I am Rose Finelita Lichelle, a princess living in the kingdom of Lichelle. After I woke up in my big feathered bed one morning, I heard clamouring outside the door. I sent one of the maidservants Eva to check what was the commotion about.

"Princess Rose!" said a familiar voice while banging on my door. "The king has summoned you! Please come with us quickly. The dragons were found at last!"

"Is that true?!" I asked with surprise through the door.

"Please calm down, sir Knight. Princess is still not ready." I heard the maids voice admonishing the knight.

It seems knights were rushing in to tell me that the king Victor Finelita Lichelle, who is also my father, has made contact and they've located the dragon tribe. He wants to meet me immediately!

"Let's go right away!" I said with determination.

I quickly got dressed with the maids help and went to meet the king.

I ran down the hallways as fast as I could and came to the throne room. I saw the knights lined up waiting for me.

"Please go ahead, Your Highness," he said.

They all bowed their heads as I passed by them. I walked towards the king's throne where the current king of Lichelle kingdom, my father was sitting.

"Honourable father," I said with a bow.

He looked at me with a smile. "My dear daughter."

"Is it true that the location of the dragon tribe's dwelling has been found? Will we finally be able to end the long-lasting war? Will the suffering of our people will finally come to an end?"

"Yes, my child. We have discovered the exact location of the dragon tribe's nest. It's north of here, on the northern border of the kingdom, deep in the mountain." he told me.

"Thank goodness! I'm so happy to hear this news!" I exclaimed with a broad smile.

"We will be able to destroy them in an all-out attack within the week!" he clenched his fist. I looked at my father, the king.

"Father! I'm deeply saddened that the war can only be resolved through violence. How happy I would be if we could make peace with the dragons."

"I know, my child. I've thought of that too but there is no other way. Our people need to be saved from the threat of the dragons."

"But Father! You're the King of Lichelle! Can't you find another solution?"

"If only it was that simple, my child." he looked at me with regret. "If there was a way to resolve the conflict in a different, more peaceful end...I would do it, my dear Rose. But that isn't possible, is it? I just hope that after we win the war, we can rebuild the kingdom and live happy lives." He answered me as If reading my thoughts. My father's face looked exhausted. He was overworking himself too much in this prolonged conflict.

"Father, I understand how you feel. I don't want to lose anyone else either. But..." I sighed. " I guess you are right There's no other way than to fight the dragons. The people are counting on us."

"Yes, my dear. That's why we must do it." My father smiled back with exhaustion and nodded his head.

Then, a sound of door opening again interrupted our conversation.

"Victor!" My mother, the queen Emeralda Rardieu Lichelle, barged into the audience room and shouted. She looked visibly agitated.

"Honourable mother, please calm down." I said trying to pacify her.

"Is it true that those despicable dragons were found?!" A strange mix of anger and happiness was on my mother's face. It scared me. "Please tell me that we can finally rid the world from those despicable creatures."

"We found their dwelling and we are going to bring them to justice very soon." My father replied calmly, while sighing. "I have already made orders for an all-out attack on them. I will be going together with the knights and soldiers, while you Emeralda, my queen, and my dear Rose, will stay at the castle. I don't know how the attack will end, but I hope that after that, it will all be over."

"Good!" she cheered. "That's great news! I'm so glad!"

"Father, you can't go alone! Please let me go with you." I pleaded. "Let me join, so I can protect the kingdom and its people. I want to fight, even if it pains me. I don't want to hide myself in the castle, while others put their lives on the line."

"I understand your wish, my child. But it's not possible. You cannot leave the safety of the castle. You will be safer there than with me." He told me with a sad expression.

"Please let me go with you, Father!" I insisted. "Please! I want to be part of this fight."

"Listen to your father the king, Rose!" My mother told me off harshly. "You are our only daughter. What if you and Victor die there? The royal bloodline will go extinct. We can't let that happen."

"Mother, I know what I'm doing. I'm not a child anymore. I'm old enough to make my own decisions." I told her with agitation.

"You're right. You are a grown woman now." my father agreed. "But still, I think you should listen to me. I won't ask you to obey me, but I will ask you to respect me."

"But..." I tried to argue with them, yet my mother stopped me.

"No buts. Like you said, you are not the little child anymore Rose. You have to become responsible, so you can become the worthy queen leading the Lichelle kingdom for the bright future after the war." She paused and looked at me with a stern gaze. "Do you understand?"

"Yes mother." I sighed.

"Emeralda is right. You will stay here with your mother and that is final. I'm sorry my dear Rose, but you are not allowed to die." My father told me, while standing up from his throne and giving me a warm hug.

"I will listen to you, father." I hugged him back.

"Now come, let's prepare ourselves for the coming battle." My father turned around and left the audience room.

I stood there in silence, looking at my mother.

"I know you want to be there, but we have no choice. This is the only way to save the kingdom." She told me off again.

"I know." I sighed. "I will stay here."

"Good girl. Now go get some rest. I'll send Victor to see you later." She said and left the throne room after my father.

***

The next day, I woke up early and went to see my father and the knights off at the castle gates before they went off to fight the dragon tribe. My father was wearing his full-body armour, with his sword and shield. He looked like a real knight.

"Father!" I ran to him and hugged him tightly.

"Thank you for everything, my dear." He patted my head. "No matter the outcome I will always love you."

"I know you will win this time, Father." I told him. "And when you return, we will celebrate."

"I hope so too, my child." He smiled and kissed my forehead. "I will come back to you, I promise."

Watching them leave made me feel uneasy. My mother squeezed her husband like a loving wife should.

"Goodbye, Father!" I waved goodbye to him as he mounted his horse.

"Goodbye my beloved Emeralda, my dear Rose!" My father called back to us before leaving.

I watched them until they disappeared from sight.

"See you soon, Father." I whispered.

I felt empty and powerless. My mother got closer to me.

"Mother, will they be alright? "I was anxious, so I asked her, not really expecting the real answer. I just wanted to be assured that everything will be fine. I just wanted some warm words, that would alleviate my worries.

"They will, my child." She told me. "...Of course, they will. Your father is strong, and the knights are well-trained. They will survive and come back to us." She paused for a moment and then looked at me in the eye.

Her face became serious, scary even. I got goose bumps. "But we need to think what will happen if they won't, have no illusion that everything will be fine Rose. You will have to prepare yourself. If the need arises, you will be married to some other kingdom to protect Lichelle." She told me. "Some preparations were already been made."

"...What?! That's crazy! I don't want that to happen!" I was surprised no, scared even. How could they arrange something like that without me knowing? Also, that they already assumed that the worst will happen and the dragons will win the fight.

She looked at me and sighed. "You will have to learn to be a good queen, but you have the potential to be one. You are a smart girl, you will do great things." She paused and took my hand. "But you will have to follow the rules, my child. You will have to become the queen of Lichelle, so you can lead our kingdom into the future." She continued.

"You will do what you have to do, as the Lichelle kingdom's princess. I have nothing else to say." My mother then turned around and went back to the castle with quick steps.

"I understand, Mother." I whispered after her with my head down.

I stood there, feeling helpless and alone.

"Father, please come back safely." I whispered to myself, and to my father, whose visage was already getting smaller to finally disappear in the distance.

"Father..." I said to the empty air while desperately trying to hold my tears, which despite my efforts, began to flow. "I... I'm sorry. It seems... I'm still just a child after all."

I decided what to do. I went back toward the castle with quick steps.

The days after that might have been the darkest in my whole life.

***

The day was quickly coming to an end. The sky had a dark red tinge to it, which meant that night would soon fall. I wondered if my father's mission would go well. I hoped that it would, for his sake.

I was in my room. I had a lot to do, and it was time to start. I quickly changed my clothes and went out of my room. I walked through the corridors with my trusty maid.

We entered a small room. There was a table, a chair, and a fireplace.

"Lady Rose, are you really going to do this? This is very dangerous." The maid, Eva, asked me worriedly.

"Yes, I am." I replied.

"But why? Why would you do this?" She asked me again.

"Because I want to help Father. I know he will succeed, and I don't want him to die. But I still want to be there, fight together with my father and protect our home and our people." I answered her, looking at her straight in the eyes.

Eva sighed. "I see... I'm sorry, Lady Rose. I didn't mean to doubt you. But, please let me accompany you."

"Thank you, Eva." I said, and I hugged her.

She was a loyal maid who cared about me. I loved her like a sister. I was glad that she would be accompanying me on this journey.

"I will do my best to protect you, Lady Rose." She said to me.

"I know you will, Eva." I replied.

"Please be careful."

I was standing in front of the large table, where a map of the surrounding area was spread out. I was about to begin my journey.

I looked at the map and thought of my father. I wondered how far he had gone.

I knew that the dragons were hiding in the nearby mountains. And I also knew that the king and the knights together with soldiers had already a day of journey ahead of us. But they were heavily armoured so they shouldn't be that fast.

If I had to go after my father's expedition, then I needed to move quickly. But first we needed a horses and supplies. I already had a map, so I was covered here.

I looked at the map again. I was sure that I could get there in two days if I used the road. But I had no idea if it was safe. I couldn't risk being attacked by bandits or monsters. I had to use a different route.

I had to find a forest and cut through it. I would take the shortest path possible. I had to travel with Eva, and I couldn't carry much food, but I would have to make do.

"We will need a horse, some food and water. Oh, and some extra supplies as well." I said to Eva.

"Of course, Lady Rose." She replied.

***

I left the room with Eva and went to the stables. I saw a horse tied up there.

