BEAUTIFUL

1. Beautiful Sleeper

Kerrien prided himself on never getting lost, not even in the deepest, darkest forest. That skill came in handy when tracking someone. It gave him an edge over whomever he was looking for. But he sometimes was taken by surprise by what he found.

He'd been following the tracks of bandits that plagued the few roads of the kingdom when he noticed a wall through the undergrowth. He thought it might be part of a small, abandoned house, but when he got closer, he realized it was so big that it completely blocked his vision of what lay beyond.

The tracks led him to a large building with a gaping door – some kind of castle or fortress completely covered by vegetation. So well-hidden that it was actually hard to figure out the shape of the castle. Old mulberry trees surrounded it like a wall, their leaves almost covering the sky.

Kerrien felt he'd just entered a secret garden of giant proportions, with trees instead of flowers and a castle instead of a pavilion at its center. What must have been a clearing around the stone walls had become a narrow passage as the forest engulfed the building.

He followed the impenetrable stone walls and reached a gate-less entrance. He stared at the remnants of a wooden portcullis that seemed to have spread new leaves thanks to the ivy that had grown on it, and then stepped into the cave-like entrance to peek at the inside.

Birch trees had grown in the inner courtyard and ivy climbed the walls. The windows had pointed arches that sometimes showed the wooden ceilings, sometimes just darkness where the wooden parts had collapsed and only the stone walls remained.

What had been two-story buildings were now half crumbled. Most roofs were gone, and the wooden stables had turned into a gathering of bushes, with one proud maple tree sprouting out of a roofless stall.

The treasure hunter in him perked up at the thought of hidden riches that might lie among the ruins. The abandoned buildings smelled of elm, aspen and birch, wild flowers – and decay.

This must have been some kind of residential palace, or the castle of some ancient king, Kerrien thought. The three round towers he could glimpse seemed in decent shape, so they could be a very good hiding place for outlaws.

He didn't venture inside, barely glancing at the courtyard, unwilling to show himself. He was uneasy for some reason he couldn't place yet. The bandits' tracks seemed to lead to one of the round towers. He could see the remnants of a fireplace and a makeshift tent next to the open tower door. Maybe not even they had dared to sleep inside.

Kerrien left the ruined buildings and headed back to town to call the militia. He retraced his steps through the trees, pondering his discovery.

He wondered who had lived there and when. He had never heard anything about an abandoned castle in the forest at the edge of Gruffsnake Shire. He'd been wandering through the northern kingdoms and city-states for almost fifteen years now, and thought he'd seen it all, heard it all, tried it all.

Being a mercenary and bounty hunter, he'd seen his fair share of destruction and deserted cities or castles for one reason or another. But that fortress in the forest... it was strange. If he were a superstitious commoner, he'd stay away from it. He'd felt something in that entrance, a shiver down his back that had made him back out.

He was glad he needed reinforcements to stop the gang of four who had found such a perfect refuge. The bandits obviously weren't scared by whatever he'd felt looming there – or maybe they'd gone there precisely because nobody would bother them if they hid in a haunted castle.

He reached the town of Backeran at sunset, just before they closed the gates. The walls were made of wood and had several large gates that were kept closed at night. The city had been built around a central bridge on a river that provided water to most houses. It was famous for its scholars, the quality of its alcohol and gambling.

Kerrien wasn't one to gamble his hard-earned coins, so he went straight to the nearest tavern, half a dozen blocks from the main entrance. The streets were full of stray cats and the buildings all had small and neat backyards. The people were friendly and Kerrien hoped to find a scholar willing to tell him some history in the tavern's main room.

The Secret Wench Inn was medium-sized, decently clean, with cheap drinks and average food. Kerrien had been staying there for two nights before finding the tracks of the bandits. He knew half the rooms were vacant, and quickly glanced around the main room, in case he spotted the old scholar that had entertained him at dinner the night before.

The room was crowded, loud and rowdy. Half the patrons were already drunk and most were armed, much like himself. Kerrien couldn't see the white mane of the scholar, so he shrugged, found a free table and asked the female innkeeper for his evening meal. He'd better go to bed early, so he could be ready for the morning expedition.

***

Catching the bandits was a piece of cake with the town militia. The captain grumpily gave Kerrien his coins in the courtyard while the guards dragged away the glaring prisoners. He saluted the bounty hunter and followed his men without turning back, as if he were in a hurry to leave the haunted grounds. He hadn't looked happy to find the ruins, but hadn't said a word about them.

Kerrien scoffed and shrugged. He was used to those kinds of blunt, slightly arrogant officials. He knew they showed contempt for him to hide the fact that they were envious. He did the things they couldn't do. Like following bandits to an abandoned castle in the forest.

He counted the coins and put them in his purse, satisfied. Standing in the middle of the ruined courtyard under a clear blue sky, he finally decided to take a good look at his surroundings.

One of the towers caught his eye. It looked brand new and was attached to the tallest building leaning against the stone walls on its right side. No ivy grew on it, and the door at its base was closed.

Even the windows on that side of the building attached to the tower seemed to still have panes as if that part of the castle was untouched by time, especially the highest floor right under the roof and the battlements. Strange that the bandits didn't use that tower instead of the more ruined one. Maybe they couldn't open the door?

Curiosity won, and he headed that way. The whole castle had been built with the local yellow sandstone, and under the sun the tower and the right side building looked almost golden. Kerrien tried the handle and the door squeaked open.

A whiff of stale air and mold reached his nostrils. The inside was dark but he saw the start of a stone spiral staircase. Nothing seemed to block the entrance. It might be spooky at night, but during the day it didn't look too bad.

Kerrien entered and slowly started climbing the stairs, keeping one hand on the wall. The stones were cold and smooth, and the light was very dim. Wherever the windows were, they were in the rooms, not on the stairs.

He found a door on what must be the first floor and fumbled for the doorknob. The room beyond had two windows opening onto the forest that let in greenish light. It was empty of furniture and covered in dust and cobwebs.

Kerrien left the door open to give some light and kept climbing. The spiral staircase continued for another two floors that had identically abandoned rooms. Just below the roof and the top merlons, there was one last room.

It smelled funny. And it wasn't empty.

There was a canopied bed by the wall opposite the door and four windows – two on each side. The ones that probably opened onto the inner courtyard were in the shade, but the other two let in sun rays that played with dust. That part of the castle must be taller than the trees.

Surprised, Kerrien stepped into the room, raising a cloud of dust from the floor. Looking back he could clearly see his boot tracks crossing the room to the bed. He doubted anyone had stepped in there for years – and probably nobody else would.

He reached the bed and pulled open the curtain, covering his mouth and nose from the dust cloud. He even closed his eyes, and when he opened them again, he gasped at the sight of what lay beyond.

A young man, seemingly asleep. His chest moved rhythmically, but the rest of his body was still.

Kerrien shook the young man's foot, but got no reaction. He moved around the bed to get closer to the handsome, clean-shaven face.

The sleeper was one of the most beautiful young men he'd ever seen in his life. Brown locks surrounded his chiseled face and his body seemed toned enough to hold a sword with great ease. The clothes were a little out of fashion, but of good fabric. Maybe he was a nobleman, or even a prince.

Kerrien leaned to look closer. No medallions, rings or other jewelry that could help him determine who the young man was. He tried to shake the sleeper awake, to no avail.

Must be some kind of spell. It preserved this tower, this room, and him. I wonder who knows his story and what one is supposed to do to wake him up.

He touched the young man's cheek. It was warm. Definitely not dead. Boy, you're gorgeous! What did you do to be put to sleep?

His fingers touched the young man's lips. He's breathing all right...

He pulled away, sighing in indecision. He was a warrior, not a magic user. He didn't know how to undo spells. Besides, he didn't know who the young man was. What if, in spite of his celestial looks, the sleeper was a cruel overlord? Kerrien must find out who the young man could be before he tried to undo the spell.

Except he couldn't keep his eyes off the handsome face.

A kiss won't kill him, he decided.

He sat on the edge of the bed and slightly turned the young man's head so he could taste the warm lips. His tongue slipped in and found the teeth. You taste good, Sleeping Beau.

Kerrien rose again with a sigh. What a waste.

He turned and reluctantly headed back for the room's door.

The sound of a heavy exhalation startled him, and he swiftly turned around.

The young man's eyelids slowly lifted open.

Kerrien rushed back and met emerald-green eyes that widened in surprise at the sight of him.

"Who... who are you?" the young man asked, slowly moving and taking control of his body.

"I'm Kerrien," he answered, still puzzled. Was a kiss really enough to break a spell?

The young man sat and stretched his arms, yawning.

"Where is everybody?" he asked, still sleepy.

"There is nobody around," Kerrien answered. "The castle is abandoned."

"What?" The green eyes stared at him, shocked.

Kerrien motioned towards the windows opening onto the courtyard. The young man slowly got up, stared puzzled at Kerrien's boot tracks on the floor and headed for the windows, turning back to look at his own tracks in the dust.

"Do you have a name?" Kerrien asked, crossing his arms over his chest as the young man put his forehead on the window pane and gasped in surprise.

"Rithvik," came the absentminded reply. "What happened out there?"

"I guess everybody left," Kerrien answered. "You might have slept for longer than you think."

"I... slept..." Rithvik mused, then turned to look at him. "And what are you doing here?"

"Looting, what else?" He chuckled. "Actually, I'm a bounty hunter. Four bandits had found refuge in that tower over there. The loot was taken by the town militia, and I was paid for finding them."

"What town?" Rithvik asked, puzzled.

"Backeran."

"There's no such town!"

"Come on, Rithvik..."

"Prince Rithvik!" The young man straightened and glared at him.

"Prince of what? Dust and spiders?" Kerrien teased.

"My kingdom is wealthy and mighty! We even managed to stay independent from the Moren Empire!"

Kerrien did a quick calculation.

"I'm sorry to inform you that the last Moren emperor died more than a century ago." He was starting to enjoy the conversation. The young man was gorgeous but a little too full of himself. "Like I said, this place is abandoned. Come downstairs and see for yourself."

And he headed for the door and the spiral staircase. He didn't need to turn around – he heard Rithvik following him.

"These stairs are dark!" Rithvik complained. "Where are the torches and the lamps?"

"Long gone, I'm afraid," Kerrien replied with a shrug, still following the wall with one hand.

They were almost down when Rithvik tripped, but by now he was so close to Kerrien that when he heard the prince yelp, Kerrien was ready to block his fall.

"Careful where you put your feet, your highness," he said.

"You could have brought a torch," Rithvik replied with a whining tone.

"I wasn't planning on exploring this place, but this tower is so well-preserved that I had to look inside."

Finally they emerged in the courtyard and Rithvik gaped as he looked around.

"No more castle..." he whispered. Then he brightened. "No more kingdom!"

He grinned at Kerrien. "Thank you!" He threw his arms around Kerrien's neck and stamped a quick kiss on the mercenary's lips.

Startled, Kerrien pushed him away.

"Are you out of your mind?" he protested.

Rithvik kept his arms behind his back and kept grinning from ear to ear.

"My wish came true. I woke up and I don't need to be king anymore! So you can call me Rithvik now. What did you say your name is?"

"Kerrien," he answered still incredulous from the sudden change in the prince's mood.

"Thank you, Kerrien. Where do we go from here?"

"I don't know, go where you want, you're free of whatever spell kept you in that tower."

"Well, since you saved me, I'll stay with you. Where are we headed?"

Kerrien wasn't sure he had a good deal. And he was more and more curious to hear the story of Prince Rithvik – whoever that might have been.

"To Backeran for now," he said. "And we better hurry, the town closes its gates at sunset."

***

Kerrien brought Rithvik to the Secret Wench Inn still wondering what to do with his find. From the walk through the forest, the prince sounded like a spoiled young man. True that Rithvik had slippers on, and walking through the forest in slippers wasn't very comfortable, but still...

At least he'd stopped talking when they'd passed the town gates, and now frowned at the noisy crowd of the tavern.

"Most of this crowd is very shady-looking," Rithvik said. "Are you sure they're not going to rob us?"

"Nobody would dare to rob me," Kerrien replied. "And you have nothing that can be robbed. They already robbed you of everything."

"True." Rithvik's frown vanished. "I knew getting rid of my title was the best thing I could do!"

"And the fact that the Moren Empire is no more doesn't bother you?" Kerrien asked him, leading him to a corner table. "I mean, you're not curious to know how long you slept?"

"Nah." Rithvik shrugged. "I'm famished. Can I have roasted boar and baked potatoes with cheese?"

"I don't think this tavern has that kind of food," Kerrien replied. "You'll probably have to make do with stew and beans."

"Oh." Rithvik looked disappointed, but sat down where Kerrien pointed him to.

Kerrien saw the white-haired scholar sitting at an empty table, nursing a goblet, and went to check.

"Would you like me to fill that empty goblet?" he offered. "Please join me and my friend for our meal, we have questions about the shire's history."

The old man brightened and happily sat with them. Rithvik glanced at him, a little hostile, but then ignored him, fidgeting until the maid brought his meal.

"I have eaten," the scholar said. "But I'm very thirsty still. What do you wish to know about our beautiful town and countryside?"

"Old history," Kerrien said. "Like... this was the border of the Moren Empire, no?"

"Actually the river was the border. On the other side of the bridge, it was Moren territory. On this side of the bridge, it was an independent kingdom. This was just a small village back then, only a few fishermen with their families – and the ferryman. There was no bridge between the Moren Empire and Ker Eziel."

"Where did the king live?" Kerrien insisted, glancing at Rithvik who kept eating with his eyes on his plate, but was obviously listening.

"At Ker Eziel. The ruins of the castle can still be seen in the forest."

"Yes, I've seen them," Kerrien said. "That's where the bandits hid."

"Ah!" The old man beamed. "We should have thought about it! Thing is... we don't like that place."

"Why? Is it haunted?"

Kerrien noticed that Rithvik was smiling, but still pretending not to listen.

"No, it's just... an ugly story." The scholar emptied his goblet and stared at it until Kerrien filled it again. "Legend has it that the prince heir of Ker Eziel killed his own father in a madness rampage, then was put to sleep by court magicians. People abandoned the castle and the sleeping prince to his destiny. I don't think anyone has gone there in years."

"Except for the bandits," Kerrien commented. "Although they stayed away from the tower where the prince was kept."

"How do you know?" the old man marveled.

"I caught them. And the last king was...?"

"King Larrelyn."

"Any chance you know the name of that murdering prince?"

"Ah, yes, of course... wait... it's on the tip of my tongue..."

"Rithvik," Rithvik said, rolling his eyes. "And I didn't kill my father. At least, that's not what I remember."

"And what do you remember?" Kerrien asked him as the scholar gaped at the young man.

"I didn't want to be king, so the demons helped me to get rid of the burden," Rithvik answered with a shrug. "There was an eclipse and I lost consciousness..." He stared into the distance, then snapped back to reality and smiled at Kerrien. "Next thing I know, I wake up, you're there and everybody else is gone. And I'm free, thanks to you."

"You requested the help of demons?" Kerrien stared, incredulous, at the former prince.

"Yes, and they granted me my wish," Rithvik replied.

"This is Prince Rithvik of Ker Eziel?" the old man said, pointing a shaky finger at Rithvik.

"I found him in Ker Eziel, so yes, I guess it's him," Kerrien answered through clenched teeth. Although he doubted a kiss could break a demon's spell, he still wondered why he'd wandered inside the tower. He should have left immediately. He'd awakened someone who played with demons. Although that someone still had the most celestial face and body he'd ever seen. And the most innocent smile.

The old man gasped and made a sign of protection from evil. He fled from their table, leaving the goblet still half-full behind.

"Did I scare him off?" Rithvik asked.

"You know, usually legends are based on truths," Kerrien replied. "You don't remember it, but maybe you did kill your father and other people in a madness rampage."

"Oh. Maybe." Rithvik shrugged. "I'm done. Can we go to bed now?"

"Haven't you slept enough? Like, a couple of centuries?" Kerrien asked, a little sarcastic. He wasn't getting real answers from the reluctant prince. It was possible the long-sleep spell had tampered with Rithvik's memories, but still...

"That was a magic sleep. Doesn't count." Rithvik yawned. "This room is very loud, can we go to a quieter place?"

Kerrien had to admit that the rowdy crowd was getting on his nerves too. He shook his head and lead Rithvik to his room, wondering whom he could consult with to learn more about his find. Rithvik didn't look dangerous, but still...

He had chosen a single room, since he'd rather sleep alone when he traveled. He didn't want to pay for another room and briefly thought he wouldn't mind sharing with Rithvik. Although the scholar had looked scared by Rithvik's reputation.

Tomorrow Kerrien should try to find out more about what had happened. Surely Rithvik was innocuous, but still...

"How do you summon demons?" he asked while Rithvik took off his slippers and slumped on the bed with a sigh of relief.

"They came to me," Rithvik answered with his eyes closed. "Well, he was just one. All black, but very beautiful. He was very gentle... and he kissed me just like you."

Kerrien's heart missed a beat. "You remember me kissing you?" he asked with a strangled voice.

"It was a very sweet wake-up call." The green eyes stared at him as Rithvik shot him an impish smile.

Kerrien groaned. "What kind of spell exactly hit you?"

"I don't know." Rithvik closed his eyes again. "Coming to bed or not? Can I snuggle up against you?"

"No! Do you want me to call a maid to keep you company?"

"I'd rather have you." Rithvik hugged the pillow and stretched to sleep. "Come, I won't bite you..."

And then he drifted off to sleep.

Kerrien couldn't believe his ears. He decided to sleep on the floor. Or maybe he should just leave right now and abandon the prince to his destiny.

He felt very tired, all of a sudden. His knees gave way under him, and he curled up on the floor, passing out almost immediately, as if hit by a spell.

***

"Why are you sleeping on the floor?"

The voice reached Kerrien through the fog of sleep. He opened his eyes and saw Rithvik watching him from the bed, his green eyes wide in wonder.

"Come here!" Rithvik patted the mattress next to him. "You must hurt everywhere."

Kerrien repressed a groan as he sat.

"I'm not a prince, I'm used to sleeping on the floor," he grumbled.

"Oh... fine. So, no morning cuddles either?"

"Why would you want morning cuddles?" Kerrien exploded. "We've just met! Who do you think I am?"

"My savior," Rithvik said with absolute certainty and a beaming expression. "We'll be together forever."

"Forget it." Kerrien rose. "I have better things to do than look after a fallen prince!"

"You don't want to take care of me?" Rithvik's expression fell. He frowned in worry. "Why did you kiss me, then?"

"Because... you were asleep! Like dead! I didn't think it would wake you up!"

"But you did wake me up..." Rithvik sighed. "As you wish. We'll do it your way. Where do I get a shave and when do we have breakfast?"

Kerrien glared at him and pointed at the basin in a corner. "Can't you shave yourself? I'll use the outhouse. See you downstairs."

He probably needed to shave too, but he didn't trust himself at the moment. His hand shook as he unbuckled his belt to relieve himself. Something was very wrong. He shouldn't have slept that soundly.

Maybe the kiss had done it. Tied him to that crazy prince. He decided to get away from the tavern without breakfast...

But his feet brought him to the main room where Rithvik joined him with a bright smile.

"I thought there would be a barber in the inn, but nobody is willing to shave me. Will you do it?" the prince asked.

"Maybe we'll go to a barber's shop later," Kerrien answered bluntly. "Do you have any magic skills?"

"Me? No, why?" Rithvik replied, puzzled.

"Then your demon lover did something to you," Kerrien muttered, averting his eyes. The idea hit him then. "Don't you want to find him?" he asked.

"Who?"

"Your demon lover. The one who granted your wish. Don't you want to see him again?"

"Nah. He was sweet, but you're more handsome," Rithvik answered. "Those pastries smell very good, can I have them?"

At least he asked, instead of just taking, like some nobles Kerrien had met. Spoiled, but well-mannered.

As he sipped his tea, Kerrien observed Rithvik.

"Why didn't you want to be king?" he asked bluntly.

"Too much responsibility," Rithvik answered between bites. "This is delicious... want some?"

"Not hungry. How do you plan to earn your living from now on?"

"Mmm..." Rithvik munched and pondered. "I'm young, I can learn anything. Teach me," he said at last, looking Kerrien in the eyes.

Kerrien scoffed. "Teach you what? You're a prince, can you use a sword?"

Rithvik nodded, his mouth full with the last bit of pastry.

"Ever been to war? Dragon hunting, since you lived at the time of the Moren Empire?"

Rithvik shook his head and gulped before downing a glass of water.

"Is dragon hunting still a pastime?" he asked, hopeful.

"There are no more dragons," Kerrien replied. "If there are, they're hiding who knows where. We hunted them to extinction."

"Oh." Rithvik's disappointment lasted only a moment. "So? Barber and then what? I need boots or walking shoes. And do you want to try my fighting skills? Will you buy me a sword?"

"You know what? You talk too much. Learn to be quiet and speak only when questioned," Kerrien said, slamming down his mug. "Let's go. And not another word, is that clear?"

***

The barber was a chatterbox worse than Rithvik, but since he knew everything about everyone, he was the best person to ask information of.

"Castle in ruins? No, haven't heard of it. You should ask Bartiella, the showy scholar who frequently speaks against the establishment. She's been quickly gaining enemies and might be expelled from our university soon... Rumors say that she is trying to be friendly with wizards. She can usually be found at a party."

"How do I get invited to any of these parties?" Kerrien asked while the barber shaved Rithvik.

"You could try Lord Hermir... the old money lordling who throws lavish parties. Unfortunately he seems to be afraid of outsiders. Maybe you'll have more chance with Rylasina. She's a paranoid courtesan who has been accumulating debts. She is unwilling to associate with military officials, but you're not one of them, are you?"

"No, I'm a mercenary and bounty hunter." Kerrien sighed. He wasn't too happy to buy information from women. "Where do I find this Rylasina?"

"She can usually be found at the market in the main square. She probably knows where Bartiella is. They used to be friends."

"You have very notable locals here in Backeran," Kerrien commented.

"Oh, and I haven't told you of the flamboyant politician who is associated with several questionable events..."

Kerrien was glad to leave the barber's shop.

"If I talk too much, what about that man?" Rithvik asked with a teasing gleam in his eyes.

"I was gleaning information." Kerrien glared at him. "Since you know nothing of this town and these people, I need to ask somebody else."

"There was no town here in my father's time. Although I did recognize the river before we entered the town walls..."

The market was busy and noisy, with heavy traffic and a large number of guards who didn't really see the very many pickpockets, too busy trying to dislodge the many beggars. There were six stalls in the middle of the square, and shops opened all around it.

Rithvik watched every single window or display but didn't stop anywhere. He clearly wasn't interested in spell scrolls, musical instruments, perfumes, pottery, necklaces and amulets, incense and balms, or lamps and tools.

"No blacksmith?" he asked, disappointed.

"Maybe not in the center of the city," Kerrien replied, looking at the crowd around them and wondering who could be either the scholar or the courtesan. Maybe the very pale, exuberant woman who seemed intent on starting a fight at the necklaces and amulets stall was the courtesan.

"What about a shoemaker?"

Kerrien ignored the question and headed for the roofed and walled kiosk. The half-naked female owner of the kiosk looked ill without the hassle of having to fight with a customer. Haggling was routine, but the pale woman seemed to test the vendor's patience.

"Before your outraged screams call in the guards, what's wrong, ma'am?" Kerrien asked the customer.

"Rylasina always wants to rip me off," the vendor complained while the customer glared at him. She still had traces of her beauty, but she wasn't in her prime anymore. No wonder she'd become paranoid. Younger women were stealing her best customers and she was accumulating debts.

"I'm honored to meet the renowned and most beautiful Rylasina," Kerrien said. "How can I help you, my lady?"

Startled, the woman looked at him and Rithvik, who hid his chuckle behind his hand.

"You've heard of me?" she asked. "And you are?"

"Kerrien. Of course I've heard of you. But I'm actually looking for the scholar Bartiella, I've heard she's a friend of yours."

Rylasina sighed. "Yes... what do you want from her?"

"Her knowledge, of course. What else could we want from a scholar?"

"Is your young friend laughing at me?" Rylasina frowned at Rithvik who looked away to hide his hilarity.

