The Mage of Argaris

Vaena gazed to Lana, she wanted nothing more than to embrace the woman again. The feeling of the warmth that Lana gave her – it was unlike anything in the world. “I never anticipated the spell to take us back this far, no.” She replied, her voice soft as her eyes found the statue once again that she knew she’d prayed to thousands of times. “I imagine that there are many things that I could not have calculated that happened with the spell. To have three mages perform something at such a stretch of each of their power...it is a wonder that we are alive. But what choice did we have?” She gave a weak smile as she gazed back to Lana. A bit of a chuckle came over her lips to Lana’s next comment. “It seems that I cannot escape responsibility so easily, hm? Perhaps me being a Draegon...the family line will not disappear into thin air.” She smiled as Lana spoke that she would protect her for all eternity. “If you are with me, Lana. Then I have no fear of the future that is to come.” Her words were filled with the posh accent that the princess held. Carefully chosen as they rolled easily off her tongue.

The princess gazed to Lana as she spoke of the order that the king had made. “Yes, I was afraid of that.” She replied softly. “There is a war on the horizon. One that I am not fully privy to the information of. But soon I imagine my father will bring me to speed, he always does. If not mother will.” She gave a gentle smile. “But I fear that this war is what caused the downhill battle for all magic users...” She pressed her lips into a flat line. She glanced to Lana to her next comment and smile curved up her lips. I fight for you, my Princess. Her cheeks flushed a bright pink as she gazed to the cheeky grin of the spirit mage that she’d come to know so well over the years they spent together at the Academy.

As Lana grasped her hand and pulled her close to her, Vaena’s heart skipped a beat. She felt butterflies in her stomach as the woman spoke of their bond that they had. She nodded slowly with a smile that tugged at the edges of her lips, she leaned her hand into the gentle touch of Lana. The warmth that her hand provided spread like a wildfire within her body to the depths of her soul. She drew in a breath as Lana’s hand had fallen away and the woman began to speak of the political power that the princess held. I will respect what must be done. Vaena bit her lip slightly to this comment. She knew it. Lana knew it. They could not be together. Even if it was the only thing that her heart longed for in this moment. A fire that burned with the heat of a thousand suns. Yet. It was not allowed. She couldn’t forgo her duties as princess for a passion that had burned slow over the years of her other life. Vaena did not speak a response to this, she merely nodded as she’d gazed out over the sleeping city once again.

Though as her power surged within her, she felt Lana’s hand upon her back. As the surge of power passed Vaena gazed to Lana, she was breathless. The magic that resided within her fought every bit of her that was the white mage. Draconic magic was unlike any other magic. It was mystical and not well understood. Without someone to replicate it – the books couldn’t teach Vaena how to deal with such power. Why had the princess had so many surges of power in the last year? What caused it? The princess seemed to think it was the awakening of her dragon. Vaena could only hope that this was correct. She watched as Lana pulled two books out of her back, a soft chuckle came from her lips as she took one of the old leather books. “I do remember.” She smiled as she gazed to Lana again. “I filled the pages with each and every lesson plan that you missed. I wrote feverishly until my hand ached.” She laughed and shook her head. “You merely wrote to me on everything that I was missing out on in Velmure. You couldn’t care less that you were missing valuable lessons at the Academy.” She smirked. “Doesn’t surprise me one bit.”

Her hands overlapped Lana’s as the woman instructed her that it was time for her to go. Lest others would become suspicious. Vaena’s breath hitched as Lana’s lips pressed once again to hers and lit the flame within her soul. Her eyes swirled with magic as the kiss ended all too abruptly. She wanted nothing more than to spend the day with Lana. Vaena gave a laugh of her own. “Only you, could deserve such a thing.” She spoke, her eyes danced upon Lana’s expression for a long moment. “Good night, Miss Highland.” She spoke with a bit of a playful smirk before she stepped away.

Vaena pulled up her cloak and descended down the spiraling stairs. “Good night priest.” She spoke as she walked passed the old man. He bowed deeply to her and gave her mutterings of being blessed by the Gods. She hugged the journal to her chest as she moved through the city. A smile crept upon her lips and her heart fluttered within her chest as she thought of Lana, of the kiss...or kisses to be specific. She made her way through the sleeping city and to the gates of the castle where she was let in by one of the knights whom bowed deeply to her. They were used to the princess visiting the Basilica, so at least this was not a strange thing for her to do. There were hours and days that lined up when the connection to the Gods was said to be stronger. The princess knew each and every time that this happened and she would be in that southern tower praying to the Gods.

She ascended the stairs within the castle and found her way to her room where Lily lay on a couch by the window, fast asleep. A soft chuckle came from the princess as she stepped over and placed a small blanket over the woman. It wasn’t the first time that Lily had fallen asleep there, it wouldn’t be the last. Vaena unlaced her bodice and stepped to her vanity. The letter with the wax seal sat upon it. She furrowed her brows slightly. There was no way that a letter had come from the Smithy in the time it took her to walk back to the castle. She slipped her fingertip beneath the seal and popped it open. She read over the messy handwriting and gave a soft smile. This must have been sent earlier in the day. Alas, she had a breakfast with the king and queen the next morning and there were many things that she had to attend to. She wouldn’t be able to leave unaccompanied. But she would make an appearance to the Smithy, as she was requested.

She slipped from her clothing and hung her sword upon the post of the mirror of her vanity. She pulled on her silky night gown and slipped into the plush comfort of her large bed. Vaena gazed to the ceiling, all she could think about was the passion fueled kiss, the embrace. They were alive. It was an impossible feat that had been made possible.

**

The next morning Ashlyn strolled up the street with a brown paper sack and two steaming hot mugs of fresh roast coffee. She walked right into Lana’s shop and took a seat as if she owned the place. “How do you work in this heat? It isn’t even noon yet.” She exclaimed as she felt the fiery air of the forge. “I brought you a bagel.” Ashlyn grinned. She sipped from her coffee as she settled into her chair. “So. Tell me everything.” She gazed to Lana with an attentive stare. “Oh and don’t skimp on the details Lana..” She winked playfully as she took out the bagels and handed Lana’s to her.

“Princess?” A voice interrupted the deep sleep of Vaena. “Princess, it is morning. You’ve quite a bit planned for you today.” It was the voice of Lily. A familiar wake up call. The warmth of the sun spread across her cheeks as Lily moved the thick curtain from the balcony window. “Vaena…how late were you out? I tried to stay awake.” A laugh came from Lily.

Vaena’s eyelids fluttered slightly as she drew in a deep breath, “Late enough.” She whispered as her eyes finally cracked open.

Lily had a grin upon her lips. “So. Was it worth it? Is your suitor still a likely candidate?” She questioned as Vaena stood and wobbled slightly before she moved to her lavish bathroom where Lily had drawn a steaming hot bath.

“Oh. I’m not certain it will.” She spoke, a hint of sadness in her voice. I will respect what must be done. Lana’s voice replayed in her mind. Vaena slipped from her nightgown and gingerly climbed into the steaming hot water. She sat upright for a moment before she leaned back slowly with a soft sigh.