"P... princess Rose, are you going out of the city?" A stable boy, called Jeff asked me. "If... if I may be so presumptuous, honourable queen Emeralda asked of me, that I won't let you go if you will want to go out. So, I'm... I'm really sorry, but I can't help you." He said nervously.

"Why can't you help us, if I may ask?" I was getting impatient. I had to get going as soon as possible.

"I'm... I'm not allowed to say." He said evasively.

"What do you mean?" I asked him.

"I'm... I'm not allowed to tell you. Please forgive me, Princess Rose."

"Shouldn't you only listen to my father's orders? If so than please don't waste my time, and help us!" I told him off. I was too harsh with him, after all he was just a stable boy, but I was really in a hurry. I had to go after my father's expedition as soon as possible. I wanted, no, I had to help somehow.

"Please calm down, Lady Rose. screaming at the boy won't help us." Eva said to me, and I realized that I had been shouting.

I took a deep breath. "I'm sorry. I'm sorry, Jeff. I was too agitated just now." I said to him.

The boy seemed to get scared of me, but he recomposed himself and spoke with a clear voice.

"I may only listen to his highnesses Victor, long live him and his lineage, but he asked of me the same thing." He said, and he bowed deeply.

"Grr. So be it!" I screamed at him. I didn't have time for this. I'll have to get the supplies myself.

"Lady Rose wait!" Eva called after me as I quickly ran towards the supply room. The boy tried to stop us. but I ignored him and opened the door.

I walked to the stables and saw a few horses tied up there. I picked one and looked at it. It was a brown horse.

"Eva, do you know how to ride a horse?" I asked her.

"Yes, I do." She answered.

"Good, then I will leave this horse to you." I said and I gave Eva the reins.

"Understood, Lady Rose." She said.

I didn't know what kind of horse it was, so I decided to name it.

"I name thee Shadow." I said to the horse and I patted its head.

"You're right, it's a beautiful horse. You named him very well." Eva said.

I looked at her and smiled. "Thank you."

I looked for another horse for myself. I found a black horse. I looked at it and thought of my father. I didn't know if he had gotten hurt, but I had to try.

***

After securing the horses, we went to the supply room. We had to think about what to take. I wasn't all that knowledgeable about what other things I would need.

The smell of gunpowder nearly smacked me in the face.

"Gunpowder?" I thought. “But, where's the water and food? I might also need some rope and... Maybe a sword and bow with arrows." I started to count in my head. It was actually really hard. I wasn't sure what to take.

"We should take the food, water, and weapons. I think that we'll be fine without the rest." Eva said.

"I agree. That's the most important stuff." I said and I nodded.

I grabbed the water and food. And finally weapons.

"Is that everything?" I asked.

"Yes, it is." Eva said.

"Alright, let's go." I said and we headed out.

When we got outside, I noticed that the sun was already gone.

"Oh no! We've wasted a lot of time. It's already so dark." I said and I was worried.

"Let's rest for today, and we can continue tomorrow." Eva said.

"We can't! Father is already out there!" I said.

"But, Lady Rose. Even if we go now, we will just get lost. We'll never find them in the dark." Eva said.

"No, we won't. But we have to try!" I said.

"I understand, but I think that we should wait until morning." She said.

"Fine. We will do as you said Eva.." I said and we walked back.

"Thank you, Lady Rose."

***

It was late at night when we finally returned. There were small problems along the way, but we managed to gather the supplies and went to sleep, exhausted from all the work.

I woke up early in the morning. I had slept through the whole night.

I got up and saw that the sun would be rising soon.

"Eva, we should leave now. I don't want to waste any more time." I said.

"I agree, Lady Rose. We will be there in no time." She said.

We had everything ready, so we could get going as soon as possible. We went out and got on our horses

"Let's go, Eva." I said.

"Yes, Lady Rose."

I gathered all my things and strapped them to the horse. It was a beautiful animal, strong and tall. The best one I could find at the stables. I called it Darkmane. Eva helped me get into the saddle and then mounted her own horse - Shadow.

I dug my heels in, and the horse started moving.

We rode off out of the city towards north, and I was surprised by how fast we reached the forest. Before I knew it we couldn't see the city anymore. It felt like we had been riding for hours. I didn't know how long we had actually been riding.

***

We continued our journey hoping to reach the father and the army soon. I had never ridden this far before. It was so exciting. I was getting tired, though. We needed to stop soon. It would be no good if we got lost in the woods or become too exhausted to be unable to do anything.

"Eva, we need to stop for a moment. I'm so tired." I said.

"Yes, Lady Rose. I agree." She said.

We stopped and I dismounted. I tied the horse to a tree and then I lay down. I was so tired.

"I think that we should camp here for the night." I said to Eva.

"That sounds like a good idea." She said.

We took the supplies out of the bags and made a fire. We ate dinner and drank some water.

"This feels great." I said. “I never left the city so it feels so exciting. If only the war was over."

"You're right. This is much better than sitting around the palace." Eva said.

We both sat by the fire and watched the flames. I looked at the supplies for a bit. I just hoped that we prepared enough.

"Lady Rose, let's sleep now." Eva said.

"Okay." I said.

I laid down on my bedroll and closed my eyes. I was asleep within minutes.

I was awakened by something. I opened my eyes and saw that it was morning. I looked at the sky and saw that it was cloudy. I looked around and realized that Eva was already awake. She was standing by the fire, making breakfast.

"Good morning, Lady Rose." She said." Breakfast will be ready soon."

"Morning, Eva." I said.

"Do you want to eat first?" She asked.

"Sure." I said.

I stood up and she handed me some food. It was warm and it tasted good.

"Thank you, Eva" I said. I looked at her warmly. "You always help me out and take care of me. You are such a good friend. No, you are like a sister to me."

She smiled and blushed.

"You're welcome, Lady Rose." She said.

We finished eating and then I put away the supplies.

"Ready to go?" I asked.

"Yes." She said.

We mounted our horses and headed out. We needed to catch out to the expedition.

We continued our journey. The sun was starting to rise higher and I felt warmer. It was very nice.

"It looks like we will make it there today. I hope at least." I muttered under my breath.

The faster the horses went, the more the wind blew in our faces. It was wonderful at first, but after a while it started to become very cold. I pulled my cloak tighter around me.

We slowed the horses. I brought out some dried meat from my bag and started eating it. It was so hard and dry, I had a hard time swallowing.

I never thought that meat can be this hard. Meat served at the castle was always soft and tender. Even Eva's meal was good. After eating it, I had to wash down the dryness in my mouth with some water. I drank the whole bottle in one go, and then burped.

"I don't feel so good." I said.

"What is wrong, Lady Rose?" Eva asked.

"Nothing. Just a little stomach ache." I said. My cheeks went red from embarrassment.

"You shouldn't drink so much water." She said.

"I know, but I wanted to keep up with you. I'm not used to riding after all." I said.

"I understand. I'll slow down." She said.

We continued our journey for a while longer and then I started feeling sick. I could barely hold onto the reins.

"I need to stop." I said.

"I agree. Let's stop for a moment." She said.

I dismounted and threw up everything I had eaten. It was disgusting. When I finished, I felt better.

"I'm sorry." I said with a low voice. I felt a bit pathetic.

"Don't worry about it." She said. "It happens sometimes."

***

Before I knew it morning of another day has come. Yet we still didn't reach the army. I was so tired. I didn't know how long we were going to ride. I didn't know how long I would last.

We were riding through a forest when I heard something. I listened closely. I couldn't hear anything, but I thought I saw something move in the bushes. We slowed the horses down and stopped.

"There is something there." I whispered.

"Where is it, Lady Rose?" Eva asked. "I don't see anything. Are you sure you saw something?"

"I'm sure." I said. I had a bad feeling about this.

"Should we turn back, my Lady?" She asked me.

"No. We have to go further." I said. "We can't turn back now Eva."

"Okay, but let's be careful." She said.

We continued forward and we came upon a clearing. In the middle of the clearing was a dead body. There was blood everywhere. It looked like a man. His body was torn apart.

Seeing the bloodied parts of what was one a human, I started to tremble. I couldn't even speak.

"Oh no!" Eva shouted. "A dead person! We should get out of here!"

I just sat there frozen. I couldn't even move.

"Lady Rose!" She yelled at me and slapped me on the face. "Snap out of it! Please!"

I tried to shake off the fear. Eva grabbed me by the hand and helped me into the horse.

"Let's go." She said.

We left the scene behind us. We rode as fast as we could, but we couldn't run away from 'that' after all.

We were attacked by a wild beast. Or rather a monster. It looked like a bear, but it was faster and stronger and it was as huge as a house. It chased after us.

Eva screamed at the top of her lungs. I held onto the reins tightly. I felt like I was going to fall off.

The horse was running desperately. The beast was chasing us.

I looked back and saw that it was getting closer. It was gaining on us.

"Lady Rose! Keep your eyes ahead!" Eva shouted. "Don't look back!"

I couldn't look back. I kept my head facing forward. I was shaking. I felt so scared. I didn't know what to do.

Suddenly I felt a strong force pushing me from behind. I fell off the horse. I landed on the ground and rolled.

"Rose!" Eva shouted. "Are you okay? Rose!"

I didn't know what happened. I started to get up. I felt pain all over my body. I was in so much pain.

"Get up!" Eva run towards me and tried to help me up.

I stood up and the world spun around me. I felt dizzy. I was so weak. I couldn't stand.

"I can't... I can't..." I said.

"Rose, you have to get up!" She said. "We have to run!"

I looked at Eva with my unfocused eyes. She looked desperate. I looked around, but the horses disappeared at some point. What happened to them?