"This... young man thinks he's a prince and can laugh at anyone," Kerrien replied, mildly irritated by Rithvik's behavior. He wanted to elbow the prince to make him stop laughing at the aging courtesan. "Will you be so kind as to tell me where Bartiella is? I'll buy you that necklace you're bargaining for so hard..."

Rylasina nodded regally and accepted the gift.

I'm spending all my hard-earned coins trying to figure out who this gorgeous young man is. I should have left him to sleep in the tower. But then, he'd never see that dazzling smile and those sparkling green eyes. Damn, Kerrien, stop this! He hadn't drooled like this in years. What was wrong with him?

Rylasina took him to a small house in an alley near the town walls and knocked.

"Bartiella, it's Rylasina!"

Bartiella had long white hair and a wrinkled face. She nodded in greeting at Rylasina, but stared suspiciously at Kerrien and Rithvik.

"What do they want?" she asked her friend bluntly.

"Knowledge," Rylasina said with a little shrug. "If they also want entertainment, you know where to send them. But I'm afraid the new generation would rather touch each other than be with an expert woman."

Kerrien clenched his teeth. He wasn't going to touch the beautiful sleeper ever again. He must get rid of Rithvik as soon as possible.

"Fine, but you know I don't like visitors," Bartiella muttered, glaring at her friend who shrugged again. Rylasina waved good-bye and left them with the grumpy old woman.

"I was wondering if you knew anything about the history of the king of Ker Eziel," Kerrien said, standing in the middle of the narrow street, since Bartiella wouldn't let him in. "I seem to understand there were wizards and black magic involved?"

"Ah, Ker Eziel." The old woman snorted. "Legends. Yes, black magic, indeed. You should ask Fionorah."

"Who?"

"The recently bereaved wizard who may have dabbled in forbidden magic. She had many allies and she has studied old spells. She probably knows about Ker Eziel – everybody else is too scared to even ask. She can usually be found at the market. If you see a tanned, sneaky old woman who has a bow across her back, that's her."

And Bartiella slammed her door on their faces.

"What a nice woman," Rithvik commented. "Why do you want to know the story of my father's castle?"

"Because everybody is scared of you! What did you do? I want to know what happened and how many centuries ago," Kerrien snapped. "Aren't you curious? Don't you want to remember?"

"No. Why should I? I was unhappy. Why would I want to remember that?"

Kerrien snorted and rolled his eyes. "Let's go back to the market," he grumbled. Maybe he should lose Rithvik in the crowd. Except the prince grabbed his wrist as soon as they reached more busy streets and the market.

"There's a shoemaker!" Rithvik pointed at the shop. "My slippers are falling apart."

Kerrien rolled his eyes, but glancing at the prince's feet, he saw Rithvik was right.

The shoemaker told them strong walking boots would be ready the next morning. They thanked him and left the shop, resuming their search for the magic user.

Fionorah found them first. She bumped into them coming out of a shop and narrowed her eyes at the sight of them. Before Kerrien realized she matched Bartiella's description, the wizard had waved a hand around them as if to clear her vision of something.

"Mm. Prince Rithvik is awake!" she said, staring pointedly at Rithvik who stiffened and stood closer to Kerrien.

"How do you know it's him?" Kerrien asked, jarred.

"A dark aura..." Fionorah looked lost for a moment, but then she snapped back to reality. "Why did you wake him up?" she asked bluntly, glaring at Kerrien.

"I didn't even know he existed until yesterday!" Kerrien protested. "And I've been trying to figure out his story since then! What do you know about what happened – the spell, the abandoned castle, anything, really! Why is everybody so afraid?"

"Because Ker Eziel was cursed centuries ago, when this spoiled prince made a pact with some demon who took him to the dark side!" Fionorah threw up her arms and rolled her eyes. "He had to be put to sleep by magic users! The long-sleep spell – which has been lost since, by the way."

"And how does one undo the long-sleep spell?" Kerrien asked.

"I don't know." Fionorah shrugged. "It's beyond what I can do. There were real magicians back then, the Magical Races hadn't been gone for so long and they had spells we Humans can only dream of."

"But wouldn't a spell need a counter-spell?" Kerrien insisted. He couldn't believe a kiss would be enough to undo a spell used to put someone who had consorted with real demons to sleep.

"Probably you had it in you." Fionorah smirked. "You have a dark aura yourself. What do you do?"

"I'm a mercenary."

"So you deal with blood too. Why are you surprised? You kill people as much as he did."

"I kill enemies in battle! I don't kill in cold blood!"

"I don't think he killed his father in cold blood – more as a puppet in his lover's hands."

"And do you think he's still dangerous?" Kerrien frowned. "Should I kill him right now?"

Fionorah chuckled. "You can't. You broke the spell. You can't hurt him. But take him away from Backeran. I'm sure he's innocuous away from his father's former kingdom!"

"I never wanted my father's kingdom," Rithvik said. "And I already told Kerrien I'll follow him anywhere he takes me."

"See?" Fionorah grinned. "You woke him up. He's your responsibility now. Good luck." She patted Kerrien's shoulder and was on her way, leaving the mercenary speechless.

Still incredulous, Kerrien turned to look at Rithvik who immediately smiled.

"So, where do we go now?" the prince asked cheerfully. "We can leave tomorrow morning, as soon as I have my new boots! I'm very eager to see the world! Where are you from? Can I see the place where you were born?"

"No!" Kerrien shouted, losing his patience. "Shut up!"

He must get rid of the reluctant prince. He must find a wizard to free him of the burden. And there were none in Backeran, obviously.

"Let's go pack," he muttered, averting his eyes from Rithvik's eager face.

Fionorah's words kept haunting him. He's your responsibility now. Good luck.

He'd need more than luck to get rid of Rithvik.

"I really need a wizard or a witch," Kerrien muttered. "I think I'm under a spell too."

"What kind of spell?" Rithvik asked, puzzled.

"I don't know! Something that ties me to you for some reason!"

"Well, of course, you saved me," Rithvik replied as if it were obvious.

"Oh, so you have magical powers to tie people to you?" Kerrien asked, sarcastic.

"Um... no. Why?"

"Then why can't I leave you?"

"Because you like me?"

Kerrien wanted to strangle him. But he just couldn't.

He groaned and turned his back to the beautiful prince before he did something he'd regret.

"You don't like me? Why did you kiss me then? Kerrien!"

"Shut up, Rithvik!"

2. Beautiful Fighter

Rithvik was very happy with himself. He'd awakened in an abandoned castle beside a beautiful and strong warrior with very soft lips by his side. His previous life had vanished like a bad dream. His grumpy savior had taken him to town, allowed him to sleep in his bed, kept him fed and put a roof over his head.

As he left the lowly inn where they'd slept, he inhaled the cool air of the morning. Still too many disturbing odors of piss and vomit in Backeran's streets, though. He looked forward to being outside of the town walls and exploring the world.

He followed Kerrien to the shoemaker's and tried on his new boots. The smell of leather in the shop covered everything else and was more familiar. He'd had his own shoemaker at his father's castle, but the small shop was nice and better than the rest of the city.

The boots fit perfectly and he grinned at the shoemaker who bowed, offering his hand for payment. Kerrien frowned, but gave him silver coins. Rithvik remembered gold coins from his father's time, smaller than the silvers and coppers he'd glimpsed in Kerrien's purse.

The mercenary obviously wasn't rich, but still paid for him. This sort of reminded him of his long lost bodyguard, whom he had fancied, but who hadn't submitted to his requests – much like Kerrien was doing now. He kissed me awake and now he refuses to touch me!

This was worse than it used to be, but then... now Rithvik wasn't a prince anymore. He didn't have a family pride to protect, therefore he felt free to try and seduce his irritable companion. Only two days in Kerrien's company and he already felt he couldn't live without his savior.

"I'm good with a sword," he assured Kerrien as they passed through the gates of Backeran, headed away from the town and the forest where his father's castle lay abandoned under layers of luxuriant vegetation. "You should buy me one!"

"How about you earn your sword by doing something useful?" Kerrien retorted, glaring at him.

"Like what? Teach me! I'll do anything!" Rithvik answered, staring eagerly at his savior. "If you want my body to repay you for the expenses..."

"No!" Kerrien grunted and looked away. "From prince to prostitute, isn't that a little too much?"

"I'm not selling my body to anyone, but I'll gladly give it to you to repay you," Rithvik replied with a shrug. "You're beautiful and..."

"Stop!" Kerrien's hand wide open in front of his face startled Rithvik to a stop in the middle of the unpaved road. "Don't." Kerrien's voice had a threat underneath that he couldn't ignore.

Why was Kerrien always so blunt and nervous and... Damn, why did he deny how great the kiss had been? Rithvik kept thinking about it, but Kerrien seemed determined to forget what had brought them together.

"You don't believe in spells, do you?" Rithvik asked, frowning.

"I do since I met you," Kerrien answered gloomily. "Can't you see I fall asleep with you and wake up with you? I used to be an insomniac!"

"But you slept like a log for the past two nights?" Rithvik was amazed. He didn't know he had that power over the handsome warrior. That wasn't what he'd been taught – love spells were never his specialty, or he wouldn't have been so lonely.

"Yeah," Kerrien muttered. "Which is dangerous if you're a mercenary. You're still used to sleeping like a prince, aren't you?"

"Well, you could keep me awake..." Rithvik grinned, glancing at Kerrien's groin.

"Don't even think about it!" Kerrien warned.

Rithvik sighed. It was going to be a struggle to convince the fierce mercenary to give in to some tenderness.

"Thank you for these boots," he said. "Much better than my old slippers. What season is it? Will I need a cloak soon?"

"It's spring," Kerrien grumbled, pointing at an orchard outside of the town walls with apple trees full of flowers. Further on, there were cherry trees, and the white petals made it look as if it had just snowed. The sky was blue and clear, and it was neither too hot nor too cold.

"Oh, so I have time to work to buy a cloak!" Rithvik said brightly.

Kerrien groaned. "Will you please shut up and save some breath now?"

Rithvik chuckled, but obeyed. He felt so relieved to be alive and free of his duties that he soon started to hum an old song. He fell a little behind only to watch Kerrien's backside and his powerful steps forward.

Yummy mercenary! He jogged forward to catch up and ignored his caretaker's glare, resuming his humming of long-forgotten melodies.

Life was beautiful and he looked forward to exploring the world with Kerrien.

***

"Hey, that's Ker Garenn over there!" Rithvik exclaimed, pointing to their left.

Six thin, square towers scattered in a seemingly random pattern had been built for an ideal defense and were connected by tall, firm walls made of yellow stone in a style very similar to Ker Eziel. Rithvik remembered that castle was one day's ride from his father's castle, and it was obviously still standing.

They'd been walking for two days already when the building appeared. Tall, wide windows were scattered here and there across the walls, along with same-sized holes for archers.

"Friendly king or foe?" Kerrien asked.

"Prospective father-in-law," Rithvik muttered, averting his eyes from the castle and frowning. He didn't want to meet them after all. He'd never met the Ker Garenn princess, but had fought with the heir during a hunt one day.

"I wonder if they know anything about your father's fate." Kerrien grinned and headed towards the castle.

"No, wait, we can't... I mean, we don't know how many years have passed..."

"Maybe they can tell us. I don't think it's a kingdom anymore, probably just a baron with his own fief."

"Oh." Rithvik surrendered. If there were no kingdoms left, maybe nobody would force him to do anything. Nice new world indeed.

A regular gate with hefty metal doors and strong defenses offered a safe home to all those in need in the cold mountains that towered behind the castle. Well-kept gardens with fragrant flowers, gorgeous trees and many bushes decorated the outside of Ker Garenn.

"This castle has been improved and improved over the ages, some parts of the castle are clearly newer than others, the inhabitants are determined to keep their castle as modern as possible," Kerrien commented as they entered the main courtyard where a chamberlain met them.

The plump man stared at them and raised his eyebrows.

"What brings you here?" he asked. "We don't need mercenaries."

"Is it possible to talk to the lord of the castle?" Kerrien asked.

"I don't think Lord Emewor has time for adventurers who are just passing through. You are not welcome here."

Kerrien scoffed. "Fine. Can you tell me some history? How long has Lord Emewor's family lived here? What does he know of the nearby castles and fiefs?"

"The Barons of Garenn have lived here for over a century," the chamberlain answered pompously.

"Barons?" Rithvik blurted out. "They used to be kings! Larelynn of Ker Eziel, Ryldrak of Ker Zenas, Darwor of Ker Garenn... What happened to all of them?"

The chamberlain gaped at him.

"That's ancient history you speak of." The female voice startled them.

"My lady Milicent..." The chamberlain bowed at the waist as a young woman with a long blue gown approached them. She had blue eyes, a long dark braid and a dimpled smile. She stopped in front of Rithvik, looking him in the eyes.

"I have never met anyone so well versed in history," she said. "What's your name?"

"Rithvik," he answered, a little jarred. The way she looked at him made him uneasy. Much like all the maidens who had wished to marry him at his father's court.

"Rithvik, where are you from?"

"Ker Eziel."

"You mean Backeran? Ker Eziel is in disrepair."

"Are you well versed in history, my lady?" Kerrien asked her.

"I like history," she answered. She had the confidence of the lady of the castle, she must be the lord's daughter. "I can tell you those kingdoms fell a long time ago. Ker Eziel was abandoned because it's cursed. But Ker Garenn was always inhabited, although the dynasty of King Darwor ended around the time of the last Moren emperor. Why do you ask?"

"We found very few stories in Backeran about the fall of Ker Eziel and we're kind of curious," Kerrien said.

"Speak for yourself," Rithvik muttered, staring at his feet. He should have kept his mouth shut. Ker Garenn might not be a neighboring kingdom anymore, but he didn't like the way Milicent stared at him. And the fact that Kerrien was trying to discover his past.

"We don't know much ourselves," the young woman said. "Magic was involved. It sort of spread. There were a lot of witches back then. Even Ker Zenas had trouble. Probably even King Darwor's descendants."

"Thank you, Lady Milicent." Kerrien bowed. "We shall be on our way now."

"Would you like to stay for lunch?" she offered. The chamberlain cleared his throat, frowning, but she glared at him and he kept his mouth shut.

"Thank you, but we are expected in Cinnae," Kerrien answered. "It was a pleasure meeting you."

Milicent curtsied as Rithvik stiffly bowed and quickly followed Kerrien out of Ker Garenn.

"Thank you for not stopping there," he said as they headed back to the main road. He was glad to be out of the castle and away from Milicent's stare.

Kerrien glanced at him, shook his head and kept walking.

Relief flooded Rithvik as the towers of Ker Garenn vanished behind them. He'd be fine with Kerrien. He didn't need any of his father's old neighbors. Which brought back his joy and he started humming a song again.

***

For a few more days they encountered only small villages and sometimes not even that, which meant they had to sleep under the stars once or twice. Kerrien was obviously under some kind of spell, since they were constantly together. Rithvik was almost sure that Kerrien had tried to dump him somewhere from the moment he'd brought the prince to Backeran, but just couldn't – like Fionorah had predicted.

"Thank the gods, we're almost in Cinnae," Kerrien muttered one morning, after an uncomfortable night in the woods.

"What's in Cinnae?" Rithvik asked, curious.

"It's a somewhat large town with city parks and museums, and its economy is based on mining," Kerrien explained, packing. "Opals, mostly. The guards are underpaid, but for a first job, it will have to do. They'll give you a weapon."

"Not a pole-arm, I hope! I'm a swordsman!" Rithvik said.

"Yeah, well, we still have to check on that," Kerrien retorted. "They'll probably test your skills before allowing you into the town militia."

"Do they already know you?"

"Yeah, I spent a few months there some time ago. The locals are slightly suspicious of outsiders, but they admire personal fighting prowess."

"Then I might end up as their mayor," Rithvik warned with an impish smile.

"I thought you didn't want such responsibilities," Kerrien said, rising. "Let's go, we'll get to the town stone walls before lunch time."

Rithvik followed him whistling with happiness. They might soon reach a crowded place, but maybe that would make Kerrien less hostile. And he'd be able to prove to his caretaker he could take care of himself!

***

Rithvik was impressed by the sheer size of Cinnae, its high walls and its stone buildings, although he did come from a stone castle – something still quite rare at the time of his father.

The streets were very noisy and less stinky than Backeran. The nearest tavern was not far from the main gate, but hard to find. Rithvik was already lost, but Kerrien said he knew the way to the Heroic Wizard Tavern.

Finally they reached a large two-story building with a tiled sliding roof. Kerrien led the way to the counter where the bartender greeted them immediately with a smile, but he was heavily armed, which struck Rithvik as strange.

"We are almost totally full, but I guess we can squeeze you in a room... what else would you need for your stay?"

"Food, for now," Kerrien answered bluntly.

"And a bathtub," Rithvik added promptly. Kerrien glared at him. "What? You want to go looking for a job like that?" Rithvik chided.

Both had spent days washing in rivers and barely shaving. They both looked quite disheveled and dusty from their travels.

"Either that or public baths if you're here to find work," the innkeeper said. "The young man is right."

Kerrien muttered something under his breath then asked about the public baths and how much the bathtub would cost.

"I strongly suggest the baths," the innkeeper said. "Our rooms are quite small and so are the tubs. You'll be more comfortable at the baths, you might even find a barber to shave you."

"I can shave myself, thank you," Kerrien snapped. "And it's time Rithvik learns to do it."

"As long as you show me how it's done!" Rithvik replied lightly.

He'd get to see his caretaker naked! He didn't mind learning to use a razor if that meant he could spend some time in the water with Kerrien.

"Here's the room key. It's not yet meal time, so you might want to go to the baths first. When you come back, the food will be ready." The innkeeper gave them a key and smiled.

Kerrien took it, muttering a thank you.

"You know, I don't have spare clothes," Rithvik said as they got out of the tavern to go looking for the baths.

"I'll lend you one of my tunics for now," Kerrien replied. "I'm running out of money, thanks to you!"

"All right, I'll be working for clothes too..." Rithvik sighed. Life was really hard without servants that provided everything. Or his father's wealth. He'd never questioned where things had come from before, but now he must learn the right price of everything.

"And for the barbers, unless you learn to shave," Kerrien grumbled.

"Teach me, Kerrien! I want to learn to be like you!"

Kerrien glared at him, then looked away.

Rithvik followed Kerrien into the public baths and kept his admiration at bay. Used to wooden bathtubs, Rithvik was surprised by the little rooms with private pools, closed by a curtain. Kerrien opted for one of those instead of the main rectangular pool where other men rested or chatted. Whether it was for modesty or for want of privacy, Rithvik didn't care.

The smell of soaps and thermal water wrapped them as soon as Kerrien closed the curtain. There was very little room around the square pool, but on one side there was a bench where they found towels. They undressed and left their clothes there as well.

Rithvik only glanced at the toned and scarred body of Kerrien and wished he could touch it and taste it. But he didn't want Kerrien to be rude to him, so he pretended not to notice.

The pool was small and square, with colored tiles that drew lines both underwater and on the walls. It felt strange to have naturally warm water to sit in. The soap smelled like violets and it made a lot of foam and bubbles that made him chuckle.

Kerrien lent him his razor and showed him how to shave. It was a fun lesson and Rithvik thought he had missed something by having servants doing everything for him.

"It's not my fault if I had people doing things for me," he apologized before sliding on Kerrien's spare tunic. "Thank you for helping me to deal with everything myself."

"We'll see if you pass the examination with the town militia." Kerrien adjusted the tunic on his shoulders and wrinkled his nose. "We really need a dressmaker to make you new clothes."

"And I want a sword like yours! Will you let me try it?"

"Why don't we go eat for now? Then we'll look for the town militia captain."

Rithvik eagerly followed Kerrien back to the Heroic Wizard Tavern. The drinks were fairly-priced and decent, but the dirt cheap food proved to be of poor quality. Rithvik still wished for roasted boar, but didn't say it. The stew and beans were peasants' food for him, but for lack of choice, he ate them anyway.

"I know that guy," Kerrien muttered, observing a mercenary with an obviously magical item – a set of bracers surrounded by an aura of light.

Rithvik had seen his father's archers wear that kind of protection around their arms or wrists. He'd used a pair that reached the elbow himself when he went hunting.

"I think those are Aelaora's bracers," Kerrien continued. "Created in a magical ritual, the metal parts are made of iron. They strengthen the owner's will, but they can only be used by females. I guess he's trying to get rid of them..."

"No dark corners occupied and lots of armed men in here," Rithvik noticed. "But still half the patrons are drunk, like in Backeran... and this wine stinks!"

"But the noise is quiet and subdued," Kerrien said. "Want to try the house special? It's a minor local legend, you know?"

Rithvik eyed suspiciously the light brown drink with blue swirls and a slice of a strange fruit on the edge of the goblet. Kerrien put the goblet under his nose with a smile – the drink smelled wonderful. After a last hesitation, Rithvik took a sip of it.

"It tastes like strawberries!" he said, pleasantly surprised.

"But it's alcoholic, so don't drink too much of it," Kerrien warned, downing the rest.

"So you're a drunkard?" Rithvik teased.

"I drink only when I want to forget," Kerrien replied, leaning forward as if he was confiding a big secret.

"What do you want to forget?" Rithvik asked, puzzled. "We're doing fine, no? We'll find a job with the town militia and..."

"And I'd rather forget I need to carry you around for who knows how long," Kerrien said.

"Don't you have a house to go back to? I mean, don't you have friends or... a special someone?" Rithvik asked.

"Not really, no," Kerrien grumbled. "I told you, I'm a loner."

"But don't you ever wish to have someone?" Rithvik insisted, a little worried.

Kerrien took a deep breath and looked at him.

"Yes, I wish to have someone, but you're not that someone, Rithvik." He pushed back his empty plate. "Let's go and see if we can find a way of earning some coins..."

***

Captain Theodenzo gave Rithvik the once-over before turning back to Kerrien. He sat at his desk while Kerrien and Rithvik stood in front of him in the small office in the militia's barracks by the walls and the eastern gate.

The room barely contained his desk and a shelf of leather-bound books marked with numbers on the spine – maybe years, maybe file names, they made no sense to Rithvik. A quiver of various arrows with different markings hung from the shelf. There was just one stool, but Kerrien had ignored it and Rithvik preferred towering over the seated captain than sitting down.

Theodenzo had gorgeous features and a tall, broad build. His mane of gray hair made him look like a nobleman and a mustache covered his upper lip.

"I've heard of you, Kerrien, but this guy..." The captain shook his head, skeptical. "He looks too young to be of any use. And Dylira would probably tear him to pieces."

Rithvik didn't like the man much. Kerrien had told him that the captain's favorite sin was sloth, that he was a sucker for mysticism, the status quo, and creepy crawly things. He was strong and very reliable for his men, whom he considered his family.

"Would you like to try my skills in sword-fight?" the prince offered, boiling inside at the obvious contempt in the captain's voice. "Lend me a sword and I'll show you."

Captain Theodenzo scoffed. "Maybe I should have Dylira teach you a lesson."

"Who is this Dylira anyway?" Rithvik asked, frowning.

"The lecherous military official who can often be found in bad company," Kerrien answered, a little sarcastic. "She has been rapidly losing allies. Rumors say that she wants to help wizards. She can usually be found among a group of supporters. And she loves to humiliate young men at their favorite games, be it seduction or sword-fight."

The captain scoffed and nodded. "I see you've dealt with her."

"A warrior woman?" Rithvik's attention perked up. "I haven't met many. I'd love to fight against her... will you lend me your sword?"

Kerrien exchanged a glance with the captain.

"Be my guest," Theodenzo said. "If he beats her, I'll hire him immediately."

Rithvik grinned confidently at Kerrien who sighed and unbuckled his sword-belt, passing it to him. Rithvik put it around his waist and bowed.

"Thank you, Kerrien. I promise I won't ruin it."

They exited the small office and went to the courtyard where some guards were training or exercising under a cloudy sky. Rithvik glanced up.

"We better hurry, a thunderstorm is coming," he said, smelling rain in the cool wind.

"Dylira!" the captain called.

Rithvik noticed there were a few women among the guards. A freckled redhead wore the bracers Kerrien had noticed the night before at the Heroic Wizard Tavern.

