It was year 652 of the Holy Calendar. Winter was cold, but dry; snow had come and covered the ground with a thick layer of white. Trees struggled to survive in their frozen prison, standing tall against the sky like soldiers awaiting orders while death silently stalked them from below. The forest's denizens were forced into hiding, waiting until the snows melted away once more, or else they would become easy prey for the predators that roamed the land at this time of year.

At day sunlight filtered through the branches and danced across the snow as it reflected off the snowy earth. It glimmered on the surface of the ponds, making them appear silver beneath the water's surface, and cast long shadows across the trees; while at night, the moon lit up the world in its pale glow.

Beasts moved about in the darkness, hunting each other down and taking whatever they could find. They were becoming more daring as the winter passed, expanding their territory by pushing further and further into human lands. They fought over food, attacked those who ventured out during the night, and even raided towns occasionally. There was no end to the misery that winter brought. But there was hope, because spring would soon be upon them once again. It was only a matter of time before the cold retreated back into the northern skies and left the lands free once more.

In one small village called Claywater, a young man called Alex sat beside the table with other young men of his age. He listened to them talk about what they'd seen over the winter months. They sung songs together, told tales of the horrors that had taken place, and laughed as their eyes sparkled in the flickering light of the fire. For a moment, Alex thought he saw a hint of something far away in the flames' dancing light, but dismissed it as an illusion.

"The beasts have been attacking people," said a young man sitting next to Alex. "They're getting bolder every year."

Alex nodded with a worried expression. Everyone knew the stories about the beasts. They had been reported all across the land ever since the first one was spotted; though most people claimed they never actually saw the creatures themselves.

Tears welled in Alex' eyes as he stared at the flames in front of him. He didn't want to think about what might happen if the beasts continued to grow in number. His family had lived there for generations, and he wanted to see them live out their lives in peace. He shook his head, trying to clear his thoughts. He mustn't worry about such things.

The conversation went on, covering all manner of events and stories. Soon they began singing again, enjoying themselves as much as possible under the circumstances. Alex joined in with them, forgetting about his worries for just a few moments.

Alex's younger brother Max sit beside him, eating his meal. He glanced up at Alex as he finished his own meal.

"You look sad today," he said, pointing at Alex.

Alex shrugged.

"What's the matter?"

Alex sighed and looked away. "I was thinking about this and that."

Max frowned. "Come on, you can tell me. I don't mind."

Alex shook his head. "No, it doesn't really matter."

"How stingy," said Max.

Alex wasn't sure why he felt so agitated lately. He looked back at his little brother. Max had short blonde hair, bright green eyes, and the face of an angel, thought Alex. He looks so much like our father. And just like me when I was his age...

Alex shook his head and turned away.

While the others sang and played around in the warm glow of the firelight, Alex was thinking about the woman he was pledged to as a child. He didn't remember her all that well, they were still kids at the time, around ten years ago. He just had some hazy memories of her face from when she visited Claywater with her mother in the summer months. She always seemed to have a mischievous glint in her eye that let people know she was up to something. She was more interested in going around the nearby swamps and woods with her matchlock rifle than looking at Alex.

'I wonder, what became of her,' Alex wondered. 'Did she go and take someone else as her spouse? Did she die?'

He couldn't help but feel sorry for himself. He didn't know what happened to her. He hadn't seen her in years. In fact, he could barely recall anything about her. He just heard some things about her from the old chamberlain at Claywater who had been close to her parents. Four years before her death, old woman had to go on a dangerous journey to the north. From the old woman's stories, Alex heard about his future wife. She was supposed to be a woman with great ambition and courage, but who was also ruthless and violent enough to make people and beasts tremble in fear.

After the pledge of their marriage, made by both of their mothers, she was meant to visit Claywater again and officially take Alex as her spouse. But she didn't come, or rather she couldn't. Instead she had gone off to fight in the war.

Barbarian hordes of Hul from the south had invaded the Holy Republic of Pelinea, ravaging towns and villages and killing everyone who stood in their way. Their country was being torn apart, and she had decided to do something about it. With her family's blessing, she had left Lockinge, the village that was close to Claywater and that was also her hometown and gone off to battle.

She fought alongside the women and men of the Holy Republic against the barbaric Hul invaders. She fought them bravely and fiercely, and killed many of them. She proved herself as a fierce warrior, yet she cared little for the lives of the people who died under her blade and matchlock.

And then one day, she was gravely injured and had to go back to Lockinge to recover. She suffered a deep wound to her stomach, which nearly caused her to bleed to death. But, by the grace of the Goddess, she survived the ordeal. Soon enough she recovered, but had to take care of her mother who was ill and dying.

She stayed with her mother as she slowly slipped away. Then, once her mother had finally passed on, she left Lockinge to fight once more, as another war broke out.

I has been four year already as the old chamberlain woman left and died, and then some more. Any rumours about Alex's bride-to-be faded into nothingness. No one knew where she was, or if she was even alive anymore.

Alex felt some strange nostalgia wash over him as he thought about her. Her name had been Adria. He was her pledged, and he was going to marry her someday. He tried to smile, but his lips quivered instead.

He felt all sorts of emotions building up inside him, and it took everything he had not to burst into tears. All the sadness and grief, all the pain, frustration and longing; it had built up inside him for so long now that it threatened to overwhelm him.