Lily frowned slightly, “Oh…apologies princess…I shouldn’t press.” She grasped a loofah and began scrubbing at Vaena’s back. The suds lathered up as the princess relaxed within the tub.

“No need for apologies, Lily.” Vaena spoke, her eyes were closed as she dipped her head beneath the water and her hand maiden scrubbed in a shampoo that smelled distinctly of lavender and vanilla. “What do I have on my schedule for the day?” She questioned with a soft smile.

Lily gazed at the princess, she bit her lip slightly. She’d never seen Vaena like this. She’d never seen even a glimmer of sadness from the princess. “Today?” She questioned after a long moment of silence that was ended by the jade hues of the princess opening and connecting with Lily’s deep chestnut hues. “You’ve quite a bit. Breakfast with the King and Queen will be first. After that you have your training with Lieutenant Alexander. After that you have a luncheon and tea planned in the gardens, it is open to suitors, of course. Then there is the tournament this afternoon that-…”

“Am I still participating?” Vaena questioned then with a playful smile.

Lily rinsed the shampoo from the princess’ hair. “Yes, of course you are.” She spoke couldn’t help but smile with the infectious nature of Vaena’s personality.

Vaena allowed her eyes to close then as she relaxed. “Then. After the tournament?” She asked.

“After the tournament there will be a Solstice Biergarden – drinking and celebrating. As usual.” Lily replied.

“That sounds like quite the busy day.” Vaena spoke as Lily worked conditioner into her hair. She fell silent from the massage upon her scalp. It felt incredible. It always did. She relaxed more as the warm waters were poured over her to rinse the conditioner away. She climbed from the tub and wrapped a towel around her body and her hair. “Would I have time to venture into town this morning?” She questioned curiously.

“Perhaps after your training with Lieutenant Alexander. Before the Luncheon. But it would be a sliver of time. Not much.” Lily gave a quizzical glance. “Why?” She smiled.

“The blacksmith has something for me. I received a letter last night from the courier.” Vaena sat before her vanity. “No telling what it might be. Perhaps she forgot something?”

“I couldn’t imagine Lana Highland forgetting something. Her work is immaculate. That sword that you go.” Lily grinned now, “It is absolutely stunning.” Her eyes looked to the rubies and jewels upon the handle of the sword.

“It really is…isn’t it?” She grinned as she gazed to it now as well. “Well. I will go to breakfast and then training. Once I am done with that will you have my dress prepped for the luncheon? I’ll slip into that and be off to the city and I’ll make it back just in time for the luncheon.” The princess planned out her day carefully by the change of her clothing.

“Of course. That sounds the most logical.” Lily responded as she aided Vaena in dressing in her training gear. The gear that she’d worn to the Basilica the night before, minus the cloak this time. She tightened the bodice and then carefully braided the princess’ hair so that once the braids were removed it would give gorgeous curls to her hair. Lily then moved around front of the princess and did her make up, flawlessly. “There. I’ll see you soon.”

Vaena smiled back to her as she stood and stepped from the room swiftly. The heels of her leather boots carried her down the hallway, her sword upon her hip. She walked through the gorgeous halls of the castle. Familiar statues, paintings, plants. It was all stunning. But to the princess, it was all normal. Vaena stepped to the huge doors of the dining hall, two knights bowed deeply to her, greeting her as they pulled the doors open for her. Beyond the doors she saw the king and queen at the dining table, awaiting her.

“Vaena, sweetheart.” The queen stood, Evelyn, was her name. She stepped to Vaena and greeted her with a gentle kiss upon her cheek. “Are you ready for your training?” She smiled as she ushered her to sit.

“Good morning mother, father.” She stepped to the king and kissed his cheek in greeting before she sat down at the table with them. Prim and proper. The way she held herself was exquisite. “Yes, of course mother.”

The king cleared his throat slightly, “You know dear.” He sipped from his mug of coffee. “Lieutenant Alexander comes from a long line of nights. He is nobility.” He watched his daughter as she gazed to him a long moment.

“Martin.” The queen placed her hand upon his leg as she gave a smile to her daughter. “What your father is saying is, he may be a fine choice. But you’ve quite a lot of suitors. It is merely a day into this.” She shot a glance to the king. “There could be a suitor that she has yet to meet.”

The king let out a grumbling sigh before he smiled to his wife. “Yes of course dear. But we know Alexander is a good choice. All of these suitors will put on an act to impress you, dear. That is all I am saying.” He searched his daughter’s eyes as food platters were brought to the table. Fruits, meats, eggs, breads.

Vaena smiled brightly to her father. “I won’t marry unless you approve of it father.” She spoke as she gazed to him, this caused a warm smile to curve up her father’s lips. She began to make her plate then and a bit of silence settled in over the table.

After a few minutes the king cleared his throat slightly, “Vaena.” He spoke his hues pierced into her, a serious tone about him now. “Have you felt…anything?” He questioned.

Vaena’s eyes stared to him as she sifted through the princess’ memories. “Yes, more and more each day.” The princess replied for her it seemed. It was not challenging at all.

The king smiled in a prideful way. “Good. You should find your dragon soon, dear.” He returned to eating and a silence settled once again. They spoke light banter about the Solstice Jubilee. But other than that the conversation was nothing of too much importance.

Soon enough Vaena was off on her feet through the halls of the castle once more. She made her way outside in the warmth of the morning sun. The birds chirped happily and flew about within the gardens as she passed through them. She was greeted by many of the castle guards, servants and the like. To each she replied a simple ‘good morning.’ Each time she received bright smiles in response. Vaena was not used to such attention. Such…positive attention at least. She walked into the training grounds where several of the new recruits practiced with wooden swords amongst each other. Her jade hues watched them, their technique the lack of skill of a new sword wielder.

“Princess.” Lieutenant Alexander stood before her. He wore dressed down armor that was much lighter than his full steel suite. It was good for practice. His hair was fiery red, with a beard to match that was kept short and neat. He smiled as he looked to the sword at her hip. “A gorgeous gift from your father.” He commented.

“Good morning, Lieutenant.” She spoke as she stepped forward and grasped a wooden sword from a rack. “Shall we?” She walked to a training ring.

Alexander smirked as he watched her. He had been training her for nearly 8 years now. He was a bit older than her, but he’d grown to know the princess more than most. He grasped his own wooden sword. “A dance then.” He grinned to her.

Vaena laughed, it was a dry laugh, but her features showed that she was at least entertained by his comment. They moved about. She brought her sword against his, and his against hers. Her footwork was precise, the movement and flick of her wrist was calculated. The princess knew how to fight. Vaena on the other hand was just along for the ride. Everything came to her so easily. The dancing, the swordplay. It was a new world…new abilities. They practiced like this, unending for nearly an hour when Vaena caught the back of Alexander’s leg which caused him to fall to a knee before her. She pressed her wooden sword against the side of his throat with a grin upon her lips. “I’ve other arrangements that I must attend to this morning.” She spoke as she stepped back and twirled the wooden sword about within her grasp. “That was quite fun.” She was breathless.

Alexander stood with a chuckle that came from his lips. “Well fought, princess.”

“You didn’t allow me to win did you?” She questioned, her jade hues played over him.

