warm hand then landed on her soft cheek and her head jerked to meet his gaze.The author''s tale has been misappropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon.


    ¡°It¡¯s true¡­¡± his voice was so soft and his touch so gentle it made her quiver. Then suddenly he lowered his head and planted a kiss on her lips. Startled she drew back, the sensation still lingering, and her blush further deepened.


    ¡°Arwin, what are you-¡° but before she could finish her sentence, his mouth was over hers again. Cupping her face in his palms he held her in place, as his tongue slipped through her lips. She shivered at the warm, but overwhelming sensation.


    ¡°A-Arwin!¡± she protested as soon as he paused to catch a breath, ¡°w-we shouldn¡¯t do such things before the wedding¡­¡±


    He looked at her with mild disappointment, then drew a sigh. ¡°Of course. You¡¯re right¡­ Let me take you back to your room.¡±


    She almost felt bad for turning him down seeing his dejected expression, but as a woman she couldn¡¯t let herself get carried away like that. Not even if they were engaged.


    Back to his usual gentlemanly self he offered his arm to her, though she felt he might be the one who needed support and together they made their way back to her room.


    At the doorway she spun to thank him and bid him goodnight, but before the words had a chance to form his mouth was suddenly on top of hers again. His arms wrapped around her waist, trapping her against him.


    ¡°A-Arwin!¡± she muttered between kisses, but he didn¡¯t seem to heed her protests. Slowly he started moving them toward the bed.


    ¡°Arwin, we aren¡¯t married yet. This is improper¡± she tried, as he feathered kisses down her neck.


    ¡°We¡¯ll soon be anyway¡± his husky voice sounded at her ear.


    Suddenly he pushed her on the bed and in a swift motion he was on top of her, smothering her with his mouth. The tongue slippery between her teeth and his warm hand searching on top of her clothing, she felt a panic welling up.


    ¡°Arwin, stop!¡±


    But he didn¡¯t listen. Her eyes widened in horror as he grabbed her nightgown and tore it open in the middle and she gasped at his expression. She¡¯d never seen that kind of primal look in his eyes before.


    ¡°Arwin, no don¡¯t!¡± She shouted, but he drowned her panicked protests again, and his hand fumbled to grab a firm breast, massaging it. Her breath hitched and her blood ran cold. She didn¡¯t want this. She struggled to free herself, but he held her down with his hands and the weight of his body.


    Then a sharp pain seared through her head. A memory trying to claw its way out from inside her skull. She had experienced this before.


    The images started flashing before her eyes, scorching. The castle on fire, hallways flowing with blood. Her slender arms as she hammered on a door, calling for her father trapped behind it. The pain in her bare feet as she ran over glass splinters and cobblestone, trying to escape the soldiers in pursuit of her. Their hands gripping her, pinning her town, tearing at her clothes. The searing pain in her insides as one forced himself upon her.


    ¡°No!¡±


    Arwin was in the midst of trying to spread her legs to remove her underwear, and he startled at the sound of scream. She took advantage of the moment to kick him in the face and sprung to her feet, bearing her escape. She crashed into the hallway and ran for the stairs with primal fear the only thing carrying her forward.


    Then she froze.


    There halfway up the steps stood a hulking figure, the shape all too well known. In two steps he stood in front of her, her eyes only reaching his chest. She started at the sound of footsteps behind her. There was nowhere to run.


    ¡°Oh, Carsein. Sorry if we woke you up.¡± The sound of Arwin¡¯s voice made her shudder, the tone nauseatingly sweet and sinister, ¡°Could you please help me get the little lady back to her room, so we can continue?¡±


    Her breath hitched and her head jerked up to look at Carsein¡¯s expression, desperately hoping to find sympathy in his eyes, though deep down she knew he wasn¡¯t going to help her.


    He took a step forward forcing her back towards the man behind her. Then another and another. She spun around as not to stumble, and gasped when she saw Arwin¡¯s mad expression. There was no trace of love or warmth in his eyes.


    This. This couldn¡¯t be Arwin.

 Episode 7: Saved?

    Carsein awoke in the dead of night, blinking disoriented. The sound of the princess¡¯ scream had torn through his own nightmare and sweat dripped from his forehead as he got up to shake off the feeling.


    He heard the floorboards above him creak and figured she¡¯d be taking another of her nightly strolls. She had a habit of doing that whenever she woke up like this and Carsein always found himself waiting restless on his bed until he heard her return. He hoped she wouldn¡¯t be long, because he could use the sleep.


    So he waited a while and finally the creaks told him she¡¯d come back and he figured he could go back to sleep. But the sound didn¡¯t seem quite like the usual and suddenly he heard voices. Had Arwin snuck into her room?


    Carsein didn¡¯t quite understand, but for some reason that thought made him frown. He knew there was a chance Arwin wouldn¡¯t wait to claim her until they¡¯d gotten married, but now that it was happening, he didn¡¯t like it.


    He turned on the bed, trying to cover his ears with a pillow. He¡¯d just have to smother such feelings. They were strange and unnecessary.


    Then he heard it, her scream. Almost as loud and intense as when she had her night terrors and filled with the same horror. The sound made him shudder. Without thinking he sprung from the bed, surprised at his body¡¯s automatic response. What was he doing?


    Then he heard it again and before he knew it, he was running out the door. He didn¡¯t understand the urgency that carried his footsteps but every muscle in his body screamed at him to hurry. To stop whatever made her utter that terrible sound. He flew up the steps that would carry him toward her room, but halfway up the steps he stopped dead in his tracks.


    At the top of the stairs he saw her. Moonlight shone down from a skylight and bathed her in its soft glow, illuminating her face and figure. Her nightgown was torn open exposing her supple breasts, her red hair cascaded over her bare shoulders like a sea of flames on a moonlit dessert. He hitched at the sight.


    But what made him feel like the air had been punched out of his lungs, was her face. Her expression was utter terror, her eyes wide with tears streaming down her rosy cheeks and lips trembling.


    Hadn¡¯t he always wanted to see her make this expression? Hadn¡¯t he wished for her to be killed or broken, miserable? He thought he had but now that he saw it, all those desires had vanished and instead all he felt was pain. And rage. A rage towards the man responsible, the man whose footsteps he could hear approaching behind her.


    He jumped up the last steps and barely noticed her gasp at his sudden movements, his gaze fastened on him. The snake. He was clearly intoxicated, and he couldn¡¯t mask his expression. It was pure madness, something Carsein had glanced before, masked, hidden. Never had he seen it in its raw form. Not like this.


    ¡°Oh Carsein, sorry if we woke you up. Could you help me get the little lady back into her room, so we can continue?¡± he smiled, his honey dipped voice not matching his maniacal expression.Stolen content alert: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences.


    Every part of him made Carsein¡¯s blood boil. He took a step forward, barely sensing how the princess jolted at his approach. She turned around and Carsein heard her stifle a sob, while Arwin¡¯s expression turned into a sadistic smirk. Tucking the last straw of his sanity.


    With an inaudible growl he lunged for him, everything red. The blonde man toppled backwards completely unprepared for the attack and buckling under his height and weight. Carsein¡¯s hands wrapped around his neck, and unable to fight back against the raw power he held in his intoxicated state, Arwin started writhing and gurgling beneath him. The moment felt like a split second, yet an eternity at the same time. Then it was over. Arwin¡¯s body lay still on the floor red marks across his neck and an empty stare in his eyes.


    Finally Carsein came to his senses. Gasping he looked down to watch his handywork and felt slight jab horror at his own actions, though no remorse. He had killed before and likely would again. It was his own ferocity that scared him, his lack of control.


    But he needed to regain it, for they were in trouble now. He turned around to look for the princess, thinking she¡¯d ran away but was surprised to find her squatting a couple of meters behind him. She was just sitting there her arms wrapped around her knees, staring wide eyed at him.


    She must not have any survival instincts, to not grab the opportunity to flee during the struggle, but that was all the same to him. Spared him the time to look for her.


    The vision of her pitiful state and her terrified expression sent a painful jab through his chest, though he shrugged it off. They had to get out of here, to run, lest people came after him for the crime of killing a noble man and the king¡¯s right hand. And for her. Now that Arwin was dead, there was no one to lay claim on her which meant she was as good as dead too. Unless they ran.