"Please, Lady Rose." Eva said. "You need to snap out of it! You're going to die if you stay like this!"

I took a deep breath and focused on Eva.

"Yes." I said. "I'm okay."

But then... I saw it again. The monster came out from behind the trees. It was coming straight for us.

"Run, Rose! Run!" Eva shouted. “Please! I will try to stop it."

She ran in front of me. She took out the sword from her back. She looked so frail with it. Her hands were trembling.

"No Eva! Don't do this! I order you in the name of the Goddess to stop!"

The beast was so close. It was almost upon us.

"I'm so sorry I couldn't watch over you longer." She said. "I love you, Rose."

She swung the sword at the approaching monster. The blade cut through its body, but it didn't react at all. The beast was still coming.

It reached out for her. Its claws were reaching for her.

"NO!" I screamed.

I ran towards Eva. But she was too far away. I couldn't reach her.

I looked down and saw the beast's claws. They were touching Eva's body.

"No!" I screamed again.

I saw Eva flying through the air. She hit the ground hard.

"Eva!" I screamed.

I ran towards her. I fell to my knees next to her.

"I'm so sorry." She said. "I failed you. I'm so sorry."

"No, no." I said. "Don't talk like that."

I put my arms around her. I felt her tears on my chest.

"I love you." She said. She closed her eyes and stopped moving.

I cried. I held her. I held her tight.

"I'm sorry." I said. "I/m so sorry for dragging you into this, Eva."

I looked up and saw the beast coming at me slowly.

I took out the sword lying beside Eva and gripped it tightly desperation, but I doubted I would be able to make any use of it. I reflected on myself, the stupid girl that wanted to help her father. What did I expect to happen? Did I really think that I could change anything?

I looked up at the beast and it was so big. It was so terrifying.

I couldn't move. I just stared at it.

"What rubbish! I couldn't even protect Eva or myself so how I could protect my father the king, and Lichelle's citizens? How can I ever save my country?"

I looked down at Eva. I saw her face. She looked so peaceful.

"I'm sorry." I whispered. “It seems I will be joining you soon.

I looked back at the beast.

"I wish I had been able to see you one last time, father."

I had only seconds before I would die too.

I readied my sword with a futile attempt to fight the beast, but even I knew that it was hopeless. I looked into beast's eyes, they were so cold and horrid. I almost couldn't look at them. Just as it was about to attack me, I felt like the time stopped suddenly.

The beast was frozen in place. It was like it was waiting for something.

Then, a voice spoke. It was soft and gentle.

"Do not worry, woman." The voice said. "You have done well to stay alive this long. Your spirit is strong."

Before I could think about anything, the beast was dead. Before its huge body stood a man. It was a strange man. He looked human, but with horns on his head and a tail coming out of his clothes. He was holding a long double handed sword with one hand. I instantly knew who it was.

'So that's how a dragon looks like.' I thought absentmindedly. I couldn't even think properly. I felt mix of emotions. Scared, but also happy to be alive, but what's more I felt strange curiosity towards the man that could singlehandedly kill such a beast, with ease.

"Such a weak beast." He said. Then he turned towards me with interest. "Who are you?"

I was paralyzed. His penetrating gaze looked all over me, as if all of me was being exposed before him. I couldn't move or say anything.

He stepped closer towards me.

"Hmmm... You, a human woman there. You look quite tasty." He licked his lips with his long tongue.

I felt a shiver go down my spine. I could feel my body trembling with even more fear than, when I faced the huge bear-like beast.

"W-What?!"Does he want to eat me? "Pl...please don't eat me, good sir!" I was somehow able to squeeze out some words.

"Hahaha, I was just joking." He laughed heartily." I have no interest in eating a human, especially a weak looking human woman like you."

"I...I see." I was so nervous. I started to say nonsense...then thank you, for rescuing me from this horrible monster. Please tell me, how can I repay you?"

Hearing me he snorted with disinterest. I felt a bit angered at his response, but mostly I was still scared to death.

"For a human you look quite stupid, aren't you?" He belittled me. "Rather than that, shouldn't you be worrying about your friend lying behind you? She is going to die in seconds now. You should hurry."

"That's right! Eva!

I looked behind me. Eva was still lying there motionless. Her eyes were closed.

"She's...she's..."

"It's still not too late. You can save her." He said.

"But...how?" I asked.

I didn't know how to do that. I tried to think about how to do it.

"Hmm. Well, let me help you out. I am a great healer. I can even heal wounds that cannot be healed by normal means."

"Really?! Can you really heal her?" I stuck to him with desperation.

"Yes, I can. But it will cost you."

"I'll pay whatever it takes."

"I see. Then I shall start immediately. Don't waste any more time."

He then walked toward Eva's body and crouched down. He crouched down, put his hand towards his sword and for some inexplicable reason injured himself.

"Wha...?!" I yelled in shock.

"Mhhm, it's nothing. It's just a small cut. Now I can use my healing power on her."

The man put his hand towards the wounds on Eva's body and squeezed it. Droplets of blood landed on the wounds which started to rapidly heal before my eyes.

"What is this? How did you do that?"

"It's in my blood. A dragon's vitality." he explained.

"Dragon's...vitality?"

"Yes, the dragon's life force. It is a powerful energy source, that has almost miraculous effects."

"Is Eva... Is she...?"

"She should be fine. I've already restored her wounds."

"Really? Thank goodness." I took my hand to my chest with relief.

The man stood up. He looked at me with his fierce eyes.

"You are very lucky, you know? To have survived this encounter. You were really lucky, but most importantly really stupid."

"Why? What do you mean? I'm not stupid." I was confused.

"Hmmm... Well, I guess you're not stupid, but you are naïve."

"Naïve?"

"Yes, naïve. You don't know anything about the world around you, or the people in it."

"I...don't understand."

"Hahaha, I can see that. You are a naive girl. You seem like a sweet person, but you are actually an ignorant fool."

"I...I'm not..."

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"Yes, you are. You don't know anything about the world."

His words irritated me for some inexplicable reason, I momentarily forgot about my fear of him.

"No, I'm not! Just because I'm scared doesn't mean I'm stupid!" I shouted. "Rather someone who calls other people stupid is stupid himself." I didn't know what I was saying anymore.

"What an annoying woman." He said. "Whatever, I lost interest. Anyway, tell me your name woman. I might even remember it, if I feel like it. You should be grateful." He told me self-importantly. Even though he saved me and Eva just a few moments ago I started to feel irritated.

"My name is... no, before that. Shouldn't you introduce yourself first, before asking a lady for a name" I tried to lecture him. " If you had any manners you would do it first without needing to tell you this." I told him off. I was so scared, what I was even doing, getting a scary dragon like him, that can easily kill such a monster, angry? He was right, I'm really stupid.

"Well, whatever... my name is Arlenu, Arlenu Vieldraraynth. About your name... just forget about it, I'm not interested anymore. I'm going back, so good luck there and don't get killed." He said and started to walk away.

"Rose, my name is Rose!" I told him a bit angry. I was frustrated that he ignored my name so shamelessly." And don't even think about leaving a lady you just saved alone in the middle of the forest full of ferocious monsters. That would be so ungentlemanly." I added.

"No. It's me who is shameless here." I thought while ridiculing myself. If I and Eva were to survive here, without our horses and supplies, we needed to get his help.

He turned around and observed me silently.

"So, would you be so kind and help us out of here?" I asked a little fidgety.

"Of course. I wouldn't mind helping you two out of here. But first I want to know something."

"What?"

"How did you get here?"

"We came from the capital of the kingdom of Lichelle." I answered truthfully.

"The capital? Why would you come all the way here?"

"Because..." I hesitated. I didn't want to tell him the real reason.

"What? You don't trust me? Even though I already helped you so much?" He said a little disappointed. “Farewell then."

Arlenu was already leaving. I... I had to stop him.

"No, I just... I don't know how to explain it." I said evasively.

"It doesn't matter. I'm leaving anyway. I have things to do." He said.

"Wait!" I shouted. "Don't go! Please wait! You can't just leave us."

"Hmm, whatever you say, woman" He said with leisure and left us there.

Was this really the end of it? Somehow I had the feeling that if I let him go now, I would regret it for the rest of my life. I felt that this meeting was fate itself, that would somehow help me make peace with the dragon tribe, however implausible and ridiculous it sounded. I looked at Eva, who was still unconscious. Her breathing seemed stable. She was still alive.

I had to try.

"Hey, dragon man, wait! Come back!" I shouted.

But he didn't turn around. He completely ignored my words.

"Wait! Please wait for me, sir Arlenu. I'm going with you!" I put Eva behind my back and hurried after the dragon man.

"Do whatever you want, woman. You sure you want to come along? I warn you, it's going to be dangerous." He said to me.

"I know, but I have to go. If I don't, I feel like I'll regret it for the rest of my life." I said.

"If you say so, I guess I have no choice. Let's go then, we should make haste." He agreed.

***

We were walking through the forest. I was following the dragon man Arlenu. We were making a lot of noise, and I could hear other creatures in the distance running away from us. I was very frightened. I knew that I was probably risking my life, but I had to do it. I was scared, and I couldn't bear to stay here any longer.

"Huff... Huff..."

It was already night. My strength was slowly being drained while I was walking with Eva on my back. But I couldn't just leave her after all. I had to persevere, even if it meant I would die.

"Huff... Huff..."

Arlenu walked ahead of me. I tried to ask him for some help, but he just kept ignoring me. I followed him, panting heavily.

"Huff... Huff..." I was gasping for breaths...so, where are we going exactly?" I asked still frightened.