'Would she even love me?' wondered Alex. 'Would I love her?'

He never felt any attraction towards anyone at all. He never found any girl attractive. But, it was the more reason to believe that they would love each other. He still held onto hope. He wanted to feel something. He wanted to love. It was too painful to be alone.

But then there were other thoughts that troubled him.

'Do I want to spend my life with her?' wondered Alex. 'Is she the right person for me?'

"Alex... You alright?" asked Max.

Alex shook his head. "No. I'm fine."

"Don't lie to me," said Max. "I can tell you're upset. What's wrong?"

Alex frowned and shook his head. "Nothing. Just thinkin'..., I told you already."

His brother looked at him with concerned eyes and grabbed his hands softly. "Okay, but let me know if you need any help. Okay?"

"Sure..."

The conversation carried on as Alex tried to shut himself out from the world. He felt drained, and tired. The last thing he wanted was to talk about anything that bothered him. He just needed to relax.

As the song was ending, he stood up and stretched his arms out wide. He yawned and turned around to stretch his legs.

Then, as if waiting for the perfect moment, a sound of a bell rang out loudly in the distance outside.

Alex froze instantly. Everyone looked up at him. He felt his heart beating faster.

"What is it?" he whispered in agitation.

"Don't worry," said one of the men sitting beside him. "It's just a warning bell. I think, someone from the nearby village was sheduled to come here for theriac today. Medicine is scarce these days, and we're lucky to have stocked a lot of it."

Alex relaxed slightly. "Good. Let's hope they got through safely."

The conversation went on as Alex tried to push the sound from his mind. He felt sick to his stomach. A chill ran down his spine. He felt some dark shadow looming over his soul. He swallowed hard.

Soon, the sound disappeard. Max said to the huge woman sitting at the other table and drinking ale, "Uhm, miss Gabele, could you check who came today. And make sure that they are safe. Please."

Gabele put the mug down and stood up with a silent nod.

"Thank you," said Max with a bright smile as the big woman walked off to the door, on her face a slight blush could be seen.

Alex watched her leave with a frown.

"She's so dependable." whispered Max.

Alex nodded in agreement.

"I wonder if she already decided on her husband yet. If she hasn't, I'll ask her to consider me. W...what do you think, Alex?" he asked him shyly. He squirmed slightly as he waited for Alex's answer.

Alex's mouth formed a small smile. "Ask her, Max. But don't get your hopes too high. Not all girls choose their husbands based on how much they like them, or what kind of person they are."

Max pouted a little at his words. "Why not?"

"Well, it's not really a good idea to force the issue. You should find someone who loves you just as much as you love them, and wants to be with you. Otherwise you might end up with some awful person who only cares about using you for their own purposes. Though, mother wouldn't like you getting close to miss Gabele, after all, she isn't..."

"That sounds so stupid!" exclaimed Max.

Alex laughed sadly at his brother's indignation.

"But, now that I think about it, weren't you already promised to some girl from Lockinge?" asked Max. "Uhm, what was her name again?"

"That's..." Alex was interrupted by the sound of a door opening.

He turned his head to see Gabele coming back into the room.

"Who came today, miss Gabele?" asked Max. "They look like they're carrying a heavy load."

Gabele nodded slightly. "It's lady Adria, from Lockinge." She said and returned to her sit.

"Ehh...!" Alex gasped. His face turned red. He stood up in agitation. He felt his blood rushing to his head. He couldn't believe what he had heard. "Lockinge?! Adria is here?!"

"Adria...? Hmm, I think I heard that name somewhere before," mumbled Max. "Oh, right! It's her! Your fiancée, Alex! But, didn't she disappear after going to war?"

Alex sighed heavily. His cheeks burned with a mix of conflicting emotions. His eyes shone brightly. He was filled with joy and excitement. At the same time, he felt a strange sense of dread and unease.

'What should I do?' wondered Alex. 'How should I behave in front of her?'

He had no idea what he was supposed to say or do in this situation. He wasn't prepared for it at all. He had never imagined this happening.

He turned around from others, trying to hide his feelings from others. Before he knew it, he felt tears welling in his eyes.

"Alex?" asked Max gently.

Alex shook his head. "I..."

There was a sudden loud clang as a door opened. Everyone turned their heads to look. The door was open, and a woman was standing there, looking at them with a faint smile on her lips. She was dressed in a thick fur coat, and when she took off her equally thick fur cap, Alex could see her long black hair, tied at the back of her head.

Young woman walked with a quick steps into the middle of the room and with a melodic and lively voice said, "Hello everyone! So where is he? The one that belongs to me?"

Everyone turned their heads to look at Alex.

Alex blushed furiously. He felt his face burning under the intense gaze of his future wife, and he couldn't help but become nervous. He tried to calm himself down by taking deep breaths and after a while, he managed to answer her with a confident voice.

"Yeah," replied Alex. "It's me."

"Well, isn't this surprising," said Adria as she looked at him with a glint in her eyes. "My name is Adria. It's nice to finally meet you."

"Nice to meet you too, Adria. I'm Alex," answered Alex. He looked at her face, and suddenly, under her gaze, all the confidence he had gathered seemed to vanish into thin air.

He felt like he was drowning in her piercing grey eyes. He felt his knees weakening. He felt his heart pounding wildly.

He felt the overwhelming urge to run away from her. It was like he was trapped between two forces: fear and desire.