    The princess jolted as he sprung to his feet and grabbed her by her wrists to pull her up. The empty expression in her eyes flared up as panic gripped at her again and she started struggling. She was afraid¡­ of him. A month ago that thought would have made him smile. Not anymore. He grimaced and leaned in over her as he pulled her close.


    ¡°You¡¯d best be quiet, if you wish to live¡± he realized his words sounded like a threat, but there was no time to correct them. Dragging her behind him he dashed for her room and quickly glanced over the interior. She would need clothes and shoes, as well as something to keep her warm at night, like a coat or blanket.


    Like a storm he whirled around the room collecting anything useful he could find and gathered them a sheet he pulled off the bed. He also emptied her jewelry box and tough the contents were sparse they could still fetch some money. When he was done, he wrapped it all in a bundle, that was somewhat carriable.


    Thereafter he turned his attention to the princess. She was just standing there in the middle of the room, her arms wrapped around herself to hide her exposed bosom. She trembled as he approached, a dress in hand that he¡¯d put aside for her to wear.


    ¡°Lift your arms¡± she jolted at his voice but didn¡¯t dare lift her gaze and she hesitated. ¡°Now!¡± he barked and too frightened to do anything else, she obeyed. He had to swallow a little at the renewed sight of her bare figure, but otherwise he ignored any male instincts and ripped the remainder of her tattered clothes off of her before dressing her in the new garments. She jolted and shivered during the process, her fear unmistakable, but she didn¡¯t run or complain.


    Finally he barked at her to put on her shoes and then he grabbed her by a wrist once again, dragging her behind him. They scurried to his room. Having been in countless situations that required fast relocation, his bags were almost always packed and ready to go. He even slept mostly dressed, so all he needed was to grab his pack and fasten his sword to his belt; Then they were ready to disappear into the night.

 Episode 8: Escape

    Leo felt as if she was underwater. Every sound, every smell dampened by her state of panic. She watched as Carsein lunged for Arwin, him writhing under the applied pressure to his neck. As Carsein¡¯s grip drained the life from the blonde man¡¯s body, her strength was drained in equal measure and her knees buckled under her. And although her instincts told her to run, she couldn¡¯t move. She could only watch as he came for her.


    Convinced her life was forfeit she stilled her heart and awaited the inevitable. But it didn¡¯t come. Instead he yanked her to her feet and started dragging her toward around the mansion, getting her dressed and packing supplies. Lastly, they stopped by the kitchen were Carsein began stuffing various food items into his bags.


    Then a sound.


    Carsein¡¯s head jerked in the direction of the door, confirming to Leo that she hadn¡¯t just imagined it and her heart began racing once more. Quiet footsteps neared the closed kitchen door. With a gesture of his hand he told Leo to stand still where she was, then silent as a predator he rushed to hide behind the door.


    The nob rattled and the door slid open with a creak, revealing a maid holding a candle. She jolted at the sight of Leo standing in the middle of the room alone. But before she could squeal Carsein jumped out from his hiding spot, grabbed her and put her in a choke-hold. Her feet writhed as she struggled to free herself, but his grip tightened and with a muted gurgling, her body slumped and fell to the floor.


    Leo silenced a gasp and looked at Carsein in terror. Was she dead?


    ¡°She¡¯s fine. Just unconscious¡± Carsein snarled as if he¡¯d read her mind, then stepped forward to grab her arm.


    ¡°I can walk by myself¡± Leo whispered as determinant as she could. She was still panicked ¨C every bone in her body was screaming with fear ¨C but she no longer felt like she was under water. And she didn¡¯t want to be dragged around like dead weight.


    ¡°Fine but stay close and don¡¯t fall behind.¡±


    Carsein had already turned around so he didn¡¯t see her nod in confirmation, and he peered his head through the door make sure the coast was clear.


    ¡°We need to get to the side entrance in the east wing, the garden there is closest to the forest.¡± He glanced around one last time and then waved at Leo to follow him. As silent as they could, they dashed through the mansion hurrying toward the east wing and the exit that would take them outside.The genuine version of this novel can be found on another site. Support the author by reading it there.


    As they neared the door, they could suddenly hear the sound of dogs barking.


    ¡°Shit. They did tie the dogs up, right?¡± she heard Carsein swear to himself and she swallowed. Her memory was nowhere near fully restored, but from what she knew this was the most intense experience she¡¯d ever had besides her final night as a princess.


    The door hardly made a sound as they snuck out and Carsein quickly closed it behind them, the dogs¡¯ barking intensifying, though the source didn¡¯t seem to be moving. Trembling she did her best to follow him as he glided through the yard but compared to his footsteps, that were soundless like an experienced hunter¡¯s, she felt like a bull in a china shop.


    Then halfway through the yard they suddenly heard a scream. It sounded to be coming from inside the mansion and it dawned on her: They had found Arwin. Carsein seemed to have come to the same conclusion, but quicker, and without warning he grabbed her arm and set into a full sprint. Stumbling she struggled to keep up, but neither her legs nor lungs seemed capable of complying. An almost inaudible growl sounded from Carsein and he glanced at her with irritation then bent down and swooped her off her feet. She was about to protest when she suddenly heard voices somewhere behind them. Servants must have come out in search of the culprits and she didn¡¯t want to alert them to their presence, so she covered her mouth to silence any noises and surrendered to Carsein¡¯s embrace. He was surprisingly fast. Even though he carried two bags and a woman it didn¡¯t seem to slow him down and the terrain flashed past her eyes as they made their way through the yard and into the groves behind it; a precursor to the large forest south of the estate.


    Then she noticed how the dog¡¯s barking seemed to approach. Carsein froze and in a swift motion he put her down and placed her behind him, shielding her, drawing his sword.


    Her eyes barely had time to follow as the first dog lunged from the shrubbery but hit the ground ¨C its head separated from its body, before she could manage to blink. The next dog was slain just as fast, but number three, four and five sprung forth simultaneously and as Carsein killed the first two, the last one leaped around him and lunged for Leo. She fell to the ground, struggling to keep its fangs at bay and suddenly she felt something warm splash on her face. With a smell of rust so strong she could almost taste it the dog slumped on top of her. Carsein grabbed it and freed her and she felt her whole body shaking as he scooped her into his arms once more and started running.


    Everything was happening too fast and she couldn¡¯t wrap her head around it. Arwin wasn¡¯t who she thought he was. All she had seen in the that moonlit hallway was a monster; one that was going to consume her. And Carsein¡­ he had saved her, right? But he had killed Arwin with a ferocity that shook her to her core, hurt the maid without hesitation and killed the dogs with ease. She didn¡¯t know what he wanted from her, what he was going to do once they were clear of the mansion, but she had no choice but to follow. If she stayed in the mansion, she surely wasn¡¯t safe. Without Arwin¡¯s protection the king could come for her at any given moment and since there was no witnesses, they might even believe she was involved in his death. No, if she followed Carsein her future might be uncertain, but there was also hope that it would be better than the fate that surely awaited her if she didn¡¯t.


    Feeling his heartbeat against her ear she closed her eyes and let herself be carried into the night.

 Episode 9: Night in the Woods

    ¡°Carsein¡­ I can¡¯t¡­¡± her voice behind him puffed. He turned around with an irritated look in his eyes. She was standing bent over, hands on her knees, panting and locks of red hair clung to her forehead. She had no strength, no stamina. She was dead weight.


    He had no idea why he¡¯d rescued her. It seemed to have been pure instincts guiding his feet. Now that they had made some distance from the mansion and his mind was clearer, he cursed himself. When Arwin told him about his involvement in the slave trade, he was a hairs breadth away from killing him, but he¡¯d controlled himself. The snake could have been away inside for him, a channel for him to obtain information on his sister. If she was still alive.


    But now Arwin was dead. All because Carsein couldn¡¯t control his urges, and over some damn woman. He had fantasized about killing her, so why on earth did he suddenly feel compelled to save her?


    He suppressed the growl forming in his throat and stepped towards the princess to get her on her feet.