Dylira had medium length wavy dark brown hair, sallow skin, a pierced lip and a short, lanky build. She responded to her captain's call and stood at attention in front of him.

"Lieutenant," the captain said. "We might have a new recruit."

He pointed at Rithvik who met her curious stare without looking away. She had hazel eyes, like Kerrien, but he wasn't really impressed. Surely other men found her pretty, but he'd rather kiss Kerrien again instead of those luscious lips that curved into a smirk.

"Just coming out of school?" she asked with a low, almost manly voice. "Who taught you?"

"I doubt you'd know his name," Rithvik answered, unsheathing Kerrien's sword. He weighed the blade – it would have to do. "Hope you'll buy me something better," he told Kerrien who scoffed.

"Get yourself a job and buy yourself a sword," he retorted.

Rithvik stuck his tongue out at him. Sometimes Kerrien got on his nerves. He'd prove to him and everybody else that he could handle a sword that wasn't his.

Dylira attacked first. Even though she was a woman and he was taller, she almost took him by surprise. But soon his teacher's lessons came back to him, and the sword became part of him. It was a lesson like so many others – the sword-master had also been a dashing, handsome man who had populated his dreams for months.

He noticed that Dylira purposefully allowed her tunic to open on her round breasts, showing her generous cleavage, but he didn't fall for her womanly tricks.

"Do you really have to show off your breasts to beat your opponents?" he asked, slapping her hand with the flat of his blade so she lost her grip on her weapon's handle.

She yelped as her sword clanged to the ground and she glared at him, nursing her hand.

"You're mean!" she grumbled. "Hurting a woman!"

"A woman who was trying to kill me in a mock duel," he replied bowing and sheathing the sword. He could see why Kerrien had called her lecherous. He didn't like her. "Cover yourself, milady, we don't want the other people who are watching us to lose control, do we?"

Satisfied, he unbuckled the sword-belt and gave it back to Kerrien who looked impressed.

"Am I good enough to work with you?" the prince asked with his most dazzling smile.

Kerrien grunted and nodded – and averted his eyes. Again. Still denying what was between them. Rithvik refrained from sighing in exasperation, but rolled his eyes before turning to the captain.

"Am I hired? Will you give me a sword?"

"I'm impressed, young man," the captain said. "Where did you say you learned to fight?"

"I didn't say. I'm Rithvik of Ker Eziel."

"Ah!"

"Oh!"

The captain and the lieutenant looked surprised, and more guards came closer to see what was going on.

"What, you heard of him?" Kerrien asked, eager to find news about Rithvik and the spell that had kept him asleep for who knew how long.

"Legends, rumors... Centuries-old stories..." The captain sighed. "I thought that place was abandoned."

"It is," Kerrien and Rithvik chorused.

Rithvik shot an impish smile at Kerrien who looked away with a frown. They even spoke at the same time! Kerrien would have to accept the fact they were meant to be together, sooner or later. Hopefully sooner.

"Kerrien freed me from the spell that kept me there," he told the gaping militia that was now surrounding them. "And now we're wandering through the world, looking for work together!"

Kerrien groaned and hid his face in his hand.

"Rithvik, shut up!"

"What? Isn't that what happened?"

"I didn't know you had magic powers, Kerrien," Dylira mocked him.

"I don't," Kerrien snapped. "But I think he does. Is Veralie still in town, or did you kick her out?"

Rithvik frowned at his savior.

"Who is Veralie?" he demanded. Why was Kerrien still trying to get rid of him?

"The seductive mage who is associated with allegations of bribery," Kerrien answered bluntly. "She has questionable allies and rumors say that she has some interesting relationships with minor nobility."

"And that's why we can't really get rid of her," Captain Theodenzo said with a snort. "She's too well protected."

"Good, then I'll pay her a visit with Rithvik," Kerrien said. "I wouldn't want to plague the town militia with a dangerous legendary prince. Since he's my responsibility, I'll make sure he is innocuous – magic-wise, I mean."

"Kerrien, I'm not a demon!" Rithvik protested. "I'm not going to hurt anyone unless they try to kill me! Can we get over this? Or should I mention how you woke me up?"

"Don't you dare!" Kerrien threatened, pointing his index finger at him.

"You stop trying to get rid of me, and I'll shut up!" Rithvik replied, determined.

"Wow, I wonder what Braedick would say about this!" Dylira commented with a smirk. "Have you told him, Kerrien? I must admit this guy is much cuter – and younger – than Braedick..."

Kerrien's knife against her throat shut her up. Rithvik saw her gulp and glare, while thunder rumbled in the background. The sky was gray with heavy clouds ready to pour rain in the courtyard.

Braedick? Rithvik was happy that for once Kerrien was not mad at him, but who was Braedick? He decided not to ask immediately, not in front of strangers who seemed to know his caretaker better than him. He didn't want to embarrass Kerrien in public, after all.

"You can start tomorrow morning," Captain Theodenzo said, taking Kerrien's arm away from Dylira's throat. "Leaves you the rest of the afternoon to go looking for Veralie. Where are you sleeping?"

"The Heroic Wizard," Kerrien answered through clenched teeth, glaring at everybody. "See you tomorrow morning."

"I might have a hunt for you tomorrow morning, and you can take your apprentice with you," the captain said as Kerrien grabbed Rithvik's wrist and dragged him to the exit of the courtyard and the militia barracks.

"He's not my apprentice!" Kerrien screamed leaving the building and pushing Rithvik in front of him.

Oh, boy, he's really furious! Rithvik decided to keep his mouth shut and followed the mercenary through the streets of Cinnae. He thought they were going to the mage's house, but Kerrien led him to a bazaar first. Thunder kept rumbling, but rain hadn't started yet.

Of the nine stalls, most had weapons. First there was a large cart with gauntlets and helmets piled haphazardly. The owner looked worried and was heavily armed, but Rithvik could see the quality of his goods was as low as the variety. Kerrien didn't stop there.

The second was a kiosk with a roof and no walls, and had exotic weapons, rings and earrings. The grouchy owner made outlandish claims about the strange round blades he was selling.

"Those are the weapons of the southern assassins," he assured them. "They throw them and the round blade cuts through bones like butter!"

"We wouldn't know how to use them," Kerrien replied with a shrug, moving on.

The permanent structure nearby had pottery and metalworking, but no weapons. Next to it was another permanent structure with ceremonial weapons and axes. The owner was a little drunk and deeply religious – making quick signs before picking up each weapon as if to bless them. The quality was high and the man looked like an enthusiastic haggler, but Kerrien didn't think they needed ceremonial weapons.

"You need a sword to fight, not to parade," he told Rithvik, who could only agree.

They passed by a kiosk of dogs, animal feed and riding equipment with a female owner and several connected stalls of blessings and rations. Another seller of helmets had spread his goods on several tables, but the militia would provide the armor if needed, so they kept going.

Kerrien stopped at the small table with haphazardly-piled goods belonging to a woman who stared suspiciously at them and an elderly man who sneezed often. They had pole-arms and other thrown weapons, but again the quality was below average.

"I guess we'll have to go to the blacksmith, eventually," Kerrien grumbled, stopping at the ninth stall to get a cup of warm drink as the temperature fell and the thunderstorm hit. They waited under the roof of the several connected stalls until the spring rain subsided a little, then Kerrien stepped out under the drizzle, entered an alley and knocked at another closed door.

Rithvik hoped it was the blacksmith, but obviously Kerrien hadn't forgotten the mage. The woman who opened the door had dusky skin, large forest-green eyes, long brown-black hair and cute features.

"Oh, my... Kerrien, is that really you?"

"Yes, Veralie, nice to see you."

"It's been... how many years?"

"I don't know, lost count... may we come in? If you happen to know anything about Rithvik of Ker Eziel it would be greatly appreciated..."

Rithvik gritted his teeth. Your attempts at getting rid of me are pitiful. But he sat in the mage's living room with her and Kerrien, keeping his mouth shut while his savior told her how he'd found Rithvik.

The mage's large eyes stared at him in wonder. She leaned forward and took his face in her hands, closing her eyes. Rithvik balled his fists and sat still. He didn't like her touch.

Veralie sighed, opened her eyes and leaned back.

"No, Kerrien, I don't feel any magic left in him."

"But why do I fall asleep when he does and wake up when he does and can't get rid of him?" Kerrien protested.

Veralie giggled. "Maybe because you like him?"

Rithvik started to like her. Very much. Please make him fall in love with me! Maybe she knew some love spell – but then, he couldn't ask her in front of Kerrien. He better try to use his old skills again. Although the magic he'd been taught didn't really serve his purpose... or did it?

"Veralie..." Kerrien glared at her like he'd done with Dylira and even more often with Rithvik.

"What?" she asked innocently. "I don't see your problem..."

"My problem is being stuck with a legendary prince who apparently went on a madness rampage and killed his own father!" Kerrien retorted.

She smiled knowingly. "I can't help you with that," she said. "How long will you stay in town?"

***

"What are you doing?" Kerrien asked, puzzled.

"Exercises," Rithvik answered without looking at him or breaking his concentration.

They were in the Heroic Wizard Tavern's room waiting for dinner-time after the visit to Veralie. It had occurred to Rithvik that he knew some enchantments after all, and decided to try one – the repetition of the one that had started his wondrous adventure in the future.

He played the accompanying music in his head and kept his eyes open, but he wasn't in the tavern's room anymore. He was in the classroom at Ker Eziel, learning to weave spells through dance. He knew his movements looked like a dance and Kerrien wasn't suspicious yet.

"I'll wait downstairs," Kerrien grumbled since his steps and waving arms often threatened his caretaker's head.

Rithvik ignored the interruption and continued his ritual dance. That was how he'd conjured Manusia at his father's castle. If he could bring the demon back, surely Manusia would grant him a second wish.

He remembered now how he'd wished for someone – anyone, really! – to come and save him from his shitty life. He was twenty-two and his father wanted him to pick a bride, or he'd choose for him. Except Rithvik didn't want to get married and didn't have the courage to stand up to his father.

He had no idea of the outcome when he'd started the dance, but then Manusia had materialized in his room and they'd talked, and the beautiful demon had kissed him and...

Now he could hear drums that played in concert with his heartbeat. The music became faster and he twirled around the small space like a whirligig, almost tripping into the bed. He ended on his knees, panting from the fast pace of the dance and waited, slowly catching his breath.

Nothing. No dark cloud of magic smoke that turned into the beautiful Manusia. Not a stir in the energy of the room.

Rithvik huffed, disappointed. Veralie was right. He had lost his magic touch. And Kerrien kept calling him a demon. He couldn't even summon demons anymore! Was it some kind of time problem? In his father's time demons were freer to roam the world and corrupt Humans, and today it was almost impossible to summon them?

He still had no idea how long he'd slept. His father's kingdom was no more, but then, neither were his neighbors. He'd have seen their castles or have heard of those kings on the way to Cinnae, but nothing seemed to have survived time. Even the Moren Empire was no more.

Maybe Kerrien was right when he wanted to understand what had happened and how much time had passed. Dancing to perform his magic wasn't going to open a window onto Rithvik's past, though. Or tell him how much time had passed. And he didn't know anyone besides Kerrien in this bright new future.

He couldn't go to a sorcerer or any other mage or wizard without Kerrien knowing. But then, he didn't really need Manusia's help, since Kerrien hadn't managed to get rid of him yet. Maybe he only needed to be patient. Eventually Kerrien would accept him and even learn to love him.

Rithvik sighed. Patience wasn't his strong point. When he was a prince. But, like Kerrien liked to remind him, he wasn't a prince anymore. He better learn patience.

Rithvik rose and went downstairs to eat. Dancing had made him hungry.

***

"You can hold a sword," Kerrien had to admit as they retired to sleep in their room at the Heroic Wizard Tavern. "And you can be nice when you want to."

"Do you think they'll give us work?" Rithvik asked, taking off Kerrien's spare tunic. He felt Kerrien's eyes on him, but pretended not to. Take a good look, my beautiful warrior. All this can be yours. You only need to ask. He made a complete turn feigning to look for a place to put the tunic in the small room, then looked at Kerrien again. "I mean, we're in the town militia, no?"

He saw Kerrien gulp as the brown eyes went down and then back up his naked chest. "What?"

"We're hired or not?" Rithvik handed him the tunic.

Kerrien grabbed the cloth and threw it on his travel bag, regaining control.

"They might give us a bounty hunter job. That's what the hunt means," he said quickly, avoiding looking at Rithvik.

"Oh, so like the job that took you to Ker Eziel." Rithvik felt amused by Kerrien's obvious embarrassment. "What if we find another sleeping prince?"

"You get to kiss him and live happily ever after," Kerrien replied promptly. "And that should free me of my obligations to you."

Rithvik's smile vanished. "You really want to get rid of me," he whispered, fidgeting with the string that kept his pants up. "Is it because of Braedick?"

Kerrien narrowed his eyes as he stared at him. Rithvik was too curious by now to shut up.

"I mean, who is he? You said you're a loner, but apparently you have someone, no? Is he important for you? Do you love him? Like, really love him, is that why you don't want to be with me?"

Kerrien looked away and sighed. "It's complicated," he muttered. "Let's get some sleep, shall we?" He took off his tunic and sat on the double bed.

Rithvik tried to ignore the scarred chest. Kerrien was a great sight when half-naked.

"When did you find out you liked men?" Rithvik inquired.

"Pretty early." Kerrien shrugged. "But it was forbidden, so I kept it to myself – until I left and found more open-minded people."

"It wasn't forbidden at Ker Eziel, but I was the king's son and only heir..." Rithvik mused.

"I guess things are different for noblemen," Kerrien grumbled, lying down to sleep. "Or princes."

"Which doesn't mean they're easier," Rithvik replied. "I had my duties and other people's expectations..."

"And you got rid of them," Kerrien replied. "Using magic."

"So? It was common at the time."

"It's not anymore. And in spite of what Veralie says, I think you still have some."

"Is this why you're so wary of me?" Rithvik frowned. "I'd never hurt you!"

He went to lie next to Kerrien, a little worried.

"I was in love, Kerrien," he said. "At my father's castle, I mean. But it was unrequited. My sword-master was gorgeous, but he was married and I never dared tell him. My bodyguard was also very handsome, and I hoped that he'd obey me if I asked him..."

He sighed, staring ahead seeing only the past, the life in the castle he had lost and wasn't really missing – especially not when he lay next to Kerrien.

"But he refused to do your bidding," Kerrien said flatly.

"Yes!" Rithvik brightened. "You understand me so well! I think we're made for each other, if only you..."

"No." Low but threatening. "Stop this nonsense, Rithvik. Good night."

Kerrien rolled on his side and gave his back to Rithvik, blowing out the candle in the process.

Rithvik sighed in the darkness. He had hoped that by opening up he'd push Kerrien to confide in him, but had failed. He wished he could curl up against Kerrien's warmth, but opted for not doing it. He must find out who Braedick was first.

It's complicated. So is our relationship, Kerrien. Complicated. But I love you every day a little more and I wish I could nestle against you and kiss you and...

He rolled to the side, one arm under his head as pillow, the other hand going to his groin to touch and caress. He could almost imagine it was Kerrien doing it. Almost. Very unsatisfactory. But then finally sleep won him.

3. Beautiful Hunter

Kerrien was familiar by now with Captain Theodenzo's small office. He'd worked for the Cinnae militia for almost a year, although it felt like a lifetime ago. There was another captain back then, and Theodenzo was still only a lieutenant.

Kerrien shouldn't have brought Rithvik to a town where he was so well known, but he'd really hoped Veralie could help him get rid of the prince.

He'd heard Rithvik masturbate before falling asleep and had strange dreams afterward, but they were already forgotten in plain daylight. Time to go back to work – or on the road, since the captain had hinted at another kind of job.

"Since we can't really pay you much as town militia, I have other errands for you and your assistant," Captain Theodenzo said. "Whatever you find you can keep. We managed to get rid of Aelud the thief and his gang, but we never found their hideout... And there's still one of them free. He's the watchman of his leader's riches, and he's slowly selling them. Find him, get rid of him and take what you want. I think the son of a bitch even has some magic artifacts in his collection."

"What kinds of artifacts?" Kerrien asked. "And what else has he taken?"

"Coins of all sizes and materials, gems, precious fabrics, weapons... they attacked the caravans of traders that came from the coast and once or twice even attacked the miners and stole their opals. If you find any opals in the loot, those belong to the town. The rest you can keep."

"Sounds good." Kerrien nodded. "Where did you capture them, and where is their hideout, supposedly?"

"Somewhere in the lower slopes of the mountains. We tried to follow the survivor, but he outsmarted us. There must be a cave, but the access is probably hidden or well-defended by that single watchman. He's an excellent archer." The captain went over to a quiver of arrows of different shapes that hung from his shelf of leather-bound reports and picked one. "Here, that's his mark. He makes his own arrows."

Kerrien took the arrow and observed it closely. Rithvik watched, but kept his mouth shut.

"This is a mercenary weapon," Kerrien said, giving the arrow back to the captain. "Where did Aelud's men come from?"

"All over the place, unfortunately. That's why I need you."

Kerrien nodded, determined. He knew the owner of those arrows. He could overcome him on his own. But he could use the "easy" job to train Rithvik.

Soon he was headed for the town gates with Rithvik.

"Do I get a sword, or at least a bow, or not?" Rithvik asked, frowning. The militia hadn't hired them officially, therefore they hadn't given him any weapons.

"Can you use a bow?" Kerrien asked without turning to look at him.

"I'm better with the sword, but..."

Kerrien stopped, took off his sword-belt, put it around Rithvik's waist and resumed walking.

"When we find the loot, I'll let you buy weapons, clothes and whatever you want," Kerrien said. "For now we'll have to split mine."

"Thank you!" Rithvik grinned. "Do you want to give me some of your luggage as well, since I don't have any?"

Kerrien glared at him. "Carry my sword and shut up."

Rithvik shrugged and happily complied.

Kerrien had left his clothes at the Heroic Wizard, but carried weapons and some provisions for the trip. He had a dagger, a knife, and bow and quiver.

"If the loot is rich, I'll buy us horses," Kerrien said as they entered the forest that covered the lower slopes of the mountains. "I assume you can ride?"

"I'm an excellent horseman!" Rithvik enthused. "We'll move faster with horses! I had a war stallion at my father's castle, but I never really used him, since we were at peace... I usually went hunting with a gelding."

"War stallions are expensive and mostly useless for us. Unless we join a company of mercenaries, that is. I don't think you want that, though, do you?" Kerrien glanced at him.

"Uh, no, I'm not too keen on wars. But I like your way of living. The adventure, the hunt for people or goods or..."

"Starving between jobs, not having a permanent roof over our heads..." Kerrien said sourly. Losing friends... lovers... to this endless wandering...

There he was, conflicted and confused. He was almost certain Rithvik wanted to know more about Braedick, but he wasn't going to discuss that. Maybe he should go back after all. With Rithvik. Or maybe not.

The captain of the town militia had given them an idea of where to look. They'd have to sleep in the forest, which wasn't too dangerous in spring. At least there weren't packs of hungry wolves around like in winter. As long as they didn't bother bears and boars, they'd be fine. They could hunt and eat hares, although their fire could give away their position to the watchman.

"I think it's actually a good thing," Kerrien said that night as they set camp in a clearing. "If he comes looking for us, we can force him to tell us where he hides the loot."

"Does he know you?" Rithvik asked.

"I think so... Remember that familiar-looking mercenary who sold Aelaora's bracers to Daira?"

"Glad he didn't give them to Dylira, or I'd have lost that duel," Rithvik commented.

"I think that's the man we're looking for. He was reselling some of the loot. Druxarlo is his name, and he used to be a mercenary, fighting for another commander. We met once or twice during the past fifteen years, sometimes on opposite fronts, and..." Kerrien looked up and grinned. "A very flirtatious man, from what I remember."

"You mean he tried to make a pass at you?" Rithvik asked, outraged.

"No, not at me, he likes blue or green eyes," Kerrien answered, amused. A plan was forming in his head. "And yes, he likes young men."

"What are you saying?" Rithvik glared at him.

"I'm saying you could approach him, and he'd probably take you to his hideout. I'd follow you both, and stop him before he does something to you you might regret..."

"You mean you'll stop him before he lays his hands on me, I hope!"

"Well, he's quite handsome himself, maybe I'll let him kiss you, just in case..."

"You're trying to get rid of me again!" Rithvik almost screamed. "Why? You still think you stumbled upon me by chance? We're meant to be, Kerrien!"

Kerrien put his hand over Rithvik's mouth.

"Hush, Rithvik. We don't want to alarm him. Although, if he hears us fight, it's going to make things easier..."

Rithvik tried to say something behind Kerrien's hand, but it didn't come out very well. He grabbed Kerrien's wrist and shook off the hand.

"I'm not doing what you ask me to do," he repeated in a threatening whisper. "Forget it!"

Kerrien pulled back and smiled. "We'll see."

***

Rithvik held his breath when Kerrien took him in his arms the morning after.

"You want to work with me?" Kerrien asked in his sweetest tone.

Rithvik could only nod, pressed against Kerrien's lower body.

"Then you do what I tell you," Kerrien continued, flashing a smile at him. "Now you go ahead alone, and if you meet Druxarlo..."

Rithvik opened his mouth to protest even though he had trouble breathing, but Kerrien put one finger on his lips.

"You don't have to do anything specific. Just convince him to take you to his hideout," Kerrien said. "If you manage without his touching you, good for you."

Rithvik sighed. "What do I get if I succeed?" he whispered, staring at Kerrien with eyes full of hope.

"Money to buy yourself a new wardrobe, sword, horse and whatever you can think of."

"And from you?"

"Rithvik..." Kerrien chided. "That's all you'll get from me."

A quick peck on the cheek and the mercenary let go of the former prince. Rithvik almost collapsed to his feet with a moan when Kerrien stepped back.

"We'll have to work on the reward system," he grumbled, glaring at Kerrien who chuckled.

"How about what I'll do to you if you fail?" the mercenary suggested with a wicked grin.

"What?"

"Keep you at arm's length for the rest of your life and find someone who rids me of your presence..."

"You wouldn't!"

"I will." Kerrien smiled. "So you better not fail. Now, do you prefer to go unarmed or would you rather keep my sword for the meeting?"

"What am I going to tell him?" Rithvik whined.

"That you got lost in the forest?" Kerrien suggested. "That you fought with your lover and ran away and got lost?"

Rithvik looked daggers at him and stormed off without taking the sword.

Kerrien chuckled and started following him from a distance.

He saw movement, but Rithvik was too lost in thought to notice, so the voice startled him.

"Where are you going, handsome?"

Rithvik stopped, looking around in the undergrowth.

Kerrien hid behind an aspen and waited. He glanced at Rithvik's back and saw Druxarlo coming out from behind a large oak tree. Kerrien scoffed. Druxarlo hadn't changed. Haven't seen him in almost ten years, but there he is, flirtatious as ever with a gorgeous young man...

The former mercenary had medium length brown-black hair and yellow eyes. He was charismatic and was very agile. Strange that he hadn't taken the lead of Aelud's men.

And he wore a sword, which made Rithvik look for his own weapon's handle only to grab air.

"Don't worry, I won't rob you," Druxarlo continued with a smile. "You don't seem to own much anyway."

"True... I don't own anything but myself," Rithvik answered, gaining some confidence while Druxarlo circled around him, looking at him from head to toe.

Kerrien stealthily moved closer to see and hear better. Druxarlo was too taken by Rithvik to notice.

"So where are you headed?" Druxarlo stopped in front of Rithvik with a gleam of lust in his yellow eyes.

"Actually, I think I'm lost," Rithvik looked around, hoping to get a glimpse of Kerrien. "I must admit I wandered without looking where I was going and now... I have no idea of where I am."

"You're close to my shelter," the other said, one hand on the hilt of his sword, the other wandering very close to Rithvik's body. "Would you like to visit it? I have lots of interesting things, including magic artifacts... you move as if you're used to a sword by your side."

"I am, but it was stolen."

"Well, I have a glaive, forged by a forgotten hand that creates solid walls of light... It has been linked to the assassinations of several rulers."

"Really?" Rithvik's interest perked up at the mention of a glaive, that was more from his era than the much longer swords in use now. "Do you know any names? Of the rulers, I mean? Like, how old it is?"