Alex looked down at his feet as he gulped nervously. He felt his heart melting, and his knees feeling weak.

Her beauty was terrifying. Before her run away from her with his gaze, he couldn't help but stare at her with admiration. Her face was beautiful, with smooth and healthy looking skin, and her long black hair seemed to shimmer with a mysterious light under the light from the fire.

Her long eyelashes shimmered with an almost hypnotic effect. Her grey eyes were large and sparkling, A hint of playfulness and intelligence was hidden behind them.

Adria gave him an amused smile as she watched him struggle with his inner turmoil.

She tilted her head slightly, and Alex felt like she could read his thoughts.

With a teasing voice she asked him, "You okay, Alex?"

Alex wanted to reply, but he couldn't. He simply looked down with nervousness, unable to speak.

Her face broke into a brilliant smile, and she giggled. "I guess you're not used to meeting new people, huh?"

Alex smiled awkwardly. "That's..."

"Hahaha!" Adria laughed. "Look at you! You're so cute! Don't worry, I won't bite you!"

Alex blushed furiously as he stared at the ground.

"Anyway, I'm glad we finally met. I didn't even go back to Lockinge. I came here directly from the camp, so I could see you as soon as possible. I hope Goddess will look at me warmly and bless me with happiness."

Her voice was filled with joy and optimism.

Alex found it oddly charming. He felt his heart flutter inside his chest. He found himself wanting to smile as well. He shook his head to clear his thoughts.

"Did you...did you hear about the old lady chamberlain?" asked Alex, his voice soft and gentle. "She left this world and went to the Goddess' Holy Heights already."

Adria nodded. "Yes. I heard about it. I cried a mournful tears, when I learned about her death from the villagers that visited me from Lockinge. They told me what happened. She was an honest and wise woman. A good friend. She was like a sister to my late mother. Losing her is a great loss indeed."

"Are you...are you gonna be alright?" asked Alex timidly. He hoped she wouldn't be too sad.

Adria looked at him curiously. "Do you mean because of her death? Well...I'm sure I'll manage somehow."

Alex felt relieved.

"Well, if you're worried about me, then you shouldn't. I've been in mourning for quite some time already. I've already accepted that she's gone. For me, it's not a big deal anymore." Adria paused and looked at Alex with a curious expression. "Well, I'm sure you know, but she came to me around four years ago and asked me to finally meet you. I guess she felt her days were nearing their end and she wanted to make sure that matters between us were properly resolved, as the Goddess commanded."

Alex nodded slightly. "I... understand."

"When the old woman came and told me about you, she also brought me your portrait. She said that it would help me feel closer to you, since I couldn't see you personally. She said to look at the painting everyday, until me finally met. And so, I did."

Alex blinked. He felt his heart beating faster.

"When I first saw your portrait, I was so shocked that I almost fainted. I never thought such a cutie would become mine soon."

Alex blushed fiercely as he felt his heart throbbing in his chest. He felt a mixture of excitement and confusion. He felt dizzy. Wanting to change the subject, he asked something else. "So you didn't see Lockinge yet?"

Adria shook her head. "No, I haven't. Not yet. There will be time for that. I'm more excited to finally meet you. After all this time, I can't wait to hold you in my arms, and kiss you. I'm dying to taste your lips. Just imagining it makes me giddy with pleasure."

Adria looked at him intensely. Her eyes glistened with a hint of lust and desire to possess. Her cheeks were flushed. Her lips parted slightly as she smiled softly.

"But... why are you turning around from me and hiding in the shadows like that?" she asked quietly. "I can't even see your face properly. Hey! Turn around! Look at me! We're meeting each other for the first time! Aren't you excited?"

Alex felt his heart pounding rapidly. He felt like he was in the presence of a wild animal. He felt like he was being taunted by a predator, his body trembling uncontrollably.

Before he knew it, she grabbed his arms and pulled him towards her.

"Wha...! What are you doing?! Let go, let go!"

Alex wanted to struggle, but she help him tightly.

"Hahaha! Ahahahaha! So aggressive!"

Adria laughed loudly. She was still holding his arms tightly. Alex felt her breath on his neck as she whispered in his ear.

"I want to see your face," said Adria. "And I want to kiss every inch of your sweet skin. So turn around, and show me!"

Saying that, she turned him around and looked into his eyes.

Alex was startled at first. He looked up into her eyes in return.

"Don't be afraid," whispered Adria with a seductive voice. "Just relax."

Alex closed his eyes as he trembled, feeling embarrassed from her intense gaze. He felt his cheeks burning with embarrassment as he struggled to regain control over himself.

He just stood there, without making any movement. He felt like the tension within him was too much to handle.

After a few seconds, he felt Adria pulling back slightly. He felt her hands letting go of him, and her arms falling back to her side. He slowly opened his eyes.

"Aaah! Benovelent Goddess in your holy heights! Such a genuine gem!" exclaimed Adria, staring at him with wide open eyes. She looked at him with admiration, and her cheeks glowed bright red.

"Let's quickly become mine! When is the marriage ceremony going to happen!?" She asked excitedly. "I can't wait to take you home!"

Alex was stunned at her words.

"L...let's take it slowly, I'm not yours yet," said Alex hesitantly as he escaped with his gaze from hers.

Adria chuckled lightly. "Oh, but you will be. Trust me."