"The dragon realm of course. It's not far from here." He answered.

"What?! A dragon realm?" I was shocked, but also made sense. He was a dragon after all, and not a human.

"Yes. This is the dragon's territory. The dragon tribe is in the mountains. They live up there, deep in the mountains. We'll have to climb the mountain." He explained.

"I see. Thank you, sir Arlenu." I said.

I stopped asking questions and kept quiet for the rest of the way. Part of me wanted to ask more out of curiosity, but I knew it would be pointless to annoy someone who could kill me with ease.

I was still struggling with my steps it felt like I was slowly being left behind. I was getting tired and dizzy. I couldn't take much more. I had to stop soon.

"Huff... Huff..."

I was falling asleep while walking.

I was lying on the ground, before I knew it. I was surrounded by darkness. I was cold and shivering, and my heart was pounding hard. I couldn't understand what was happening. I was afraid.

"Wake up!" I heard someone shouting.

I opened my eyes. I was still in the forest, but it was dark now. I was covered in sweat and shaking.

"Are you okay?" Someone asked me. It was Arlenu.

"Y-yes..." I answered.

"Good. We're almost there." He said.

He lifted me up. I was still weak, but I managed to get up on my legs.

"How troublesome." He put Eva on his back soundlessly and started walking again.

I felt embarrassed and ashamed of myself for losing consciousness. I was so careless. I couldn't even hold on to Eva properly.

We went through the darkness for a long time. I was starting to feel sleepy again. I didn't want to fall asleep. I was afraid of what might happen if I did.

After some time, we came I to a stop and made an impromptu camp. Or rather Arlenu did and I was just trying to help. I felt so useless. I finally realised how much Eva was helping me before and how ignorant I was. Arlenu was right. I'm just a naive dumb kid, that doesn't know left from right.

"I'll make something to eat. You can rest for now." He told me. He put Eva away and went somewhere.

"Thank you." I said.

I lay down on the ground and closed my eyes. I fell asleep immediately.

I woke up when I heard the sound fire. I looked around and saw Arlenu sitting next to me. He was cooking something.

"Hey, are you hungry?" He asked.

"Yes, I am." I answered.

"Here you go." He handed me a piece of meat wrapped in leaves. "Eat it. It's good."

"Thanks." I took it and ate it. It tasted really good. It was hard to chew though.

"Hey..." I started with hesitation.

"What is it?" He asked.

"So umm, how should I put it. Can you tell me why your tribe invaded us humans?" I asked. I knew I was stupid to ask him of this right now, but I just needed to know. If there was a way to make a peaceful solution somehow, then I would like to take it. Also, after walking with Arlenu for a while, he seemed less scary than I first thought. I helped us and taken care of Eva. I was feeling guilty about what happened to her, but at least she was safe.

"I'm not sure if you could ever understand us, human." Arlenu said.

"Please try me, then." I said.

"Okay. The Emperor ordered it, and every dragon was under an obligation to help him. It had always been like that for us." He said.

"The emperor ordered it? So, it's not your decision?" I asked.

"No. It is the emperor Lord Zeit's will." He answered.

"But, do you know why the emperor made such an order? Do we really have to be enemies?" I was really pushing it with my questions, I knew it. Even though I refused to answer earlier, but I wanted to know the truth.

"Hah, you are quite impudent, even though you are just a human, you naive woman." When he said that, I felt some primal fear. His gaze was penetrating and vicious. As if I was just a prey before him. "You ask me such questions, when you know well, that the ones who started the war were you foolish humans!"

"Hick!" I screamed fearfully. "W...what do you mean?"

"Don't play innocent! You knew what I meant!" He shouted angrily.

"I don't know anything!" I said.

"You are a liar!" He roared.

"No, I'm not! I just don't know what you're talking about!" I cried.

"Don't act coy with me. During the first wave of the invasion, thousands of your troops were seen marching into our territory with these." He said and took out a small object from his bag and threw it at me. I struggled to catch it, but somehow managed to catch it.

I looked at the object. It was a metal disk about as big as my palm. I didn't know what it was though.

"What is that?" I asked him.

"It's a medal, used by your troops during the first invasion wave. They were hidden in the uniforms of many of your soldiers. Not all of them had it however. The same medal was found on the assassin that killed our queen Sirlena Vieldraraynth. She was also my mother."

I gasped. I felt my heart beating faster.

"That's impossible!" I screamed. I was too shocked, I just couldn't believe that someone from our kingdom would do such a vile thing. This was just absurd!

"I don't believe you. I don't know what the hell you are trying to pull here, but you are lying."

"Am I? Then how do you explain this?" He pointed at the strange metal disc that was still in my hands. I just didn't know what to think about this.

"You humans are not only treacherous and cowardly, but also very stupid." He said.

"I don't know what to say, this is just too absurd." I said.

"And now that I have the Lichelle kingdom's princess," he looked at me with vicious gaze.

"What?!" I looked at him in shock, I was such a fool.

"Did you really think I wouldn't realise, you naive woman? Yes, I know that you are the princess, I will take you hostage and so your army that is marching towards our home will have to stop and comply to our demands."

My hearth almost stopped beating. So, he knew everything after all. Even though I foolishly tried to hide the truth. I looked down with shame. I was sorry for trying for deceiving him. But he also deceived me.

"Why are you doing this?" I asked.

"Because I am a dragon. Because I want to live. And because I want to protect my tribe." He said.

"I don't know what to say." I said.

"You should be thanking me. I spared your lives. I could have easily killed you both." He said.

I felt so useless. Instead of helping my father protect the kingdom, I made the situation even worse. I wanted to cry. But I couldn't afford to do that. I needed to be strong.

"You won't get away with this!" I said, gritting my teeth. I tried to put a strong front before him. I didn't want to give him satisfaction of knowing that I was scared.

"Oh yes I will. I will do whatever it takes to protect my tribe. You humans are weak. Your kind will never win against us dragons." He said.

I realised that running away was futile, and also I couldn't leave Eva behind me. I was too weak to make such a decision. I was to blame for all this mess. I was the one who dragged her into this. I couldn't let her die.

"I can't let you kill my kingdom's citizens." I said.

"What?" He looked at me with surprise.

"I can't let you kill my people." I said.

"Are you saying that you are going to attack me? That you are planning to fight me?" He asked.

"Yes." I said.

"You are a brave woman. I applaud you for that, however futile it is." He said. "Now sleep, you naive woman. We need to get early tomorrow, after all I want to get to my home before your kingdom's army arrive. Good night."

I glared at him. I wasn't afraid of him anymore. I was angry at him. He went a few steps away and sit on the ground. He lay down and closed his eyes. I stood there looking at him. I couldn't sleep. I kept thinking about the fact that he was my enemy. I couldn't just lie down and go to sleep. I couldn't sleep while he was nearby.

I looked at Eva, she was sleeping peacefully. I sighed and laid beside her. I thought about my father, I hoped he would be alright. I wondered if he would be able to protect the kingdom from the dragons. I couldn't help him, but maybe I could help the rest of the kingdom. I would try my best. I fell asleep with those thoughts.

***

I woke up to a bright light shining over me. I blinked and sat up. My head was spinning. I was dizzy. I looked around. I was laying on the ground. I looked at Eva. She was still sleeping. I remembered the events from yesterday. I searched for that despicable dragon Arlenu. I saw him sitting by the fireplace, he was eating some meat. He looked at me. I was still dizzy and I looked away.

"Good morning, princess." He said with a hint of amusement in his voice.

I glared at him. I had to be strong. I stood up and looked at Eva. I tried to stand up straight. I was still dizzy. I felt nauseous.

"You should eat something. It will restore your energy. We still have some way before us." He said.

"I'm not hungry!" I said with defiance.

"Well, suit yourself." He said. “But you will die if you don't eat anything. And if you die, I will lose my precious hostage. So, if you don't want to get forcefully fed by me, you should eat."

I didn't want to look at him, I was too ashamed of myself. I looked down.

"Fine." I said.

I ate the food he gave me.

'What an infuriating man he is! Not gentlemanly at all!' I thought.

I felt better after eating. I walked towards the fireplace. I was feeling a little stronger. I looked at Eva. She was still sleeping.

After the meal, we were ready to move.

"Wha...?!"

Arlenu walked toward me, grabbed me suddenly an put me on his shoulder before I knew it. I was shocked. I tried to fight back but he was too strong. I couldn't break free.

"Let me go!" I shouted. "Put me down you brute! Savage! Monster!"

He laughed. "You are such a funny woman. You are so feisty. I like that." He clapped by butt with his tail.

"Hiaaaa! What are you doing?!" I screamed. I started to trash around, trying to break free from this brutish dragon.

"Relax, I won't hurt you." He said. "But we don't have time for the slow walk anymore. We need to go fast."

I looked at him in disbelief. "You are crazy!"

"Of course, I am. After all, I'm your captor." He said.

"You are a monster! A savage!" I said.

"Yes, I am. But I'm not a bad person. I'm just a selfish dragon who wants to live longer. And I need you for that."

The man ignored my complaints. He walked toward Eve, and put her on his other shoulder, similar to me. He then took off at a speed I've never seen before. The wind was blowing against my face. I could barely breathe. I struggled to stay on his shoulder. I felt like I was going to fall off. I was dizzy again. I was sure I was going to faint.

"We are almost there." He said happily. I couldn't even answer him. His speed was so fast.

I felt like I was going to vomit. I was still dizzy. I looked at Eva. It was good she was unconscious.