    ¡°Get up, we don¡¯t have time for this¡± he snarled, and puffing she looked at him with pleading expression. Pathetic.


    Voicing his discontent with a throaty sound, he picked her up and slung her into his arms. She looked surprised for a moment and he thought she might protest, but then she snuggled her nose into his chest, seemingly content in his embrace. The gesture made his breath hitch and he felt a shiver run through him. An uncomfortable sensation that he quickly shrugged off.


    They had been walking for hours and it had long since been daybreak. After he killed the dogs near the mansion there were no other pursuers, likely unable to follow the pace with which they moved. And with each step forward the likelihood of being caught decreased, the forest hiding their presence and the creaks and streams erasing their scent and footsteps. Had he been alone he would probably already be resting, fast as he was and confident in his skill to fend off any attackers if need be. But he was dragging the princess along this time and aside from being noisy, slow and clumsy, she also had no fighting skills ¨C that he knew off ¨C and therefor he would have to protect her as well as himself. She really was dead weight.


    And yet he seemed unable to dispose himself of her. Even if he had lost his desire to kill her, he could just leave her here in the woods and let her own determination decide if she¡¯d live or die. But his chest tightened at the thought and made it hard to breathe, so to ensure the continued health of his own body he had to bring her along. Where ever they were going¡­This narrative has been purloined without the author''s approval. Report any appearances on Amazon.


    A few hours later his arms were finally too tired to carry her any further and he had to put her down. The dimming light in the forest told him it would soon be dusk, so it was well the same. He could hear a stream nearby and the ground seemed even enough to make camp here.


    ¡°Sit. I¡¯m setting up camp¡±


    She nodded listlessly and plopped down on the ground where she stood, the gesture witnessing her exhaustion. He could feel it too, but he was used to pushing his body to the limit and he couldn¡¯t rest just yet. He still had things to do first. He didn¡¯t have a tent or bedrolls, all he had was a blanket and his coat, so they¡¯d need a fire to keep warm. They had barely eaten all day as well and the water skins had long been empty.


    Rummaging around the undergrowth he managed to gather some dry firewood and by the nearby creek he filled his waterskins. He was grateful for his quick thinking to gather food from kitchen, since the forest harvest was yet sparse, and he didn¡¯t have a bow with which to hunt.


    Soon they were sitting side by side around the fire, the night closing around them as they ate quietly. Carsein had thought she would be full of questions, but she was just staring empty eyed into the fire gnawing on her dry lump of bread. He didn¡¯t know if she was wary of him, still in shock or just tired, but it was all the same to him. He didn¡¯t have much interest in chatting.


    When they were done, he laid out the blanket next to the fire and gestured, ¡°sleep. We have a long day ahead of us tomorrow.


    He was tired as well, so he spread out his coat for himself to rest on. Lying on his back he was surrounded by the sound of the crackling fire, the forest animals and rustling of trees. Staring up at the starry sky, obscured by heavy treetops he was waiting for something, although he didn¡¯t know what for. He should be exhausted, more than ready to sleep.


    Closing his eyes he listened, then slowly became aware of it: The chattering of teeth. He turned his head to look at the princess lying on the blanket facing her back to him, her shoulders shivering and sighed. He was never going to sleep like this.


    Even though summer came closer with each passing day, the nights were still cold and there was only really one way to remedy it. So he rolled onto her blanket and yanked her into his arms, pressing her length against his.


    ¡°C-Carsein, what are you doing?¡± she struggled, trying to break loose from his embrace, but he just held her tighter.


    ¡°Shut up. I can¡¯t sleep with your teeth chattering.¡± He shifted a little to grab his coat and pulled it over them. Slowly her shivers stopped, and he closed his eyes, finally asleep.

 Episode 10: Surviving

    She woke up in the morning, her whole body aching and her head throbbing from thirst. She groaned a little a sat to get up, blinking as she tried to orient herself to her surroundings.


    Then a panic started welling up. Carsein was gone. The fire had died out and his bag was nowhere to be seen.


    She sprung to her feet, her eyes darting around her to look for any signs of him or his belongings. No, no, no! Did he disappear while she was sleeping? He couldn¡¯t just have left her here!


    ¡°Carsein!¡± she cried out, her heart racing and fear gripping her throat, ¡°Carsein!¡±


    ¡°What? What¡¯s wrong?¡±


    She startled at the voice behind her and with tears of relief in her eyes, she turned around. Carsein¡¯s visage appeared from between shadows of trees, his dark curls dripping with water and his brows furrowed in a worried expression. He hadn¡¯t left her. She almost gave in to the urge to run forth and hug him.


    He quickly sat down the backpack he was carrying and darted over to her. ¡°Did something happen?¡± His eyes seemed to examine her, and she quickly dried her eyes.


    ¡°No, sorry. It was nothing¡± her voice trembled, and he tilted his head slightly in disbelief. ¡°J-just¡­¡± she stuttered. Now that he stood before her, she felt embarrassed by her panicked state and her cheeks flushed a little. ¡°I thought maybe¡­ you¡¯d left¡­¡± she drew out the words, her blush deepening. His brows furrowed deeper for a moment but then his expression softened. An expression she hadn¡¯t seen before, nor thought she would ever witness on him.


    ¡°No, you¡¯re stuck with me princess¡± he teased, and a warm feeling surged through her at his words, ¡°at least until we figure something else out. The king must have heard about Arwin¡¯s murder by now, so we aren¡¯t safe this close to the capital¡­¡± Her shoulders tensed a little again at the last statement.


    ¡°What do we do then? Where are we going to go?¡± The worry was clear in her voice.


    He scratched his chin thoughtfully before answering. ¡°For now¡­south. Away from the capital.¡± She nodded. ¡°We¡¯ll need to stop by a town to get some equipment and supplies. Even if it¡¯s a little risky¡­¡±


    ¡°When?¡±


    ¡°When we exit the forest there should be a town nearby. We¡¯ll stop by there.¡±


    She nodded. ¡°What do we need?¡±


    ¡°For one some better clothes for you to travel in¡± she glanced down at her own attire; It wasn¡¯t exactly the most travel friendly she had to agree. A blue dress that was made to be worn with a corset, with a big, heavy skirt, now rimmed with mud. Her feet were bare and small blisters had formed after walking around in her fine shoes all of yesterday. They were brown leather shoes, artistically made and beautiful but not meant for walking. She nodded.If you spot this tale on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation.


    ¡°We¡¯ll also need a tent; some bedrolls and I¡¯d like to get a bow so I can go hunting¡­¡±


    ¡°Do we have money for that?¡± she asked, as she suddenly realized she didn¡¯t have any wealth or treasure to her name not to mention with her. She had never had to worry about money or daily necessities before.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry. The duke paid pretty handsomely for my work and I also managed to snatch some jewelry that we can sell¡­ We should have enough to get by for a while.¡±


    How lucky hadn¡¯t she been that Carsein was the one to save her. He seemed accustomed to this kind of life and survival in the forest, and she wondered where he had learned all his skills.


    ¡°How do you know so much about survival, Carsein?¡± she inquired, curious about her new companion.


    He scratched his chin with a strange expression that she couldn¡¯t quite interpret. ¡°I¡¯m a mercenary, princess. You learn a thing or two when you get sent out to rural areas or get lost or abandoned by a party¡­¡±


    That sounded pretty rough. Her brows furrowed a little thoughtfully and the hint of a smile played on Carsein¡¯s lips but disappeared so fast she wondered if she¡¯d seen it wrong.


    ¡°It¡¯s fine. Now, you must be hungry and thirsty, so let¡¯s get the fire going and grab something to eat.¡± His hand made a motion as if he was about to pat her head but changed his mind halfway and instead spun to pick up his backpack. Rummaging through it he pulled out a dead rabbit and she gasped soundlessly at the sight.


    ¡°I was lucky¡± he said. ¡°Found a rabbit stuck in an old hunting trap. It didn¡¯t seem to have been used for quite a while, so I took the liberty of bringing it with me.¡±


    Knife in hand he then put the animal before him and cut into its soft underbelly, the innards spilling forth in a pool of blood. Her stomach churned at the sight and she turned away, unable to look at it.