"Oh, it must be centuries old." Druxarlo put one arm around his shoulder and started leading him through the forest. "It was first used in a place called Ker Eziel..."

"Wait, it's made at least partially of bone and the haft is made of oak?" Rithvik stopped to look at the outlawed mercenary, surprised.

"Yes! How do you know?" Druxarlo marveled.

"I really need to see that glaive." Rithvik frowned and resumed walking.

Kerrien kept following them, pondering Rithvik's reaction. The prince had recognized the glaive... Did that mean he was used to magic weapons?

"I also have a war axe, forged by a great villain and emblazoned with a crest," Druxarlo continued. "The grip is twined with bronze wire. It gives the owner perfect dark-vision..."

I'll have to check the artifacts carefully before keeping any, Kerrien thought, cursing under his breath. Maybe there was even some charm that could rid him of Rithvik. He should ask Veralie for advice on anything he found.

He kept following the other two in silence.

They reached the entrance of a cave that was hidden by a stone that could be moved by a complex mechanism.

"Looks like the entrance of a dwarf's cave," Rithvik said, puzzled.

"It probably was, but we've been using it for seven years and haven't explored all the tunnels yet," Druxarlo replied. "There might still be dwarves deep underground, but they never come this way. What?"

Rithvik had stopped in the entrance. "We?" he asked warily.

"Ah, yes, well, there was a bunch of us, but now it's only me," Druxarlo answered with a shrug, signaling him to enter the well-lit tunnel. "It's very lonely sometimes."

Rithvik hesitated, then followed him.

Kerrien squeezed in before the stone closed the tunnel and he stopped in a dark corner to glance into a cavern. It had a few stone buildings, or rather, walls that divided the corners of the cave into sort of rooms, probably to give some privacy to the occupants.

"We built those," Druxarlo explained.

"I can tell it's not dwarves' doing," Rithvik retorted, looking around with distaste. "They don't ruin caves with useless walls."

"They have labyrinths of tunnels connecting to their underground towns and we haven't managed to explore them all," Druxarlo apologized. "And we like some privacy in our quarters. Are you hungry, or just eager to see the treasure room?" he asked, pulling Rithvik closer.

"I'd love to see that glaive you mentioned," Rithvik replied, trying to keep the other man at bay without being rude.

"And what will you do to deserve it?" Druxarlo insisted with a wicked smile.

Rithvik freed himself of Druxarlo's embrace and looked around the cave. There were five tunnels all around it, and only two had torches to light the way.

"No, the way to the treasure room is not lit," Druxarlo said, crossing his arms over his chest and staring mockingly at Rithvik.

"So what's down there?" Rithvik pointed at the other lit tunnel.

"My bedroom. Well, it was our leader's, but since he's no more, I moved there. Would you like to see it?"

"Do you go to sleep with your sword?" Rithvik asked.

Smart prince, Kerrien thought.

The other man scoffed and headed for the bedroom. Rithvik hesitated and went to glance into the tunnel he'd come through. He sighed in relief at the sight of Kerrien who signaled him to be quiet. He nodded and went after Druxarlo.

Again Kerrien followed him, but stopped in a niche by the "bedroom" entrance.

The outlawed mercenary had taken off his sword belt, and he turned around when Rithvik entered the windowless room furnished with a big mattress and a chest for clothes. Not much else around, but the cave was shaped like an alcove. That might be the work of dwarves, who might have used it as a warehouse for small artifacts. It didn't feel cool enough to keep food in, even though it was colder than the spring air of the forest.

"Come here, pretty green eyes... what's your name?"

"What do you need my name for?" Rithvik answered, coming forward.

"I like to know who I sleep with and who I gift with my treasures..."

"I think you won't really gift me with that glaive, but give back what is already mine," Rithvik replied with an impish smile. "I'm Rithvik of Ker Eziel."

Druxarlo's eyes widened. "Impossible! He's been dead for centuries!"

"Asleep," Rithvik corrected. "Will you show me that glaive, so I can decide if it's mine or not? You seem to have quite some loot from Ker Eziel – how come?"

"Some things we found in the tunnels," Druxarlo answered sullenly. "I think the dwarves found them, transformed them into magic artifacts, and then abandoned them again."

"And some things you took from the corpses of your former companions." Kerrien's voice startled them both.

The mercenary came forward with his bow ready to shoot an arrow at Druxarlo's head.

"Kerrien!" The outlaw snarled. "Still working for those assholes in Cinnae?"

"At least I didn't betray my commander and my mates by stealing their bracers and reselling them," Kerrien replied with contempt.

"Aelaora was dead," Druxarlo retorted. "She didn't need them anymore. I didn't betray them, Kerrien, we just joined the wrong faction. Just me and Erek survived that battle. We joined Aelud's men because we had enough of fighting wars."

"And attacking merchant caravans was much more lucrative, I got it," Kerrien commented, sarcastic. "Take us to the treasure room now."

Druxarlo's eyes went quickly from Kerrien to Rithvik's amused smile.

"You're with him?"

"He found me in Ker Eziel," Rithvik answered, grinning from ear to ear.

Druxarlo scoffed and shook his head. "You always get the most handsome, you lucky bastard," he told Kerrien.

"And I'm still better than you at defending what's mine," Kerrien replied.

"What happened to gorgeous Braedick?"

"None of your business."

Druxarlo chuckled. "Two men are better than one, eh, Kerrien?"

"Shut up, Druxarlo!" Kerrien shot the arrow and hit Druxarlo's throat, silencing him forever.

"Kerrien!" Rithvik protested. "How are we going to find the treasure room now?"

"There are only three tunnels," Kerrien answered, relaxing his arms. "And it might still be around here." He went to the chest, but it held only clothes. "Grab yourself some clothes, maybe his will fit you better than mine."

"I don't want a dead man's clothes!" Rithvik protested. "And why did you kill him anyway?"

"He's wanted dead or alive, so dead is he."

"You didn't do it because he was about to tell me who Braedick is, did you?"

Kerrien stared at him and flashed a smile. "Maybe," he whispered. "So? What will you do about it?"

"You're an assassin, not a bounty hunter!"

Kerrien dropped the bow on the bed, took Rithvik's face in his hands and quickly kissed Rithvik's lips, silencing him with his surprise move.

"You succeeded in the mission," Kerrien said then. "Good boy. Now let's find the treasure and get out of here."

"Is that all?" Rithvik shouted as Kerrien grabbed his bow and left the bedroom. "That wasn't even a kiss!"

"That's all you'll ever get from me," Kerrien replied from the access tunnel.

He heard Rithvik scream in frustration, then the prince rushed after him, still fuming.

"We really need to work on that reward system," he said as Kerrien took a torch from the cave's wall and started looking into the darkened tunnels.

Luck had it that the first one they entered had an opening on the side that held the loot from Aelud's robberies. The sight of coins, gems and weapons distracted Rithvik. There wasn't much left, but a war axe stood out as the biggest item in the heap. The glaive Druxarlo had described was under a small coffer of gold coins and it was still attached to its belt.

Rithvik forgot his demands and took the weapon and the belt, that had been partially lacquered white. Parts of the metal had been lacquered brown.

"It's my glaive and my belt..." he said, frowning.

"You're glowing," Kerrien said, picking up a crossbow emblazoned with the symbol of a deity and with a grip of knotted leather.

"Why is everything turned to light?" Rithvik wondered.

"Not all of it." The raspy voice startled both.

From the darkness of the tunnel they could see a short, squat form. Kerrien tried to throw light on it with the torch, but it retreated.

"Spare me your light, Humans. Are you here to take away that stuff and vacate the tunnels?"

"We'll need a cart to take everything away, including the dead body in the other room," Kerrien answered, putting the torch in the farthest corner of the opening, so that it wouldn't disturb the night vision of the dwarf.

"You will have it. Rest here tonight, and tomorrow be gone with everything. But let me tell you a few things about the artifacts here. Rithvik's glaive creates solid walls of light, a reversal of the original spell that created walls of darkness. The belt, traditionally used by great warriors – although the prince didn't have time to earn any honor on a battlefield – now allows the owner to glow and forces him to tell the truth. The war axe, on the contrary, hasn't lost its dark power. It gives the owner perfect dark-vision."

"My father had an axe built by a bad guy?" Rithvik asked.

"If darkness wasn't already present in Ker Eziel, you'd never have been able to conjure Manusia," the dwarf replied.

"How did he do it?" Kerrien demanded, glaring at Rithvik who shrugged.

"They had a school of magic in Ker Eziel," the dwarf said. "Offensive spells, chaos and enchantments were their main teachings. Practitioners were typically very friendly."

"I've noticed," Kerrien commented, sarcastic. "Bordering on too affectionate."

The dwarf chuckled from the darkness. "That school used dance to access power. It was easy to learn, but took dedication to master. Larrelyn never really mastered it, since he was busy with his kingly duties, but apparently his son had a lot of free time, and loved to dance..."

Rithvik blushed under Kerrien's stare.

"What's wrong with liking to dance?" he said defiantly. "There were a lot of dancing celebrations in my father's time! And especially the group dances were awesome!"

"It was a solo dance that conjured Manusia," the dwarf said. "And the rest is history."

"Did you dance at the Heroic Wizard?" Kerrien stared warily at Rithvik who shook his head.

"No, I was exercising," he retorted. But his cheeks were still flushed and he quickly looked away.

Kerrien narrowed his eyes, and then looked towards the shadow of the dwarf again.

"Do you know a way to free me of his presence?" Kerrien asked him.

"No, I'm not familiar with Manusia's spells. You can try to find Belfi, he might be somewhere out there... He might know."

"Thank you," Kerrien said with a nod. "We shall leave in the morning, if you provide us with a cart. Come, Rithvik, let's go back to the main room. I'm hungry, aren't you?"

Rithvik followed him in silence, frowning more than ever.

"So you danced and the demon came?" Kerrien said as they sat down with smoked ham and bread.

"Who is Braedick?" Rithvik replied bluntly.

"You don't answer a question with another question," Kerrien chided.

"I'm sick of your questions! Start answering mine and I'll tell you more about myself."

Kerrien stared at him disapprovingly. "I didn't ask to spend all this time with you."

"Fine, find that Belfi and make him free you of whatever spell ties us," Rithvik retorted, jumping to his feet. He hadn't touched the food, and the emerald eyes were stormy. "I can't weave spells anymore, and I don't know how to free you!"

"You've been awake less than a month," Kerrien said. "You have enough of your new freedom already?"

"Shut up, Kerrien!" Rithvik stormed to the exit tunnel.

Kerrien heard him scream again, then saw him come back, darker than ever.

"We're locked in," he announced, slumping on the floor and hugging his knees.

"I'm sure tomorrow morning the tunnel will be open," Kerrien replied. "Relax, Rithvik, we're fine."

***

When they woke up from their dreamless slumber, they discovered that Druxarlo's body wasn't in the bedroom anymore. Kerrien went to the chest of clothes to dig for extra tunics and breeches for himself. If Rithvik didn't want dead men's clothes, he'd refurbish his wardrobe. But the chest was empty.

They found everything – clothes, loot, some kitchen pottery – on a handcart that waited for them in the main cave, with Druxarlo's body lying on everything as if he were asleep. Every trace of human passage was on the cart and the walls had been taken down, giving its natural look back to the cave that still had a few torches that would soon run out.

"Thank you, dwarves!" Kerrien shouted towards the inner tunnels. The exit tunnel showed the light of day and it was open, as he had imagined.

"They really want to get rid of Humans," Rithvik commented, grabbing one handle of the cart. He seemed back to his happy-go-lucky disposition, as if sleep had taken away his anger.

"Let's go, then."

Kerrien took the other handle, but he had to drag the handcart through the narrow tunnel, with Rithvik pushing from behind. They stopped to catch their breath outside and saw the stone close the entrance of the dwarves' cave system.

"To Cinnae, we'll sell what we can, and keep what we want," Kerrien said. "Push for the first half, I'll do the second."

Dragging a handcart through a forest wasn't easy, but better than carrying all that stuff on their backs. Guards waved them through the gates with bored expressions, obviously aware of their mission. They left Druxarlo's corpse to a funeral parlor on the way, and Kerrien gave away his last coins to take care of the former mercenary.

Then they took the cart to Veralie's house.

"I want her to check all the artifacts," Kerrien said, stopping in the alley where the mage lived. "I don't want to keep anything dangerous. Veralie will take care of the magical items better than any of us."

Rithvik nodded, serious. "We can keep the clothes and some gems to buy food and a normal sword and horses and sell the rest, what do you think?"

He looked worried as he held his glaive tight.

"I think you're right," Kerrien said gravely. "I'll take you to the best blacksmith in Cinnae and get you a glaive like this one – without the magic. What do you say?"

Rithvik's smile blossomed again, and the prince nodded.

"Thank you," he whispered, relieved.

Kerrien smiled and knocked.

Veralie opened the back door to her backyard where she examined everything on the handcart.

"Quite a collection you've found, Kerrien," she said admiringly, after making two different piles of items. She left the silks, damasks, gems, coins and a few more items on the handcart, but put almost all the weapons and a few more things on a bench in her backyard.

"Bandits' loot," he answered. "You can keep the magic items, but I'd like to know something about them, just in case there's something that might be useful to me."

Veralie nodded and picked up a bow that appeared rusted but solid. The shafts had gold fletching.

"This compound bow is usually used by assassins," she said. "It creates walls of ice. It can only be used by females. Therefore, useless to both of you."

Kerrien nodded as she picked up another item – a crossbow covered in bloodstains.

"This crossbow is traditionally used by paladins. The limbs are made of lemonwood. It can conjure up hundreds of lights. It has been used to kill a suspicious number of former owners. Do you want it?"

"No thanks," Kerrien muttered. "We know about the glaive and the axe," he added quickly, seeing she was about to pick up the Ker Eziel spoils. "What about that baldric? It looks innocuous enough to me..."

"This?" Veralie held it for a moment, eyes closed. "This baldric was forged by a great queen to avert a disaster and is perpetually wreathed with flames. The buckles are inset with garnets. It allows the owner to control flames. It requires an invocation to work." She looked at him and shook her head. "I don't see you using it."

"No." Kerrien exchanged a glance with Rithvik who looked even more puzzled than him. "What about the crossbow?"

"It was forged by a great hero to be used by warlords and it enhances the owner's accuracy and gives the owner semi-prophetic dreams. When unclaimed, it will sometimes follow a person around."

"Is it called Rithvik by any chance?" Kerrien joked.

"Not funny, Kerrien," Rithvik muttered. "What about that dagger?"

"The dagger was forged by dwarves to avert a disaster and is heavy and menacing. The grip is knotted green leather. It allows the user to slice and smash stones as if they were butter and prevents its owner from aging. It can only be transferred to a new owner upon the current owner's death."

"I wonder why the dwarves gave us one of their weapons," Kerrien commented.

"Maybe the dwarf who made it is dead." Rithvik shrugged. "Since there are no weapons here, you'll have to use the coins to buy me a sword..."

"We will split the rest, don't worry. Veralie, thank you. You can deal with those artifacts better than us."

Veralie let them go, thanking them for the gifts. Kerrien and Rithvik took the cart with whatever was left to the Heroic Wizard to divide the rest among them. They'd keep the gems and coins and resell everything that would encumber them in their travels – even though they planned to buy horses, they didn't want a pack-horse to carry their stuff.

Kerrien immediately found the satchel of opals among the loot and took it to Captain Theodenzo, while Rithvik stayed in the room to split the coins and gems into two identical piles.

"I just received news of the delivery of the bastard's corpse," the captain said.

"And here are the opals of the town." Kerrien gave him the satchel. "Can you give me the name of a good pawn shop?"

"There's one right behind the main temple."

Kerrien went back to the tavern and found Rithvik sitting on the floor, staring at the two piles of small items. The clothes and shoes were of various sizes, so they had belonged to different people. They'd been thrown into a heap on the bed and Kerrien went to rummage through it, soon copied by Rithvik.

They kept the ones that fit them and hid the gems and coins in the midst of the two batches of clothes. They went out again with the remaining loot and sold it at the pawn shop along with the handcart.

"Let's get your weapons and a couple of winter cloaks, then we can go back to the tavern," Kerrien said. "We'll buy the horses tomorrow morning."

Rithvik smiled and nodded.

"Are we rich now, Kerrien?" he asked.

"Let's say we're covered for at least a few months," Kerrien replied, patting his shoulder. "If you manage not to squander everything during the winter, you might make it to next spring."

"What would I squander the money with?" Rithvik asked.

"I don't know. You're the prince. You're probably used to a more luxurious life than what I have."

"I like your life," Rithvik said. "I look forward to learning more about it..."

Kerrien nodded. That he could do. He was glad Rithvik seemed to have forgotten the reward system. They'd split the spoils in half, which seemed fair. Hopefully the spoiled prince would be content with his new wealth and wouldn't demand other things.

***

The merchant had non-metal armor in a roomy shop with a pleasant-smelling, poorly-lit interior. Chain mail and greaves were neatly piled on tables and seemed to have reasonable prices. The shopkeeper was a big, muscular woman who was overseeing a male apprentice when Kerrien entered the shop.

Several commoners, a female apprentice, a druid and a priest also checked the items while Rithvik looked around with curiosity.

"What kind of armor did you have?" Kerrien asked him.

"Leather armor," Rithvik answered. "Is that what you wear now in battle?" He pointed at chain-mail hauberks that covered a man from head to toe under the helmet.

"Yes." Kerrien could smell the metal and the padded tunic of his war clothing in the shop. "I don't think you need any, unless we enroll in a mercenary company, but I thought you might want to see how we hurt each other these days."

Rithvik smiled. "Doesn't seem much different from my father's time," he said. "Do you think she can send us to a good blacksmith?" His chin pointed at the shopkeeper who turned to them after sending off the male apprentice on some errand.

"Good afternoon, sirs," she said. "I'm Karath. How can I help you?"

"I was wondering if you could direct us to a good blacksmith," Kerrien said. "I see you have good chain-mail armor and you look like you can use a sword yourself..."

"I do," Karath answered proudly. "You can try Shytur, he forges the best blades in Cinnae. His shop is right behind the main marketplace."

"Thank you, Karath. How much for those greaves?" He pointed at a pair for shin that looked as if they dated from Rithvik's times. The metal exterior looked rusty and the padded interior quite used.

"They're cheap. Nobody uses greaves anymore." The woman shrugged. "They were used by light infantry centuries ago."

Kerrien turned to look at Rithvik. "Would you like them?"

"If I were to go to war, I'd be cavalry, not infantry," Rithvik replied, glaring at him.

Kerrien chuckled. "I thought they'd look good with a glaive," he said. "You'd look like an ancient warrior."

"I'd rather look like a contemporary warrior," Rithvik said, averting his eyes and pouting.

Kerrien shook his head. "Thank you, Karath, and sorry for taking your time."

"You're welcome. Tell Shytur I sent you, he might give you a discount."

Shytur had his forge in an alley. Short and muscled, he must be a half-dwarf and his blades were indeed of excellent quality. He nodded at the mention of Karath's name, but didn't smile. A permanent frown seemed to be stuck to his high forehead. He'd shaved his head, but had a neatly trimmed black beard.

"So, what do you want?"

"A glaive or a sword for the young man here." Kerrien pointed at Rithvik who came forward to explain what he was looking for. Kerrien was impressed. The prince knew what kind of weapon suited him. Shytur also looked impressed by the clear instructions.

"I might have what you're looking for," he said grumpily. He led them to a small warehouse next to the forge where all kinds of blunt weapons – from swords to lances and pole-arms – were displayed.

Shytur went directly to a sword of shiny silvery metal and offered it to Rithvik. The prince took it, tried its weight, slashed the air with it, and attempted a couple of fake movements towards an invisible opponent.

Kerrien admired the way he moved. Even when he fought, Rithvik seemed to dance. The famous "sword dance" was probably still taught in his father's times.

"Yes, this will do," Rithvik said at last. "How much is it?"

He glanced at Kerrien when he heard the price. Of course he had no idea if the price was right. Kerrien came forward and looked more closely at the sword. He nodded, giving it back to Rithvik.

"And the scabbard is free," Shytur said, putting the sword in a leather scabbard while Rithvik fished the coins from his purse.

"Is this correct?" he whispered before passing the coins to the blacksmith. Kerrien nodded.

Rithvik walked lightly with a beaming smile once he had his new sword at his side.

"You pay for dinner," Kerrien told him. "I pay for the room."

"Sure." Rithvik's grin didn't falter.

"And before we go to bed I'll give you a lesson on coins."

"Yes, Kerrien. Are we a team?"

"Yes. We split duties and spoils. How does this sound to you?"

Rithvik's smile slowly faded away as he pondered.

"I still think we need to work out the reward system. I'm not happy about how you handled Druxarlo's death," he said at last, as they entered the Heroic Wizard and sat at a corner table for dinner.

"If we're teammates, there's no reward system except what we can earn – jointly," Kerrien replied, amused. "You're not my apprentice or my assistant, so you have my same rights."

"But you're the leader," Rithvik said, frowning in worry.

"I'm older and more experienced, but this doesn't mean you don't have your say," Kerrien said.

Rithvik sighed, staring at the table. "So no more rewards? Not even kisses?"

"I think I gave you way too many kisses for now," Kerrien answered. "We've got work to do. Enough cuddles, all right? We're mercenaries, not puppies."

Rithvik winced but nodded.

"Good boy." Kerrien patted his hand as the maid came to take their order.

4. Beautiful Rider

Rithvik felt like a prince again when he passed through the gates of Cinnae. He was still on foot, since the horse market was outside the walls, but he had clothes that fit him, a travel bag with spare tunics and breeches – and a sword.

The blacksmith had given him a longer blade than his old glaive, but he'd tried the weight and found it perfect. He could get used to modern swords, especially if Kerrien gave him a few lessons.

Before leaving the Heroic Wizard Tavern they'd hidden some gems and coins in the folds of the spare clothes, keeping only a minimum in their purses. Kerrien had become adept at sewing his riches inside his clothes – either hidden pockets or in the hem of tunics and breeches.

Rithvik had tried to do the same, but only managed to prick his fingers with the needle.

"Could I hire someone to do it for me?" he'd asked Kerrien as the mercenary sewed Rithvik's clothes as well.

"If you trust someone," Kerrien had replied without looking up. "That's why I learned to do it myself..."

Kerrien had a point, so Rithvik knew he had to learn. But in the meantime he could show off his rider's skills. He knew about horses and saddles, probably more than Kerrien, and looked forward to traveling on horseback instead of on foot.

They took a road that followed the stone walls of the city to an expanse that was used for the cattle market. Rithvik watched the crowd of peasants and farmers and city dwellers that milled around. The sandy-haired, determined man who was having a discussion with a guard at the entrance of the enclosures. The well-muscled, proud boy who was wearing an odd symbol.

"I like people-watching," he confided to Kerrien as a fair-haired, serious boy riding a mule passed by. "I wonder what they see when they watch me..."

"An apparently foreign, happy young man who is very concerned about his personal space," Kerrien replied without looking at him.

"Huh?" Rithvik stared at him, puzzled. "What do you mean?"

"I mean that besides clinging to me, you don't let anyone else invade your personal space. You look foreign, even though you actually come from the past. And you're happy-go-lucky." Kerrien flashed a smile at him. "So that's how they see you, my fallen prince."

"Oh." Rithvik thought about it, but didn't have time to respond.

They reached a place that sold both horses and riding equipment. The spacious shop built against the stone walls of the city smelled of spices and was noisy and dark. The shopkeeper was a woman who was talking with an apprentice. Customers were some children and a group of foreigners, with plainclothes guards keeping an eye on them.

"Welcome, my name is Meridanth, how can I help you?" the shopkeeper said, turning to them. Rithvik thought she was oddly pale – she probably didn't go out much.

"We would like a couple of horses with riding equipment," Kerrien answered.

"Geldings," Rithvik added. "We want geldings, not stallions."

Meridanth glanced at him, then looked back at Kerrien. "Of course your lordships would never mount a mare," she said, a little sarcastic. "Geldings it will be, then. Come with me."

She pulled up her hood as she exited the shop and took them to the paddock.

"We want good riding horses," Kerrien said. "To travel and to hunt."