Before I could say anything, I felt like I was falling. I closed my eyes and braced myself. I opened my eyes to see we were on top of a cliff. The sun was setting behind the mountains. There was a river flowing below us. I looked down. It was a long way down. I closed my eyes and braced myself again. I was terrified. I wanted to scream.

"Are you okay?" Arlenu asked.

"Y-yes." I replied.

"You look pale." He said.

I opened my eyes. "I'm fine. I just need to rest." I said.

"Good. We are almost there. Just a little more." He said.

I was relieved. I was still dizzy but I was able to hold myself together. I was afraid I would faint again.

We continued our journey. We crossed the river. We were on the other side. I looked ahead.

We have finally made it to the scary dragon tribe's hidden dwelling.

***

"Welcome to Xamyrriorth, princess Rose Finelita Lichelle. Welcome to my home." Arlenu said with pride in his voice. He addressed me with my name for the first time. I almost thought he forgot my name.

When we came through the gate, what I saw was what seemed as normal hustling and bustling of a town. People were working, making things, running here and there.

I realised that except their horns and tails, they didn't look or behave any different from humans. They were wearing clothes, eating, talking, and laughing.

I looked at Arlenu. He was walking through the town with me and Eva on both of his arms. I saw the dragon people looking at us. Some with curiosity, some with fear, but most of them showed plain hostility.

"A human, a human. Scary human." Some small dragon children came and started pointing at me, while saying things like that.

"Eeeh?!" I was surprised. I didn't expect anyone to be feared by one of the dragon species, even if they were young.

"Shut up, you little idiots!" Arlenu shouted at the kids.

Arlenu noticed the stares the other townsmen gave us. He looked at me.

"I know this must be hard for you, but try not to let it show. Try to act normally." He said. "When you are with me they won't dare to touch even the strand of your hair."

I nodded. I was surprised at his unexpected kindness. I had expected him to be much more uncaring.

The streets were wide and paved with stones. We passed many houses, shops, and other buildings. I looked around. I couldn't believe this was the rumoured den of those scary dragons.

We walked through the town for a few minutes. Arlenu turned around and faced me.

"This is where I live." He said.

I looked at him in surprise. I didn't expect this to be his home. It was a huge building.

"So, we are your prisoners now." I said with resignation. "What will you do with us?"

"Nothing, for the time being. In fact, you can walk around here if you want to." He said.

I looked around. The town was surrounded by a wall. There were guards standing at the gates.

"The real show will start after the human army show up here. Until then, you are free to roam around the town." He said.

I was confused. I was thinking that I was going to be locked in a cell.

"What about Eva? Will she be alright?" I asked.

"She will be fine. I will send someone to take care of her. She'll be safe here." He said.

I was relieved. I was worried about her.

"Thank you for taking care of her." I said. As infuriating as he was, and even though he basically imprisoned us here in this town, he still took care of us.

"Anyway, I am sure you would like to go inside and rest. Let me show you around the castle." He said.

"The castle?" I asked confused. So that's where the emperor of dragons lives?

"That's right. I never told you, but in fact I'm a dragon tribe's, this realm's prince."

The revelation shocked me. To think I would be kidnapped by the prince of dragons.

"Come on." He said.

I followed him into the huge building.

I sat in the room that Arlenu let me stay in. It seemed to me that the rest of the town was celebrating some holiday or other thing.

"What are you going to do now?" I asked him nervously.

"I am going to wait for the humans to come. Then we will see how things go." He said.

"How long will that take?" I asked.

"It depends on the humans. If they are lazy, they could take a month to get here. But I think they are not that stupid. They will come soon." He said.

I sighed in relief. I wasn't sure how I was going to survive until then.

"But they soon will know, that I have you hostage. I already sent a messenger. So, they won't risk attacking with you in there. Their king should know that I'll kill you if they try anything." He said.

I trembled at the word 'kill'. I didn't know what to say. I felt scared. I wanted to run away, but I knew I wouldn't make it.

"How do you know that my father won't attack you?"

"Because he is a cautious man. He wouldn't risk an attack if he didn't have at least some sort of back-up plan." He said. His words surprised me.

"Do you know my father? Do you know him personally?" I asked.

"No, I don't. I only heard about him. He is a famous warrior and general." He answered.

"Are you afraid of him?" I asked.

"Yes, I am. He's not just a warrior, he's a very dangerous one." He said. "Even though he is a human, he is very formidable.

I was relieved. I always knew that my father the king was amazing, but I didn't think that one of the dragons would keep him in such high regard.

I felt proud of my father, but it also made me feel my foolishness more. I was the one that was so arrogant, that I thought I could help somehow. Now I was a prisoner in the hands of a dragon.

"What happens if he does risk an attack after all?" I asked.

"Then I will have to kill you. I don't want to do that, but I will." He looked at me seriously.

I shivered. I didn't want to die. I was too young. I wanted to live.

"Don't worry so much, foolish princess. If I know your father Victor, he won't do something this foolish. Even I don't want to pointlessly kill a naive woman like you. It gives me no pleasure." He said.

I sighed in relief.

"Why are you telling me this?" I asked.

"I want you to understand that I am not evil. I am only doing this because I need to protect my people. I don't want to harm you. I just want you to know that." He said.

"I..." I hesitated. I didn't know what to say. "I wish I could believe that, but I can't." I looked down with sadness.

"You don't have to. Just remember that I am not as bad of a person as you thing." He said.

I shook my head. I couldn't accept his words.

"If you really weren't a bad person, you'd let me go back home." I said.

"That is impossible. The humans are a threat to my people." He said. "But I'm not! I don't want to hurt anyone!" I cried.

"It doesn't matter what you want. I am responsible for my people. If I let you go back home now, then the king Lichelle would attack us. Who knows, he might even win. If that happened, then I wouldn't be able to keep the promise to my dead mother. I have to protect this town at all costs." he told me with determination he never showed me before.

"I didn't know your mother, but wouldn't she be sad that you imprisoned someone like that? Let me go and your mother will surely smile upon you." I pleaded.

"My mother's dead and she was never really happy while she was alive!" Arlenu snapped. "Sigh. I'm sorry for getting angry, it's just that...well let's just say I have my own personal reasons for doing this." He said. His eyes looked full of sadness. My heart ached for unexplainable reason, after seeing that lonely face of his.

I felt ashamed of myself. It just occurred to me that he wasn't such a scary and unfathomable existence that I originally thought. I had been wrong about Arlenu. He actually might be a good man, who was trying to save his people. I couldn't hate him for it.

"Could I know those personal reasons perhaps?" I asked him not really expecting an answer.

"No, not yet at least. Now I have to get back to the party, the kids are probably getting out of hand. You should join too, it might help you forget about your situation. Haha." He laughed.

"Thank you, but I think I'll stay in the room tonight." I said.

He nodded. "I understand. I'll come back some other time to check on you. We can talk then."

"Thank you." I said.

He nodded again and left with Eva. I watched him walk away from me, feeling a little bit better. But I still felt uneasy.

I was tired and I needed sleep. I went towards the bed and laid down. As I was falling asleep, I heard noises outside. People were yelling and laughing. I pondered about my situation, as I waited for night to fall completely.

I was starting to get worried that I wouldn't be able to escape. I didn't really think about it before, but if I couldn't escape, that would mean that I'd actually have to stay here longer and that my father's attack will fall.

I started feeling desperate and hopeless. It was at this moment that I realized that I hadn't prayed to God for a while. I used to pray every night before going to sleep when I was younger and every time I did something bad, but as I got older, my faith weakened. Now it seems like I only prayed when I was in trouble.

I don't know why, but I felt like praying now. It's like my urge to survive had rekindled my faith a bit. So, I did. I prayed to God and begged him to protect me from this place and to give me strength. I prayed for some solution, for anything that would help me resolve everything without anyone dying. Even Arlenu and his dragon tribe, even though I was currently their hostage. Seeing the village today, the kids playing around, I just couldn't make myself to think of this village being raided and destroyed anymore. I was such a fool, I knew that, but I still prayed for the hopeful solution.

"Please God, please if you are listening to this foolish girl, help me. Help me to find a way to save everyone. Please, I beg you. I don't want to see people suffering anymore because of this war. Be it human or dragon." I said with tears in my eyes.

I didn't care about my father's plan anymore, I was going to try to find a way to stop the raid. I couldn't let all these people die.

I didn't expect an answer. I just kept on praying until I fell asleep.

***

When I woke up the next morning, I was greeted by a nostalgic voice.

"Lady Rose, you are awake. Good morning." It was Arlenu.

"Morning." I replied. Then I realised who the voice belonged too. I stood up sharply.

"Eva, you are alive!" I run towards her and hugged her with all my might. Tears started to run again.

"I am glad to see you are alright, Lady Rose" She smiled.

"Me too." I said, hugging her tightly. "I'm so glad you're alive."

She patted me on the head. "It's okay, I survived."

"I know." I said, smiling. “I’m just so happy to see you walking again. I've missed you."

"I have missed you too. I already heard the whole story. I just came to check on you, and to bring you some food. Do you want breakfast? I asked the people here to prepare something for you, Lady Rose."

"You did?" I asked. I was so surprised by her bravery. She just went around in an enemy territory, risking her life to take care of me.

"Yes, I did. I wanted to make sure that you were okay. I heard about sir Arlenu's plan, and how you were captured, so I decided to come and check on you." She smiled.

"Thank you, Eva. That was very kind of you. I am so glad to see you again." I smiled back at her.

"Well, we should go eat then. The food is ready." She said.

We started to eat together. I noticed that she was wearing different clothes than the ones she had been wearing before. Instead of the travelling clothes she had before, she now wore a maid outfit. She must have changed after coming to the village.