    ¡°Could you gather some wood for the fire, princess?¡± he spoke, the sound of the knife cutting through the air.


    She nodded without looking his way and did as instructed, searching the ground around the camp for dry firewood. Done with the task, she dropped the wood next to him. The rabbit was now a lump of meat with the head intact, but the skin removed and innards in a bloody pile next to him.


    She covered her mouth to try and repress the urge to vomit.


    ¡°You better get used to this, princess¡± he teased as he noticed her disgust. ¡°Survival isn¡¯t for the faint of heart and hunting will be a necessary part of life from now on.¡±


    She knew that. She was aware that she was just a weak, sheltered princess who knew nothing about the world and who would probably die from cold or starvation if Carsein wasn¡¯t around to look after her. So she swallowed and forced herself to look at the dead animal. She had to become stronger.


    The hint of a smile tucked at a corner of Carsein¡¯s mouth as he saw her struggle. ¡°I¡¯ll just pack this away and then I¡¯ll teach you how to light the fire¡± he spoke and then proceeded to roll up the rabbit skin and put the carcass on a wooden stick he¡¯d readied for the purpose. Then he gathered the innards of the animal and went somewhere into the forest and came back with bloodied hands which he dried in some leaves before turning his attention on her.


    From a pouch in his belt he pulled out some dried bark and grass turf. ¡°Come, I¡¯ll show you¡± he said and waved his hand for her to approach. She dropped down on the ground next to him.


    She had to learn, had to become stronger.

 Episode 11: Why Did You Save Me?

    Her scream tore the air and she bolted up, drenched in sweat from her nightmare. For a moment she was disoriented, and the trees around her seemed like looming hands reaching down for her. As she blinked the sound of insects and an owl¡¯s nightly how finally reminded her of where she was.


    ¡°Did you have one of your nightmares?¡±


    She jolted and turned around in surprise by the voice. Carsein was sitting behind her by the fire, turned toward her with a mild expression on his face that further added to her surprise.


    One of her nightmares? How did he¡­Right, his room in the mansion was located right under hers, so he must¡¯ve heard her when she woke up screaming from time to time. She nodded quietly and he turned to add some more wood to the flames.


    ¡°Did I wake you up?¡±


    He shook his head. ¡°No. I was up, feeding the fire. You can go back to sleep.¡± She shifted a little uncomfortably on the blanket. The images of her dream still flashed before her eyes so vividly. Now that she had recovered her memories of the attack on the castle, her nightmare had changed. Instead of the faint images and impressions, she now saw the blazing walls of fire, the hallways spilling blood and dead faces with clarity. She remembered the hands that touched her and the chuckling voices too vividly. She shuddered. She couldn¡¯t sleep like this.


    So she moved to sit down next to Carsein who didn¡¯t protest that she chose not to follow his suggestion. She curled her hands around her knees and for a while they just sat there, staring into the fire.


    ¡°Why did you save me, Carsein?¡± her voice finally broke the silence and he shot her a surprised glance at the bold question.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know¡­¡± he finally drew out. ¡°I thought I hated you, but turns out I don¡¯t¡­¡±


    ¡°Is that enough reason to save anyone?¡±


    He was silent for a moment and she listened to his breath tensely.


    ¡°I guess not¡­ I don¡¯t know, princess¡­ I just didn¡¯t want Arwin to hurt you is all¡­¡± her cheeks flushed a slightly at the unexpected tenderness in his voice. She was well aware that he¡¯d hated her; he had made that clear with every icy look he¡¯d given her¡­but now he didn¡¯t? In fact that answer almost made it sound like he cared about her.This book is hosted on another platform. Read the official version and support the author''s work.


    ¡°But honestly, I don¡¯t know if I should have¡­¡± he then admitted, and she froze. The warmth from his previous words evaporated. ¡°I lost my chance at finding something important¡­¡±


    ¡°Do you regret it then?¡± she asked, struggling to keep her voice from trembling from the lump in her throat.


    ¡°No¡­I don¡¯t. I can¡¯t know for sure if Arwin could have even helped me find it¡­¡± she exhaled relieved, unaware that she had held her breath waiting for his answer. ¡°Do you?¡± he then added.


    ¡°No!¡± she exclaimed. Why on earth would she regret being saved from that kind of situation? She would rather die of starvation out in the wilds than be trapped in the mansion with that snake of a man. She could still scarcely believe that was really him but couldn¡¯t doubt what she¡¯d seen. The maniacal expression on his face had revealed his true nature and she was sure he would¡¯ve done worse things than just violate her, had she stayed.


    ¡°Why would you ask that?¡± she asked after calming herself.


    ¡°Well¡­you wouldn¡¯t have needed for anything at his mansion; Clothes, jewels, food¡­ Even if he was¡­like that, there¡¯s no telling if that life would be better or worse than what is going to happen from now on¡­¡±


    ¡°If living with him meant having god knows what done to me, then I¡¯d rather starve in my undergarments¡± she sneered. He blinked a little at her unexpected fierceness and determination but then nodded.


    ¡°Well, we¡¯ll probably arrive at town sometime tomorrow so let¡¯s assume that won¡¯t be necessary.¡±


    The tension in her shoulders slowly dissipated and she nodded.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go back to sleep¡± he spoke after a short silence. She agreed, though not quite comfortable with the thought of closing her eyes just yet. He shifted to lie down on the coat he¡¯d spread out for himself next to the blanket she slept on. She hesitated a moment as she settled on the blanket again.


    ¡°Carsein?¡± he turned at the sound of her voice and she could feel warmth in her cheeks turning them red.


    ¡°What is it?¡±


    ¡°Uhm¡­¡± she mumbled, unable to voice her request.


    ¡°Are you cold?¡± he asked concerned and she nodded. She wasn¡¯t really. This night was warmer than yesterday¡¯s and she was close enough to the fire to feel its heat. But she remembered the comfort he¡¯d unexpectedly provided two nights before. That had probably been the first time in weeks she¡¯d slept calmly. It was really quite vexing that the man she once feared so much, now made her feel so safe and comfortable ¨C and in the span of three days to boot.


    He shifted and rolled onto the blanket next to her. Pulling his coat with him to cover them like a blanket, he wrapped his arms around her. His strong, yet gentle embrace slowly made her unease dissipate and she breathed a sigh, letting sleep engulf her.

 Episode 12: Let Go!

    Halfway through the next day they finally arrived at Wargdon, the town Carsein had mentioned. It wasn¡¯t large, but lively, and at the town square a scent of baked goods and flowers hung in the air mixing with the smell of stables. As they passed a bakery her mouth watered and Carsein found her expression amusing enough that he bought her a loaf of bread. It was still warm, and she dug her nose into it inhaling the scent before taking a big, savory bite.


    ¡°So, I think we should stop by the inn first to survey our supplies and decide on what to keep and what to sell¡± he spoke as they continued down the street and past the well that seemed to be the square¡¯s center attraction. She nodded.


    The town only had one inn and at the doorstep Carsein paused. ¡°I¡¯m going to say that we¡¯re married, so just go with it.¡± She raised a confused eyebrow but didn¡¯t protest. They walked inside and a large woman who seemed to be the inn-keeper greeted the. She wore an apron over a rough hempen dress and her grey-streaked hair was gathered in a bun with several escaped tendrils clinging to her neck. Carsein spoke with her shortly and handed her some coin, receiving a room key in return.


    Then she led them to the backdoor and up some stairs to a narrow hallway with several doors on each side, and pointed to the room to which the key would fit. Carsein bowed and then slid in the lock and they meandered inside.


    The room was sparsely furnished with a wooden drawer, a bed with, one bedside table and no real d¨¦cor to speak of other than an old woolen rug. Leo watched as Carsein spread out the contents of his backpack and the sheet-bundle on the bed and started arranging stuff into piles. She didn¡¯t quite understand the system, but she was curious about many of the obscure items he had in his bag. Some of them she had seen before and learned their use. Like the small tool which seemed to be a wooden handle with a metal rod protruding from it, around 10 cm in length. It was for making sparks to light campfires.