“Of course not.” He replied quickly with a mile. “What is it that you have planned?” He asked curiously. He didn’t mind ending early – he was attending the luncheon after all. He had to have time to clean up and make himself more presentable than a common knight.

Vaena smirked to him, “Wouldn’t you like to know? I can’t tell you everything. That wouldn’t be fair to my other suitors.” She spoke as she racked her wooden sword. “Good day, Lieutenant.” She spoke with a smile over her shoulder.

To which Alexander seemed to swoon slightly, a grin upon his lips. “I’ll see you soon, Princess.” He remarked. He looked triumphant as he set his wooden sword in the rack. One of the other knights came to him and clapped him on the back with a grin.

Vaena on the other hand was too busy to notice this. She rushed through the gardens, and up the stairs into the castle. She slipped through the hallways with purpose now. Soon enough she made it to her room. Her hands worked at the belt that held the sword to her hips. Lily was behind her working on the bodice. Without a word the two worked together. It was like a well oiled machined. Lily had done clothing changes with Vaena for so long that it didn’t even phase her.

Soon enough Vaena stood in a gorgeous dress of blue with silver markings. She wore white sleeves and her family seal around her neck. She pulled on a fine velvet blue cloak and turned to leave. “Wait.” Lily caught her. She placed the tiara over Vaena’s head. Her hair was pulled back in curls perfectly. The curls tasseled around her face. Vaena smiled to her and mouthed ‘thank you’ before she slipped from the room in a hurry.

The princess made her way down the stairs of the tower and through the main hallway where two guards awaited her. Courtesy of Lily. She truly was the best hand maiden that the princess could ask for. “Good day.” She spoke as they greeted her. She led them through the gardens and out of the castle gates and into the hustle and bustle of the city. The armor of the knights clanked behind her loudly. This announced the princess’ presence to everyone. They bowed as she passed, her tiara glistening in the light of the morning sun.

**

Ashlyn sipped upon her coffee and took bites of her bagel as she listened to Lana ramble on about the obsidian and the magic. She smirked slightly as Lana completely avoided the topic of Vaena. When she was asked of her magic she nodded. “Yes, she does. She uses it in her craft. Quite effortlessly actually.” She took another drink of her coffee.

Ashlyn beamed to the comment about the coffee. “Ivan makes the coffee. He has the bakery just up the street from here. I believe he is a mage as well. It’s too damn good to be anything other than magic.” She winked playfully. She sat back and took another bite of her bagel. “Blood magic hm?” She questioned and chuckled. “My kind of girl.” She winked and then sipped from her coffee. “I believe that the masters of their crafts…of this time…were the first mages. This is before the Argaris Academy. Before the temples of Magi. Even before the Order of Magi. This is the beginning. The Draegon family is the most notable mage from this time. I do know that much.” She smirked. “I always found their magic fascinating…” She trailed off slightly as the princess approached.

Ashlyn grinned as she gazed in the direction of the gorgeous princess. “I told you she would come. You must have impressed her last night, hm?” She winked as she set her food down and stood.

Vaena stepped forward she gave a smile, “You requested my presence. I made time for it. You took the time to craft this beautiful blade. It is the least that I can do as your future queen.” She spoke, her voice proper, carefully selected words. She glanced to the knights as they stood guard at the doorway and she stepped deeper into the forge. It was hot. So hot that sweat began to bead upon her brow. The thickness of her dress, the tightness of her corset.

Her eyes glanced to Ashlyn and she gave a soft smile before Lana stole her attention back. As Lana spoke Vaena drew her brows in. She didn’t speak of the Rite of Sacrifice back to the blacksmith. The princess’ stomach churned to the mentioning of it. Vaena shook off the feeling. “They saw us…” Vaena whispered softly, her breath hitched slightly. Her cheeks were pink from the heat of the forge. Lana questioned her and she found the woman’s eyes. “Life is killing all the time and so the goddess kills herself in the sacrifice of her own animal.” She spoke the words as if she’d thought of them many times. “Here.” She spoke as she took the parchment. She drew out the words in another language. The old language. “Be certain that each line is as I have written it.” She handed the parchment back with the quill.

It was then that Ashlyn was officially introduced to the princess. She smiled and nodded her head. “Ah yes, Miss Bouvard.” She spoke the name, “Your wine is quite delightful. Much better than the previous distiller.” She spoke and glanced toward the door.

Ashlyn grinned. “I am pleased that you enjoy my wine princess. I would have it no other way.” She spoke as she watched Vaena carefully.

“I unfortunately am short on time, Lana.” Vaena turned her eyes to the woman. She bit her lip slightly. The longing in her eyes showed now. She gazed to the blade once again and drew in a deep breath. “I look forward to this gift. Will it be prepared by the tournament this afternoon? I will be participating.” She smiled. “I have not had a chance to view my opponent yet. But I have no fear of failing.”

There was a mighty roar from outside. Many of those within the city stopped and gazed up to the skies as a gorgeous white dragon flew over the city. Her father’s dragon. Vaena drew in a breath and gazed back to Lana. Ashlyn smirked slightly. “You are fit to be a princess, Vaena.” She spoke softly. “Quite stunning.” She glanced to Lana. “Isn’t she?” She prodded.

Vaena eyed Lana as she spoke of how she’d detered the Priest. It didn’t sit well with her. The princess knew well that word could travel quickly within Cyer. Vaena held herself tall, her hands clasped before her abdomen. She could feel the trickle of sweat as it ran down her back and her cheeks had become pink from the heat of the forge. “I look forward to using it in the tournament today then.” She replied with a smile. She glanced to Ashlyn as the woman made her comment, her brow raised slightly to her. As if to tell her to stop. She turned and followed Lana outside. The guards stepped forward to her sides. “Good day, Miss Highland.” Vaena spoke as she made to leave. “Thank you for your kind gesture.” She gave a smile once again, a perfect practiced smile. She’d begun to turn as Lana spoke up. Her jade hues looked to the woman. She asked to be her squire. Her brows rose slightly. “I would be honored to have a smith such as yourself at my side to tend to my gear.” She replied. “Until then.” She spoke as she turned.

Ashlyn stood next to Lana. Her eyes watched as Vaena began to walk away. As the dragon flew overhead she nearly fell over. Her eyes gazed up into the skies, her jaw dropped. It was a dragon. A real dragon. The white scales were more beauitful than she could have ever imagined them to be. She kept her eyes on the beast as it flew toward the castle. As she finally lowered her eyes again, she saw that Vaena had taken her leave. She followed Lana back into the forge, a grin on her lips as the woman grasped her hand. Once inside she grasped her coffee and sipped from it idly as she looked to Lana. The words that came from the woman caused Ashlyn to nearly spit out the drink. She grinned wildly. “You did it?!” She exclaimed with joy in her voice. “Hm, lucky girl.” She winked then took the last bite of her bagel. “I’ll see you there then, with some of my top shelf drink.” She spoke as she slipped swiftly from the forge.