After finishing our breakfast, Eva cleaned up and went out of the room to return the empty plates. I waited for her return and went to look at the window. It was bright daylight outside, but there was no sign of the Lichelle kingdom's army arriving yet.

I sighed in relief and returned to my bed. I was feeling a little bit better now.

I heard the sounds of door opening.

"Eva you are back...?" But it wasn't her. This time, it was Arlenu that visited me.

"Come on, we need to get you out of here." he said.

"What do you mean?" I asked.

"I can't explain right now, but you need to trust me. Follow me." He said.

I followed Arlenu out of the room. The hallway was empty, but I could hear voices coming from elsewhere in the building.

"Where are we going?" I asked.

"Outside." He answered simply.

He led me through the hallways to the garden. It was a beautiful place, filled with trees and plants. There was a large pond, which was full of fish swimming in it. It looked like it was designed for children to play in.

"This is where I used to spend most of my free time when I was younger. I would always come here to think and relax. I used to play around here. I remember my mother always smiling at me, while looking at me playing in the water."

"So why are we here?" I asked.

"The human army is arriving soon. We need to hide you somewhere else." He explained.

"So, you're going to stop the raid?" I asked.

"Yes, I am. I don't want anyone to suffer anymore. I don't want any more innocent people to be hurt." He said.

"I agree with you. I don't want anyone to suffer anymore either." I said.

"Good. I am glad that we agree. Now, let's go." He said.

"What about Eva? Where is she? Why is she not coming with us?" I asked.

"Don't worry about your companion, she made her own decision. She will stay behind in the castle and play as your double."

"Double? I don't understand! Explain it to me!" I said.

"Just trust me. You will understand later. She is just a backup plan, in case humans decide to send some night intruders to foolishly try and rescue you." He said. "And if nothing goes wrong, she will be completely safe, and return to your side, before you know it."

"I hope so!" I said.

"Now, come with me." He said.

I didn't say anything else as we walked through the village streets, away from the castle. Arlenu stopped in front of one of the normal looking houses. "This is where you'll be staying for tonight." With that, he walked away, heading towards the village square.

"Wait, where are you going?" I asked confused. "Hey! Don't leave me here alone!"

But Arlenu was already gone, before I knew it.

"Sigh. Well, I guess this is where I will stay for now, huh?" I muttered to myself.

I walked up the steps to the front door and opened it. I was hit by a wave of warmth and light. The inside of the house was decorated with many paintings and ornaments. A large, roaring fireplace was on the left wall, and next to it was a coat rack with several coats on it. To my right was a staircase that lead to the upstairs, and next to it was a table with two wooden chairs on either side.

"Hello? Is someone there?" I called out.

There was no response. I walked into the kitchen, which was filled with pots and pans. There were also dishes stacked neatly in a cabinet. On the opposite wall was a small counter, with a sink and stove. Next to it was another door, which led to a small bedroom.

"Hello?" I called out again. My voice echoed throughout the house. I heard some scurrying sounds, and then silence. I went and sat in one of the chairs by the fireplace.

I felt exhausted, both mentally and physically. Those days were most hectic days of my life, and I just wanted it all to end soon.

I looked at the painting above the fireplace. It depicted a woman, with long, black hair, sitting next to a man with blonde hair. They were both holding hands. I wondered who they were.

"I should rest for a bit. I'm sure the owner wouldn't mind. I stood up and walked over to bedroom.

I laid down on the bed and closed my eyes. I tried to sleep, but I couldn't. I just kept thinking about everything that had happened today.

I sighed. "I wonder what the future holds for me." I thought to myself.

***

I woke up to someone kicking my foot. I opened my eyes and saw a woman in her late thirties looking down at me. She had long, curly blonde hair and blue eyes. Just like Arlenu and other villagers I saw, she had horns on her forehead. She was dressed in a green dress from which a tail was sticking out.

"You awake?" She asked.

"Y-yes." I said hesitantly.

"Hello there," she said. "You must be Arlenu's friend."

"Huh?" I asked, still groggy from just waking up.

"Arlenu would only bring someone that is really important to him into this house, so you must be his friend. Or maybe you are his lover? A human woman as a lover, that would be quite scandalous." She said.

I sat up and looked at her. "N-no, I'm not Arlenu's lover! I'm not his anything. He just kidnapped me and brought me here against my will."

She raised an eyebrow. "Really? I find that hard to believe."

"It's true! He took me and my maid as a hostage after rescuing us from the monster." I explained.

"Arlenu? Taking a hostage?" she asked, surprised. "Hmm, I wonder. I really know him and If he really didn't care about you, I'm sure he would just leave you to that monster."

I thought about her words. She was probably right. He did save us and brought us here. Even if he wasn't my friend, it would be wrong to say that he didn't try to help me at all.

"Alright. I understand what you mean. Thank you for telling me. I'm sorry for being rude." I said.

"Oh, don't worry about it. Now tell me, what's a human doing so far from her home? Are you a merchant? A traveller?" She asked.

"I used to live in the Lichelle kingdom." I said, I still won't be trusting her, but I didn't want to lie completely either.

"Hmm, I see. You're not wearing a dress." She said. "Hmm, you look like one of those human hunters, Ah, I see now. Your village was probably destroyed by the war between us and the kingdom."

"Yeah... Something like that." I said evasively.

She sat down next to me. "So, what's your name?"

"My name is Rose." I said.

"Rose? That's a lovely name. I'm Arrana." she said with a smile.

"Nice to meet you, Arrana." I replied. "Do I really have to stay here?"

"Well, I don't really know the situation, but Arlenu must have had his reason for bringing you to me. I think he would be sad if you disappeared." She winked at me.

Was she worried about me? Also, was it really true that Arlenu would be sad if I were gone? What does he think about me? And what do I think about him? I wondered. I was brought out of my thoughts when Arrana spoke again.

"Now, I bet you're hungry. I'll bring you something to eat." She said and got up.

I watched her go. I'm not sure why, but I was feeling a little more comfortable around her. She seemed kind and gentle.

After a while, she came back with some food. "Here you go." She handed me a plate with meat and vegetables on it.

"Thank you very much." I said.

"You're welcome." She replied. "Now, eat up."

I took a bite of the food. It tasted good. I ate it slowly, savouring every mouthful. I felt my hunger abating as I ate.

"How is it?" She asked.

"It's delicious!" I exclaimed. "I really love your cooking,"

"That's great to hear! Now, I'll let you get back to sleep. Oh, by the way. Don't worry too much about Arlenu. He's just a bit of an idiot."

"He is?" I asked, surprised.

"Yes. He's a very nice person, but he's also a bit of a muscle head. He might have looked harsh to you, but he's actually a softy at heart." She said.

"I see..." I replied. I remembered how he saved me from the monster, how he cooked a meal for me, even though he didn't have to really. He could just feed me a raw meat forcefully. How he cared about me after coming to this town. I found myself feeling a bit flustered.

'Was Arlenu trying to be considerate of me in his own way?' My hearth skipped a bit unknowingly. 'W-what am I thinking. He is just a kidnapper. Just a kidnapper!'

That's right Arlenu was my... friendly, caring and reliable... kidnapper.

I blushed. I felt embarrassed and ashamed.

'What did I even think about?!' I shook by head to clear my thoughts. I can't believe I was considering such things.

"Good sleep, Rose." Arrana said, leaving the room.

I wondered where did she go, but I was too tired to even think straight. I was still exhausted after the long journey. I closed my eyes and fell asleep.

***

I woke up to the sounds of footsteps. I opened my eyes and saw Arlenu. He was looking down at me with a worried expression on his face. I sat up quickly, wondering if something was wrong.

"Hey, you're awake." He said when he saw that I was up.

"Yeah, I am." I said, rubbing my eyes.

"I'm glad to see you're alright." He said, smiling. "We need to talk."

"Sure." I said, still confused. "But, where's Arrana?" I asked him, suddenly remembering that she brought me a meal earlier.

"Arrana?" He asked, sounding puzzled. "Oh, you mean my sister."

"So, she is your sister, huh."

I looked around the room and saw many wooden carvings, flower petals and other things girls usually like decorating their houses with. I wasn't sure but it was her home after all. I wondered why Arlenu would bring me to his sister's house.

"So where is she?" I asked again.

"She went out. She's out, probably picking flowers to make some decorations probably. I heard women like those things. Don't you like those?" He asked.

"They're pretty, yes." I replied.

"I know she'll be back soon." He said, smiling. "Don't worry."

I didn't know what to say. I just stared at him.

"You look lost in thought. Is something bothering you?" He asked.

"Why is she living here and not..." I started to ask, before trailing off.

"...in the castle?" He finished. I nodded. "Yeah, Arrana lives alone in this house. “He said, sitting down next to me on the bed.

"After our mother's death she started to live here alone." He said, sighing. "She's not married. She doesn't have any children either. She was always a bit melancholic. But it got worse after mother died."

"I see..." I said, unsure what else to say. I saw his eyes looking sad. It bothered me a lot for some reason.

"Why did you bring me here?" I asked him, a bit worried about his answer.

"I'm..." He sighed. "I'm sorry. I can't explain it now, but you'll understand everything soon. Well I also wanted for you two to meet."

"What do you mean?" I asked, confused.

"Just wait." He said, grinning. I was confused. I waited for him to explain. Why was he grinning?

"I'm a bit confused." I said. "What's going on?" I asked him again, desperate for an answer now. W-what is that man, that kidnapper planning to do?

"When Arrana comes back, you'll know everything." He said, standing up.

"I hope so." I said, feeling nervous.