    ¡°Uhm, why did you need to say that I was your wife?¡± she asked him as he worked.


    ¡°Oh, just so we could share a room, you know; save the money.¡±


    That sounded reasonable. She did know that as an unmarried woman, sharing a room with a man like this, was highly improper. But they had been sleeping in each other¡¯s arms for two nights in the woods already, so it seemed like a petty detail at this point.


    When he was done with the sorting, he got up and scratched his chin as he did when he was deep in thought.


    ¡°Okay, this pile¡± he said and pointed to the largest one, ¡°is things we¡¯ll keep.¡± She nodded and he pointed to next pile ¡°those are things we¡¯ll sell.¡± The second pile was almost as large as the ¡®keep-pile¡¯. They weren¡¯t going to carry around anything that wasn¡¯t absolutely necessary.


    Pointing to the third and last pile he spoke: ¡°And these are the things we¡¯ll need to figure out if we want to carry or throw away.¡± She nodded. Most of the contents in that pile were stuff he¡¯d collected from her room at the mansion, but she didn¡¯t feel any nostalgia for it, so she would leave it up to Carsein¡¯s to decide. He was after all the survival expert while she was just a sheltered and spoiled princess.


    ¡°All right¡± he spoke exhaling and turned towards her. ¡°We¡¯ll need wander around a bit and get all this stuff sold. Then we¡¯ll get some supplies and some more appropriate attire for you.¡±


    She nodded and before she knew it, they were already out the door and wandering the market. Leo had always thought Carsein was just a crude mercenary, but the ease and politeness with which he conversed and traded with the merchants surprised her. She¡¯d never noticed before, but there was a stoic air around him when he was around other people. It reminded her of something¡­


    When they were finally done shopping it was nearly dusk, so they headed back to the inn. They had sold nearly all their redundant equipment and the rest they threw away. In their place they¡¯d bought a lot of new items: A tent, two bedrolls, a pot for cooking, a bow for Carsein and some other miscellaneous things as well as two sets of traveling clothes and new shoes for her. Two sets of clothing weren¡¯t much for a lady of her former status and the quality was nothing to speak of, but it was more than enough for her new lifestyle. And she couldn¡¯t afford be picky.If you spot this narrative on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation.


    At the inn they had a modest meal, though it was a lot better than the unseasoned food or dry bread they¡¯d been eating for the last couple of days. Leo took a sip of her mug of hot water and breathed a satisfied sigh.


    Carsein was still occupied by his meal, but she felt nature¡¯s calling and excused herself for a moment to use lavatory in the inns courtyard.


    Opening the door to exit she suddenly jolted as a figure appeared from the dark in front of her. She quicklty regained her composure and bowed to the man. ¡°Oh, excuse me¡± she said and moved to get around him but he grabbed her wrist, stopping her.


    ¡°Hey, I haven¡¯t seen you around here before, have I?¡± he said and despite his polite words, the tone and way he grabbed her was anything but friendly. Leo felt a slight jab of panic.


    ¡°U-uhm, no¡­ I-I¡¯m just travelling through. I have a companion that awaits me inside, so if you¡¯ll excuse me.¡± She tried to yank her hand back, but he kept a tight grip.


    ¡°Yeah, I saw him. Looks like a big brute that one. Are you sure it¡¯s safe to stay with him?¡± There was something in the man¡¯s voice that felt sinister. She needed to break free and find Carsein. And fast.


    ¡°I¡¯m sure!¡± she mustered all of her strength and finally managed to pull loose but as she turned to run, he grabbed her hair. She whimpered from the pain and cold claws dug their way into her stomach. ¡°Let go!¡±


    He spun her around and threw her up against the lavatory wall, ¡°Where do you think you¡¯re going?¡± he snarled. ¡°Don¡¯t you know it¡¯s impolite to leave in the middle of a conversation?¡±


    There was no conversation, he just wanted an excuse to be rough with her, this much was clear. ¡°Good girls should learn how to behave¡± he whispered, his voice uncomfortably close to her ear. Then she froze, chills running down her spine, turning her blood into ice. His hand had slid up her shirt and was cupping a bare breast underneath.


    ¡°No!¡± she tried screaming, but he drowned her protests by covering her mouth with his. A slimy tongue forced itself in between her teeth and her stomach churned. How could she break free, how could she get away? Instinctively she bit him, and he recoiled with a howl, blood trickling down his lip.


    ¡°You bitch!¡± he shouted and then his hand whisked through the air aiming for her cheek. The impact sent her to the ground, and he lunged down after her. She tried to struggle but his body had her pinned down and his hands were everywhere.


    ¡°No. No!¡± she screamed, and he pressed his hand over her mouth to silence her.


    Then they heard the courtyard door springing open with a loud band and angry footsteps scurried across the cobble stones. Barely did her attacker have time to look up before he went flying, freeing Leo from his weight. She scrambled on her hands and knees to get away and glanced up at her savior. Carsein¡¯s eyes were practically glowing red from the anger as he stared at the man on the ground. He tried to get back on his feet but before he had the chance, Carsein had grabbed him by the throat hoisting him into the air. The man writhed, his feet struggling to touch the ground and he clawed at the hand tightening around his neck.


    ¡°What the hell do you think you¡¯re doing?¡± Carsein¡¯s growled, his voice low and filled with hate. ¡°I should kill you!¡±


    Leo couldn¡¯t do anything but watch with a pounding heart. She knew he meant it. He glanced momentarily at her and she flinched at the familiar expression in his eyes, a look he¡¯d given her so many times when they¡¯d lived at the mansion. But she wasn¡¯t afraid, she knew it wasn¡¯t directed at her.


    He turned his attention back to the writhing man and hesitated for a moment, then dropped him to the ground. The man gasped then started coughing, his hands clutching his throat. But his relief was only momentary for Carsein drew his sword and pointed it at him.


    Before any of them could blink it sliced through the air and something landed on the ground next to the man, making Leo gasp. His eyes widened and a pained howl sounded from him as he stared down at his arm, blood spilling from the stump.


    ¡°I spare your life. But if I ever see you again, I will kill you¡± Carsein snarled. The man hesitated a moment, the shock and terror freezing him. Then he scrambled to his feet, clutching his now handless arm, and sprinted for the courtyard exit, the one leading to the street.


    Leo¡¯s heart was thumping an unsteady rhythm.


    Carsein quickly pulled out a handkerchief and dried the blood of his sword before sheathing it. It was a practiced motion and Leo shivered, unaccustomed to the violence that Carsein seemed so used to. He turned around and an expression crossed his face, but so fast that she didn¡¯t have time to decipher it.


    ¡°Are you alright?¡± The softness of his voice was a sharp contrast to the hateful growls he¡¯d let out and the violence he¡¯d displayed just moments ago. Leo swallowed, then nodded.


    Carsein seemed to hesitate but then he stretched down a hand to her in a helpful gesture. Leo gratefully took it and he pulled her to her feet. With trembling hands she quickly dusted off her clothing as if the gesture could wash away the lingering sensation of the attacker¡¯s disgusting hands.


    Why¡­? Why did these things keep happening to her? Was this what the world was really like? Was this what all men were like? She felt the tears pressing. She was so helpless and weak.

 Episode 13: Dream

    As they got back to their room the princess was quiet. She sat on the bed, an empty expression in her tear-rimmed eyes. Carsein wished he could comfort her some way but didn¡¯t know how.


    He was surprised with how angry he¡¯d been. How protective he¡¯d become of her. He merely thought it was a whim to save her from the mansion, but this experience had sown doubt about his own motivations. He felt something for the princess, even if he wished not to. When he saw the man in the courtyard and the princess struggling beneath him, his vision became red. It was a miracle he¡¯d mustered enough control to not kill the man, merely settling for instilling fear of death in his heart.


    He wondered if the princess feared him now, having witnessed the violence he was capable of multiple times already.


    He hovered in the doorway, glancing around the room. Earlier in the day he¡¯d thought it was a good way to save money to only get one room, but now he regretted it a little. It only had one bed and no couch, and he was nervous about how the princess would feel being forced to sleep next to him. Maybe he should go ask the inn-keeper for another?