She pulled him closer again, and her lips were now very close to his ear. Her hot breath washed across his cheek.

"I don't care how long it takes. I will make you mine, even if I have to burn this whole house down to the ground."

She breathed deeply against his cheek, sending shivers through his spine.

Alex's entire body became rigid and stiff. Her words sent a rush of mixed emotions to his mind and heart.

"Oh, my Goddess! I thought the picture was exaggerated, but seeing you in real life, I can say that the painter, however they tried, didn't catch even a half of your charms!"

Adria giggled as she gazed at him with great admiration.

"You really are a rare piece of art. I just can't wait to make you mine."

"The old lady chamberlain was right, when she told me all those stories about you, Adria. You're as fierce and hot-blooded as I imagined," said Alex as a feeling of nostalgia overtook him.

Adria smirked at him. "That's just how we are in the family. If we want something, then it's done, and if not, then death awaits. That's our way. Hahaha!"

Alex was surprised by her frankness. He stared at her with curiosity. She giggled at his reaction.

"Then, your family is quite the interesting one, isn't it?" Alex said, somewhat calmer than before.

Adria smiled. "Yes, be it me, late mother or grandmother, we are all like that. Haha! Well, whatever the case, you are mine now. With the parents blessing and by the heart's choosing!"

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"By the heart's choice? I don't know about that yet. It's too early for that."

"It's not too early!" Adria said firmly. "I want you, and I'll get you! No matter what! Aargh! If you say you don't love me back, I will gut myself with my own blade! I'm sure of it! Hahaha!"

She laughed loudly as she looked at him. The sound of her laughter made Alex feel better. It helped calm him down for some reason.

"Hmm, I wonder if you really mean it... but, please just don't stand there, you are our guest, please take off your coat and make yourself comfortable. I'm sure you are hungry after such a long journey.

Alex told her and then looked at his brother.

"Max, will you come with us?" He asked quietly.

The young standard-bearer looked at Max with curiosity. She tilted her head slightly.

"Hmm, and who is this boy, Alex? Is he someone important to you?"

Alex smiled awkwardly. "Right. I didn't introduce him yet. This is my younger brother, Max."

"I certainly see a resemblance there," Adria said as she looked at Max. "Then let me gladly call you little brother as well! Yes, let's make ourselves comfortable."

"Wha...!"

She grinned at the boy as she took his hand without restraint and shook it. Her touch was rough, and a bit violent, but Max thought that it wasn't unpleasant.

"Uhm. Nice to meet you!" He smiled shyly and shook her hand back.

Adria smiled broadly. "Likewise!"

Seeing them like that, Alex smiled warmly. He wasn't sure yet about Adria, her attitude was hard to predict, but she seemed to be a good person in nature. Though, it bothered him a bit, how unconcerned she was when she touched him earlier so suddenly. Just remembering, how she so unceremoniously grabbed his arms and inspected him so thorougly with her intense gaze, made him feel strange. Alex felt his cheeks turning hot again and he realized that he had to calm himself down.

Normally, it was a bad manner for a woman to touch a man like that without permission, even in a playful manner. It was only allowed when the both parties were married. But she did it so easily, without hesitation. Even though it was so sudden, he had to admit that it wasn't really so unpleasant either.

'What's wrong with me? Why am I feeling these things?'

He was confused by his feelings, because he didn't have much experiences with interacting with women before. Most of his interactions with them were usually limited to his mother, and that was it. Usually, he though of women as strong and confident, and interested in war and fighting. And even then, he never met a woman who was so bold and straighforward as Adria.

His thought were interrupted by young servant that showed up with a lamp. The quickly came to the hall, where Adria took off her thick fur coat and then they went towards the guest room.

***

When they left, the other young men, that were left behind talked to each other about the new arrival. They kept their conversation low enough so that they wouldn't disturb Adria and her future husband.

"Is it true? Did Alex finally find his mate?" asked Soren.

"She seems nice," said Torin. "She is very beautiful."

"I think so too," said Sam.

They all agreed, that Lady Adria was very attractive. They were impressed by her beauty, and even though they didn't know her personally, they could tell that she was very confident and strong from her behavior.

"When she showed up here in front of us, she looked like a sun! Hot and intense!" said Sam. "I thought she was a queen herself."

"And her eyes! They were so fierce and powerful!" said Torin. "Like a lynx eyeing its prey. You can't say no to such a gaze. I bet you'd do anything to satisfy her demands!"

"It's worst to say no!" said Soren. "She might just do whatever she wants with a smile, if you say no."

"She turned Alex around like a toy! But, it sure was obvious that she was pleased with Alex greatly."

"And who wouldn't be pleased with him? He was always so popular among the young women around this parts. It just, they were too hesitant to approach him directly."

"Exactly! I doubt that any of them would dare to lay a finger on him. He is like this country's treasure."

"But, I'm sure that Alex was also pleased with her," said Torin. "He looked so happy talking to her."

They all nodded.

"If you would meet woman, like Lady Adria, you would even go to the very ends of the world," said Soren. "Isn't that right?"

"A lucky man indeed!" said Sam.

"Yeah! Very lucky!" agreed Torin.

"Rich have it always easy!" said Soren, as he glanced at where Alex and the other two disappeared.

"But, I heard that the rittmeister living at Penrith's noble is a gorgous and confident woman," said Torin. "What was her name?"