"I'm going to leave now." He said, walking towards the door. "I'll come back later."

"Okay." I said, watching him leave.

I didn't know what to think anymore. I just kept thinking about Arlenu and Arrana. What was going on? Why was he so evasive? What was he hiding from me?

I sat down on the bed and waited for Arrana to return. Time passed slowly and I was getting bored. I was about to get up to walk around the house when I heard Arrana's voice coming from outside. Suddenly, the door opened again. I turned around and saw Arrana enter the room. She was carrying a big bag, filled to the brim.

"Hello, Rose!" she greeted me, seemingly happy. "How are you feeling?"

"Better." I said, still confused.

"I brought you something." She said, handing me the bag.

"Um... what did you bring?" I asked her, eying the big bag.

"Oh these?" she said, picking up a bottle with some red liquid inside it. "These are the ingredients to make wine! Arlenu loves this thing, he will definitely like it!"

"Wine?" I asked, confused. "I don't understand. And what are those?" I asked, pointing at the bunch of strange looking leaves she took out from the bag, along with some other stuff.

"Oh, these are the ingredients to make a special tea for you." She said, picking them up. "Arlenu said that you are actually a noble lady and you might like tea, so I got these for you. I was surprised when he told me that."

"What's it tastes like?" I asked curious. I certainly loved tea.

"It's sweet, and it helps you relax. You'll like it, I'm sure of it." She said, smiling at me.

I looked forward to it. But I was still confused by her behaviour. It felt as if she wanted for me to learn more about Arlenu and Arrana.

I looked into the bag again, and spotted several other things. There were some fruits I've never seen before, some flowers, and other things.

"What are all of these for?" I asked, pointing at everything in the bag.

"These...," she said, lifting out a flask with a red liquid inside it, "...are the ingredients to make wine. And this...," she continued, picking up a green fruit that was about the size of her fist, "...is an ingredient to make a curry that Arlenu loves. See?" she said, smiling.

"An those...," she continued once again, this time picking up a bouquet of yellow flowers, "...are for you."

"For me?" I asked, puzzled.

"Yes. Dragons love the scent of those flowers. These are special flowers that only grow in the vicinity of Xamyrriorth, this town, and their scent helps calm the nerves, relax the body, and just make you feel good. I want you to learn of their lovely scent." She said, handing me the bouquet.

"Come on," she said, grabbing my hand and pulling me up, "Let's go see Arlenu now."

"W-wait a moment!" I said flustered, following her after putting the bouquet away. She seemed really energetic.

We walked out of the kitchen and through the halls until we reached the main room. There, we saw Arlenu. He smiled at me.

"Arlenu?" I asked.

"Hello again, Rose. I trust that you and Arrana are getting along?" he asked, looking at me.

"Yes, yes. We're fine." I said, blushing slightly. "What's going on exactly? You said you would explain everything when she arrived? Is something wrong with the raid? Did they finally come?" I asked, getting worried.

"No, no. Everything is fine." He said, smiling at me. "You see, Rose, I have made a decision."

"A decision?" I asked, confused. I realised that he started to call me by my name at some point. It made me blush even more. He walked over to me and took my hand.

"Yes. A very important decision. One that will change our lives forever."

"What is it?" I asked, nervously.

"Rose, you are going to become my wife."

"W-w-what?!" I stammered, unable to believe what I just heard.

"Yes. I know it seems sudden, but I've been thinking about it for quite some time. Of course. I want to make this official. I want everyone to know that you're mine from now on."

"D-d-do you mean like an engagement?" I asked, my mind refusing to work properly.

He shook his head. "No, we cannot wait any longer for this. We are getting married today."

"But... but..." I stuttered, still trying to process what was going on.

"This is how it works. I propose to you, and then you accept." He explained matter-of-factly.

"Wait, what?" I asked, completely lost. "What about my opinion?! My feelings?!"

"I know. That's why I am proposing. I want us to be together, to share everything. I love you, Rose, and I want to spend the rest of my life with you."

"I... I..." I couldn't find the words to say. "Is this your definition of the proposal?! You just came up to me and said we are getting married out of the blue!" I'm sure my face was the shade of crimson at this point.

"Rose?" he asked, concerned.

"You brute! You playboy! You philanderer! You... You...!" I shouted at him, my voice shaking with embarrassment.

"What are you talking about?" he asked, looking shocked.

"I... I don't even have a wedding dress!" I blurted out stupidly. My face was already crimson colour. I mean why would we be marrying? I just couldn't understand. Everything was going too fast for my feeble maiden's hearth. “A...and rings... and... and..." I was getting dizzy with all the thoughts running through my head.

"No wedding dress?" he asks, a bit surprised. "That is unfortunate. But do not worry. I'm sure we can find something that you can wear. And we will get those rings too."

"But..." I started to say.

"It's alright," he said, "I'll have the clothes altered to fit you."

'I don't know anymore!' I thought to myself. 'What is happening? This is all so sudden.'

Arrana giggled a bit and winked at me. I didn't know what that meant, but I was too worried about the marriage to care.

"I heard your prayer. You want to end everything peacefully. I... I thought about it and I think you were right. That my mother would want this too. After thinking about that, marriage between us is the only way. At some point I realised. I love you. So, Rose, Rose Finelita Lichelle...," Arlenu looked at me, his eyes serious and fierce, like the first time we met, "is this fine with you? Will you marry me?"

My heart was pounding so hard in my chest. I couldn't speak. I was so shocked. Arlenu actually considered my feelings to save everyone and wanted to help. I felt happy. I looked at him. I remembered every moment we spent together. I remembered all those bad and good moments. The way he saved me. The way he deceived me. The way he carried me. The way cooked a meal for me. The way he looked when he was sad. I remembered his kindness. His caring side. His... his...

I nodded my head yes, not trusting myself to say anything else.

"I knew it!" Arrana cheered, clapping her hands together.

"Yes," I said looking him in the eyes. Those fierce, clear eyes of his that were full of determination, but also hid sadness deep inside. I realised I was drawn to him. That I fell in love with this man. "Yes, I will."

"I'm glad," Arlenu smiled at me relieved.

"I am too," I said, feeling tears welling up in my eyes. I could feel them sliding down my cheeks. I felt my lips being sealed by Arlenu's. I could taste the saltiness of my tears on his lips. It was as if he was tasting my happiness.

"Thank you," I whispered to him, kissing him back softly.

***

After that he led me outside. What was he trying to do? Everything was going too fast!

"Wait!" I cried. "We can't get married right now! I need to tell my mother and father! And... And..."

"I know. I'm sorry," he said, taking my hand and leading me. "But we can't wait any longer. We must get married now, before Victor attacks the village. I'll have already sent another messenger to inform them that both of us are getting married."

"..." I didn't know what to say.

"Please, Rose," he said. "Do this for me. I don't want to see any more bloodshed. Not in my kingdom."

I didn't want to see bloodshed either. And I wanted to make Arlenu happy too. I agreed.

"Alright then," he said. "Let's go."

He led to a huge plaza. There were countless people standing there. So, they weren't evacuating after all. We walked towards the podium.

"Everyone, please listen," Arlenu called out. "I have some news to share with you all."

"Me Arlenu Vieldraraynth, the royal prince of Xamyrriorth will marry this woman. She is the daughter of King Lichelle. Her name is Rose Finelita Lichelle. I hope that this marriage will finally end the long-lasting conflict between our nations and bring all of us to the better future."

There was a big cheer from the crowd. But there were also some unhappy screams. I stood next to Arlenu, smiling and waving to everyone awkwardly.

"I promise to be a good husband to her," Arlenu said. "She will live in the palace with me and I will take care of her. I will give her everything she wants and need. I will love her forever."

The cheering grew louder.

"And I will do everything in my power to make sure that no harm comes to any of you. I will protect the kingdom. I will keep you safe."

He looked at me and I could see he was sincere. I had to believe him. He will be my husband. I nodded.

"Rose, will you agree to be my wife?" he asked.

"Yes," I said, still smiling. He waited for me to say more. I had to make a speech too. As a princess I received the necessary education, but I was still nervous. But I just had to talk from my heart.

"Me Rose Finelita Lichelle will marry you, prince Arlenu Vieldraraynth of Xamyrriorth. I will be your queen. I will serve you with all my heart. I will always be loyal to you. I will love you forever. I promise to be a good wife to you."

The crowd went crazy. They were cheering so loudly I could barely hear myself. Even those that were against it stopped their jeering. I looked at the crowd of dragons and continued.

"Everyone I know that you might be uneasy about me being a human, but I promise to do everything in my power to make everyone accept me. I will prove that I am worthy of being your queen."

I paused for a moment, my heart beating hard in my chest. I looked at Arlenu. His eyes were shining brightly. I squeezed his hand with my own.

"I will be the best queen you could ever wish for. I will make you proud of me. I will be the best wife to you. I will never leave you or betray you. I will always love you."

Arlenu leaned over and kissed me. The crowd went wild. I felt like I was floating on air.

***

We got off the podium. Arlenu took my hand and led me through the crowds. Everyone was smiling and congratulating us. We waved to them as we passed by.

"I'm glad that you're happy, Arlenu," I said. "But I'm worried what will my father and mother do, after they hear about us getting married. Will they be upset?"

"Don't worry Rose, your father will surely see this as an opportunity to strengthen the alliance between our two kingdoms and opportunity to end the war. He will understand that this marriage will benefit both of us."

I smiled at him. "You really think so?"

"Of course," he said. "And I have every reason to be confident in my choice. You are a wonderful person, Rose. I finally seeing it now."