She walked down the bustling streets and gazed to the merchants that hollered into the crowd about their goods to get the attention of passer-bys. A flyer was shoved into her hands. Ashlyn looked to the man that stood before her. He grinned to her. “I hear you have certain talents.” He spoke. He wore a black cloak, he was dressed in fine attire. “We’ve been looking for people with abilities.” He glanced about. “Come, if you would like. If you are interested. I will tell you more.” He spoke before he slipped away.

Ashlyn gazed down to the flyer. It was handwritten. Old text. Text that she couldn’t decipher. She bit her lip slightly. If only she studied more. She folded it up and slipped it away within the folds of her clothing. She would have to ask Vaena to read the flyer for her, or maybe Lana. Lana was a better bet. She didn’t know what that man wanted or what group he was part of. But something about him made her uncomfortable. Which was difficult to do. She gazed up to the castle as she stopped before her distillery. Her eyes looked to the gorgeous stonework almost longingly. The distiller had always dreamed of being royalty and now it seemed Ashlyn did too. She’d always dreamed of being invited into the castle and speaking with the princess. And now. She had done both.

“Ashlyn, can you help me get this barrel up the stairs?” A young woman came from the bar. “I can’t lift it by myself.”

“Where’s Gregor?” Ashlyn questioned with a furrowed brow as she stepped inside to help.

**

Vaena held a mug of tea in her hands as she gazed about to all the nobles that gathered within the gardens. She held a smile upon her lips to each noble that approached her to speak with her and take a moment of her time. There were many suitors from all over, especially with the Solstice Tournament. Nobles had traveled from far and wide to attend the tournament and with the announcement that her hand was available. They flocked to her. The endless conversation was exhausting. But it was her job as the princess to entertain.

“Your father has a dragon.” A handsome man spoke as he gazed across the gardens to her father whom entertained someone with conversation. “When do you expect to get yours?” He looked back to her, a curious gaze in his eyes. “It’s such a powerful thing to have control over a dragon.”

Vaena drew in a breath, she pressed her lips together a moment. “It isn’t control over the dragon. I will be bonded with my dragon and I will share the same pain just as I share the magic.” She spoke softly. “It is a gift. It is something that one cannot take.” She eyed this nobleman as he frowned slightly. “I do not look at it as a source of power. I can do more with my words than I could do with a war any day.” She was passionate about this. The princess believed in a world without war. She truly believed that if things were handled properly blood did not need to be shed.

The nobleman gave a chuckle and shook his head. “Hm, well. Not everything can be settled with the sharpness of your tongue, princess.” He raised a brow slightly to her. “Sometimes lives must be sacrificed in order for the greater good to be had.”

“But what if it doesn’t?” Vaena questioned her lips still pressed together, her jaw tight. “Why do you believe that bloodshed is so important? Power? Control?” She was growing restless. Her eyes showed a glimmer of her magic.

The nobleman grinned as he watched her. “You’ve more aggression pent up than you’d like to admit. I can nearly taste it.” He chuckled lightly. “Don’t worry princess. I’m not here to start a war. I’m here for you.” He grasped her hand and kissed the back of it. “If I must battle to gain your hand. Well. Then I shall fight with my life for it.” He winked before he turned and walked away.

Vaena stood, stiff as a board. She did not like this nobleman. Alexander approached, his eyes followed after the man with a squint. “I’ll keep him away from you princess.” He spoke in a hushed tone.

The princess turned her eyes to the Lieutenant and gave a soft smile. “Thank you, Alexander. That might be a good idea. I...don’t know what it is about him. He is...dark...I can feel it.”

“Me too.” Alexander spoke and gave her a smile. He was dressed in a fine tunic. He was quite handsome out of his knightly gear. “I’ll protect you, Vaena.” He promised before he stepped away to allow others to speak to her. That was one thing about Alexander. He did not bid for her attention like others. It was refreshing.

**

The rest of the afternoon was full of exhausting conversations. Until Vaena was excused from the luncheon to ready herself for the tournament. She made her way across the city with her knights in tow. Vaena entered the tent area and stepped into her large tent. Lily was already there, ready for her. The woman smiled brightly. “How was the luncheon?” She asked as she began to loosen Vaena’s corset.

“Exhausting. I never imagined there would be so many suitors.” She spoke truthfully. “How am I to choose?”

“Follow your heart, it will tell you whom to trust.” Lily spoke as she helped Vaena slip from her dress. She had set out the leather pants and tunic for the princess. Vaena stepped into the pants and pulled on her boots. She then pulled on the royal blue tunic. Lily gave a gentle smile before she pointed to the stool. She had Vaena sit and she began to intricately braid her hair.

“They are all so fake. I can feel it. They just want to impress me.” Vaena spoke as she gazed into the mirror as Lily’s delicate hands moved about swiftly.

“Of course they do. Who wouldn’t want to impress you princess?” Lily chuckled lightly. “You’re A Draegon, and you are heir to the throne. Not to mention you’re beautiful. That’s a pretty good catch.” She spoke as she finished. She moved Vaena to stand on a lifted stool. Lily began to attach her armor pieces. Bit by bit. Strap by strap. It took nearly an hour to dress the princess in her armor. It was fairly lightweight – enchanted from a dwarven smith that the king had found to craft the armor. Long before Lana Highland came into the picture. The armor was gorgeous. Upon her left shoulder the armor was shaped to look like a snarling dragon. The pauldron would protect her from blows. The armor held golden inlay throughout. Upon her left hip she wore a royal blue banner that held the family crest. She looked ruthless. She even had a shield that had the same crest upon it. “That should do it.” Lily spoke as she stepped back. “You look magnificent.” She grinned. “I’ll go grab you a water real quick.” She quickly stepped from the tent.

Vaena sat at the vanity and gazed into the mirror to herself. She looked more fierce than even some of the knights of the royal guard. She traced along the inscriptions upon the shield absentmindedly as she waited. Though her thoughts were broken by Lana’s voice. Vaena turned her gaze a grin curved up her lips as the smith bowed deeply before her. She stood and stepped forward. “Miss Highland, good to see you came through with your word.” She spoke. She wanted to reach forward and pull Lana into an embrace. But she fought against it. She bit her lip slightly. The princess gazed to the blade then as it was offered forward. She looked over the etchings that were smooth and as perfect as possible. “This is gorgeous.” She whispered softly. Vaena took the blade into her hands and turned it over. She stepped back and moved about with it. She laughed lightly. “It is so swift.” Vaena grinned and then stepped back to Lana. “Thank you.” She spoke as she held the blade back to her. She stepped forward and pressed her lips to Lana’s cheek then. It was quick. Just a peck. But Vaena’s jade hues stayed upon the woman.

The princess then turned and gazed into the mirror. “There are a lot of knights that came for the competition this year.” She spoke as she adjusted a strap on her forearm. “It should be an interesting tournament.”

The flap moved to the side and Lily came in with a stein filled to the brim with water. “Here you are princess.” She spoke. Her eyes fell upon Lana. “Oh. Blacksmith Highland.” She bowed her head. “It is an honor. Your work is truly incredible.” She spoke as she moved and handed the water to the princess. “That blade is beautiful.” She stared to the blue of the steel.

Vaena smiled as she watched Lily admire it. “Miss Highland crafted that blade for the tournament for me to use.” She spoke.