    ¡°Princess, do you want me leave you alone and sleep somewhere else for tonight?¡± he asked with a prickling sensation in his chest as he waited for her response. She shook her head and relief rippled through him, though he quickly numbed the feeling.


    ¡°Alright. Go to sleep then¡± he told her. He¡¯d just have to sleep on the floor.


    She nodded silently, sliding off her boots and slipping under the covers. She rolled on her side, her back turned towards him and he slipped down on the floor next to the bed, learning his back against the wall. The silence was thick, and he just sat there staring at her back and shivering shoulders.


    Then she suddenly spoke: ¡°Carsein. Are all men like that?¡±


    He jerked at her sudden question, that for some reason stirred uncomfortable feelings in him.


    ¡°No, not all¡­but some¡± he told her truthfully. In most regions of the country people maintained a patriarchal society. There women were looked down on an unfortunately it wasn¡¯t unheard of that men forced themselves on women and some of the mercenaries he¡¯d traveled with had had a particularly rough way of handling females. He didn¡¯t condone such behavior and stopped it if he ever witnessed it, but he knew such things happened anyway.


    ¡°You just have to be careful choosing your husband in the future.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t want one¡­! I don¡¯t want to ever be touched like that again!¡± she sobbed and her words and the torment in her voice sent a sharp pain through Carsein¡¯s chest. He didn¡¯t know how to respond, didn¡¯t know how to comfort her. So he just sat there, his chest aching as he listened to her breathing, ragged from trying to control her tears.


    ¡°Carsein, I¡¯m cold¡­¡± she finally whispered, her voice strained. A confusing statement, as the room was plenty warm, and she was lying fully dressed under the covers. Then it finally hit him that the last couple of nights he¡¯d used his body to warm her when they slept outside. Did she want him to hold her again?


    A warm feeling flooded him at the realization, and he got up from the floor, knocking off his shoes before slipping onto the bed. Hesitantly he put his arms around her and yanked her into his embrace, pressing her body against him. She shivered, then her fingers slowly wrapped around his arms as if she was hiding in his embrace. The gesture was innocent, but it overwhelmed him. He thought she might be afraid of him, or at least uncomfortable, but that she sought comfort from him meant she wasn¡¯t scared. That she trusted him.A case of literary theft: this tale is not rightfully on Amazon; if you see it, report the violation.


    He couldn¡¯t help burying his nose into her hair and inhaled her scent, a contented sigh escaping his lips. After a while her regular breathing told him that she was asleep and soon he felt drowsiness claim him as well.


    Somewhere between consciousness and slumber he suddenly felt her lips brushing against his. A current of sparking warmth rushed through him. His vision cleared the fog around them, and he looked at her face. Her hair fell in lush, red locks around it, whipping against a bare shoulder. He gasped. She was naked. He felt his appendage rise at the sudden revelation, unable to withstand the sight of her beautiful, subtle curves. He felt his hand instinctively reach for a nude breast, cupping it in his hand. He had no control, his whole body compelling him to take advantage of this moment. He leaned forward, his mouth closing around a shimmering bud. She responded by arching her back and he grabbed her hips to pull her on top of him. He gasped as he felt his tip brush against her moist entrance. Had she unclothed him as well?


    He shuddered as she lifted herself to take him in and groaned when her warm channel closed around him. Slowly she started moving, her face writhed in ecstasy. His hands fumbled all over her body, as if to memorize its shape. Then, faster than he¡¯d liked, she pushed him over the edge, and he grabbed her hips as the orgasm flooded him. With the last shuddering remnants surging through him he looked up to meet her gaze but gasped as a drum sounded and she disappeared in a mist.


    He jolted from the covers, his breathing ragged. His eyes darted the room to orient him of his surroundings. A sliver of light shone through the shudders telling him it was morning. He glanced down and found himself fully dressed and beside him the sleeping princess was equally so.


    It was a dream.


    He didn¡¯t need to look to know that his underwear was stained, and he with his hands he covered his face as the shame flooded him. How could he have had such a dream about her? Her of all people. And even more so, on the same night someone had tried to force himself upon her?


    There was a knock on the door. The sound seemed impatient like they had been knocking for a while and Carsein realized the drum in his dream must¡¯ve been the same sound.


    He jumped from the bed and quickly tucked his sword in his belt before he hurried to the door. He reached for the handle and it opened with a creak, revealing the person who¡¯d disturbed his slumber.


    It was a dark-haired man, around his late twenties or early thirties, and he was wearing some shabby armor with what looked like a uniform of some sort underneath. Law enforcement Carsein concluded.


    He had an inkling to what this was about, so before the guard had time to open his mouth he stepped through the door, forcing the man to take a few steps back and closed it behind him. He didn¡¯t want to disturb the princess. Carsein¡¯s towering height had the soldier blinking a few moments, before he reclaimed his professionalism.


    ¡°I need you to come with me, sir¡± he proclaimed.


    ¡°Why?¡± Carsein spoke, his eyes narrowing.


    ¡°We had a disturbing report last night and witnesses have pointed me in your direction.¡±


    Carsein repressed a growl and clenched a fist to keep himself calm.


    ¡°If it¡¯s about the bastard I encountered last night, he should be grateful I only took his hand and not his head¡± he snarled, and the guard trembled almost unnoticeably. He glanced nervously at the sword hilted at Carsein¡¯s side. ¡°He attacked my wife.¡±


    The guard swallowed but insisted. ¡°I still need you to come with me. If it is as you say, I¡¯ll need you both to explain the situation to the captain.¡±


    Carsein was impressed by the guard¡¯s tenacity despite his obvious fear. However he was more irritated than impressed. In a motion that seemed casual, but was undoubtedly threatening, he rested a hand on the hilt of his sword and took a step forward.


    ¡°If your captain wishes to speak with me, he can come here and address me himself.¡±


    The guard¡¯s eyes flickered nervously, and he seemed to consider his options, before nodding hesitantly.


    ¡°Very well. But I¡¯ll need you to stay here in the meantime then¡± he spoke, clearly trying to retain a professional and calm demeanor. Carsein knew that the guard backing down now meant giving them an opportunity to escape. Then the poor man would either have to lie to his captain or admit he had been too afraid to apprehend the suspect. Both options would leave a dent in his pride, but faced with the hulking figure of Carsein, most would buckle under the pressure.


    Carsein nodded and watched as the guard turned to leave and watching his back, he couldn¡¯t help but smirk.

 Episode 14: Hiding

    Leo awoke suddenly as someone shook her.


    ¡°Get up. We need to leave.¡±


    She blinked surprised at the words and Carsein¡¯s hardened tone and rose from the bed. ¡°What¡¯s going on?¡± she asked as she watched him turn and rummage with the bags.


    ¡°A guard came by asking about the guy I hurt last night. I made him leave but if we don¡¯t move now, more will surely follow.¡±


    Leo gasped. ¡°Won¡¯t they come after us if we run?¡±


    ¡°Maybe. But we¡¯re too close to the capital and De Raugh territory right now. If they come to know our identities, we could be on much bigger trouble.¡±


    She nodded even though Carsein was too busy packing their bags to see the gesture. She quickly put on her shoes and as she stood up, her bag landed on the bed with a thud. They¡¯d bought it for her yesterday so she could help carry some of the load. It wasn¡¯t as large as Carsein¡¯s, but having one made her feel like less of a burden. She took it and strapped it on her back as Carsein slung his new bow and quiver across his shoulder ready to leave.


    He quickly peered through the doorway and gestured that the coast was clear, before they slipped into the hallway. The scene reminded her of their escape from Arwin¡¯s mansion and had her heart racing. She tried to remember if there were any exits from the guest quarters of the inn that didn¡¯t lead back to the dining hall. Down the steps that led back to the main part of the inn they spotted a window with shutters held closed by an integrated lock. Carsein frowned but then slipped his sword out of its sheath and in a swift motion jammed it in between the hinges and the frame. She was worried the sword would crack under the force he applied, but it was sturdier than expected, and the shutter fell to the floor with a clang.