Rithvik noticed a gelding with an almost white mane and tail on a black body and went that way. The horse stared at him and when he held out a hand, approached.

"Oh, boy, you're beautiful!" Rithvik murmured, caressing the gelding's neck. "And tame. And I really want you." He turned to Meridanth. "How much for this one?"

He thought the horse was overpriced, but Kerrien immediately started haggling, with little effect. The mercenary chose a brown gelding with a black mane and tail, then managed to get a discount on Rithvik's horse.

"It was overpriced," Kerrien muttered as they followed the shopkeeper back inside to buy the riding equipment. "But it's a nice animal."

"Thank you," Rithvik whispered, grateful. "I wouldn't have known how to haggle anyway!"

"You pull out the coins for your mount," Kerrien reminded him as they looked at saddles.

Rithvik grinned. "Of course..."

He decided to call the horse Sharixen, like his long-lost war stallion. He mounted it and followed Kerrien away from Cinnae.

"Now we'll have to feed them," Kerrien said.

"They can stop and graze... We're not in a hurry, are we?"

"No, but we better give them some real food at night... Paying inns' stables is going to deplete our wealth pretty quickly, though."

"Will we still make it through winter?"

"I think so. And we might find other jobs in the meanwhile."

"Good." Rithvik grinned. "So where do we go now?"

Kerrien pondered.

"I think we should head for Appleyard," he said at last.

"The forest Genn kingdom? It was already gone by my father's time! What do you hope to find?"

"Were there any Genn kingdoms left in your father's time?"

"Not in the territory of the Moren Empire... I think the Genn are all gone. They're hiding somewhere. Like the dwarves."

So you're not getting rid of me by looking up the Magical Races, honey. You'll never find them.

Kerrien cursed under his breath. "We'll go to Salamar for now," he grumbled.

"What's in Salamar?" Rithvik asked. "Some other mage who will tell you she can't help you to get rid of me?"

Kerrien glared at him. "It's a large town of wood and stone, with few gates, built on a river shore. The main craft is weaponsmithing, therefore there's a tavern where all mercenaries meet to exchange stories and find work."

"Oh. So it's, like, your base of operation?" Rithvik asked with genuine curiosity.

"More or less."

The grumpy reply made him think about Braedick. Maybe that was where the guy was. Rithvik decided not to ask this time.

"Will you name your horse?" he asked lightly, changing the subject.

"No, why?" Kerrien answered, jarred.

"I thought it would be nice. Mine is Sharixen."

"Don't grow too attached to it, you might need to sell it at some point..."

Rithvik rolled his eyes and patted the gelding's neck. "You really need to find someone to love, Kerrien," he chided. "I mean, we're teammates..."

Kerrien scoffed. "Feel free to go your way. I don't need an associate..."

You won't get rid of me by being mean, Kerrien... I will seduce you, eventually!

***

Since he was now in totally unfamiliar territory, Rithvik kept his eyes wide open. He asked about the new borders – if any – and political situation of the great plains they were entering at a slow pace.

Their horses were trained for endurance and could cover more miles than both their feet and usual horses, but neither rider spurred them to a trot. The strain on their own bodies while riding long distances was too much, so they kept the daily travels short. If there was no inn in sight, they camped under the stars.

"There is no real road system since the collapse of the Moren Empire," Kerrien explained. "The main towns still standing are well connected, but the rest is falling apart."

Rithvik was glad Sharixen was doing the walking up and down the hills from Cinnae to the plains.

"Will we go to Moriana, eventually?" he asked. "I had heard wonders about the Moren capital."

"It's quickly losing importance, although it's on the same river where Salamar was built. The Ondan cuts the great plains in two and that's where the Genn kingdoms used to meet for their annual fair before the Empire."

"I know that, but I'm wondering why everything Genn is so despised now. I mean, don't you miss them? Their magic and everything?"

"Did you?" Kerrien replied. "You haven't met any either, have you?"

"No, but I always thought that maybe in the future they'd come back," Rithvik said, frowning.

"Obviously not yet." Kerrian scoffed. "Have you figured out how long you've slept?"

"No... maybe some historian can tell us. I remember who the emperor was during my father's reign. Unless you know some history yourself?" He stared, hopeful, at Kerrien who shook his head.

"No, sorry, I don't go beyond my tribe's origins."

"Tribe?" Rithvik asked, surprised.

"On this side of the river it's mostly city-states and some kind of confederation, therefore traveling is almost safe. Bandits won't attack two armed men and the town militia sometimes patrols way beyond the town walls, protecting the villages like that one." Kerrien pointed at a hamlet to their right, but they weren't going to stop there.

Rithvik nodded. "And where are the tribes?" he asked, still curious.

"On the other side of the Ondan it's more no-man's land. Especially to the north, it's just tribes setting up small walled towns and warring with each other. Then there's the Varian and Gallian kingdoms up to the coast that are more well organized. Where I come from... not so much."

"Oh. So you come from a small town."

"They call us barbarians in the bigger towns." Kerrien flashed a smile at him.

Beautiful barbarian, Kerrien! Rithvik grinned. "I find you quite civilized for a barbarian!"

Kerrien laughed. "Maybe because you come from the past... things are changing quickly in towns, but the tribes are probably still pretty much like Ker Eziel used to be."

"Good for me, then... Do you have a map?"

"Yes, here." Kerrien tapped his forehead. "I'm not good with pen and paper, but I have a very good memory and sense of direction, so I never get lost."

"Good," Rithvik said cheerfully. "Because I'm completely and utterly lost! I wouldn't know how to get back to Ker Eziel not even in a hundred years!"

Kerrien chuckled. "There's a university at Raddanmor. Maybe we can find a historian and ask him about the Moren Emperors. Aren't you curious to know how much time has passed?"

"A little," Rithvik admitted. "But I like this brand new world a lot. Even though there's no magic left."

"You had a school of magic at Ker Eziel?"

"Yes. Such schools were everywhere. Human magic, so often not very good."

"And what kind of magic could you do? Besides summoning demons, I mean."

Rithvik rolled his eyes. "I think I summoned Manusia by mistake and could never do it again," he said. "And they never taught me any love spells or things like that. Enchantments, mostly useless, or offensive spells for protection."

"So you're a useless magician, I got it."

"Exactly. I hope you have stopped fearing me."

"Not yet. Did you or did you not try to summon that demon again when you woke up?"

"Yes, I did, but I failed. Maybe I needed to stay at Ker Eziel to succeed... Sorry, but I have no idea of what ties us together or how to free you from this burden."

Kerrien stared at him and he sustained his gaze, serious.

"You should trust me, Kerrien, I'm not trying to hurt you or anything..."

"I know you're not trying to hurt me, but I don't like what ties us. I've had teammates and companions-at-arm, but this is different. It feels forced to me, forced upon me, that's why I'd rather get rid of you. You're a nice guy, Rithvik, but I'd prefer we part ways as soon as you're able to stand on your own in this brand new world, like you call it."

Rithvik looked away and nodded. He gulped his disappointment and kept his mouth shut. He was probably still too dependent on others, but he really didn't want to let go of the handsome rider by his side.

***

They saw the castle towers from a distance, its banners flying in the wind. It looked as if some celebration was going on, and they decided to see for themselves.

"The lord might use a couple more guards if there's trouble," Kerrien said.

Rithvik was curious to see what life was like in castles now, who knew how many years after his father's time. He wasn't going to introduce himself as a prince, but maybe he could pass himself off as a nobleman with a bodyguard.

Or maybe just follow Kerrien's directions and be a guard for once. Except as they got closer to the castle walls and the open gate, his excitement grew.

"They're preparing for a joust!" he said, brightening. "If there's some kind of prize, I could try to earn it!"

"A joust?" Kerrien stared puzzled at him.

"Yes, maybe the lord's son just got knighted and he has to show off his prowess." Rithvik grinned. "You could try to run the quintain if you don't feel like jousting."

"I have no idea of what you're talking about," Kerrien retorted. "I'm not a nobleman, in case you forgot. I'm a mercenary. I go to war. I don't play with weapons."

"Oh. Well, maybe it's time you learn." Rithvik winked and spurred Sharixen to a trot. He'd been the student so far. Might be funny to show something to his grumpy mentor.

Eleven strong, round towers were scattered in a seemingly random pattern, but were connected by giant, vast walls made of light pink stone. Grand windows were scattered here and there around the walls in seemingly perfect symmetry, along with overhanging crenelations for archers.

Plain fields of a type of grass covered most of the fields outside of the castle, adding to the castle's aesthetics. The rocks of the walls were aged and vines and plants grew inside the cracks, but it would last for ages to come.

Rithvik and Kerrien led the horses through the huge gate with hefty metal doors. The castle courtyard was filled with people all around the building walls or leaning out from windows to watch the tournament.

As Rithvik had imagined, it was a celebration for the young lord's knighting, and the use of heavy armors and weapons was limited, putting emphasis on horsemanship.

"You don't have an armor, not even a chain-mail!" Kerrien objected as Rithvik signed up for the the quintain.

"I'll borrow a shield. I'll be fine." He grinned. "I'm sure you could try the quintain too, you're a fine rider after all."

Kerrien wasn't convinced and decided to wait and see what the game was about before committing. Rithvik shrugged and joined the young knight and his elders preparing for the tournament.

Villagers and servants cheered as the dozen knights, both old and new, gathered with their helmets gleaming in the sun, their swords hanging on their left side, their shields brightly colored – and three of them brand new, including Rithvik's, who was the same age as the young lord and his best friend.

Lances ready, the knights opted to run at the quintain instead of jousting. Rithvik clutched his borrowed lance and shield as he waited for the others to make their attempts.

The mannequin mounted on a pivot and armed with a club unsaddled more than one, especially the younger and less skillful. But Rithvik won by striking the wooden post cleanly with his lance, avoiding being hit by the revolving arm.

"Well done, young man, you can teach some tricks to my son, here," the lord of the castle said, as the knights bowed in front of his covered stall. "What did you say your name is?"

"Rithvik of Ker Eziel," he answered proudly.

"Welcome to Castle Tobran, Rithvik of Ker Eziel. I'm Lord Tybalt and this is my son Ulric."

The young man nodded without smiling after being defeated on his knighting day. Rithvik couldn't blame him for not being happy. I shouldn't have stolen his victory, his father's knights were letting him win, but... He hadn't had so much fun in a long time.

It was lunch time by now, and everybody was heading back to the great hall for a banquet celebration. Kerrien looked impressed by his prowess.

"That's a dangerous game you play, you could have been hurt," the mercenary said as they washed their hands before sitting at the long tables, where food and wine abounded. A minstrel sang in the background, unheard.

"You go to war, you could be killed," Rithvik replied. "Like the dwarf said, I haven't been on a battlefield yet and the only honor I could gather is in tournaments like this one."

"You noblemen have weird habits." Kerrien shook his head, sitting on a bench at the end of the long table.

"Sir Rithvik!" Lord Tybalt called, signaling him to come and sit closer to him and his family.

"Come with me," Rithvik whispered, patting Kerrien's shoulder.

"You go ahead, I'm uncomfortable in castles."

"Kerrien!" Rithvik protested in a low voice. "Come on, we're a team!"

"Not right now, we're not. Go sit with the lord, that's where you belong."

Rithvik glared at him, but obeyed. Kerrien was hoping he'd find a new home in the castle, probably. I'm not going to move in with strangers – especially not after beating the young lord at the quintain!

The banquet reminded him of his father's feasts, although there was no roasted boar. Forests were quickly vanishing as they headed for the Ondan, leaving the plains quite destitute in Rithvik's eyes. Yes, there were meadows and orchards, but he preferred trees that hosted all kinds of animals. Venison tasted better than chicken or cow.

He was given a room at the castle for the night, but when he saw Kerrien head to the stables, he just followed him.

"I thought you'd enjoy a real bed and the company of your peers," Kerrien grumbled as they lay down on the hay in a corner of the stables.

"No, I don't enjoy their company," Rithvik replied. "I had fun at their tournament, but this doesn't mean I want to stay here."

Kerrien sighed. "Fine. We'll get back on the road tomorrow morning."

"How is your hometown? Like this castle?"

"Slightly bigger. There's the castle, but there's also other buildings inside the walls. And I got away from it."

"Yes, I understand small towns or castles are not for you. You like to get lost in big towns."

"I don't get lost. Ever."

Rithvik rolled his eyes. "Lost in the sense that you mingle with a lot of people," he said. "You like crowds."

"You can be alone in crowds if you want to." Kerrien shrugged. "And it's easier to hide in populated places."

"Hide from what?" Rithvik asked, puzzled.

"Friends, enemies, yourself..." Kerrien sighed. "Good night, Rithvik."

Rithvik stared at the wooden ceiling of the stables without seeing it for a long time as the day replayed in his mind. The quintain. The banquet. Kerrien's grumpiness.

He rolled on his side to look at Kerrien's shadow to his left.

"Kerrien, are you awake?" he asked.

"Of course," Kerrien snapped. "You're the dormouse."

Rithvik chuckled. "You know I earned five gold coins at the tournament?" he said. "That was the prize for winning the quintain."

Rithvik felt Kerrien's warmth move closer as the mercenary rolled over to face him in the dark stable.

"Really? Then you pay for the next meal."

"Done deal!"

Rithvik imagined Kerrien's smile and grinned. He lay on his back and closed his eyes, drifting off to sleep.

***

Raddanmor was very large. It had wooden walls with weak gates and had been built around three main roads. The walls were not really defensive, but since it was in the middle of the plain, it was hard to take it by surprise.

"It's a trading town, nobody would dream of plundering it," Kerrien explained as they approached one of the gates. "Their textile and dyes are exported throughout the plains and to the kingdoms even beyond the River Ondan. The city is famous for its city parks and gardens as well."

"And they are a city-state?" Rithvik asked.

"Yes, they have several elected officials, but lots of scandals. The corruption level is average and as you can see the town is expanding beyond its walls."

Rithvik saw that at irregular intervals – probably near the weak gates – buildings were sprawling. Stone and timber, like the ones inside.

"Where do they get all the wood from?" Rithvik wondered.

Kerrien scoffed. "I'm sure that in your father's time there were a lot more forests around here. They've been cut down to make room for fields and meadows. That's another difference between this side of the Ondan and the other. Here they're becoming gatherers, we're still mostly hunters."

"Oh, I see!" Rithvik brightened. "Then yes, I guess you're more similar to what I'm used to! We were also great hunters and we'd never cut trees, unless for our hearths in winter! Where would the deer and boars go? What would we eat?"

"Exactly." Kerrien grinned. "You can have your roasted boar with baked potatoes when we get to Salamar. They still have it over there, it's on the menu at the mercenaries' tavern."

Rithvik was speechless for a moment. Kerrien remembered what he'd asked to eat when he'd just woken up? Maybe the mercenary was getting used to him, maybe even growing fond of him...

"Thank you," he said as they reached the gate and the bored guards who just waved them through.

The nearest tavern with stables was halfway across town. The Wishing Lamb was large and its rooms half vacant. They found a medium-sized room available with two cots – although Rithvik would have preferred a double bed, but he was tired from days in the saddle or sleeping in barns or on the bare ground, so he didn't complain.

Since sunset was fast approaching, Kerrien and Rithvik opted for a good night of sleep before going to the university. They dropped their travel bags in the room and went back to the almost totally filled main room to order something to eat.

"Aren't the drinks a little overpriced?" Rithvik asked as they sat in the common room, checking what was available for dinner.

"And of poor quality," Kerrien answered. "But the food is decent and low-priced."

As they waited for their meal, Rithvik looked around. There were a few shady characters and almost none of the patrons was openly armed. Only half of the dark corners were occupied and everyone seemed to avoid the scar-covered bard that was playing good music on his lute.

"Don't start dancing in the middle of the room," Kerrien warned playfully as the maid brought them the food.

"I'm too tired to dance," Rithvik answered with a sigh. "Not to mention the sore muscles from the saddle..."

His inner legs and buttocks had taken the greatest amount of punishment, but his lower back, calves, knees and hips had also felt the strain. He wished he could lie down and have someone massage him to sleep.

"Is it possible to hire someone for a massage?" he asked, hopeful.

"Everything is possible, if you can pay," Kerrien replied. "But it's a luxury. Listen, if tomorrow you're still sore, we'll go to the public baths and also request a massage. Tonight just try to get some sleep on that mattress, all right?"

Rithvik nodded with a sigh. He could see Kerrien's point. He'd have to take out some coins from the hem of his spare tunic to pay for his stay in Raddanmor already...

One hour later he was fast asleep.

***

The next morning, after breakfast, Kerrien asked a muscular, bored man who was leaning against the wall just outside of the Wishing Lamb which way the university was. Rithvik listened to the directions but wouldn't have been able to follow them. Kerrien thanked the man and headed the pointed way.

"Did you understand where it is?" Rithvik asked, a little worried.

"Yes, I know this town, I've just never been to the university," Kerrien answered.

"Oh, so you knew what he was talking about." Rithvik felt relieved.

"Are you sore today?" Kerrien asked him. "The public baths are on the other side of town, so... what do you want to do first?"

Rithvik pondered as they reached a square. "We didn't bring spare clothes," he said as a very skinny, indecisive old man who was rambling incoherently passed by them. "Maybe we could go this afternoon? So if today is as hot as it looks it's going to be, we can cool down in the pools, shave and have a massage?"

"Sounds like an excellent plan." Kerrien grinned as a redheaded, confused young woman rushed by them, chasing a small child. "The university is that way."

Rithvik followed him, happy to have said the right thing. He wasn't sure he'd gotten the hang of Kerrien's life yet, but he was obviously making progress. He thought he'd love to be an adventurer and a mercenary for the rest of his life – as long as he could stay with Kerrien, of course.

I'd be lost without my beautiful mentor, he thought.

He'd understood by now that the tough exterior was just a mask, a protection and defense for a man who had no place to call home. Even though he hadn't named it, Kerrien was kind to his horse. And he seemed to like stray cats.

"How come?" Rithvik asked after a proud tabby left after purring under Kerrien's hand for a moment, making the prince wish he was that cat.

"I'm a stray cat myself," Kerrien answered, rising to resume walking. "Not a cat person, my prince?"

"My mother had a small company dog," Rithvik answered, thoughtful. "My father had hunting hounds. There weren't many cats at Ker Eziel."

He pondered the affinity between Kerrien and stray cats. Maybe he'd become one too. Although he felt more like a puppy dog, wanting one master to feed him and protect him and... I'm not a dog, I'm a man! And so is Kerrien! I should stop likening us to animals!

The university of Raddanmor looked enormous to him. It was designed in a style that had plenty of square buildings with porticoes. A real campus around a main courtyard and a small temple.

"Overall the school has an excellent reputation, which may not entirely be deserved," Kerrien said as they looked for the History department. "They have some kind of magic classes as well, and recently, a member of the scrying club was expelled for inappropriate scrying."

"So maybe we could just ask them to check their crystal balls," Rithvik commented.

"They see the future, not the past," Kerrien reminded him.

The head of the History department was a middle-aged man with a very short, broad build and large ears. Kerrien asked him about the history of the Moren Empire and the guy started a dissertation on the book he'd written about the Moren Emperors.

"It's all in here, young man," he said, showing off a big, leather-bound manuscript. "You should really read it."

"I can't read," Kerrien snapped.

I can, if the alphabet hasn't changed, Rithvik thought. Maybe he could teach something to Kerrien in return for the life lessons.

The professor shook his head, disgusted, but grinned at the sight of Kerrien's silver.

"So what can you tell us of Diamond II?" Rithvik asked, frowning at the sight of money changing hands. "When did he live?" He was glad Kerrien hadn't mentioned Ker Eziel at all. Besides, they were probably too far from his father's castle by now for the scholar to know anything about it.

"Diamond II?" The man scratched his head and pondered. He did not-so-quick calculations, helping himself with his fingers. "He reigned from 193 to 226 of the Moren Empire that fell in 275... which was a hundred and twenty-five years ago."

"So that's about two hundred years ago," Kerrien said while Rithvik was still struggling with the numbers. "Thank you, sir. You've been very useful."

"You can't read, but you're good with math," the scholar complimented him.

"One needs math to survive," Kerrien replied. "I'm a mercenary and a freelance, of course I know how to count."

Which made sense. Except maths was never Rithvik's strong point. He sighed as they got out of the university buildings.

"I didn't know you couldn't read," he told Kerrien. "I was wondering why you asked to speak with teachers instead of heading for the library."

"Nobody is perfect," Kerrien shrugged.

Rithvik fished for silver coins.

"How much did you give him? I must refund you..."

"Don't worry, Rithvik, it's on me." Kerrien waved the offer away. "I am curious about your story and since I can't read, I'm willing to pay to hear more about the past."

"I can teach you to read if you want, but I'm much slower than you at counting..."

"And who knows what happened to your mind during your two centuries' sleep," Kerrien commented.

"I've had dreams... I lost sense of time, I guess..." he muttered.

Then the number hit him. Two centuries! How did they fly by so fast?

"And you were so eager to leave your duties, you're not even shocked by what you call a brand new world," Kerrien commented. "I'd be scared shitless if it happened to me."

"Well, you'd find a strong warrior to teach you everything like I've done," Rithvik said with a shaky voice and a trembling smile.

The numbers were really sinking in now. Not that he wanted to go back, but still... Everyone he'd known was long dead. Whatever he had known was long gone.

He felt butterflies in his belly and stopped. He wanted to throw up his breakfast.

"Are you all right?" Kerrien asked, worried. "You're very pale."

"I'm fine," he whispered. "Just thirsty."

The sun was up and hitting him in full. Kerrien dragged him to a stall of cold drinks and forced him to sit down before heading for the counter. Rithvik felt dizzy now.

Kerrien sat next to him and helped him to drink a blue potion with multicolored bubbles served in a mug. It smelled frightening, but tasted excellent.

"It's a minor local legend," Kerrien said. "It's the perfect cure for heat stroke. If that's what you had."

Rithvik was feeling better already. He noticed the stall was in front of a shop specializing in protective magic items, that also provided magical constructs, spell wands and scrolls.

"Do you want to go inside?" Kerrien suggested.

Rithvik nodded, feeling his strength coming back. The shop interior was sparsely decorated and quiet. Occupants included a few adventurers, an entertainer and a paladin. The shopkeeper was female and slightly overweight. She had ruddy skin, short strawberry-blond hair and laugh lines.

She sneezed as they reached the counter.

"Good morning, gentlemen. I'm Elanar, how can I help you?"

"We're looking for protective charms," Kerrien answered while Rithvik looked around. The cramped shop looked almost like the one attached to the school of magic of Ker Eziel with its scrolls, wands and magic objects around.

Elanar directed them to the charms display. Rithvik watched and touched a few, until he found a white pine charm carved with words and a fire within a pentacle on the front and back. He felt power in the wood and the carvings and decided that was the one for him.

Kerrien scoffed at his choice. "Fire and pentacle... I thought you had enough of summoning demons," he said while Elanar gave them leather thongs to hang their purchases around their necks.

"What did you get?" Rithvik asked, ignoring the comment.

Kerrien showed him a very small rowan charm with a window and a pair of gauntlets painted on the front "because I'm a mercenary" and a paw print and a ring carved on the back "because I'm a hunter" as Kerrien explained.

"Nice." Rithvik had completely recovered and his stomach grumbled. "Should we eat first or go to the baths?"

"Let's get our spare clothes at the inn, and we'll go from there," Kerrien answered as they left Elanar's shop.

***

They spent three nights in Raddanmor, then saddled their horses and went on the road again. Rithvik had enjoyed the luxury of the public baths and had found a stall that served excellent food close to the inn, but Kerrien said they needed to get moving again. There was no job in town for them, and their money was spent quicker with the stable and inn and food and other city expenses.

"So were you a nomad from the beginning, or did you become one?" Rithvik asked as the walls of Raddanmor vanished behind them.

"I became one when I left. That's the mercenary life, Rithvik. Moving around looking for work or exploring new lands... Being a hunter, I'm also a good tracker, hence the bounty and treasure hunts."

"So you became an adventurer."

"Yes, and I like it."

"I thought I'd like it too, but..." Rithvik sighed. "I enjoyed town life more," he admitted sheepishly.