“Oh wow.” Lily spoke as she turned her attention back to the princess. She frowned slightly when she saw a strap that stuck up. She stepped forward and adjusted the armor meticulously. “You will surely win now.” Lily offered with a smile.

Vaena smiled to Lana as she saw the fire spread across her cheeks from the simple peck. Though she turned her attention back to the mirror, her brows tugged together slightly. Tournaments, no matter how prepared, were full of a nervousness that settled within her belly and made her heart flutter. The princess knew she was worthy to fight, she knew she was skilled, but there was always a chance that she would be injured or worse. Though Vaena caught Lana’s eyes in the mirror, a gentle smile upon her lips as she gazed to the woman and took in her features. The view of them next to one another. It was all she wanted. Truly. But. She would have to do what was needed of this world. She couldn’t give into her temptations. No matter how strong they were.

Lily glanced to Lana and then to the princess a moment. She’d seen the woman’s hand upon the princess’ shoulder piece. Lily bowed her head, “Master Smith Lana Highland. It is both a gift and a pleasure to be in your presence. You have crafted such a fine weapon for our princess.” She spoke in a formal tone. One that she didn’t always hold around the princess. She glanced to Vaena whom stood perfectly still as the blacksmith tightened the sheath around her hips.

Vaena pressed her lips together slightly. It was hard not to smile to Lana’s touch. Her eyes gazed to the woman as she ensured the strap was where it should be. “This is my handmaiden yes.” She spoke with a smile. “Why don’t you introduce yourself. Miss Highland is quite friendly.” She spoke as she turned her attention to the mirror. She couldn’t look at Lana. She cleared her throat slightly as she took a long drink from the water. Her cheeks had flushed with blood ever so slightly, but it quickly washed away.

Lily drew in a breath as she looked to the blacksmith as the woman sharpened the blade. “That’s a beautiful blade. My um...my name is Lilian. Lily for short...um...” She was nervous. An admiration it seemed. As famous as Lana had become for her work, Lily felt as though she was meeting royalty for the first time. She was so used to the princess, but no one else was held to such a high standard in her eyes.

Vaena turned and leaned against the vanity with her hips. Her arms crossed over her chest and a chuckle came from the princess. “She admire’s your work. Her brother is one of the knights in the royal guard. Lily has always found swords to be fascinating.” She spoke for the woman. “That is how she ended up learning how to do some of the squire duties.” She glanced to Lily whom nodded. It was then that Lana stepped back to the princess whom stood straight. She gazed to Lana curiously as the woman slipped the blade back into the sheath with ease. Then she closed her eyes as Lana began to polish her armor. She drew in small breaths – focus. She had to focus. When Lana spoke of the craftsmanship the princess gazed to her with her jade hues, a soft smile upon her lips. “A dwarven smith from the north crafted the armor for me. My father paid him a handsome penny for it. It is dwarven steel infused with elven steel.” She spoke the words. The mythical creatures of Lana and Vaena’s times. They existed in this time. Not myths at all. “It took him nearly two years to complete the work.” She glanced to the dragon upon her shoulder a moment.

It was then that Lana spoke of the knife. Her eyes gazed to the woman as she knelt before her. She could feel her heart begin to pound within her chest. “Hidden?” She questioned, her voice soft. As Lana touched her thigh and wrapped the holster around her leg her cheeks began to burn like a wildfire. Her breath caught in her throat. She blinked several times as she tried to keep her focus.

Lily watched this, her own eyes curious. The way that the princess reacted to the touch of the blacksmith. The way that she stared to her. Busied herself with cleaning up the vanity as she caught the princess’ eyes.

It was then that Lana offered the pocket watch forward to her. Vaena grasped it and stared to Lana, her lips parted slightly. She wanted to speak. She wanted to say so many things. All things of which she couldn’t say within the presence of her hand maiden. She glanced to Lily and slipped the pocket watch away in a space along the breastplate of her armor. ‘Thank you’ she mouthed to Lana with a soft smile. The princess gazed to herself in the mirror once more when Lana announced she was ready with that signature smirk.

It was then that the sound of the horn carried into the tent. The knight spoke through the flap then. “Well, thank you Miss Highland. For that.” She was still flustered. Her cheeks still burned. She bit her lip slightly, something that the princess didn’t do much. But Vaena. Every single time Vaena was nervous or flustered that was what she would do.

“You’re going to do great, princess.” Lily spoke with a smile. “I’ll cheer you on from the stands, since you have a squire that knows much more about armor and weapons than I do.” She grinned as she followed the two from the tent.

Vaena glanced to Lana as they stepped from the tent, the comment received a smirk from her. “If they go easy on me they will surely be reminded that I am more than just a princess.” She remarked as they walked along. “My horse should be tacked and ready. My shield is with him. The joust is on the agenda first.” She spoke as they approached the cheers of the crowd. “Thank you, for offering to squire for me.” She smiled as they stepped into the stables. She could hear her father’s voice as he spoke of the kingdom, the joys of the Solstice. A whole spiel that he had planned out and practiced for months before this event. Vaena paused before her white horse that held a black mane and tail as well as black socks. She looked to the dragon that ran down the forehead of the horse. The intricate design in the armor of her steed.

The princess glanced to Lana a moment. The stables were busy. Too busy. She grasped her helmet and then smiled. “There is a squire box. Best seats in the arena. Almost better than the view that the king and queen get. Almost.” She smirked as she handed the reins to Lana. “We should line up.” She spoke as she walked ahead of her. She’d made this walk more than once before and it was evident in the confidence that she exuded. They lined up with other knights and their horses with squires at the ready. The jousts began. The clatter of hooves against the soft dirt. The boom of javelin against shield. Vaena watched with a careful eye. She watched her competition. They waited for an hour or so before she climbed a top her steed. She took a drink of cool water offered by a passing hand maiden. The princess then pulled on her helmet and she took her javelin in hand. “I’ll see you on the other side.” She spoke, her voice had a tin sound to it as she gazed down to Vaena.

Vaena held her shield strong as she approached the arena. Her father announced her and the crowd went wild. Her eyes focused on her opponent. She didn’t let the crowd distract her as her horse pranced beneath her in anticipation. She waited. Patience. She drew in a breath. She was as calm as could be. Then the horn sounded. The two thundered forward. Vaena held her shield firmly in her grasp. She brought her javelin down, aiming it square in the center of his shield. The loud crack as her javelin collided against the metal of the knight’s shield. The splintering of the wood of the javelin. Then the tale tale thud as the knight fell to the ground from the harsh blow.

Vaena was quick to dismount. That was the fun of the joust. It would always end in a hand to hand combat. She gained the favor of the fight by knocking the knight off. But, that did not mean she would emerge victorious. Her sword clashed with his. The knight was larger than the princess, by a good amount. But that didn’t seem to cause her to hesitate at all. She deflected a hit and kicked at the back of the knights leg as he was thrown off balance. She easily pointed her blade toward his throat. A win. A flawless win, no less. She sheathed her blade and reached down to him. “Good job.” She spoke as her horse was led to her and she climbed a top. She’d wait now for the next opponent. It was a tiered system. They would widdle down the competitors until only two remained. Vaena dismounted her horse and gave him water. She pat his shoulder a moment before she removed her helmet. She set it on the table and took a long drink from her mug of water. Her jade hues remained on the arena. Who would it be? She would likely face one more opponent before the final. It would be quite the exhausting day.