"Lady Marget! I remember hearing about her."

"I didn't see her personally, but I'm sure she is nothing compared to Lady Adria."

"That's right! There is no other such woman in the whole Continent!" declared Soren.

They all laughed together.

"Lady Adria is so dreamy!" said Torin. "She is like a war goddess."

"If she would at least show up in a dream!" said Sam.

"I wouldn't mind that at all!" chuckled Torin.

"Me neither!"

They all agreed, and then they talked about all kinds of things. Their conversation was lighthearted, and they were having fun.

***

After some time, Alex and Adria were alone in a guest room, while Max went to the kitchen and let the servants know to prepare the meal and direct the arrangements in the dining room.

Adria was looking at Alex with intense and burning eyes. She was smiling cheerfully, and her hands were resting on her waist. She was admiring his appearance. He was wearing fine clothes, which fit him well. His face was pretty and clean. He had blonde hair, and bright green eyes. His eyelashes were long and beautiful. He wore his hair long, with a braid on the side. His full lips curved into a slight smile. He had perfect teeth, white and straight. His body was slender and a bit curved in all the right places. His soft and slighly plump cheeks were so adorable, it was almost impossible to resist kissing them. His arms were slim, and the fingers of his hands were slender and delicate. Everything about him was perfect.

Her gaze wandered over his body for a long moment and then she looked back at his eyes. She watched his movements as he walked around the room and stopped beside the table. She noticed, how he observed her carefully, slightly nervous, yet curious.

Adria felt her heart racing as she saw him. She felt the excitement growing inside her. She wanted to touch him, kiss him and feel him against her skin. She wanted to grab him by the waist and push him onto the bed. But she also knew that she needed to hold back her desire. She wanted him to get used to her presence and she didn't want to hurt him or make him hate her.

She was anxious. She had been waiting for this day for a long time now. She had always dreamed of this moment since she saw his picture. Ever since that first glance, she had thought about him endlessly. She wanted to meet him more than anything else in this life. She was so excited to finally meet him in person.

"I heard there are people, that seek money only, while others seeks power, or fame through the battlefield, but seeing you today Alex, I can understand now, that I would never exchange you for anything in the world. Because I see that you are worth much more than gold, and I would give everything I have just to be able to spend the rest of my days with you. My life would be the greatest blessing ever granted to me."

"Huh..!"

Alex was speechless. He couldn't believe his ears. He couldn't believe that she would confess her feelings so openly and without hesitation. He couldn't believe that she would say something like that so easily.

"Ah! The more I look at you, the more I fall in love with you, and the less I can stand by! I am ready to throw myself at your feet Alex! We can prepare the marriage ceremony even today, and I promise you that you will never regret it! I swear it on my honor and under the Goddess' merciful eyes!" she declared boldly.

"I'm not so easy to be swayed by such promises, Adria. Please don't rush me," Alex said and then he looked away with a slightly exasperated expression on his face. "Are you really serious about what you just said? Or were you just trying to get your way with me?"

"I am absolutely serious about what I just said!" she replied with conviction. "Ah! And those eyes of yours! As if and angel looking down upon me from the Goddess' own sky! I'm so deeply affected by you, that it makes me speechless and tongue-tied, just thinking of you!"

"I wonder about that. Even though you say that, it looks like you're doing an awful lot of talking and praising me with such fervour. Even I am starting to feel troubled, and I'm not sure if I should be flattered or offended."

"It's in my blood to face fire head-on and win against it! That is why I'm so eager to speak out my heart to you! You will have to get used to my frankness my dearest, because I'm not going to stop even after we marry!"

"I think you will have to get out of such notions. I'm afraid that I cannot accept anything like that."

"Maybe I will change then! Ah, may I be slain before I change my mind!"

"Maybe you will?" Alex asked her with doubt.

"Of course! Once you will grant me a taste of your loving caress!"

"You are much too forward! I don't know how to react to such boldness and it makes me troubled."

Alex turned around in a hurry to hide his embarrassment and put his hands to his chest to calm himself down.

Adria looked at his back with surprise and concern.

"Do you feel uncomfortable? Is it because I'm too forward? If so, I can tone it down. I'm ready to do whatever it takes to please you!" she said eagerly. "I know myself, that I'm quite impulsive and am more used to war than to the court life. But I can learn. So please don't hesitate to teach me how to behave properly!"

"I... I..."

Alex looked at her again with a somewhat conflicted expression. "It's not like that. I was just a bit surprised, that is all. I understand that you are very courageous and that women like you, that fight on the frontlines are rougher then most and give more importance to action than restraint. I admire your courage and your strength. My late grandma too was a soldier after all. So you see, I'm a bit familiar with such a nature. It's just... I'm still not used to such open confessions of feelings. It's difficult for me to handle. I'm sorry."

"Alex..."

"I... I think I also feel fondly towards you, and I'm not quite sure how to feel about that," Alex admitted, while twirling his beautiful blonde hair around his finger in embaressment.

Adria was watching him closely, and she was observing every gesture, movement, and facial expression. She noticed that he had become nervous, his cheeks were flushed and his forehead was wrinkled in embarrassment. His soft lips were quivering slightly. His eyes were shining brightly, and his body was trembling with nervousness. She found it cute. Her heart melted, when she saw him in such an awkward position.