Kerrien smiled. "I can't blame you. You had quite a castle in your time... but if you want to stop somewhere, you need to find a steady job and then a house and then... it's not that easy. I've been trying to settle for some time now."

Rithvik nodded, thoughtful. Might have something to do with that Braedick. He'd lost interest in the topic, though. As long as Kerrien allowed him to follow him, he wasn't going to worry about supposed rivals.

He touched the charm on his chest, wondering if it would help, one way or another. He was less optimistic now that he had realized how long he'd slept, and he felt shy and even slightly grumpy at the thought of making new friends. He only wanted to curl up against Kerrien and listen to his war stories – or whatever he'd been doing so far.

The rest of the day was quiet and uneventful. Rithvik felt more like crying than singing. As they camped under the stars that night, Kerrien finally broke the silence.

"Are you all right, Rithvik?" Kerrien asked, roasting the hare he'd killed a couple of hours earlier. "You've been so quiet all day..."

"I've been thinking, remembering," Rithvik said.

"Missing your past? Did you have friends?"

"I was the prince heir, I wasn't supposed to befriend anyone," Rithvik said, staring at his feet. "Everyone was below me, except my father..."

"No wonder you felt lonely," Kerrien commented, shaking his head.

"Do you have friends? Family?" Rithvik asked. He was eager to hear how a common man lived, since that was his new life. What was it like for someone who wasn't isolated by his name and title?

"Yeah, I have a family, but I haven't seen them in years. I was fifteen or so when I left Caer Nittak and haven't heard from them since," Kerrien answered flatly.

"What happened, why did you leave?" Rithvik frowned with worry. "Did you not get along with them or...?"

"We got along just fine." Kerrien shrugged. "Well, as fine as a big family in a small house can go. My father was in the retinue of the town lord, Elan Albright. Not noble enough to live at the castle, but wealthy enough to have weapons and armor for him and his sons."

"How many children?" Rithvik's eyes widened in wonder. He had two older sisters and a little brother that hadn't survived infancy.

"Seven survived into adulthood. The Albright had nine, but there were twins... Novak and Axel were my age, both blond and blue-eyed and identical so they liked to switch places and confuse people." Kerrien chuckled at the memory. "I could tell them apart, though."

"Such big families!" Rithvik said, awed.

"The Cadwaller also had seven surviving children, again with twins," Kerrien continued. "But at some point Elan Albright chased Jehan Cadwaller and his family from Caer Nittak."

"Why?"

"Apparently Jehan's son, Ryan, had stolen a kiss from Kolia Albright, who was betrothed to my elder sister Shaina. Like I told you, same-sex love was forbidden, so the Cadwaller were exiled. They went to Mameth Anak, on the Lake of the Horses, and Jehan befriended the lord of that town. Four years later they came back in full force with an army and defeated the Albright, taking control of Caer Nittak, a messy civil war that made me decide it was time to leave."

"So your first love was one of the Albright boys?"

"Not really... I was experimenting with the twins. But when the Cadwaller came back... I just left. I had enough of that little walled town and its people. I didn't feel welcome anymore. Salamar was bigger and more varied and yes, they called me a barbarian at first, but I learned quickly."

"Did you find a mentor or something?" Rithvik asked. The story was fascinating.

"No, I just enrolled in a company of mercenaries," Kerrien answered. "Started making new friends. Working together made us bond. The veterans took care of the younger ones. Then the captain was killed and we split. I kept wandering. By then I was a veteran too – I was twenty, with one campaign under my belt... I changed company or worked on my own – that's when I met Druxarlo, although I didn't stay with that band for long."

"Why not? Was he trying to seduce you?"

"I'm not his type, I told you. He was after my then-boyfriend."

"Would that be Braedick?"

"Yeah... and I'm not discussing him."

"You must love him very much," Rithvik whispered, disappointed.

He felt a lump in his throat. He couldn't fight an invisible rival. He'd never seduce Kerrien.

"I told you, it's complicated." Kerrien offered him some meat. "Now eat."

Rithvik gulped and accepted the food. But he didn't feel relieved.

He better learn to hide his feelings. Kerrien wasn't going to be attracted by his tantrums.

I'm not a prince anymore. Maybe I should have accepted my destiny two centuries ago...

It was too late to change things.

5. Beautiful Lover

Kerrien had to admit that Rithvik was a skilled swordsman and a great rider. He had the right muscles and knew the right moves. He could ride for miles without complaining. He could read and write. Maybe not everything was lost for the fallen prince. He could earn a living as a mercenary. Maybe even thrive better than Kerrien ever did.

After discovering how long he'd slept, Rithvik lost some of his cheerfulness. He spoke less and asked questions about the mercenary life. He requested lessons for things he didn't know how to do – like sewing or shaving – and was a quick learner, much like Kerrien had been when he'd left his war-torn hometown.

One month constantly together, and Kerrien was getting used to Rithvik's presence. The new melancholy of the fallen prince made him even more beautiful and the green eyes seemed to ask Kerrien always the same thing, When do we get intimate, my grumpy mentor?

Kerrien felt uneasy under that stare. He hoped that at Salamar he could find a magician or a wizard who could free him of his burden. He knew about a magic user who had paired with former Caer Nittak prince Kolia Albright – the brain and the brawn.

Kerrien had seen them in the streets of Salamar during the years, but had never really tried to talk to his sister's betrothed. He'd always wondered how Kolia had escaped from Caer Nittak, but had assumed it was thanks to Joris's magic powers.

Maybe Joris could help him to find Belfi or get rid of Rithvik with his magic that escaped Kerrien's comprehension. He still couldn't understand how he'd awakened the beautiful sleeper and wondered if Rithvik was really, truly innocuous now, magic-wise. The prince had admitted to attending a school of magic, but hadn't shown any magic skills so far.

Rithvik became a little bolder every day. Even though they'd settled for a "we're on the same level, so no reward system" mode, the prince still looked as if he wanted something every now and then. Kerrien had always been shy on compliments and wasn't going to start making them now. He'd seen too many lecherous men and women who spent their lives kissing asses and lying.

Even though sometimes he really wanted to kiss Rithvik's gorgeous ass, he wasn't going to turn into a groveling servant. Rithvik was slowly shedding his royal pride and Kerrien thought he was becoming an even more dangerously charming man.

When they were only one day away from Salamar, as they camped under the stars, Rithvik nestled against him to sleep, and Kerrien couldn't push him away. He kept falling asleep with the prince and that night he dreamed of them together in a wonderful castle. They were surrounded by gorgeous male servants and nobody glared at their obvious love.

He woke up with that warm body against his and met the adoring stare of the green eyes.

"Morning," Rithvik whispered in the first light of dawn. "Before we reach the big city, can we have sex?"

In spite of the almost sexual dream – or maybe because of it – Kerrien was jarred by those words.

"Why do you have this obsession?" he protested. "I'm your mentor, your caretaker, now you want me even as a lover? When will your demands cease?"

"I'm not demanding it, I'm asking," Rithvik replied.

It dawned on Kerrien why Rithvik didn't want to be king.

"You didn't want your father's throne because you didn't want to get married," he said.

Rithvik grinned and blew him a kiss. "And that's why I love you so much. You read me like a book! And you can't read books, but you understand me and..."

"Shut up, Rithvik! I'm not reading anything, you're just too obvious!" Kerrien sat quickly, disentangling himself from Rithvik's embrace. "Why didn't you tell your father instead of calling for demons? Did you still worship the Queen of Darkness back then?"

"No, she was long dead already..." Rithvik sighed and yawned, stretching on the hooded cloak spread like a blanked under him.

"Then who taught you how to summon demons? Why did you feel the need to summon one? Couldn't your people tell from your face you didn't want any of that?"

"You know, he's her son," Rithvik said, avoiding the questions.

"Who?" Kerrien couldn't follow the prince's train of thought, but he knew it wasn't an answer to any of his questions.

"Manusia. He's Norina's son. He's the king of darkness since her demise. He's very lonely. So was I." Rithvik shrugged. "My people and my family didn't really see or understand me. He said he had the same situation with his relatives. I guess we found each other." He looked at Kerrien. "And then he sent you to me."

"Why me?!"

Rithvik sat and hugged him. "Because you're the sweetest and strongest man that ever lived and you kissed me awake."

"Damn that day and your awakening!" Kerrien pushed him away.

"You wouldn't have found me if you weren't meant to be," Rithvik said.

"But why me?"

"Maybe because you're as lonely as I am."

"I'm not lonely. I'm a loner. It's different," Kerrien snapped. "Now let's go. We're almost at Salamar. You can sleep in a real bed tonight."

"Only if you're in it," Rithvik replied with an impish smile, making him snort in exasperation.

***

The wood and stone walls of Salamar looked the same. Through the years, the layout of the town hadn't changed much. Kerrien's heart started beating faster as he passed the city gates. Rithvik was quiet, which allowed him to think and remember, and he didn't really want that. Not yet. But he'd been avoiding the town for too long. It was time to go back and settle matters for good.

"There should be a stable nearby," he muttered. "The Sterling Star Inn doesn't have stables."

"But they serve roasted boar?" Rithvik asked.

Kerrien smiled, relaxing a little. "Yes, they do. We'll sleep at this other cheaper place where they can take care of our horses, but we'll have our meals at the Star."

The stable owner rented rooms over the horses' stalls, but didn't serve any meal. Kerrien and Rithvik left their mounts with the stable boy and took their travel bags to a small room that had windows opening onto a quiet alley.

It had two single beds and a basin for shaving. A closet with a seat allowed one to relieve oneself without going to the outhouse.

"That's a luxury," Rithvik commented, impressed. "We've had buckets in the room so far."

"This closet discharges at the back of the stables, where they throw the horses' shit," Kerrien explained. "It's been built for comfortable sleep of rider and mount."

"Are there rooms at the mercenaries' tavern as well?"

"No, at the Star it's impossible to sleep," Kerrien said. "Are you hungry yet?"

Rithvik nodded and followed him to the large tavern close to a big square. The main room was crowded as usual, with average noise and most patrons openly armed. As they entered, a minor brawl exploded in a corner, quickly subsiding in a roar of laughter.

"Probably drunk mercenaries," Kerrien commented, sitting at a central table and looking around the room in search of Joris's blond mane. He couldn't see him, but maybe it was early still.

"Kerrien, long time no see!" The female voice startled him.

"Long time indeed, Eviana," he answered, focusing on the maid who flashed an impish smile at him. "Do you have the boar tonight?"

"We sure do, but I thought your favorite dish was the stuffed partridge."

"You have excellent memory," he replied, impressed. "Yes, that's what I'll have, the boar is for my friend, here." He waved towards Rithvik.

"With baked potatoes?" the prince asked, staring at Eviana, hopeful. "Filled with cheese?"

"Of course, my lord," she answered after giving him the once-over. "Why are all the best men taken?" she bemoaned. "Ale or water?"

"Water is fine for now, Eviana, thanks. We've come a long way, and we only want a good meal and to get some sleep – in separate beds."

"I'll be with you shortly," she said swirling around and heading for the kitchen.

"She thinks we're a couple?" Rithvik asked, puzzled.

"Obviously," Kerrien grumbled, looking away. "She's smart, but she sees same-sex couples everywhere. Male lovers – she's obsessed with them."

"So you know her well?"

"Eviana has been working here forever. She's the owner's daughter... She knows everyone."

"And there are many same-sex couples in this city?"

"Yeah, they're common among mercenaries. But don't get any strange ideas, will you?"

Rithvik nodded, but averted his eyes with a little smile. Kerrien really hoped he wouldn't try anything that night.

Eviana came back with their food and a jug of water.

"Is Joris in town?" Kerrien asked her, knowing how fond she was of the blond magic user.

"Ah, no, I don't think so," she answered, frowning. "Kolia vanished and he's gone after him."

"Seems like Kolia has made a habit of vanishing," Kerrien muttered.

"But you might want to wait in town – the queen is expecting again and is due any day now," Eviana continued. "I'm sure Kolia and Joris will come back for the event! After all, they took her to King Conon's court... Just imagine, we have a blind queen now!"

And Eviana left to tend other tables.

"So who is this Joris you spoke about?" Rithvik commented between bites. "Mmm, this is really delicious, like the ones that came out of my father's kitchens!"

"Kolia Albright's lover. They're both mercenaries." Kerrien was still a little puzzled and the smell of the stuffed meat wasn't enough to entice him to eat.

"I thought Kolia was supposed to marry your sister. But you say he's with a man?"

"Yeah. I told you there was no room for same-sex couples back home."

"Mmm, it's the guy who was kissed by the other guy so the civil war happened, right?"

"Yeah, obviously Kolia wasn't that innocent after all. Maybe he had something going on with Ryan Cadwaller, but his father found out and kicked them out."

Maybe he'd never know what actually happened at Caer Nittak. Or to Kolia and Joris. Maybe he didn't care. After all, he had never spoken to them even though he knew where they lived. Maybe he should just stay in Salamar. Or leave again for an unknown destination. Possibly without Rithvik.

"You know, the king of Salamar was under a spell and slept a hundred years," he told the prince. "I think the guy the dwarf mentioned, Belfi, was involved... something about Conon being a naughty prince heir and put to sleep to purge him of evil... sounds familiar?"

"Oh, and you worked for a guy who consorted with demons?" Rithvik teased.

"I never worked for King Conon!"

Rithvik chuckled and winked. "And then he married a blind girl. I wonder if they'll have blind babies..."

"They already have a daughter and she's not blind," Eviana said, passing by with a tray of food for another table.

"Maybe you could read me his story," Kerrien said, staring at Rithvik who was eating his roasted boar greedily. "Maybe the spell he was under is similar to yours..."

"So who kissed him awake?" Rithvik's voice was slightly sarcastic.

"I have no idea. I only know that he awoke more than ten years ago. That's when I heard about Joris. And Belfi." He pondered. Maybe Belfi would visit King Conon for the birth of his second child. Maybe he didn't need Joris. Maybe Belfi would soon be in town anyway.

Rithvik was glaring at him. "You're trying to get rid of me again."

"Rithvik, we're not meant to be. Of course I'm trying to get rid of you. Why would I come back to a place that I avoided for years if I didn't know there are powerful magic users here?"

"And why did you avoid it? Because of your prince's presence or because of that Braedick guy?"

"Rithvik, I'm not discussing Braedick with you! And what I did with my life is none of your business! I'm not going to spend it with you anyway, so stop asking!"

"Why are you doing this? I'm not a demon!"

"No, you only summoned a demon so he'd make you sleep and wake up when you wouldn't have to get married anymore," Kerrien retorted.

"Why are you so mad at me?" Rithvik's pout got on his nerves. "Why did you..."

"Don't!" Kerrien pointed a threatening finger at the prince. "Don't ever mention that goddamn kiss!"

"You didn't like it? Because I did..."

"I don't care! I don't want to be your lover! I don't want to be your caretaker either! Why don't you grow up and take responsibility for your actions? How old are you anyway?"

"Twenty-two," Rithvik grumbled, eyes low.

"At twenty-two I had already done two campaigns and was an accomplished warrior. I've been on my own for fifteen years, Rithvik, I'm not leaning on anyone – mentor or other!"

"But you are stronger and wiser and awesome and..."

"Don't do the love talk. I'm not your lover. Stop right now."

Rithvik sighed. "But I want to be with you. You never married either. It must mean something..."

"It means I'm a loner, Rithvik. It means I'm fine with myself. I like sleeping alone. I need my space. And I'm quite sick of your company. But until you let me go, I won't be able to leave you. With special thanks to your demonic lover."

He looked away, hating himself for the harsh words. Sour words. But they were true. That much he had figured out. Until he convinced Rithvik to let him go, he wouldn't be able to leave him.

"Are you done?" he muttered. "I'm not hungry anymore, and I need to rest."

Rithvik nodded. He had almost emptied his plate, but Kerrien's was still half full. His stomach was closed shut, though, so he downed a goblet of water and rose. He signaled Eviana and paid for their dinners, then he headed outside. The tavern felt too hot and stuffy all of a sudden.

Rithvik's fingers grabbed his hand as soon as they were out in the darkened street. He heard the prince sigh and turned around. The yellow light of the Star's lamps coming from the windows of the tavern bathed Rithvik's clean-shaven face making him look golden. The green eyes were filled with tears. Rithvik's lower lip trembled.

"Now don't... Grownups don't cry, Rithvik!"

The prince sniffled. "I'm sorry. I don't want to try your patience, but... I really need you!" He whined softly.

"Stop crying, for the gods' sake!" Kerrien squeezed Rithvik in a bear hug, then let him go, holding him at arm's length.

Rithvik's lips trembled into a smile. "You don't hate me?"

"I don't hate you, Rithvik, but stop behaving like a spoiled prince. You can't afford it anymore."

"All right." Rithvik straightened and sniffled one last time. "I'm not crying."

"Good boy." Kerrien patted his cheek and let him go. "Let's go."

Time to get some sleep before looking around the town for magic users. Or memories. Or both.

***

The next morning they went together to the public baths. Kerrien didn't mind bathing in rivers, but he appreciated the luxury of warm water and soft soaps. And the sight of other naked men – especially Rithvik who was the most handsome.

Rithvik shaved alone for the first time and proudly grinned when Kerrien nodded his approval. The adventurer had to refrain from kissing the beautiful face beaming with happiness.

Being back in Salamar gave him mixed feelings. He almost called the town home by now, but there was both the good and the bad here. It was big enough to vanish in its varied crowd, which was sometimes a good thing, sometimes bad.

At the moment it was good. He wouldn't want any of his mercenary friends to see him drooling over his gorgeous companion.

When they left the baths, Kerrien showed Rithvik around a little, thinking of all the people he'd met in Salamar. Sometimes someone recognized and greeted him, but he had no idea where Braedick lived.

"You know a lot of people here for such a big town," Rithvik said, impressed. "You're better known than in Cinnae."

"Yes, I have both friends and foes here. In Cinnae it was just acquaintances. Hey, look who's here!" He crouched as a large and sociable cat – with a robust bone structure, rectangular body shape and a long, bushy tail – brushed his boots with a loud meow. It was already purring loudly as it rubbed against him.

"Hello, One Sock! How is my gentle giant doing?" Kerrien asked, caressing the silky flowing coat that was all shades of brown except for one white paw which had given the stray cat its name. One Sock purred under his fingers, closing its eyes and sitting down. Kerrien chuckled. "Did you miss me?"

"It seems to have missed you," Rithvik commented. "Is it yours?"

"It's a stray cat, Rithvik, I don't have a house," Kerrien reminded him, absently stroking the cat's fur from its ears down to its tail. "He's reputed for his intelligence and playful, gentle personality, so everybody likes One Sock around here. Some say he has dog-like characteristics. Come and meet the best cat this side of town."

Rithvik crouched next to him and tentatively held out a hand. One Sock sniffed it then offered his head for a caress. Kerrien led Rithvik's hand onto One Sock's fur, but Rithvik quickly backed away under the intensifying purrs of the satisfied cat.

"He's not going to scratch you if he's purring," Kerrien said, amused, scratching the cat behind its ears.

Rithvik shrugged and rose. "Sorry, for me cats are only good to free houses and castles of mice."

"This one is also a very good hunter. If I ever buy a house, I'll have him to keep it empty of mice."

Kerrien leaned to kiss the furry head. "Have to go, pal. See you around."

He rose and One Sock looked at him before a final contented rub on his boots.

Kerrien resumed walking under Rithvik's curious eyes. "I can tell you're a dog lover," he told the prince. "Sometimes you behave like a puppy dog."

"That's not true!" Rithvik protested, making him laugh.

"It's fine, Rithvik, really. You like horses and dogs, I understand you have no room for cats. I don't think One Sock would get along with Sharixen anyway."

"It's just... I think cats are very selfish, unlike dogs," Rithvik said with a little shrug.

"I find great affinity with them, while you're more of a doggy type – as a Human, I mean."

"I've been wondering about that. I know you're a stray cat and I'm probably the lost dog, but we could still be happy together. I mean, at my father's castle one puppy dog grew up with a batch of cats. At first it was the cat mother that protected it, but when it became a big dog, it was the one protecting its cat siblings."

"So you intend to become a big dog and protect your elder cat sibling," Kerrien teased. The animal connection was fun but sounded quite accurate. They were a team like cat and dog, but Rithvik was right, that didn't mean they'd fight. They actually got along fine and worked well together.

Rithvik shot him a chiding glance.

"I'm not a dog and you're not a cat," he said a little bluntly. "And we're teammates, we protect each other. Right?"

"Absolutely." Kerrien put one arm around his shoulder as they entered the busy marketplace. Teammates sounded fine. Lovers not so much.

***

"Hey, Kerrien, long time no see!"

"Braedick came back alone, I thought you were dead! Where were you?"

"What kept you away from wonderful Salamar?"

"Who's this gorgeous young man?" The last question came from the mouth of a tall mercenary called Terrowin. He had bronze eyes and a lustful stare. He'd always envied Braedick and Kerrien, and was obviously as much taken by Rithvik as Druxarlo had been. He was brave and very graceful, but his lust for handsome young men had put him in trouble more than once.

"I'm Rithvik," the fallen prince answered, oblivious of the danger.

"And he's with me," Kerrien added bluntly, squaring his shoulders.

They'd bumped into Terrowin as they headed back to their room after eating with other mercenaries at the Star. The paved street smelled of flowers because of the shop that opened its windows where they'd stopped. The breeze brought the stable's odor in short whiffs from further down the street.

Sounds of a much busier, larger street came from behind and Kerrien only wanted to push Terrowin out of the way and drag Rithvik to the safety and privacy of their room. After the good, it was time to meet the bad side of Salamar, after all.

Terrowin scoffed. "So who dumped who? Does Rithvik know about Braedick? He's here, you know?"

"Of course I know, he told me he'd come back here when we parted," Kerrien replied through clenched teeth.

"I know everything about Braedick," Rithvik added with his most innocent smile.

"Really? What?" Terrowin asked, skeptical, crossing his arms over his chest.

"I know that I'm better." Rithvik grinned. "And Kerrien is mine."

Kerrien clenched his fists, cringing. He can defend himself, obviously. I should stop trying to protect him.

Terrowin shook his head. "I don't know where you found him, but you deserve each other," he said with contempt. "I think Braedick dumped you because you're not that young and handsome anymore," he added, pointing his finger at Kerrien.

"I think you're jealous because Braedick never gave you a second glance," Kerrien retorted.

"Kerrien is the most handsome man that ever was," Rithvik added promptly.

Kerrien rolled his eyes. "Rithvik, please."

"I know, I know, I'll shut up," Rithvik muttered, lowering his eyes.

"You should have seen him fifteen years ago, Rithvik," Terrowin said. "He was indeed the most handsome man that ever was. Him and Braedick. And they both knew it. The world didn't exist for them."

"We were in love," Kerrien replied. "And we were young."

"Dumb and full of cum." Terrowin smirked. "We all were. Constantly in love with each other."

"That was lust, not love," Kerrien retorted. "Yes, we all experimented. The elders taught the younger ones. And then we started feeling something special for one or another. Braedick had a crush on the captain, until we lost him."

"We all loved Captain Merek," Terrowin said gloomily, averting his eyes. That was why the company had disbanded when the captain had been killed on the battlefield. "Everything was different afterward."

"Indeed. I fell in love. Others did as well." Kerrien thought about Braedick, but also Kolia and Joris, another steady couple of mercenaries who were still together. "But of course you have no idea of what love means. When you stop thinking with your dick, maybe."

"There's no room for love in a mercenary's life." Terrowin spat. "But there are teams. And you and Braedick were so taken by each other that you were both awful teammates."

"And that's why we left. That's why now I'm working with Rithvik and not joining another company. And it's none of your business."

"Soon we'll see you behind a shop counter too," Terrowin said, waving them good-bye. "What a waste..."

"What did he mean?" Rithvik asked puzzled. "I'm not standing behind any shop counter! I was a prince!"

"I don't know what he means," Kerrien snapped. "He's an asshole. Just ignore him."

He took his eyes off Terrowin's back and turned to look at Rithvik.

"Listen, I'm quite well known in this town, and I'd like you to be quiet when I meet people. Just let me do the talking, will you?"