Lily smiled as Lana spoke back to her. “Y-you would? You think...I mean...it is an honor to be at the Princess’ side. It really is.” She flattened the front of her dress slightly. Lily never stuttered and stumbled over her words this much. It caused Vaena to smirk momentarily as she watched Lana approached with the blade. Lily gazed to it, her eyes were wide. Times of challenge are coming. The words caused the young handmaiden to look to the blacksmith with a crease in her brow. What did she mean by such words?

Though the wrinkle disappeared as Lana began to explain the blade. The furrow was replaced by a look of pure curiosity. Her lips parted slightly as she looked over the gorgeous blade. As Lana handed it over to her Lily took it, her chestnut hues stared to Lana, as if she’d given her gold. “Thank you, I will take good care of this. And if the time arises. I will use it to protect the princess.” She gazed to Vaena whom had a soft smile upon her lips. The princess seemed to be enjoying this. Lily was happy to look over the blade as Lana returned her attention to the princess. Though not without a smile when she saw the deep blush of the Princess’ cheeks.

As Lana spoke her goodbyes to the sounds of the horns Lily curtsied. “Thank you. Good luck.” She curtsied to the princess. With that she was gone.

**

The tournament was always something that drew in nobles from all over the world. Other kingdoms and lands to compete to be crowned the victor of the Solstice Festival. It was a title worth having. Vaena had come close to winning the past few years. So close that she could taste it. But, unfortunately she had been beat out by her opponents that were bigger and stronger than she was. She didn’t have enough finesse. At least that is what Alexander said, he claimed she would gain it in time.

As the princess returned after her victory she pulled off her helmet, a smile upon her lips. She looked confident. As Lana took the reins Vaena’s hues looked to the handsome knight that approached. Her brows tugged together but only for a moment before he reached his hand toward her. A bright smile came to her expression. She didn’t know him, but the way he was dressed clearly stated that he was a noble. She took his hand and jumped down easily. Her armor made a metallic thud against the hard ground. She glanced toward Lana as the woman took her horse back to the stables. Her eyes then returned to the man as he introduced himself as Prince Leon Trent.

She held her composure. But the princess was surprised to see someone from the House of Trent in Cyer. It was not often that they gained an audience with them. Unless it was during times of war. The two kingdoms held fine relations...but for the prince to come to the tournament. She smiled to him as he spoke. The way he weaved his words. The accent that he held. It made the princess swoon. But she did not show it. She held herself together. “I’m certain that the storm was no match for your great ships, Prince Leon.” She spoke in response, a cordial smile now. Though her breath caught in her chest as he kissed the back of her hand. He was bidding for her attention without even trying. Unlike most of the suitors that butted in and seemed to fight over one another. Not a single suitor approached while Leon spoke with Vaena. Her eyes tracked with his as he looked to the stands. Even the king had come from the islands. She felt her heart speed within her chest. This would be the suitor that her father would choose. There was nothing else in this world that could beat the offer that the House of Trent would most likely place before her father. She watched as King Martin shook King Darren’s hand, a smile upon his lips.

She brought her jade hues back to the prince before her just as the trumpets began to sound. The tune was as melodic as his voice. She stared to his fingertips as the beautiful red rose appeared from thin air. A smile tugged at the edges of the princess’ lips as her eyes met his once again. Her gaze was lost in his much like a trance as she took the rose from him. The princess was awe struck. As he climbed upon the horse she turned the rose within her fingertips and sniffed it. It even smelled like a true rose. Her eyes gazed to him once again as he spoke before he rushed off.

Vaena stood, the rose held in her hands as she gazed to the arena. She watched how Leon held his javelin. She watched where he held his shield. She twirled the rose around in an absent minded fashion as she analyzed him. This was Vaena analyzing him. The princess on the other hand was nearly knocked from her feet by the handsome Prince.

Lana’s voice broke her thoughts as the opponent to the prince was dismounted. She looked to the rose and turned it slowly, a bit of a laugh came from her lips. “That is the Prince of the House of Trent.” She spoke as she watched him jump from his horse and toss his javelin aside easily. “The King of Trent is also here.” She glanced back to the stands where the two men conversed, even the queen leaned forward in her chair to speak to King Darren. “There is no other kingdom that is richer. Their naval defenses are immaculate. For him to come to Cyer...” She glanced to Lana. “There is only one reason for the King and the Prince of Trent to be here.” Vaena drew in a slow breath, she gazed to the rose once again.

She fell quiet as she watched him easily move around his opponent. As he seemed to toy with him. It wasn’t a challenge at all. The crowd went wild for the Prince. His movements were as smooth as his words. The princess gasped slightly as the other knight lunged forward, after clearly losing to Leon. She gripped the fencing for a moment before she took a step back when the man was easily dispatched. Vaena glanced to Lana, she pressed her lips together. She watched as he waltzed over and slipped his sword away before her. Her jade hues were glued to the man. “We very well could be faced as opponents.” She spoke in response to him. The Princess drew in a breath as he walked away to his tent.

Vaena turned her attention to Lana. “We should check my armor. My straps. Make sure everything is in place. I can’t lose my next match.” She spoke with an excited tone. She hurried back to her tent and stood before the mirror. “The knight I will be going up against is from Nuark. They are known to fight dirty. Much like the knight the Prince Leon fought against just now.” She spoke as she focused herself. “This will be my last fight of the day. Tomorrow – if I succeed...will be the finals.” She turned her attention to Lana then. “I made it into the final few rounds the past few years. I want to win.” She grasped Lana’s hand. “I feel...that with you here...I can.” She searched her eyes. Vaena was close to Lana, close enough that she could lean forward and press her lips against Lana’s. Though before she could do such a thing – the flap of the tent moved to the side.

Vaena’s eyes widened slightly, her cheeks flushed. She turned away from Lana. “Are the straps sufficient? Nothing lose?” She questioned as she stood with her arms out.

“Blacksmith Highland.” King Martin’s voice came across the tent. “What a fine. If over qualified squire for my daughter.” He chuckled as he walked up and walked around the front of Vaena. “You keep doing what you’re doing.” He nodded to Lana. He then looked to Vaena a smile upon his lips. “You no doubt saw who is here.”

“Prince Leon of Trent.” Vaena replied her eyes looked over her father’s expression.

“Yes, yes. With the King of Trent no less.” He reached forward and brushed a bit of dirt from his daughter’s cheek. “I will ensure that you face him tomorrow in the finale. Hm?” He grinned. “His father has offered me many things that make Prince Leon a highly favorable candidate for your hand my dear.” He rubbed the dirt between his fingertips. “But as I stated before, it is your choice. Ultimately.”

Vaena stared to the dirt that her father had on his fingertips now. She bit her lip slightly a moment. “Of course it is. But, whomever you see the most fit to be King of Cyer...that is who I shall accept, father.” She watched as her father smiled.