She began to walk towards him. She could smell his sweet scent. The smell of flowers and herbs was intoxicating. She wanted to reach out and pull him close to her. She wanted to feel his warmth and softness against her body. As she inhaled his sweet fragrance, she became dizzy with desire.

Adria's eyes fell on his lips, and they immediately grew hungry for them. She wanted to kiss him. She wanted to suck his full lips into her mouth and taste him.

She reached out for his hand and pulled him closer to her.

"Ah...!"

She smiled gently at him as she placed his hand between her own two hands.

"My dearest Alex, you are driving me crazy! You will wrap me around your little finger like no one else has ever done!" she declared, as she gazed lovingly at him.

"Wha...! What are you doing, Adria?!" he said nervously, as he tried to pull his hand away from hers. "Please, stop this or I will get angry! ... And brother is coming back soon, if he sees us like this..."

Alex tried to take his hand back from her, but she kept holding it firmly, as she stared at him with burning eyes.

"Then let him come and see us like that!" she declared boldly, "He deserves to know that the most precious treasure in the world is mine! No, even if the whole cavalry of little brothers will come to see us, I will not stop holding you!"

"That's enough! Stop that right now!" he insisted.

"Okay, I'm stopping," she stated, reluctantly and released his hand abruptly.

"Ah...!" Alex gasped, as if surprised that she actually listened to his words. "W...Why did you stop? I don't really m..." he said without thinking.

He started to slightly enjoy her straight forward attitude and the way she treated him. It was a completely new experience for him. Before he knew it, Adria grabbed his hand again, pulled him towards herself and hugged him tightly against her trained body.

"Oh Goddess in heaven, you are impossible! Why do you torment me so much?! I can't wait anymore! Oh Goddess, please forgive me for what I'm about to do! I'm going to have to beg your mercy! I'm begging you Goddess, please give me permission to do whatever I want with my beloved man!" she begged with desperation.

"You don't have to involve the Goddess herself," Alex said while chuckling, "You waited four years already, so you can wait another year or two!"

"This is different!" she argued with passion. "If only I knew, what kind of treasure waited for me here..., I'm going to catch that lousy painter that dared to make such a terrible painting of you, and drag them around the village! If I whip them with a horsewhip a bit, I'm sure it will heal them of their stupidity forever!"

"You are exagerating so much, Adria..." he said as his lips curled up in amusement. "And you are using the Goddess' name in vain!"

"I will tell you the truth, my dearest Alex! If you want to forgive me then great, but if you don't then gut me like a fish right now! I won't care!" she declared boldly. "When I saw that painting, I thought to myself: 'He looks charming and sweet, but there's countless sweethearts like that in this world! I have a lot of time for marriage!' I wanted to taste the war and battlefield first, before settling down! Then, I met you in real! And I realised how stupid my thoughts were! It's such a blessing, that I didn't just die there, without ever seeing you for real! Ah! My dearest Alex, let me just kiss you here and now!"

"Better I won't let you!" he giggled with embarassment, as he put his hands to her arms, and pushed her away slightly.

"Why you torture me so much! I won't ask then. I was taught to ask politely and when not allowed to just take it anyway!"

"...!"

Before he could react, Adria had jumped on him and threw her arms around his neck. She kissed him passionately and with great determination.

His lips felt so soft and warm against her own. She tasted their sweetness. They felt so warm and inviting. His sweet fragnance filled her nostrils with its delicious aroma.

"Eh?! W-what are the both of you doing?! " a voice suddenly echoed through the room.

Alex pulled away from the kiss with shook and looked at the door, where his young brother, Max was standing. He was staring at the two of them with a puzzled expression on his face.

"That's... " Alex started to say, but no words came after that.

"Oh, don't worry yourself, little brother. We are just having fun and getting closer together," Adria said with a playful giggle, as she winked at him.

Max was looking at Adria with wide eyes, shocked by her bold behaviour.

"Uhm... the meal is ready in the dining room, so go ahead and eat," Max said, calming down.

"Thanks, Max," Alex said softly.

"Yes, yes! Let's eat!" Adria said cheerfully, as she got off Alex and waited for Alex to lead the way.

Alex tried to lead the way, but Adria took his hand again and pulled him closer. When he looked at her curiously, she gave him a mischievous smile and whispered into his ear:

"Just lead the way, Alex!"

He couldn't help but chuckle at her approach.

***

Soon they entered the dining room. The table was full with all sorts of food. There was bread and several types of cheese. Meat and sausages were lying on the side. A jug full of wine was waiting next to the plates. There was also some sort of cake on the table.

"I hope you like it, Adria," Alex said quietly.

"I love it! I don't need to be told twice. I'll eat everything and leave nothing behind!" she replied with laughter.

"Well, I hope you won't get sick afterwards," Alex joked.

They sat down and Adria started eating. Alex already ate earlier, so he decided to just drink some water. He stared at Adria in wonder. She seemed to be enjoying the meal immensely. She took huge mouthfuls and swallowed them quickly. Her eyes shone as she chewed and enjoyed every bite she took.

After a few bites, she stopped chewing and looked at Alex with sparkling eyes.

"Such delicious food!" she exclaimed with delight. "What a feast!"

"Thank you," Alex said with a small smile. "So, where are you coming from exactly?"

"How would I know..." she said in ponder.

"But, I heard you fought in a war against the Kingdom of Stogalla in the north? Is that true?"