"Thank you," I said. "But I'm not perfect. I'm foolish and naive. I can be selfish sometimes."

"Yes, you can," he said. "But you are also brave and strong. I have seen that in you. And you are kind and caring. You deserve to be loved."

"I don't know if I'm worthy of being your queen," I said.

"You are," he said. "I have already decided."

"Then I'll try my best to be the best queen I can be," I said. "And I promise to do everything in my power to make you proud of me."

"I'm sure you will," he said. "Now let's go to the castle. You still have to meet Lord Zeit."

We made our way to the castle, but before we could meet with Lord Zeit, the ruler of the dragon realm, my father had finally come to Xamyrriorth.

***

We were inside the audience room. Lord Zeit sat on the throne. He looked at us with steady gaze.

"So, this is the human girl you want to take as your wife, Arlenu?" he asked.

"Yes, my lord," Arlenu said. "This is Rose, the daughter of King Victor Finelita Lichelle. And I will make her my queen."

"And why would you do such a thing?" he asked. "Why would you choose a human woman, a princess of the enemy nation, the same nation that was responsible for the death of your mother and my wife."

"Because she is kind and beautiful," Arlenu said. "She has shown courage and bravery. I have seen her kindness in action. I have seen how much she loves me. I have seen her desire to help others. And I have seen her loyalty to me. I love her, and I want to marry her. Our nations need peace, and this is the only way we can achieve it. I will do anything to make this happen."

"You are a fool," Lord Zeit said. "Do you realize what you are doing? Do you know what you are asking of me?"

"Yes, my lord," Arlenu said. "I am aware of the consequences. But I will do it anyway. My people need peace. I will do whatever it takes to get it."

Lord Zeit looked at me. I could see the doubt in his eyes. I felt a chill run down my spine. He looked so intimidating with his huge horns and tail.

I looked the other way, at my father king Victor of the Lichelle kingdom. He was surrounded by guards. He looked serious. He looked like he wanted to say something.

I grabbed Arlenu's hand to gather some courage.

"My lord," I said, trying to sound confident. "I am honoured to be here. I am here because I have chosen to marry Prince Arlenu. I love him very much and I would like to spend my life with him. I know that this is a difficult time for you, and for your tribe. But I hope that you will accept me and Prince Arlenu."

Lord Zeit listened to my declaration. I couldn't tell what he was thinking at all.

"King Victor of Lichelle," he said. "What is your opinion of this?"

"I have been informed of the situation," he said. "My daughter has done well to find a suitable partner for herself. I am pleased that she has found a good match. She is a wonderful person and I believe she will make a great queen for prince Arlenu."

He stopped for a moment.

"I hope that this marriage will bring peace to our two realms. I didn't believe it at first, but I must admit that my daughter has exceed all my expectations. She and prince Arlenu had found a way for both of humans and dragons to finally leave behind the lost standing conflict and live together in harmony."

Then he turned to look at me.

"But I must ask you one question Rose," he said. "Do you truly love Prince Arlenu? Are you certain that you can give up your freedom and live with him?"

"Yes," I said. I looked at my father with determination. "I realised that I love him more than anything else in the world. I will stay in this place and I promise to do everything in my power to make you proud of me."

"Well said my daughter, "he smiled at me. It made me really happy that he accepted us. "Very well then. I will accept your and Prince Arlenu's marriage. May your union and the union of our kingdoms be blessed."

Lord Zeit rose from his throne and came over to me. He held out his hand and shook mine. Then he embraced me and kissed my forehead.

Then he turned to Arlenu and did the same.

"I approve of your marriage," he said. "Show me how determined you are to make this peace work."

"Yes, my lord," Arlenu said. "I will do my best."

"Yes, Lord Zeit," I said. "Thank you for accepting us."

"Good," Lord Zeit said. "I will send a word to our people that your marriage is approved. You will be married in a few days. Until then, enjoy your stay here."

Then he left. The guards led us away.

"I'm so glad that it worked out," Arlenu said. "Now we can finally be together."

"I'm glad too," I said. "I hope that we can live happily ever after."

"Me too," Arlenu said. "I think those are going to be the best days of my life."

***

After few days it was finally the day of our wedding.

The ceremony was to be held in the main hall of the palace. There were hundreds of guests there.

I was nervously waiting in my room. My maid and friend Rose were with me, together with some maids from the dragon tribe. They were helping me dress.

"You look so beautiful, Lady Rose," Eva said with a smile.

"Thank you, Eva," I said. "I am lucky to have you as a friend. Thank you for always being my support."

"Are you ready?" she asked.

"Yes. I am ready to marry Arlenu."

"I'm sure you'll make a great wife, Rose," Eva said. She hugged me tight.

"I hope so," I said.

"You will make a wonderful queen," Rose said. "And you will be a wonderful wife to Arlenu. He is very lucky to have you."

"Thank you, Rose."

"I have to go now," Eva said. "I have to help with the preparations for your wedding."

She gave me a kiss on the cheek and left the room. I felt nervous, but excited at the same time.

After a while another dragon maid entered the room. It was finally the time.

I walked into the hall. The hall was full of people. There were dragons and humans standing together. I saw my mother and father standing near the front. My father walked towards me.

"Congratulations, Rose," he said. "I'm so happy for you."

"Thank you, Father," I said. "I will try my best to be a good wife."

"That's all anyone can ask for," he said. "Now let me walk you towards your future husband."

We walked through the crowd. I saw Arrana waving towards me with a smile. she was standing with Lord Zeit. I also saw Eva standing behind the crowd smiling at me.

At the end of the hall stood Arlenu. He was wearing his royal robes. I could see the nervousness in his eyes. I smiled at him.

"You look handsome," I said.

"Thanks," he said. "I hope you like them."

"I love them," I said. "They suit you."

Arlenu blushed. "I hope they do," he said. "I know that I look strange in these clothes. I prefer my usual clothes."

"No, you don't," I said. "You look very handsome."

Then Arlenu took me from my father, who joined with my mother. Arlenu looked at me with his bright eyes and smiled. I smiled back at him.

"Prince Arlenu, Princess Rose." came a voice.

I turned around. Before us stood a dragon wearing what looked to be a priest's robe. His face was covered by a mask.

"My name is Zaxx, " the dragon said. "I am the chief priest of the Dragon Tribe. I will officiate over your wedding."

"Thank you," I said. "I am honoured."

"Thank you Zaxx." Arlenu added.

"You are welcome," Zaxx said. "Let us begin."

Zaxx began the ceremony. He read out a long list of things that I would need to do if I wanted my marriage to last. I knew that I had to follow them all.

Then it came time to exchange our rings. Priest Zaxx took out the box and opened it. Inside were two gold rings. One was a larger ring, the other a small one.

"Princess Rose, please take the large ring," Zaxx said. I placed it on Arlenu's finger. "And Prince Arlenu, please take the small ring." Arlenu placed the small ring of my finger.

"By the power vested in me by the Dragon god Qhyzasis, I hereby pronounce you man and wife," Zaxx said. "May you both live long and prosper."

I looked at Arlenu. He was smiling.

"I am happy," he said.

"I'm glad," I said. "I love you, Arlenu."

"I love you too, Rose."

Then came the kiss. It was a long and beautiful kiss I will never forget.

I thought back on all the events that led me to this moment. I thought about how we had saved both of the kingdoms from war, and how I had Arlenu. I felt so happy.

I looked at Arlenu and saw the happiness reflected in his eyes. We were married. And we were going to be together forever.

The end.

⁂

Years Later

"And that's how I became the dragon tribe's queen. It's pretty simple story, right?" I looked at Ethu and Tida, my lovely children. They were sitting on my lap in the garden. Their small tails were resting on my stomach. I had just finished telling them the story of how I met Arlenu, their father.

"That's amazing, Mother," Tida said.

"It's not as exciting as my stories," Ethu added.

"I see. Well, I'm sure you'll tell me some more interesting tales soon," I said, while caressing his hair. I brushed his small horns with my fingers absentmindedly.

"Yes, Mother," he said.

"Mother! Let's go meet Papa! He's probably waiting for us!" Tida jumped off my lap.

"That's right, let's go to Father!" Ethu followed his sister.

I looked at them waiting for me eagerly. I couldn't help but laugh. I knew that they were trying to get me to hurry up. I always did take my time when telling them stories.

They grabbed both of my hands and pulled me towards the palace.

"Don't be late, Mama!" Tida called out.

"Hurry, hurry!" Ethu added.

"Hey, don't pull me like that. You're going to make me fall. Mommy is not strong like you two," I said.

"But we want to see Father!" Tida complained.

I laughed again and ran after them. I didn't want to disappoint them. They were always so excited when they met their father.

When we got to the palace, Arlenu was already there. He was standing next to a table. He was looking at something on it. He was wearing a blue shirt and black pants. He looked so handsome.

"Father!" Tida cried out.

"Tida! Ethu!" Arlenu turned around and smiled.

"Hi, Daddy!" they said.

"Hello, my babies," Arlenu said, while hugging them. He looked at me." Were you telling them stories?"

"Yes, I was," I said.

"What did you tell them this time?" he asked.

"About how I met you," I said.

"So, it's that boring story again." Arlenu chuckled.

"Hey, it's not boring! I'm really fond of those memories." I pouted

Arlenu wrapped his arms around me. I could feel his hard muscles through the thin fabric of his shirt.

"Haha. Sorry, sorry. I didn't mean to tease you," he said.

"It's okay. I know you love me." I kissed him lovingly.

"I do Rose," he said.

"I love you too, Arlenu," I said.

⁂