“Good, good. He is the best to have surfaced yet. I do not believe anyone could top his father’s offerings.” Martin shifted slightly. “Your match, it was excellent. Your speed. The movement. Everything about you. You’ve been training hard with the Lieutenant. I can tell.” He gave a pat to her shoulder. “Go speak with him a little. Make sure he knows your interested. Hm? For the House of Trent to even be considering this. It is a huge benefit for our kingdom.” He nodded to Lana before he stepped from the tent.

Vaena lost her composure as soon as the king stepped from the tent. She closed her eyes and drew in a breath that quaked slightly. “I hate this, Lana.” She whispered, her voice soft. Her eyes gazed to the woman. “It is my choice, but it truly isn’t. I am merely doing as I am asked to do. When all I want to do is...” She paused and shook her head. Her jade hues stared to Lana a long moment. She looked to the rose that she’d set upon the vanity. I will respect what must be done. The words once again in her mind. She bit her lip slightly. “I should go.” Vaena slipped from the tent suddenly.

The princess walked through the tents. She smiled to those that greeted her and congratulated her on her win. She thanked them and continued on. She paused as she came to the tent that held the house seal of the House of Trent. She looked to the two guards that stood at the flap. They gazed to her and then bowed deeply. “Prince Leon – you have a guest.” A guard spoke as he opened the flap for her to enter.

Vaena paused a moment before she stepped into the tent. She gave a smile and her eyes moved about to take in her surroundings, before her eyes settled in on the prince. “Prince Leon. That was quite the display of your skill.” She commented. “I think you’ll be a worthy opponent upon the tournament field.” She gave a smirk to him then as she inspected his sword which rest upon a table for polishing. The hilt was gorgeous. Made of a metal she had not seen. “Tell me.” She looked to him, her expression curious. “You’ve never come to the tournament before. Your father is here as well.” She hesitated slightly. “Are you here merely for the Solstice?” She finally asked after a few moments of tense silence.

Vaena allowed her eyes to settle in on the prince as he quickly dismissed his squire. She smiled to the bow that Leon did, and she curtsied slightly in response. “Prince Leon.” She replied. She watched him as he spoke of his fight. Pushing off his victory to a mere lack of experience on the other knights side. Of course it was that, the man looked like a lumbering buffoon against the Prince. “Ah, perhaps I would have, yes. But your display of your skills was quite interesting to watch. Most train beneath similar standards. Your stance, the way that you move and hold yourself…that is what sets you apart.” She spoke her jade hues watched him closely.

As he simply side stepped her question she held a wry smile upon her lips. Of course he couldn’t answer her question to easily. Politics. The princess was well accustomed to such things. Vaena on the other hand. Well. She hadn’t played in politics too much. She took a seat upon the couch across from him, her eyes still trained in on him curiously. “I could ask you the same.” She spoke and grasped a grape. She ate it and then drew in a breath. “I enjoy the challenge of the Solstice Tournament. I always have.” She replied simply. “My attendance of the Solstice has nothing to do with the weight that rests upon my father’s shoulders. Does yours?” She questioned.

She grasped a cup of water and sipped from it as he began to speak once again. We are both mere instruments to a bigger cause. He was right in that regard. A nod came from the princess, a forced smile. To his mentioning of the Gods her brows furrowed, but only for a moment. Half of a second if that. She didn’t know much of Trent. She didn’t deal with their people often enough, nor was she in on the meetings that her father had with the King of Trent. To create something new. Her eyes focused in on him again.

A dry laugh came over her lips when he spoke that she got to decide what was to happen next. “You think it is that simple?” She questioned him, her eyes searched his. “It is not my decision, just as it will not be your decision. It is the decision of the kings, as it always has been. As much as my father would like me to believe it is my decision. It is not.” She looked away from him, her eyes stared to a flag that hung from the side of the tent, the Trent family crest. “Lions.” She gave a smile to him. “Do lions and dragons play nicely together?” She questioned as she stood. “It is not power or money that I seek, Prince Leon. It is for my people to flourish. For magic – to not become damned – but rejoiced.” She heard the sound of trumpets in the distance. A smile curved up her lips. “I do believe the next I’ll see you is within the arena.” She paused a moment and drew in a breath. “I want to protect my people from the war that is beginning. I do not know the details…but with the amount of weapons that the blacksmith is making for the guard…I know that there must be something more that I can do.” The princess gazed to him a long silent moment. “Good luck in your next match, Prince of the House of Trent.” She smirked slightly before she walked away.

**

The flap of the tent opened just a few moments later. “Lana!” Ashlyn’s voice carried into the princess’ tent. She smiled from ear to ear. She held a leather bag in her hands. “You know. It wasn’t easy to get back here.” She spoke as she set the bag down upon the table where Lana had her sharpening tools. “But don’t you worry my lovely blacksmith, I’ve brought you something wonderful.” She pulled out a bottle of blue liquid. “My specialty.” She tilted the bottle back and forth. “It’ll make even the worst of days the best.” She winked as she pulled out two glasses. She then gazed around a moment. “Where is the princess?” She questioned curiously.

Vaena’s jade hues were like daggers as the prince’s hand was placed over the flap of the tent. She stared to him, though she didn’t speak. Though the words that the prince spoke caused a smirk to curve up her own lips. She merely nodded to him before she left the tent. She turned to head back toward her own tent and a knight stepped before her. “Princess Vaena.” He bowed his head. “It is lovely to meet you in person.” He took her hand and kissed the back of it. Vaena sighed inwardly. She wanted to perform in the tournament. She did not want suitors at every turn. “I am Sir Isaac of Gildor.” He stood tall before her. His eyes were a chestnut brown, his hair a deep jet black. He had a find jaw about him and though he wore armor she could tell he was in great shape.

“Lovely to meet you, Sir Isaac of Gildor.” Vaena spoke with a pleasant smile as he released her hand back to her. “Are you participating in the tournament?” She questioned as her jade hues watched him.

The knight straightened and cleared his throat slightly. “Yes, of course, princess.” He seemed nervous now. “I am your next competitor.”

A smirk curved up the princess’ lips. “Ah well. Good luck then.” She pat his armored shoulder. “I’ll see you in the arena.” She spoke as she heard the blare of the trumpets. She hastened her pace toward the tent to gather her things and Lana.

“Thank you, princess.” The knight spoke as he turned and watched her rush off. He pressed his lips together slightly and a sigh came over his lips. A defeated look about him.

“You do realize that she’s exhausted.” Lieutenant Alexander spoke with a chuckle as he looked to Sir Isaac. “Every turn the princess makes there is a suitor there to offer her words and steal away her attention. I can only imagine how tired she is of the games.” He raised a brow and smirked to him. “Good luck.” He spoke before he turned to head toward the arena.

**

Ashlyn came forward and gazed to the beautiful sword. She smiled to Lana and leaned forward for the kiss upon her cheek. “I quite like it.” She winked to Lana’s comment. “If I get a kiss on the cheek from a pretty girl. Who’s to complain?” She grinned playfully. She then poured two glasses of the liquor as Lana spoke. “Helpless huh? Around the princess? I can only imagine.” She smirked and downed her glass before she poured two more. “You need two.” She spoke and held the glass forward.