"Yes, that's right, Alex," Adria answered for him. "Those nasty stogallans tried to invade us. We had to repel them in order to keep peace within the borders. I've been here and there, all over the place, ambushing them northen lambs! Like a wolf hunting sheep! Approched them sneakily, luring them into traps and ambushes, and took whatever life I could!"

"That sounds like a dangerous job!" Alex said, impressed. "And you dared to oppose such a powerful enemy, one that even the great hetman had to give way to?"

"Of course! If not me, who else? Who else could do such a thing?" she asked proudly. "I'm ready for anything, it's in my blood! It's in my bones!"

"Well, I'm very proud of you, Adria. But, I'm also worried," Alex said seriously, "My late grandma used to say the same thing as you...It's lucky you didn't get die. I'm afraid that you are heading for a dangerous situation. As far as I know, Stogalla is a nation of strong and fearless warriors. They are not known for giving up easily."

"No, I know that!" Adria interrupted him confidently, "I know that they won't surrender easily. That's why I'm even more determined than ever to achieve victory! I will wipe out every last one of those northern bastards! I will show them what happens when they dare to mess with our holy land! I will crush them into dust, I will bury them alive, I will feed their husbands to wild dogs, I will..."

"Adria, p-please don't scare me like that!" Alex interrupted her with a mix of laugh and worry.

"Sorry, sorry..." she apologised, "I'm just so excited by the prospect of war. I can hardly control myself!"

Alex put his soft hand on hers and squeezed it tenderly.

"Adria, please just be careful. Don't overexert yourself and don't try to do too much," he said. "Especially, don't endanger yourself unnecessarily. I'm worried that you might lose your life because of that. If... if something like that happened to you..."

"Don't worry, Alex," she said with a bright smile. "If that happens, then I'll be waiting for you in heaven. I will fight for you until the end!"

Her words made Alex's heart skip a beat.

"This is getting ridiculous!" he exclaimed. "You are driving me insane, Adria!"

She smiled in return and squeezed his hand.

"Hahaha! Let me tell you, Alex! They enclosed me countles times, but as soon as they did, I dodged and bit them somewhere else! They fought me hard, but I fought them even harder and always won! They tried to imprison me, but I escaped them all! They tried to kill me, but I killed them first! They even put a bounty on my head, I was such a nuisance to them! I have never lost a battle to anyone! I am the best warrior in the world! I will show you that I'm the strongest woman there is! I will prove it to you!"

Adria laughed loudly as she continued eating and talking at the same time. She took another big bite of meat, chewed and swallowed it quickly. She looked at him with her sparkling eyes as she chewed.

"Oh, Goddess, this is so good! So juicy and succulent!" she exclaimed with pleasure, "It tastes so amazing! Are you sure you haven't poisoned it?"

"I wouldn't dare!" Alex said with a grin. "You are impossible, Adria!"

Alex watched her in a mixture of admiration and fear as she devoured the rest of the food, while talking about the fight like it was nothing much. Everytime she swallowed a piece of meat or cheese, her cheeks puffed out. It was an adorable sight. He was completely captivated by her fierce beauty and fearless nature. She reminded him of a lioness that tried to eat every scrap of prey that crossed its path.

"You must have had a great force to defend yourself from them," Alex said, trying to sound calm and collected while watching her.

"Yeah, I did," Adria said proudly. "I had two hundred of my own dragoons, all top-notch, but they fell apart on me within a month. Then I went with volunteers, picking up whoever I could, without discrimination. The are good lasses for the battle, but scoundrels among scoundrels! One worse than the other, all of them! They are all such a bunch of nasty bitches! I love them as much as I hate them! Those who died ended up as food for wolves or other wild beasts! We fought and we killed and killed even more!"

"That sounds horrible," Alex said, as he covered his mouth with his hands in shock.

Lady Adria just laughed with a wicked glint in her eyes and drank the wine. She smiled at him and said:

"Oh yes, we did! And oh, how I loved it! Our blood flowed freely as we slaughtered those northern whores. My sabre sliced through flesh and bone like it was butter. Blood sprayed everywhere like a fountain! We cut through their skin, slashed through flesh, and pierced through armor like a hot knife through butter!"

"Ahhh!" Alex exclaimed, still covering his mouth with his hands, "Is that really what happened?"

"Everything!" Adria said with pride. "We were wild, wild animals, tearing through the ranks of Stogallan soldiers like wild beasts. We tore through their lines like a hurricane of death. Ah, those raggedy fellows of mine, they were such magnificent fighters! The most vicious bunch of cunts I ever met! You have never met such a bunch of beastly, violent, vicious, savages before, my dear Alex! May the god of death burn them all in hell, when their time comes! Hahaha!"

Alex just stared at Adria in awe. She was stunningly beautiful, but she possessed such a savage strength that it was frightening. He felt himself being drawn to her in ways he couldn't explain. She was a combination of the angelic and the devilish.

"Adria, what happened to your forces." Alex asked, after he calmed down a bit, "Did they... Did they all die?"

"Don't worry, my dear Alex, they didn't all die," Adria said with a mischievous smirk. "They are all from noble families, you know? Decent women, raised to serve our holy land, but every one of them has a prison sentence behind them. They were all criminals, murderers, thieves, rapists, and all sorts of despicable sinners. All of them criminals, yes, but they are also good fighters. They are well trained and experienced in battle. Each of them swore loyalty to me. They are in Lockinge now, as I didn't know where else to put them."