"Yes, Kerrien," Rithvik whispered, wrapping him in an adoring stare that made his heart beat faster. "Sorry."

Kerrien shrugged and looked away. A part of him was slowly filling with thoughts of Rithvik while the other still wondered what happened to Braedick.

***

And then he saw him. Braedick was still handsome – tall, blond and blue-eyed – but he looked tired. Kerrien held his breath as he observed his former companion-at-arms with his arms full... with family.

Once upon a time you only wanted to travel and fight, Kerrien thought. Now look at you. Husband and father like so many others. What happened to your wish to be different? What happened to our dreams?

"Kerrien?" Rithvik called in a low voice. "Are you all right?"

Kerrien snapped out of the contemplation of Braedick. He had let his lover go precisely because they had different goals. They'd been happy together, but at some point Braedick had become restless, and eventually they'd split. It wasn't a complete surprise to find him married with kids.

"I'm fine," he answered, exhaling. "I'm glad I came back, after all."

He glanced towards Braedick one last time and met the blond man's stare. Braedick flashed his dazzling smile at him and waved. Kerrien waved back, but didn't move. He had stopped under a tree next to a fountain in an open air market and pretended to look at the selection of stalls around him.

"Kerrien Wolfsbane, when did you come back?" Braedick's voice was close now.

Kerrien turned. Braedick had a blond toddler in his arms and was followed by a brown-haired woman with fleshy lips and a little girl of about four. He'd been quick to find a wife and breed.

"Two days ago," Kerrien answered, ignoring the rest of the family to stare at his former lover. He'd loved Braedick so much... not even his first love, but definitely the greatest. Except it was over now. And it didn't hurt anymore. "How have you been, Braedick?"

"I'm good," Braedick answered. "This is Eldryn." He moved the toddler from one arm to the other. "Eldina." He put a hand on the head of the little girl. "And Undia." He pointed at the woman who barely nodded.

"Nice to meet you," Kerrien said, shoving his hands in his sword-belt so he wouldn't have to shake any. Not that Undia or Braedick offered theirs, but he didn't know what else to do.

"And your friend is?" Braedick asked, staring at Rithvik.

"I'm Rithvik," the prince answered promptly.

"I see you replaced me," Braedick said with a smile.

"Not really," Kerrien muttered, averting his eyes. He should, though. He would, now that he'd seen that Braedick had moved on. I shouldn't have kept hoping that we would get back together.

"What kept you?" Braedick chided. "He's very handsome."

Yes, I know he's beautiful. Beautiful sleeper, beautiful fighter, beautiful hunter, beautiful rider... And he's keeping me under a spell. So, no thanks.

Kerrien gulped. "I see you're dutifully breeding like you wanted to, so I wish you all the best," he said. "Since you're not wearing a sword anymore, I assume you changed jobs."

"Undia is a dressmaker. And her father has a shop, so I help him."

"From mercenary to shopkeeper, good for you." Kerrien felt more and more disappointed. At least he knew what Terrowin was talking about, now. Braedick had ended up behind a shop counter. What a waste indeed.

"Kerrien, you can't fight forever." Braedick's smile vanished. "I have a family to take care of. I can't afford to be killed. I've been in the town militia for a couple of years, but Undia felt it was too dangerous."

"It's your choice, Braedick, and I'm happy for you. Now if you'll excuse me, I have other people to meet."

Kerrien decided to move away from his ex-lover. He couldn't stand what Braedick had become. He still couldn't believe that Braedick had turned from warrior to shopkeeper. I should have known. The marriage fever hit him and I lost him forever.

"Kerrien?" Rithvik reminded him of his presence and he slowed his pace. "It's almost dinner time, shall we head for the Sterling Star?"

Kerrien was glad Rithvik hadn't immediately asked questions about Braedick. He was still quite upset from the meeting when they retired to their room to get some sleep. Rithvik went to his own cot without trying to convince him to share, like he'd done before.

"Rithvik, I'm sorry," Kerrien said, sitting on his own single bed with a sigh. "I guess I owe you some explanation."

"I thought you didn't want to discuss him," Rithvik replied, serious. "I don't know what's so complicated about your relationship – it's obviously over."

"Yes, but I had to see him again to realize it," Kerrien said. "I did love him very much. That's why I let him go when I realized he was changing."

Rithvik nodded. "Are you trying to teach me a lesson?" he asked, frowning.

"No, I'm just saying what happened. I've given up hope of being set free by you."

"And you still see me as a burden."

"You could say that."

Rithvik sighed and lay down. "Good-night, Kerrien," he said, rolling on his side and giving his back to Kerrien.

Kerrien blew out the candle and fell asleep, more confused than ever.

***

Prince Ronan of Salamar was born that night. The town awoke to the sound of drums and trumpets that announced the heir had arrived. The little boy was healthy and not blind, thus the king and queen were overjoyed. Celebrations would last for a week all over the city.

Kerrien and Rithvik weren't really in the mood for celebrating anything when the news broke, but they went out anyway. Bards and entertainers filled the streets, and often music played all day long in houses and inns. Even at the Sterling Star Inn a group of musicians played happy tunes every night.

Kerrien had never been much of a dancer, but he could tell Rithvik really enjoyed it. The fallen prince couldn't be still when music was around. He joined group dances throughout the streets and even went to a ball at the king's palace, where he dazzled all the ladies with his smile and his dancing skills.

"I sure hope you're not doing any spell with your dance steps," Kerrien said during the last day of celebrations, as they ate at an open air stall in the main square.

"You're the one obsessed with magic," Rithvik answered with a shrug.

"You're the one who went to a school of magic," Kerrien replied. "Joris hasn't come back yet... He used to get the best jobs with Kolia since he was a magic user."

"Are you saying I should become one?" Rithvik rolled his eyes. "I'm having a hard time becoming a mercenary already!"

"I think you're doing quite well as a mercenary – although we haven't done another job since Druxarlo..."

"I've done well at today's tournament. You should have tried too."

"I'm not a valiant noble knight, Rithvik! I'll leave the honors of best dancer of the court and champion of the tournament to you!"

"Do I hear a hint of envy?" Rithvik teased. "You're so busy mentoring me that you don't think I can teach you anything?"

"I think I'll never stop learning, but there are things I really don't care about learning," Kerrien replied. "I like watching you dance and joust, but this doesn't mean I want to try it."

Rithvik sighed. "That's fine. I don't want to live on tournaments and lustful, bored women anyway..."

Kerrien chuckled. "I actually see you as a courtesan in some court, you know? All dressed in silks and damasks, entertaining the ladies..."

"Kerrien! I can entertain men, maybe, but... no. I only want to entertain you. So I will try to earn a lot of money so we can buy ourselves a castle and I can be your courtesan!"

"I'm a mercenary, I don't need a castle, nor a courtesan! I've used prostitutes before, and that was enough!"

"Well, when you decide to settle and buy a house, I'll be your whore and take care of you." Rithvik grinned. "But you don't seem willing to settle yet."

"I don't know, I like my nomadic life. I like traveling."

"I like that too. And we're spending a lot of money in this town once again," Rithvik said. "But at the same time I don't want to get back on the road yet. I like it here."

"Then we should sell the horses and find some steady job."

"I don't want to sell Sharixen!"

"Rithvik, horses are a luxury. Either you use them, or you don't keep them just because!"

Rithvik pouted and looked away. Kerrien shook his head. "Let's go," he said, since they'd finished their meal.

He rose and took the wooden bowls back to the counter. Then he heard Rithvik gasp and grab his arm as if he were scared.

"What now?" Kerrien snapped.

Rithvik's eyes were wide in fear. "That's Manusia!" he whispered. "But he can't be! Manusia can't stand the sunlight!"

His stare was on another young man with very long, dark-blond, wavy hair. Kerrien noticed the androgynous beauty and lack of facial hair. The headband kept the hair down, but Kerrien caught a glimpse of a pointed ear.

"Pointed ears?" he said, puzzled.

"Manusia is half-Genn and half-Human. Well, Norina was Human before becoming the Queen of Darkness," Rithvik said, squeezing Kerrien's arm with both hands. "Let's go, I don't know who that is, but he scares me!"

Brown eyes met Kerrien's and the androgynous youth smiled, heading towards them. He'd come out of the palace and Kerrien started to wonder about Joris's true nature as well. Kolia's lover was very blond and always hid his ears under a headband and his flowing mane. Maybe both Belfi and Joris were actually Genn, members of the now invisible Magical Races?

Rithvik tried to drag Kerrien away, but he stood his ground.

"Hello," the blond greeted. "My name is Belfi."

"Manusia's twin!" Rithvik whispered, terrified.

"Yes, I'm Manusia's twin." The blond smiled. "You must be Rithvik. He was very fond of you. Am I correct that you've been trying to get in touch with him again, lately?"

Rithvik shook his head, hiding behind Kerrien, who rolled his eyes.

"Yes he did. Thank the gods it didn't work." Kerrien didn't feel threatened by Belfi who smiled.

"I felt it," he said. "And so did Manusia, but he was busy. Helping a lustful Human to get his revenge... I don't know why he's still trying, he's not leaving his underground kingdom while I'm alive..."

"Did you kill the demon?" Kerrien asked.

"He's my twin. I can't kill him. But I can make sure he stays in his kingdom of darkness."

"How did he get in touch with Rithvik two hundred years ago?"

"He used the eclipse. That's how he managed to take control of Rithvik's body and destroy the royal family."

"So it wasn't really Rithvik's spell that called upon a demon."

"No, but Manusia is always open to summons from Humans."

"Were you called to stop your twin?"

"There was a magic user at the castle already who managed to exorcise Rithvik by sending him to sleep."

"So you didn't do it."

"Not this time, no. Manusia was just using Rithvik's body and a Fajrulo was enough to stop him. But centuries ago I sent him back to his kingdom when he tried to come out. I cannot allow him to mingle with Humans. Or with members of the Magical Races. He is toxic."

"He's not!" Rithvik came forward, indignant. "He's very lonely!"

"He seduced you, but he never loved you," Belfi told him. "He doesn't have a heart."

"So the wizard sent Rithvik to sleep," Kerrien said. "Was it like King Conon?"

"Not really." Belfi wrinkled his nose. "Conon was tainted, not possessed. One century was enough to cleanse him. I admit I'd forgotten about Rithvik."

"So I could have slept forever?" Rithvik asked gloomily.

"Indeed." Belfi smiled at him. "But you're all clear now. Bright as a star. And it's not Manusia's gift."

"Well, thank you," Rithvik said a little stiffly, obviously not convinced by the half-blood's words.

"Why did my kiss wake up Rithvik?" Kerrien asked, frowning.

"Because it was meant to be," Belfi answered with a smile.

"So I'm condemned to be with him for the time being?" Kerrien crossed his arms over his chest, glaring at the androgynous youth.

"Is it so bad?" Belfi replied. "Isn't he everything you've always dreamed of? You wouldn't have found him, if you weren't supposed to love him. He's been in that tower for almost two centuries, waiting..."

Rithvik exhaled in relief, but Kerrien stiffened.

"Damned spells," he muttered. "Is there anything I can do to get rid of this... curse?"

"As long as you fight it and consider it a curse, it will keep binding you with other means," Belfi answered. "Just follow your heart, and you'll be fine."

He winked at Rithvik and left, leaving Kerrien speechless.

Rithvik chuckled. "I was wrong to fear him. He's very nice!" Again he put his fingers in Kerrien's hand. "So? Where do we go from here?"

"Tavern," Kerrien said grumpily. He needed a drink. No, he needed to get drunk. To forget he had by his side the most gorgeous young man that ever lived. And that the young man said he wanted to spend his life with him.

Maybe Kerrien was just being stubborn. Maybe Rithvik wasn't tainted. Maybe it was meant to be.

The Sterling Star's wine was awful, but it did its job. Kerrien leaned heavily on Rithvik as the prince took him to bed, without commenting on his drunken state.

Kerrien collapsed to sleep as the town ended the celebrations with sparkling fireworks.

***

Everybody looked morose the next day. Going back to normality was tough on everyone. Kerrien was sick for about one hour, then felt better. Rithvik suggested they go to the baths to refresh themselves before lunch.

Too busy struggling with a receding headache, Kerrien nodded and followed him. He was usually in the lead, so he hadn't taken a good look at Rithvik's ass yet. Nice! he thought lazily. Rithvik was even more handsome than Braedick.

Soon they were both in a small pool in a secluded room. Kerrien had already been there with Braedick years earlier, or met with other men when he wanted company and privacy, but today was different. He couldn't keep his eyes off of Rithvik's body and struggled to keep his hands to himself.

And when the green eyes met his, he couldn't resist. He took Rithvik's clean-shaven face and pulled him closer, kissing him hungrily. Boy, the prince tasted good! Kerrien would never get enough of that mouth. Their tongues warred and their bodies slid closer underwater.

Both gasped for breath and lost themselves in each other's eyes. Kerrien pulled Rithvik out of the water and lay him down on the side of the pool. He explored Rithvik's body with mouth and fingers, making the prince moan in pleasure.

I've wanted him from the moment I laid my eyes on him in his abandoned castle, he thought, almost incredulous that his passion and desire for Rithvik were so strong. He shouldn't have held back. Belfi was right, he should have listened to his heart, instead of fearing old spells.

"I love you, Kerrien!" Rithvik groaned and came. Kerrien was aroused too by now. "Let me touch you, my love..."

Kerrien didn't want to let Rithvik go, though. He closed Rithvik's mouth with his again and pressed his hardness against Rithvik's belly. Rithvik's hands squeezed his buttocks and he came too, gasping for breath and staring into those green bedroom eyes.

Rithvik held him tight, whispering thanks and seemingly unwilling to let him go.

"I knew I'd love it," Rithvik said, sighing in bliss.

Startled, Kerrien pulled back. "You mean you had never done it with a man?"

"No." Rithvik grinned. "I was the prince. Nobody was allowed to touch me... Thank you for making me feel human at last! Will you let me explore you next time?"

"Sure," Kerrien answered, still a little incredulous. He should have known Rithvik was a virgin. He was glad things had progressed as they did. Anything else might have been too much at first for Rithvik. Now they had many other options to explore together. Which made him feel like a virgin again. Ten or fifteen years younger and horny.

Rithvik looked drowsy. "Can we find a room with a double bed?" he asked, nestling against Kerrien.

"Of course." Kerrien squeezed him. "Possibly one where we can have sex all night and scream in pleasure if we want to."

Rithvik chuckled. "I look forward to that!" And then he drifted off to sleep.

Kerrien was spent, but not sleepy. He listened to Rithvik's slowed breathing, gently caressing the relaxed body against his.

He didn't sleep. He could slide away and leave, and Rithvik wouldn't find him when he woke up... but he didn't want to.

He liked the thought of spending the rest of his life with Rithvik. Even though he'd probably never say "I love you."

6. Beautiful Barbarian

Rithvik awoke with his cheek against a naked, warm body. Memories of Kerrien making love to him filled him with the smell of soap and thermal water around him. He opened his eyes and moved slightly to meet Kerrien's eyes.

"Hello," Kerrien said. "How about we get off the floor and to a more comfortable position?"

"I kind of like this," Rithvik answered, squeezing Kerrien's chest. He liked the fact they were still naked and their limbs still entwined.

"Yeah, I'm a comfortable pillow, but my back is sick of these wet tiles." Kerrien smiled and squeezed back. "We can continue somewhere else."

Reluctantly, Rithvik rose and grabbed his towel. Kerrien was right, the baths were stuffy and uncomfortable. "We have single beds in our room," he said with a sigh as they grabbed their clothes.

"We can move them close so they make one double," Kerrien replied. "Or we can ask for another room."

Rithvik brightened and Kerrien winked. Rithvik dressed quickly, bursting with happiness. He wanted to sing and dance. Kerrien's smile was so sweet... the intimacy with his mentor was even better than anticipated.

"Did I sleep too much?" he asked.

"No, not really. I did drain you." Kerrien's grin was dazzling.

"And did you sleep?" Rithvik insisted, blushing under the tender stare of Kerrien's brown eyes.

"No. I watched you. Couldn't close my eyes for a moment."

Rithvik gasped. "You didn't fall asleep with me?" And you didn't leave while I was asleep?

Kerrien shook his head, still grinning from ear to ear. Rithvik smiled too and quickly hugged the mercenary. He felt shy, all of a sudden, and fearful that showing too much affection might drive Kerrien away again.

Kerrien squeezed him and let go.

As they left the public baths, Kerrien stopped to look at an alley cat grooming itself. Rithvik frowned, confused.

"What are you looking at?" he asked.

"I was thinking... I'm so used to do everything myself..." Kerrien grinned. "It feels weird to have someone grooming me!"

Rithvik smiled. "Especially since it's a dog doing it?" he asked as they headed back to the inn and the stables.

Kerrien looked puzzled at him. He pretended to pant with his tongue out like a dog and said, "Woof!"

Kerrien laughed. "Especially since it's a lovely puppy dog that got to the heart of this stray cat," he said putting one arm around Rithvik's shoulder. "Tell me, puppy, are you hungry yet? Or do you want to go back to bed immediately?"

"Actually, I'm famished..." Rithvik admitted, feeling his stomach grumble. "Let's grab a bite, then we can continue what we were doing..."

Kerrien steered him towards another street.

"It's that way, in that case," he chided.

"I'm still quite lost in this big town," Rithvik said.

"You're still quite lost in this new world," Kerrien replied. "But you'll learn."

"I know you will teach me everything." Rithvik stared at him adoringly. "And I'm looking forward to the next lesson!"

***

The inn with the stables had half the rooms vacant when they went back there. All the people who had come to town for the birth of the prince heir had gone back to wherever they came from, so the innkeeper had no trouble in changing the room for Kerrien and Rithvik. The price was the same, but he asked how long they intended to stay.

"Let's make it a full week, so the discount for long stays applies," Kerrien answered as he switched room keys. The innkeeper nodded, jotting down the change of room and the check out date. They had already paid the first week and gave him the money for the second.

"Where will we go then?" Rithvik asked as they grabbed their things in the old room and moved them to the new room.

"Haven't decided yet," Kerrien answered, looking around the new room, that was mostly like the previous one except for the double bed.

"I'd love to see the place where you were born," Rithvik said shyly.

"Really?" Kerrien took him into his arms, making his heart beat faster. "You want to see Caer Nittak?"

Rithvik nodded, gulping. He still couldn't believe Kerrien had surrendered.

Kerrien sighed deeply. "I guess it's time I go back there too..." he said, lowering his stare. "But now we have more important things to do," he added, smiling again.

"Like what?" Rithvik managed to ask, still breathless from the proximity of Kerrien's body to his.

"Like taking your clothes off and continuing what we were doing," Kerrien whispered, gently biting his earlobe. Rithvik yelped, taken by surprise. "Did that hurt?" Kerrien teased.

"No... no! Just... wasn't expecting it!" he assured.

Kerrien chuckled and let him go. "Here's what we'll do, then. You take the lead. You do what you've always wanted to do. I'll play along."

"Really?" Rithvik asked, incredulous.

"Yes, really." Kerrien's smile was tantalizing.

Rithvik threw his arms around Kerrien's neck and kissed him hungrily. Kisses wouldn't be enough, but they were a great start.

Exploring Kerrien's body was another great experience. He wanted to ask questions about every single scar he found, but at some point he stopped counting and wondering. Kerrien had a warrior's body. Asking too many questions might make the mercenary grumpy again.

Light faded in the room as the sun went down, but Rithvik couldn't let go. And then Kerrien held him close, cuddling him, and asking again if he was hungry.

"I'm hungry for love, your love," he answered, holding Kerrien tight. "You kept me at bay for a full month!"

"And don't you need a break now?" Kerrien teased. "I'm not going anywhere, you know? You won't discover everything right now anyway..."

"I know! But here we're alone and out there I don't think I can stick to you like I'm doing right now!" Rithvik huffed. He really didn't want to let go of the mercenary.

"Salamar is more open than Caer Nittak, but I don't like to display my relationships in public," Kerrien said, thoughtful. "So let's make it clear now. If I don't touch you in public, it's because I think it must be kept private, not because I don't want you anymore."

"Fine. Agreed. I'll keep my hands to myself out there."

"Good. Of course people will know or assume that we're a couple, but let's not be too obvious about it, shall we?"

"Yes, my love. As you wish. I'll do anything you tell me to do."

"Really? Anything?" Kerrien squeezed his buttocks, again taking him by surprise.

"Yes, anything," he answered eagerly.

"Good. But not today." Kerrien grinned and disentangled himself from Rithvik. "Let's grab a bite and get some sleep. Let's leave something for tomorrow..."

***

The rest of the week was spent mostly inside the room, exploring each other in a very physical manner. In spite of the hints that first day, Kerrien never tried to put something up Rithvik's ass, saying it was too early and they had plenty of other things to do before getting to that. And his hands and lips kept Rithvik breathless already, so he didn't complain.

One last trip to the public baths – with sex included – and one last meal at the Star and they recovered their horses to head out of the walls of Salamar. Rithvik was happy to be out of the crowded town. In spite of the commodities available in cities, he looked forward to sleeping under the stars with Kerrien, now that things between them had changed.

When they were on their own, they didn't need to hide how they felt. As they followed the river Ondan towards the north, Rithvik started worrying. What would happen when they found the next job?

"That's why I agreed to go to Caer Nittak first," Kerrien answered when he expressed his doubts. "To give us both time to cool down. This fire won't burn like this forever. Passion will turn to something deeper and more lasting and we'll be able to pretend we're just friends in public without straining to keep control."

"Oh!" Rithvik was amazed. "Sorry, everything is so new to me..."

"I know. It's something I haven't felt in a long time. Not like this."

Kerrien smiled and Rithvik blew him a kiss.

"So how did you do?" he asked then. "I mean, in the past fifteen years... was it just Braedick or were there others?"

"There were others, Braedick is the one who lasted longer," Kerrien answered without stiffening or avoiding the question. Obviously seeing Braedick again had helped him to let go. Braedick was history now. "That's why I know what I'm saying. Although it's been more than ten years since I fell in love with him, I still remember what it was like at the beginning."

Rithvik's smile slowly vanished.

"And then what happened?" he asked, frowning. "Why did you grow apart?"

"I don't know." Kerrien shrugged. "He changed. Wanted different things. I guess he's happy now."

"I could never be happy like him," Rithvik said with a shiver at the thought of a wife and children like the ones he'd seen clinging to Braedick. Definitely not for him. Obviously not for Kerrien either. Which made them perfect for each other!

"You'll change, Rithvik," Kerrien said, thoughtful. "When you get used to this..."

"I'd never leave you!"

Kerrien smiled. "Never say never, Rithvik. You never know what might happen."

"It's more likely you'll dump me when you find someone younger," Rithvik muttered, frowning.

"So you think that's what attracted me to you?" Kerrien asked, raising his eyebrows. "Your youth? Your pretty green eyes?"

Rithvik blushed. "I don't know... what attracted you?" He glanced at Kerrien's profile and waited.

The answer came after some pondering.

"I can't deny you're beautiful," Kerrien said. "When I saw you lying there... I had to kiss you because you were just... kissable! But I thought that was all, kiss a beautiful sleeper and forget him. And then you woke up, you started following me around like a pup, I couldn't get rid of you and started to get to know you..."

Rithvik realized he was holding his breath. His eyes met Kerrien's, and he exhaled, relaxing his grip on Sharixen's reins.

"Belfi was right, I denied my true feelings because I thought you had spellbound me. But love is a spell, something that happens only every once in a while... I guess you took me by surprise." Kerrien smiled sheepishly.

Rithvik brightened. "Maybe I was a little rash," he said. "But..."

"You're a spoiled prince, that's how you do things." Kerrien smiled and winked.

Rithvik chuckled. "That's why I badly needed someone like you! A father, a brother and a lover!"

"Yeah, well, I don't think I can be a father, but I've tried to be a brother until I became a lover..."

"The most tender and wonderful lover." Rithvik sighed in bliss and closed his eyes. "Thank you," he whispered to the wind.

"Which god are you thanking?" Kerrien asked, curious.

"The god of love, who else?" Rithvik grinned. "Do you have a god of love?"