    He turned to Leo and extended his hand to help her through and into the outside courtyard. He himself had trouble getting through, however. With his large built and all the equipment he carried the passageway was tight fit, so he had to hand all of his belongings, including his sword, to Leo to be able to squeeze through. Leo sweated nervously, hoping that no one would find them in this awkward position. However, as soon as he was through, he was reequipped in an instant and they were ready to move once more.


    Then they suddenly heart something that sounded like footsteps. I seemed to be coming from dining hall of the inn, but the noise grew like, in a moment, they would enter the hallway they¡¯d just exited.


    Carsein¡¯s quickly grabbed her hand and dragging her along behind him he bolted for the courtyard exit. Just as they went through the gate, they heard voices yelling behind them. They didn¡¯t have time to look back and sprinted down the narrow alley and out onto the street. Carsein quickly glanced around before choosing a direction, his hand not letting go of hers as they ran.Reading on Amazon or a pirate site? This novel is from Royal Road. Support the author by reading it there.


    ¡°There he is!¡± someone shouted behind them and she did her best to keep up as he quickened his pace. They stormed onto the main street and Leo glanced behind her, catching the glimpse of three armored guards running after them.


    She huffed and puffed, screaming internally for her muscles to move. They bolted passed people, the street already crawling with people, pulling carts or doing daily chores. They scampered at the sight of Carsein¡¯s hulking body storming towards them and he accidentally knocked over a cart in passing. However, that was a good thing as that became an obstacle to their pursuers and Leo noticed their voices diminish as they made progress down the street. Further down Carsein glanced back and before Leo had time to react, he swung around a corner of a building down a narrow alley. They ducked in between two houses and he slung them up against the side.


    She felt the heat radiate from him as his body pressed her against the wall in the narrow space. She looked up at him. His jaw was tense, and his face was turned towards the alley, in deep concentration.


    She tried to calm her racing heart and panting breaths and suddenly his hand flew up to cover her mouth. Then she heard the footsteps as well and for a moment she closed her eyes, too anxious to look. Luckily, they seemed to run past the alley and when Carsein finally let go she gasped, relief flooding her. He didn¡¯t move, however, and his posture witnessed that he was still on guard.


    Finally he looked down at her and his breath was so close to her face it made her shiver. There was something in his gaze she couldn¡¯t determine.


    A sound of footsteps in the alley surprised them and he whipped his head towards the sound and Leo¡¯s heart started pounding once more. But someone laughed and it didn¡¯t sound like a guard. She couldn¡¯t be relieved just yet, however. Standing in the dark alley pressed between two buildings was suspicious. She felt panic well up as the footsteps neared. Then Carsein bent down to whisper in her ear: ¡°Sorry princess, but just go with it.¡±


    Then he grabbed her head and before she had time to react his mouth closed over hers. The jolt of electricity that sparked from her lips at the touch, had her eyes widen in surprise. But she quickly closed them as his tongue slipped in between them, the sensation overwhelming her.


    She heard someone gasp but couldn¡¯t turn her head to see who they were. Footsteps leading away, told her that whoever had entered the alley had left. Carsein lifted his head and as their eyes met, she felt heat stain her cheeks.


    ¡°Sorry. I hope that wasn¡¯t too uncomfortable¡± he said, a flash of emotion crossing his features before they went back to the serious, wary expression. She was too stunned to say anything and just stared at him wide-eyed.


    He turned his attention to the alley, took a breath and shuffled out from their hiding spot. She shuddered as the warmth of his body disappeared. Trembling fingers rose to her lips as if they wanted to check whether the kiss was still there, the tingling feeling lingering.


    ¡°Come on.¡± Carsein¡¯s voice woke her from her trance and she jolted and skittered into the alley after him. Where it met the main street, he poked out his head and when he was certain the coast was clear, he waved Leo after him.


    ¡°Just walk calmly, only run if they spot us¡± he whispered to her in her ear, his warm breath making her shiver. She nodded and he took her hand to lead them out of town.

 Episode 15: Lingering

    When they finally stopped to camp for the night, Leo was exhausted. She had to struggle to stay standing, but she didn¡¯t want to be a burden on Carsein. So as he set up the tent, she decided to make herself useful by gathering some stones and wood to make a bonfire. They were lucky the landscape in which they travelled had an abundance of groves and forests.


    She gathered some things she believed were dry enough to use and began placing the stones in a circle as Carsein finished with the tent.


    He nodded acknowledging her efforts and started lighting the fire. She spread out a blanket on the ground for them to sit and plopped down, giving in to the exhaustion. As she watched Carsein work she was suddenly reminded of what he did when they were escaping Wargdon. Heat rose to her cheeks and she hoped the dimming light would hide their obvious red color. She understood why he¡¯d kissed her; it wasn¡¯t anything romantic. He¡¯d done it to make them look inconspicuous; two lovers who¡¯d withdrawn to somewhere secluded to be affectionate with each other, rather than two people hiding from the law in a dark alley.


    Still, the experience had left an impression on her. She thought she never wanted to receive a kiss ever again, convinced she would hate the feeling as she had before. But his had been so warm and gentle. So different from the rough kisses she¡¯d received from Arwin or the smothering feeling of the man who attacked her at the inn.


    Thinking about it almost made her lips tingle again.


    When he finished lighting the fire he rummaged through the bags. They had luckily bought a small stock of dried foods in town the day before, so even though they had to flee in a hurry they wouldn¡¯t starve. Sitting alongside each other to eat, they stared silently into the flames.


    ¡°Carsein? Could you teach me sword fighting?¡± her voice suddenly broke the silence. Carsein glanced at her arching an eyebrow.


    ¡°You know¡­sword fighting is hard work, princess¡­ Even tougher for women. It requires both strength and stamina as well as a lot of time and patience¡­ And looking at you it¡¯s¡­¡±This text was taken from Royal Road. Help the author by reading the original version there.


    ¡°I know that!¡± she interrupted him, her cheeks heating with shame and anger at the fact that he underestimated her. ¡°I¡¯m aware that it would be really hard for me to learn. But Carsein, I feel so weak and useless. Everything scares me because I know I can¡¯t fight it. What do I do when I¡¯m no longer with you? How do I protect myself then?¡±


    Her eyes glimmered with tears from frustration and Carsein stared at her silently for a long moment. Then he sighed.


    ¡°I suppose you¡¯re right. I can¡¯t always be there to protect you¡­¡± His words stung a little. Though it had been less than five days since they escaped the mansion, she had already grown oddly accustomed to his presence. She depended on him and it was a great comfort to have him near. So the thought of them having to part one day made her uneasy. Maybe even sad¡­ She collected herself, focusing on the goal she¡¯d set for herself.


    ¡°Will you teach me then?¡±


    He grumbled a little but nodded and a broad smile split her cheeks. But he halted her cheerfulness before it took proper hold by waving his hand in a dismissive gesture.


    ¡°I won¡¯t teach you right away, however. We need to build up your strength and your stamina first. That¡¯ll also be a test of your tenacity. If you can¡¯t handle the initial training, then forget about holding a sword.¡±


    She pouted her lips but nodded. ¡°Fine, I¡¯ll show you!¡±


    Carsein chuckled and Leo spun her head at him. The sight of his face dimly lit up in the firelight, his cheeks crinkled in a smile revealing a dimple in his right cheek, surprised her. It was the first time, as far as she remembered, that he¡¯d shown her a genuine smile. Usually his furrowed brows and serious demeanor made him look like he was at least three ten-years old, but his current expression made Leo think he might actually be closer to her age.


    ¡°Very well, princess. Looking forward to it¡± he grinned.


    They ate the rest of their meal, making light conversation. Despite the tumultuous day they¡¯d had, a strange warmth floated between them making Leo both uneasy and comfortable. Too much had happened in too little time.


    When darkness deepened around them, they sought shelter in the tent a light rain beginning to drizzle outside. Carsein had readied the bedrolls they¡¯d bought in town already and the sight promised much welcome slumber. Yet, crawling into the narrow space she suddenly felt conscious of Carsein again. Three nights she had slept in his arms, finding comfort and safety in his embrace. But back then she hadn¡¯t thought about him as a man. That had changed after his kiss.