The red mage tilted her head slightly. “The Prince of Trent? Well, well.” She grinned. “That is a deal for this kingdom. Of course the king is going to bend to anything that Trent asks. It is a great opportunity. Their navy fleet, and our ground troops? Together as one? This kingdom would be unstoppable.” She downed the second glass and then let out a delighted sigh. As the trumpets sounded she pursed her lips slightly. She furrowed her brows as she took the sword into her hands. “This is lighter than I thought it would be.” She commented as she held onto the sheath. She slipped the leather bag over her shoulder. “You have to find the princess huh? She has you truly playing the job of squire.” She laughed lightly. “You’re more than a damn squire, Lana.” Ashlyn commented as she followed her out of the tent.

Vaena rushed forward swiftly, her armor clanking with each step. Her jade hues fell upon the two a moment. She pressed her lips together. “Right.” She turned and headed back toward the arena.

“Pleased to be here, princess.” Ashlyn bowed her head with a huge grin upon her lips. She glanced to Lana as the princess walked ahead of them. “Moody.” She whispered under her breath and then giggled. The trio made their way to the edge of the arena. The on deck area. Vaena reached to Ashlyn and took her sword. She fastened it around her hips and then watched the fight that was currently underway. She watched the swift movements of the two knights upon the field.

“You look lovely in the armor, princess.” Ashlyn commented.

“Ah, thank you.” Vaena’s eyes didn’t pull from the arena. The princess turned her head only when Lana spoke once she’d returned. She climbed upon her horse. “My shield?” She questioned. Her eyes searched around.

“Right here.” Ashlyn lifted the heavy shield up to the princess.

“Thank you.” She pulled the shield of her helmet down and rode into the arena as her music began to play.

Ashlyn looked to Lana and a sigh came from her lips. “She’s just focused. Right? Did something happen?” She questioned, her expression serious.

**

Vaena rode around the arena and met the knight in the center. They tapped their lances together before the two rode to their perspective ends of the arena. The crowd roared as the two thundered toward one another upon their steeds. Vaena brought her lance down slowly, precisely. She hugged her shield to her chest and ducked into the blow from the opposing knight. The lance shattered against her chest as it slid off of the shield. Vaena nearly fell from her horse. She bounced down the path as she fought to regain the air in her lungs.

Sir Isaac’s horse pranced he grasped another lance from his squire and he looked back down the field as he awaited the princess. Her horse bobbed its head as she centered herself within the saddle. The trumpets sounded and the two rushed forward once again. Vaena lowered her lance once again. Centered perfectly upon Sir Isaac’s shield. His lance once again bounced inward and slammed harshly into the princess’ chest piece. She was shoved back harshly this time, her back pressed against the back of her horse. The crowd was standing as she nearly fell from her steed. If there was anything that the princess was good at, it was jousting. But this knight was playing on the edge of dirty. The way he brought his lance into her, it almost guaranteed his lance to break against her chest. Which it had twice.

**

Ashlyn had her hands gripped to the fence. “That bastard! He’s cheating. He’s doing that on purpose.” She snapped, her knuckles turned white from how tight she held on.

**

Vaena took the lance that was offered forward to her. Her breathing was heavy, the chest piece was pushed in against her chest. Something Lana would need to fix before her next fight. If she made it through this one. She pressed her lips together as she heard the trumpets sound. She gave her steed a swift kick and they were off. This time she would play by Sir Isaac’s rules. She brought her lance down just enough. It slammed into the top of his shield and then into his chest piece and shattered. This kept his lance from breaking on her. Though she still took a harsh blow. Both fell from their steed onto the red clay of the arena. Vaena gasped as the air was forced from her lungs. A cool shadow covered her and she rolled to the side to avoid the blow from Sir Isaac. She grit her teeth as she scrambled to her feet and she pulled her sword.

He was much larger than her. As he brought his sword down Vaena blocked it. The swords clanged as they came together several times. Each blow he made, she blocked. She couldn’t get a hit in as he brandished forward. He’d wear her down.

**

“Do something!” Ashlyn called out. “Kick his ass!” She slammed her hand on the fence.

**

Vaena slipped to the side as Sir Isaac brought his blade down once again. Her elbow slammed into his side where there was a part in his armor. She then kicked into the back of his legs. She stumbled away from him. She looked tired as she held her sword up. Sir Isaac turned and swung forward once again. The princess’ hues glowed from within her helmet. She called upon her magic for strength. She sliced forward in a flurry of attacks. She swirled her blade around and dislodged his sword from his hand. The princess then kicked forward into his chest which sent the knight to his back. He scrambled to his feet and tackled her to the ground. The sword flew from Vaena’s hands. Vaena struggled against the knight. The crowd grew louder as the fight went on. Her helmet was knocked from her head at one point. The princess dodged his blows. She then brought her knife from her thigh, the one that Lana had given her. She held it to the knight’s throat. Signaling an end to the fight.

Her breaths were heavy as she sat over the knight. She stared into his eyes, a bit of blood dripped from the corner of her mouth. She swallowed the thick metallic taste. She then gave a nod to him as she climbed from him and held her hand down toward the knight. Sir Isaac grit his teeth slightly before he got to his feet. The crowd cheered for their princess as the music began to play. She would compete in the final tournament tomorrow. She grasped her helmet from the mud and she sheathed her sword before she climbed upon her steed. Vaena rode to the edge of the arena and slipped from the back of the horse. She winced slightly.

“Princess.” Ashlyn placed a hand forward to steady her. “Let’s get this armor off of you, hm?” She looked to the deep indent within the chest piece that was encroaching upon the princess’ ability to breathe. She glanced to Lana and nodded to her. “I’ll get her back to the tent. You get the horse, hm?” She gave a smile.

“I’m fine.” The princess spoke as she glanced about the remaining competitors.

“You are. But that chest piece is not.” Ashlyn spoke with a smirk. “Come on, princess. No arguing. Squire’s orders.” She chuckled as she walked her away from the arena. She walked her to the tent, though Vaena seemed to do it begrudgingly. “Now how…” Ashlyn looked about the straps and then giggled. “I’m not a squire. What the hell do you do with this?” She motioned to the armor that was neatly strapped upon the princess. “I think I’ll stick to corsets.” She winked playfully. “Here drink this.” She poured two glasses of her drink and held one to Vaena. “It’ll make you feel better. That knight was a fucking cheat.” She downed the glass.

The princess took the shot glass and gazed to it a moment before she tossed her head back and downed the glass. She set the glass down heavily upon the table. “Where’s Lana?” She questioned as she pulled forward on the chest piece.

Ashlyn poured another glass and held it up. “She’s a drink away, princess.” She handed her the glass with a grin and watched as the princess downed it. A chuckle came from the red mage as she sat on the edge of the table that Lana had been sharpening the sword on. “You’ll be in the final fight tomorrow.” She commented. “We should celebrate that this evening. Hm?”

Vaena glanced to Ashlyn as she set the glass upon the table. “I want to know who my opponent is going to be.” She spoke as she tugged upon the chest piece again. She began to work upon the straps to release herself. “Then I will know if I should celebrate or not.”