"So you brought your whole army here?" Alex asked, puzzled.

"Yep, that's right!" Adria answered cheerfully. "The harsh winter made the Stogallans close themselves inside their castles, so there was not much else I could do. After all, my forces are smaller all in all, compared to theirs. More accustomed to guerrilla warfare. Those nasty bitches of mine, were also worn out from the constant fighting. They needed to rest and recover. So, I thought 'why not bring them all back to Lockinge?' Besides, I wanted to finally see you in person, my dearest Alex! Oh my, what a beautiful young man you turned out to be!"

Alex blushed deeply and looked away.

"You..." he mumbled quietly.

"Hmm? What? Did I say something funny?" Adria asked, feigning ignorance.

"No, no," Alex shook his head. "It's just...nevermind. Please, continue your meal, Adria. I hope you enjoy the rest of it."

"Oh, I'm enjoying it immensely, thank you! Although, it would taste better if you joined me," she said with a wink, "For the food is delicious, but you are the main attraction!"

"I would love to join you," Alex replied, blushing again. "But, I'm not hungry anymore. I ate too much already, besides, seeing you eat so heartily is more enjoyable to me, right now."

Adria giggled and looked at him with a mischievous smile.

"Oh, you are such a cute little kitten!" she said affectionately. "Aahh, what a nice treat it is for my eyes to be able to feast upon such a beautiful sight. I could even eat poison for you, if you said so, my sweet little Alex! Hahaha!"

Alex blushed deeply and glared at her, feeling embarrassed. She saw his reaction and burst out laughing uncontrollably. Her laughter made him feel uncomfortable but also warmed his heart.

"Please don't joke around like that!" he exclaimed, trying to hide his embarrassment. "As if I would want you to die!"

"Hahaha! Don't worry, my sweet Alex, I'm not going to die any time soon," she said, still smiling. "I'm going to marry you and we are going to live happily together forever. Everything will work out fine. Nothing is going to stop me from taking you to my bed."

"Adria, please don't joke about things like that. If you tease me like that, I'll just end up thinking about it," Alex said, nervously.

"Are you saying that I am teasing you?" Adria asked, genuinely surprised. "Why, I don't think so, my sweet Alex! I'm simply stating facts! That is only natural for any woman! A woman has needs. A woman wants a man! I need a you, I want you, I crave you! Hahaha, I love you, Alex! I love the way you look at me, I love the way you talk to me, I love everything about you! Even the way you blush when I speak to you! Ah, it is so beautiful to see!"

Alex blushed deeply again and looked away.

"Oh, don't be embarrassed, my sweet darling!" Adria whispered, "I'm just being honest! I love how you blush! I love it when you get so shy! It makes me happy, when you are this nervous around me."

"Uh..." Alex mumbled, still looking away.

"Anyway, I got carried away with myself, as usual," she said, "As I said, I invited the worthiest companions to Lockinge as guests, while leaving the rest here and there behind... I will introduce them to you soon enough, my dear Alex. I will make them bow down to you and worship you! Hahaha!"

"Adria..." Alex sighed, "please don't joke about things like that. I mean, I'm flattered and all, but-"

"Hahaha!" Adria burst out laughing, "Don't worry, my sweet Alex."

After the meal, Adria stood up, grabbed Alex by his hand and pulled him up. She walked him over to the fireplace and pushed him towards the flames, so he could warm himself. While he stretched his fingers and toes and shivered in the cold, she wrapped her arms around him and held him close.

"Come, sit next to me," she said softly, "I want to hold you in my arms."

He sat down next to her on the floor and she hugged him tight. She rubbed his back gently, while kissing his neck and whispering in his ear:

"My sweet, sweet Alex. Your body is so soft and warm. I wish I can stay with you forever. I want to feel your heart beating against mine every day for the rest of my life."

"Adria-" he started, but his voice broke off as her lips touched his.

Their lips pressed together and their tongues intertwined. Their kisses were deep and passionate. He tasted like honey and fresh watermelon. Her tongue was soft and warm. He felt as if he could melt into her embrace, but instead he pushed her away. He was scared of what would come next if he let this go any further.

"Adria, please," Alex gasped, as he pulled away from her. "I...I can't do this. I'm not ready for this. I mean, I l-like you, but..."

Adria looked at him with a mixture of disappointment and understanding. She knew she had pushed too far and too fast, but her love for him was so strong that she couldn't help but want to express it physically. She held his hand gently and spoke softly:

"I understand, my sweet Alex. It's late, and you should get a good rest. We will talk about this more another time."

Alex nodded and they both stood up, with Adria holding his hand all the way to the exit. She kissed him on the cheek before leaving, whispering:

"Sleep well, my sweet Alex. I love you."

As he closed the door behind him, Alex felt overwhelmed with emotions. He had never been in this situation before, and he didn't know what to do. He knew he started to care for Adria, but he wasn't sure if he was ready for such things. He needed time to think and sort out his feelings. As he lay in bed that night, he couldn't help but replay the events of the evening in his mind. He wondered if he had made the right decision by pushing Adria away and if he had hurt her feelings. But he also knew that he needed to be true to himself and take things at his own pace.

He drifted off to sleep, still unsure of what the future held for him and Adria.