    Grateful for the darkness to hide her flushed cheeks, she slipped into her bedroll and a rustling sound next to her indicated that he¡¯d gone to rest as well. She lay for a while listening to the night and Carsein¡¯s breathing, but despite her swirling thoughts exhaustion and sleep soon claimed her.

 Episode 16: Skinning a Rabbit

    ¡°Come on, you hold it like this¡± Carsein spoke too close to Leo¡¯s ear for her comfort, his warm breath tickling her neck as he grabbed her right hand holding the knife. She couldn¡¯t tell if her nervousness was due to his closeness or the dead rabbit sprawled on the ground in front of her, its lifeless gaze staring up at her.


    She steadied her hand and swallowed as she forced her eyes to look at it, fixing them on the area of the animal where the blade needed to penetrate. Gently, Carsein guided her hand and the knife pierced the rodent¡¯s gullet and slowly moved across its underside, red liquid spilling onto the ground.


    Her stomach churned, but she forced herself to ignore it and continue. She knew what she needed to do next, Carsein had already explained as much, so she stuck her hand inside to pull out the innards. Soft and warm they slipped into her palm and she yanked them out, eager to get it over with as soon as possible. The rust-like stench was thick, and she swallowed in an attempt to calm her stirring stomach.


    Next, he showed her how to remove the skin and her hand trembled with relief when she finally held up a bloody lump of red meat with furry paws still attached. Impressively, she¡¯d managed to avoid either retching or vomiting, and the accomplishment filled her pride. She spun around to face Carsein, a triumphant smile tucking the corners of her mouth.


    ¡°Not bad for a first time, princess¡± he said as he returned the expression, revealing the dimples in his cheeks. Even though they¡¯d been traveling together for weeks already, and Leo had seen his smile more and more often, the sight still took Leo by surprise. It was hard to get used to how much he¡¯d changed.


    ¡°You know, you¡¯re quite handsome when you smile¡± she remarked. The sentence had left her mouth before she had even finished thinking it and Carsein¡¯s eyes widened in surprise. She clasped her mouth, panicked by the words she had not meant to say out loud.


    ¡°I-I¡­mean¡­u-uhm¡­¡± she stuttered, her cheeks turning a deep crimson color. Carsein first arched a brow at her struggles but then he suddenly broke into a haughty laughter. His whole face scrunched up in that expression that made him look more his age ¨C twenty three summers he¡¯d told her, making him only around five years older than her, surprisingly ¨C and which Leo both appreciated and hated at this moment. Her blush deepened further, and she scowled at him though the expression wasn¡¯t as hardened as she¡¯d liked, Carsein¡¯s amusement inevitably affecting her.


    ¡°Oh? So you like a rough mercenary-type like me huh, princess? How surprising¡± he teased, leaning in over her and she jolted. Up close she could see every curve of his scarred brow, each dent in his nose - proof of the many times it must have been broken ¨C and his dark grey curled from the smirk adorning his lips.


    In an attempt to put distance between them she jerked and sprung up but lost her grip on the rabbit in the process and it fell onto the dirt covered forest floor.


    ¡°Carsein! Look what you made me do!¡± she exclaimed as she realized her mistake and glanced down at the mess. Carsein put a hand to his mouth in an attempt to quench his laughter but without much success and his shoulders quivered with snorting breaths slipping through his fingers.Unauthorized content usage: if you discover this narrative on Amazon, report the violation.


    She put her hands on her hips and glared down at him with still flushed cheeks. ¡°Carsein, it¡¯s not funny. Now all my hard work has gone to waste!¡± she complained frustrated.


    He finally managed to get himself under control and looked up at her. ¡°So sorry princess, but don¡¯t worry. We can rinse the meat with a bit of water. It¡¯s fine.¡± His voice was still trembling slightly with humor and Leo¡¯s glare intensified.


    ¡°Yeah, I¡¯ll go do that¡± she grumbled and kicked a bit of dirt in irritation before grabbing the rabbit and turning to leave. Carsein¡¯s giggle followed her for a while as she trudged away, irritation and embarrassment still coloring her cheeks.


    Turning down the familiar path to the lake, she could hear the distant sound of the waterfall that pooled into it and she took a few calming breaths.


    They¡¯d stayed in the area for a few days already, taking a much deserved break after travelling for around three weeks since they left Wargdon. Luckily, they hadn¡¯t run into any trouble on the way and it seemed they lost the towns law enforcement on that very first day. No pursuers had otherwise followed.


    Leo had gotten more used to the long days of wandering. Her feet didn¡¯t ache as badly as before and following Carsein¡¯s pace no longer strained her as much. He¡¯d also strung together a training regimen to increase her strength and stamina in preparation to training with the sword. She would perform the exercises when they set up camp in the afternoon or early evening and though she always had some part of her body aching, she was slowly beginning to see results. Nothing too impressive yet, she had to go slow; Carsein said that too strenuous exercise would have the opposite of the desired effect, but she could tell she had gotten stronger. She just wished he would let her practice with a real sword instead of some pathetic wooden stick.


    At the end of the path she brushed away the shrubbery obscuring the clearing and the lake came into view. A stream of clear freshwater cascaded down a rock wall that was a few meters tall and pummeled into a large body of water, creating mini rainbows on its way down. Rocks of various sizes were sprawled around and some protruded from deep within the pool, which seemed to restrain reeds and plants growing in the waters edge.


    She curved the lake to the waterfall and treated the damp rocks cautiously closing in. She held out the skinned rabbit beneath the running water, rinsing away the dirt and leaves, but careful as to not water down the meat. When she was satisfied, she followed the same route back onto solid ground. Warily so she wouldn¡¯t slip and fall. Carsein was teaching her to swim but she wasn¡¯t confident in her abilities yet and there were areas of the lake where she couldn¡¯t reach the bottom. It would be best not to fall.


    Back on land she looked down at her clothes and frowned a little. In her fight against nausea and in the following tantrum she hadn¡¯t noticed that her clothes had been bloodied by handling the dead animal.


    She glanced around. Perhaps she could take a moment to rinse her clothes and herself now she was here anyway?


    She plucked some broad leaves to wrap the rabbit, not wanting to repeat the walk across the slippery rocks to rinse it again, and put it on a nearby rock, where after she stripped and slipped into the water. It was slightly cold, but fresh; not freezing, and she shuddered as she lowered herself down, the water covering her shoulders.


    From the shore she grabbed her clothes and started rinsing and wringing it in an attempt to remove the red stains. The color didn¡¯t stand out too much against the brown fabric, but being a former noble Leo was always thorough with hygiene and cleanliness even if her current lifestyle didn¡¯t allow the same meticulousness. So only when the blood was completely gone, was she satisfied and put the clothes down on the nearby rocks to dry in the sun.


    Having adjusted to the water¡¯s temperature she swam around a little in the shallow end, humming contented as she listened to the sound of birds and the rushing waterfall. And the crack of a branch from inside the forest.

 Notice

    Hi guys!


    Thank you so much for reading King¡¯s Blood, especially to the few of you who have subscribed.


    It''s amazing to see how many have been interested in my two stories despite them being my first attempt at writing at publishing novels. I have around a hundred subscribers between the two stories, which is far more than I ever expected.


    Unfortunately I have to announce that both of my stories are going to be put on hold for a little while. I just came back to school at the end of last month, which has caused some anxiety and stress and I just need a little time to figure out how to balance studies and writing in a way that I can upload regularly, but without stressing.This book''s true home is on another platform. Check it out there for the real experience.


    So hopefully the break won''t be too long, just long enough that I can figure out how much I''m capable of writing per week and rebuild my buffer. So I hope you''ll stick around! :)


    In the meantime you can enjoy some artwork that I found, which i think resemble my main characters (I do not claim copyright to any of the pictures):


    Though my girl Leo is a na?ve, innocent sweetheart atm, I expect we¡¯ll see her more like this in the future. She¡¯s got a fiery soul and just needs/needed a catalyst to ignite that flame.


    Carsein has led kind of a rough life so far and he looks a lot older than he actually is. Only when he¡¯s smiling or asleep does he actually look his age.


    He¡¯s got dark eyes normally, but under certain conditions the color of his irises change¡­