"We have Maire, goddess of love." Kerrien nodded. "Then there's Ciaran, father of all the gods and god of the sun. Noel, goddess of life, earth, fertility. Bridin, the god of the dead. Padraig, the god of water. Declan, the god of war and fire. And Dunklermann, god of demons."

"That would be Manusia," Rithvik said. "Although we too gave him another name. I don't think anyone knows he's actually called Manusia..."

"Except you and his twin." Kerrien smiled.

"And you now," Rithvik added. "So, is there a temple in Caer Nittak?"

"No, not really. We're barbarian warriors, we don't worship in temples. We have shrines in the house for our favorite god and our ancestors, but no temples."

"So no priest caste." Rithvik nodded, thoughtful. "I remember my father had trouble with the high priest who wanted to govern earthly things. My father said he should stick to spiritual things, but Awdald was often in his face!"

"Did he request that the king gave his riches to the poor?" Kerrien asked.

"No, he requested that the king gave more money to the temple that supposedly fed the poor, except they didn't, really. I don't know, I hate politics. That was another reason to wish not to be a prince anymore."

"So you don't feel like a charismatic leader."

"Not with a father like mine, no. He's the charismatic leader. I'm only his pale shadow."

"He's dead now. You can be what you want to be."

Rithvik smiled. "And I will. I'll be a mercenary. And your lover. Forever."

"Never and forever are to be avoided at all costs," Kerrien replied. "It's bad luck to say them!"

"Fine, take out the last word, then. I'll be a mercenary. And your lover. How does this sound?"

"It sounds great." Kerrien leaned from the saddle to briefly kiss him.

Rithvik's cheeks were on fire as they continued their journey north.

***

At some point they'd left the Ondan behind and headed towards forests and mountains that could be seen in the distance. Kerrien said it was north-west of Salamar, but Rithvik felt still lost. Not that he could read maps, but maybe seeing it on a piece of paper would help. Or not. He had no idea.

The endless meadows were good for feeding the horses, but not for them. They had to stop in small villages and buy food from peasants, often sleeping in barns or under the stars. There were no major towns between Salamar and Caer Nittak, which suited their passionate mood. Being mostly alone, they could stop and give vent to their feelings whenever they felt like it.

The plain became hilly and one fine afternoon after a bend in the unpaved road, Caer Nittak appeared. The small town had been built at the top of a hill and looked run-down.

"It is best-known for its tumultuous history," Kerrien said with a sour smile. "Also, there is an old ceremonial site nearby. It's a three-rowed rectangular arrangement of stones that stands about twelve feet high at the tallest. A stone in the center is carved with illustrations of people. People go there to pray and seek blessings."

"You said there is no temple inside the town," Rithvik said.

"Exactly. That's why we pray outside of the town walls. The only stone building is the castle of Caer Nittak."

As they got closer, Rithvik started to see more of the town. The walls were mostly a tall palisade with great wooden doors and a moat. Inside he could glimpse the sliding roofs of timber houses and the great stone castle.

Ten lean, round towers had been built on various tactical spots for an ideal defense and were connected by towering, thin walls made of dark gray stone. Dull windows were scattered thinly around the walls in seemingly perfect symmetry and there were merlons for the archers at the top of the battlements.

Fields of nothingness stretched out outside the walls of the town, allowing them to see people coming far before they posed a threat.

"This fortified town has stood the test of time and despite knowing some very rough times, its castle still stands and it looks like it will do so for many years to come," Rithvik said, impressed.

"Fire destroyed it a couple of times, so the houses inside the walls are all new," Kerrien replied. "But yes, the castle has good foundations and it will stand for many more years. There are wells inside the stone walls, and it can stand long sieges."

"But everything else gets destroyed, right?" Rithvik looked at Kerrien who nodded, thoughtful. "Do you know who we will find on the throne?"

"It's not really a kingdom." Kerrien sighed. "But Eviana told me the Albright are back in power. Until somebody else challenges them, that is."

"How many families live there?"

"Four main clans and some unaffiliated. Albright, Cadwaller, Redmark and Wolfsbane..."

"That's you." Rithvik grinned. "Braedick called you Kerrien Wolfsbane!"

Kerrien smiled despite himself. "Yes, that's me. But I doubt any of my relatives will ever want control of Caer Nittak. The Redmark have cousins in Caer Tiasul, so they're not really interested. The unaffiliated only wish to have a roof over their heads. So I guess we're headed to a few years of peace – if the Cadwaller got the beating they deserved, that is."

Rithvik pulled the reins of Sharixen to stop him. They were still quite far from the walled town, although the sentinels had probably already spotted them.

"What?" Kerrien stopped his horse and turned to look at him, puzzled.

"How are you feeling?" Rithvik asked. "I mean... you haven't come back in fifteen years... aren't you afraid of what you'll find?"

"A little." Kerrien looked away. "But I guess I had to come back at some point." He stared at Rithvik again. "Remember to keep your hands to yourself within those walls," he warned. "Same-sex love is forbidden among the tribes."

"I know." Rithvik smiled briefly. "I will not embarrass you, I promise. And I'll let you do the talking."

Kerrien smiled fondly at him. "Good boy. Let's go, then." He spurred his horse and Rithvik did the same, wondering what awaited them among the wooden walls of Caer Nittak.

***

"State your business!" The bearded guard at the gate glared at Kerrien who stared back, undaunted.

"What a homecoming, Tristan," he said. "True that when I left I didn't need to shave, but since I still shave, I shouldn't have changed that much, have I? I mean, I don't hide my face behind facial hair, you should be able to recognize me."

The big, muscled man gaped for a moment. "Kerrien? Gods, we thought you were dead!"

"Not dead, just gone." Kerrien smiled. "I went looking for trouble elsewhere. May I?"

The man waved him in with a big grin. "I'll see you at dinner!"

Kerrien spurred the horse and Rithvik followed.

"Who was that?" he asked as Kerrien led the horse towards a timber house leaning against the massive stone castle walls.

"My brother Tristan," Kerrien answered. "He looks just like my father used to," he added, thoughtful. "I'm glad he survived."

"So what are the seven names?"

Kerrien glanced at him. "You remember what I told you?"

"I remember everything you tell me." Rithvik grinned. "But you never said how many brothers or sisters and what their names were."

Kerrien stopped the horse in front of the stable attached to the timber house and dismounted.

"Ronan, Tristan, Gwenn, Shaina, Kerrien, Yann and Enya, in this order," he recited and Rithvik got off the saddle too. "Hey, that's Kolia Albright!"

He was looking beyond Rithvik and towards the castle entrance. Rithvik turned just in time to see a rider go through the castle gate. He couldn't assess the newcomer, but he noticed he had short hair and was clean-shaven, like Kerrien. Most of the men milling around the town had long hair and beards.

"How come we're the only clean-shaven men?" Rithvik asked, puzzled.

"Welcome to the barbarian lands." Kerrien smiled and winked. "Over here you're not a man if you don't sport a manly beard."

"Oh! So we won't shave while we're here?"

"We do what we please," Kerrien replied. "And we won't stay long. I don't think I want to watch you grow a beard."

"Why not?"

"It would hide your gorgeous face," Kerrien whispered as a little boy came out of the house.

"You need someone to take care of the horses?" he asked.

"If that's still the youngest boy's duty, yes, please," Kerrien answered, handing him his horse's reins. "You are?"

"I'm Kerrien."

"Funny, so am I."

"You're Uncle Kerrien?" The boy's eyes widened in wonder. "I thought you were dead!"

"And you're whose son?" Kerrien asked him, crouching so he wouldn't tower over his nephew.

"Yann's son," the boy answered proudly. "Father missed you very much!"

Kerrien caressed his head and rose. "I guess it's time I go home, then," he said. "Take care of my horse, but mostly of that one. His name is Sharixen and my friend, here, is very fond of him."

"And doesn't your horse have a name, Uncle Kerrien?"

"No, but if you find one that suits him, feel free to name him."

The boy happily led the horses inside the stable and Kerrien took a deep breath.

"You and Yann were close, I take it?" Rithvik asked.

"He was one year younger than me and yes, we were close – until I started exploring sex, that is. Ronan and Tristan were much older."

"And you let them think you were dead for fifteen years," Rithvik chided. "Naughty Kerrien."

He could tell Kerrien badly wanted to kiss him and flashed an impish smile.

Kerrien looked away, shaking his head and muttering under his breath. He knocked on the door and a blonde woman came to open it. Considering that both Kerrien and his brother were dark-haired, Rithvik assumed she wasn't one of his sisters.

"Hello," Kerrien greeted. "I'm Kerrien Wolfsbane. Whose wife are you?"

"I'm Ronan's widow," the woman answered without smiling. "I've heard a lot about you."

"I am not dead, as you can see. Tristan recognized me at the gate and I'm sure everybody else will recognize me as well."

The woman nodded and let them in. The main room had a long table with benches on both sides that could probably seat twenty. In the corner there was a stone fireplace, but the smells of food cooking came from some other room. Two windows on each side of the door gave some light to the big room, but not too much. The windows were quite small, to keep out the sun in the summer and the cold in the winter.

"We shall add two plates," the woman said without saying her name. "Enya!" she called. "If you'll excuse me," she muttered and headed for what must be the kitchen.

Moments later a dark-haired woman slightly younger than Kerrien emerged from that same room and stopped for a moment to take them in.

"Kerrien!" she screamed, overjoyed, before rushing to hug him.

"Good to see you, Enya," Kerrien said, squeezing her.

At that moment the other Kerrien came in. "I set up their horses for the night, Aunt Enya!" he said cheerfully. "I'm going to tell Dad my namesake is not dead!" And he rushed out again.

"Well, we'll have to call him Little Ker to distinguish him from you," Enya said, still grinning. "Where have you been, Kerrien?"

"Around. Salamar, Raddanmor, Cinnae..."

"The only town I've heard of is Salamar, and only since the Albright have taken back Caer Nittak," Enya said with a chuckle.

"I've seen Kolia Albright come back too."

"Really?" She raised her eyebrows. "Alone, I hope."

"Yes, he was alone."

"Breon doesn't appreciate his partner... And who's your friend?"

"This is Rithvik, a fellow mercenary," Kerrien said. "But I won't say anything else until the whole family is here."

"Fair enough." Enya smiled. "But you will find new faces and some of the old ones are gone."

"Our parents, I assume. And Ronan, since I've met his widow."

"Ah, yes, Ginger never got over her loss." Enya shrugged. "Ronan fell in the battle between Cadwaller and Albright – the second one, when Breon led a revolt and destroyed the Cadwaller. That was five years ago."

"I see. And why are you still here? No husband?"

"Not really." Enya shrugged. "It's complicated."

"Is there room for us or should we ask at the castle?"

"It's still quite crowded in here as you will see..."

***

Rithvik was overwhelmed by the number of names and faces he got to meet in one evening. He could discern Kerrien's siblings because they were dark-haired, while most of the others were blond, but remembering who was who proved impossible.

He sat at their noisy and cheerful table, observing wide-eyed the family interactions. It had never been like this for him. Not even at his father's banquets. The king was always so formal, and court etiquette so strict even the members of his family had to stick to it...

Now he knew what it meant to grow up in a commoner's family though. Or at least he was getting an idea. The food was poor compared to what he was used to – before the long sleep, that is – but the atmosphere seemed richer. More talk, more bickering, more laughter, more of everything.

He didn't really say a word unless directly addressed and ended up with a slight headache. The main room of the Wolfsbane house proved more noisy than any of the inns he'd seen with Kerrien so far, probably because there were also many children screaming for attention.

Watching Kerrien interact with them was also fascinating. He'd seen the mercenary with friends, acquaintances and strangers, but this was different. Everybody was celebrating Kerrien's return and he was telling episodes of his mercenary life to the "Ooohs" and "Aaahs" of the audience.

Rithvik felt very proud of him. He thought Kerrien was a hero, and obviously now his family was also aware of what a good man he was. Even if he didn't sport a beard to show his manhood, he was proving to them he was a better warrior than any of them.

Once Kerrien explained that outside of the tribes' lands the beard was considered a barbarian custom, the teasing stopped. Everybody was aware of the necessity to blend in in foreign lands. His male relatives were curious about weapons and tactics, his female relatives wanted to know about other towns and cultures, the children only wanted to hear the adventures.

It took Kerrien a couple of hours to appease all the first curiosities. When Rithvik's headache was becoming worse, Kerrien managed to say he was tired and would like to retire with his friend, since they'd been traveling all day and their bodies were tired of saddles.

Enya said the best beds were the hay sacks in the stable, where at least no child would disturb their sleep, so Kerrien thanked them all and headed for the stable with Rithvik. The cool air of the night worked wonders on the prince's head and he stopped at the stable door to inhale it.

"Are you all right?" Kerrien asked, worried.

"Yes. Just a headache. It was too stuffy in there."

"I know, and very noisy too." Kerrien smiled, although Rithvik could only guess the smile since Kerrien's face was in the shadows. "I'll go in and prepare the bed. Come when you're ready."

Rithvik nodded. He listened to the talking and laughter that came out of the house's windows, then entered the stable. He patted Sharixen good night, then climbed the ladder to the upper floor where hay was kept.

Kerrien had spread their winter cloaks on the hay like bed sheets next to each other, flattening the worst bumps of the bales. It wasn't a feather mattress, but then, Rithvik hadn't seen a feather mattress since he'd left Ker Eziel.

Rithvik lay down with a sigh of relief.

"Feeling better?" Kerrien asked, pulling him closer.

"Yes." Rithvik put his cheek on Kerrien's chest. "You have a beautiful family and they love you."

"I had missed them, but I didn't realize it until I came back," the mercenary answered, thoughtful. "I have so much to catch up with now..."

"My beautiful barbarian..." Rithvik squeezed him and yawned. "Good night, Kerrien..."

He was so tired he barely heard Kerrien's answer.

***

The next morning Rithvik followed Kerrien and his brother Yann to the top of one of the towers of the castle. The view was breathtaking and reminded him of Ker Eziel – before the forest enclosed it in its embrace.

Towards the north the darker green of oaks, maples and elm trees, to the south the open hills and plains they'd come through with heather and lavender giving some color to the lighter green of grass. A small river ran between the forest and the walled city, giving water to the wells inside the castle.

The top of the tower was windy, but not cold, since summer was coming. Rithvik could imagine how biting the blizzard could be in winter, though. Caer Nittak was very much like Ker Eziel, both for position and weather.

He leaned against a merlon while Kerrien and Yann talked.

"So Ronan fell when the Albright came back," Kerrien said. "What happened to Gwenn and Shaina?"

"Gwenn got married in Caer Tiasul," Yann answered. "As for Shaina... When Kolia vanished from the Cadwallers' prisons, she tried to find someone else. Our father attempted to send her off to Caer Tiasul too, but she refused to go. I think she was attracted by Ryan Cadwaller who knew she was Kolia's betrothed, so..."

"He didn't keep her at arm's length." Kerrien nodded, thoughtful. "He probably thought she could help him get Kolia back."

"His disappearance was so mysterious, we all knew he couldn't be dead," Yann said. "There was some magic involved. Ryan actually went looking for him, but there were no real tracks to follow. And then one day a mercenary mentioned a barbarian and a wizard killing the monster in the Lake of the Horses..."

Kerrien smiled. "That was Kolia and Joris, indeed. They became famous all over Salamar for that deed!"

"There was a monster in a lake?" Rithvik asked, puzzled.

"Yes," Kerrien answered. "Some kind of water dragon. They killed it and took care of the witch living there. Joris is a magic user."

"So you met Kolia in Salamar?" Yann asked.

"I saw him when I went there, but I never walked to him to say hello. He was busy with his associate and I didn't think he wanted to be reminded of what he'd been through in Caer Nittak."

"Yes, we've met Joris too now." Yann glanced at Rithvik. "Breon didn't approve of Kolia's choice, so Kolia left again as soon as Breon was on his father's seat."

"But now he's back..." Kerrien stared into space. "Alone..."

"I thought you were talking about your sister?" Rithvik said shyly.

"Ah, yes, Shaina." Yann sighed. "At some point Ryan knew Kolia was in Salamar and he sent Shaina to him. Again Joris made him vanish from Ryan's room, so Ryan cut off Shaina's head and sent it to Kolia."

Rithvik gasped in shock while Kerrien frowned.

"Ryan never came back from confronting Kolia, so we assume our sister is avenged," Yann concluded gravely.

"We could ask Kolia now," Kerrien muttered, looking away.

"It was ten years ago, Kerrien. It's a little late to complain. And, like I said, Ryan never came back, so I'm assuming he's dead."

"What about the other Albright? Who survived?"

"Breon, Beria, Kolia, Axel and Maya."

"Beria is a tough warrior woman, I'm not surprised she made it. Maya... how did she manage?"

"The Cadwaller twins took her under their wings and protected her."

"And... Novak is dead?" Kerrien stared at his brother.

"Yes, Kerrien, Novak died under the Cadwaller, tortured and raped to death. Axel survived, but his mind is still quite confused and damaged. His brothers did their best to help him, including that magic user, but I don't think he'll ever be normal again."

Kerrien sighed. They must be talking about the twins who were his age. The guys he could tell apart and with whom he had experimented with sex. Rithvik felt sorry for Kerrien. But at the same time he was happy Kerrien had run away from this awful place that had seen so many wars and internal struggles and so many people dead or crippled.

"What about your friend?" It was Yann's turn to ask questions. "Where did you meet him?"

Kerrien snapped back to reality and put one hand on Rithvik's shoulder.

"He's an orphan. I missed having a younger brother, so I adopted him," he said.

Rithvik grinned. They weren't just brothers anymore. But he wasn't going to say it out loud. He had heard enough to understand how they must keep their true relationship secret in the lands of the barbarians.

"Ah, a younger brother!" Yann's smile showed he wasn't fooled, but he wasn't going to contradict his elder either. "Where are you from, Rithvik?"

"Ker Eziel. It's a castle many miles away from here, beyond the Ondan," he answered.

"So you've traveled a long way to reach Caer Nittak." Yann was impressed. "I never went beyond Caer Tiasul or Caer Sayla... How did you find the big bad world out there?"

"Fascinating," Rithvik answered. "And things can change so much from town to town! My favorite so far is Salamar. It's big and has good public baths and excellent food..."

"How about a hunt?" Kerrien suggested. "We could have venison for dinner..."

***

The following morning Rithvik asked to see the old ceremonial site. It was just an excuse to get away from Kerrien's relatives for half a day, and he could see Kerrien was just as willing as he was. So they saddled their horses, leaving their things in the stable, and trotted two hills to the east where the site was.

The stones were obviously of the same kind used to build the castle. Grass had grown to cover the base of the lowest ones, but the stone in the center was still free. Kerrien explained the carvings that depicted the old history of those lands.

"See, there's Humans and Genn and here are the winged Sila... The person in the water should be a Waiora, but it always looked very Human to me. Our shamans assure us that there's all the Magical Races depicted here, along with the first Humans."

"And what are those symbols?" Rithvik asked, caressing the five symbols that topped the five main scenes.

"The elements," Kerrien answered. "Air, Water, Fire, Earth and Ether."

"What's ether?" Rithvik frowned at the symbol.

"Everything in between the other four."

"Why, there's room for something?"

"Well, they call it also the invisible element." Kerrien shrugged.

"Air is also invisible," Rithvik objected.

"I'm not a priest, or a shaman, Rithvik. I'm repeating what I've been told about these old carvings. Look, there's a dragon. Have you ever seen one in your father's time?"

"Mm, no. Some dragon hunters came to our castle once, but the resident wizard got mad at them and chased them away."

"The same resident wizard who sent you to sleep?"

"I don't know. I guess." Rithvik shrugged. "How come your sister Enya is not married?"

"She had a crush on Novak." Kerrien stared into the distance.

"The dead twin?"

"Yeah." Kerrien sighed and focused on him again. "I guess Yann took her under his wing and allowed her to remain unmarried. Which seems fine with her sisters-in-law, except for Ronan's widow."

"That Ginger is a sour bitch," Rithvik said, frowning.

"Ginger is still mourning my brother," Kerrien chided gently. "Just imagine. I get killed tomorrow. How long would it take you to overcome your grief?"

Rithvik stared at Kerrien, aghast. He couldn't even think of such a thing. Losing Kerrien would be... unbearable!

He pursed his lip, pondering. "So Enya is mourning Novak and Ginger is mourning Ronan... Shouldn't they have something in common?"

"They obviously have different ways of grieving. Don't be so harsh in judging people, Rithvik. You don't know what they've gone through."

"Sorry..." Rithvik looked around. "This place is very peaceful... not many people come here these days, do they?"

"If they have nothing to ask the gods, they don't come," Kerrien replied, crossing his arms over his chest, a lustful gleam in his eyes. "But if you had something naughty in mind, we better head for the forest. Less likely to be seen."

Rithvik grinned. "You've read my mind! The last in the saddle stays under!"

He sprinted towards Sharixen. The playful chase ended on the grass, where Kerrien stole a long kiss before letting him go. Still breathless, Rithvik took Kerrien's hand to get back on his feet.

"Let's go." Kerrien winked. "The last under the trees stays under."

Rithvik chuckled and held back Sharixen. He didn't mind staying under Kerrien. At all.

***

As they headed back to town in the early afternoon, they saw a solitary blond man sitting outside the wooden walls. Rithvik heard Kerrien gasp at the sight.

"Who's that?" he asked.

"Axel," Kerrien muttered.

"Will you avoid him as much as you avoid Kolia?" Rithvik asked, raising his eyebrows.

"It's probably better," Kerrien answered.

But as they passed by him, the blond man rose and called, "Kerrien!"

Kerrien glanced briefly at Rithvik before turning. Axel was coming forward, staring at Kerrien.

"It's you, right? You're back too."

"I'm not here to stay," Kerrien answered from the saddle.

Rithvik noticed that Axel was clean-shaven. He had blue eyes and was quite handsome. He wondered what they'd both been like in their teens – Axel and Kerrien fondling each other. Oh, and there was a twin. But since he was identical, Rithvik only needed to see two Axels next to Kerrien.

"Not if you want to love whoever you want to, no." Axel's smile was rueful. "I don't know why Breon is being so stubborn, he's had his own male lover!"

"Has he?" Kerrien arched his eyebrows, skeptical.

"We were all raped, but we found solace in other men's arms as well." Axel looked away, frowning. "And now even Kolia is back... I wonder why he let go of Joris."

"Did you ask him?"

"No. They don't talk to me and I don't talk to them. Not right now." Axel looked at Kerrien again, and then at Rithvik. "Beautiful boyfriend, Kerrien. I wish you both all the happiness Novak could never find."

Rithvik blushed under Axel's stare. Kerrien's childhood friend had such pain in his sky-blue eyes... but still he wished them well. Axel must have suffered very much if he wasn't on speaking terms with his siblings.

"Novak has stopped suffering," Axel continued, staring into space. "But I'm still here and I don't know what to do with myself."

"You could come with us," Kerrien offered. "Out there it's not as sinful to have a male lover."

"I know." Axel smiled briefly. "But I still have someone I care for here. Thanks for the offer, but I'd never intrude in your relationship. He's gorgeous, but he's not Novak. I'd never share my love with anyone except my long lost twin."

Kerrien nodded. "I hope you will soon find peace too, Axel..."

Axel patted Kerrien's horse's neck and Kerrien spurred it forward. Rithvik followed, speechless.

"He's so unhappy!" he blurted out after they'd passed the gates. "What can we do for him?"

"Nothing, Rithvik. He'll heal, eventually. But he's lost half of himself..."

Rithvik sighed. Little Ker and his cousin Ronan rushed to meet them and took the horses from them. Rithvik was glad they'd given vent to their passion before coming back to the crowded house, but the meeting with Axel had left a sour taste in his mouth.

Thinking about the Wolfsbane's losses also gave him heartache. It had been worse for them, since they'd probably seen their loved ones die. At least he'd fallen asleep and awoke when everything was over. He hadn't seen any bloodshed.

He wondered how much blood Kerrien had seen or shed. He couldn't imagine his beloved in the fury of a battle. He couldn't imagine a battle. He couldn't see himself in a dangerous situation like the people of Caer Nittak or Kerrien had seen.

Maybe the new world was as scary as the old one. Maybe scarier, since he had no idea where the dangers would come from. But he had his beautiful barbarian protecting him.

We're a team. We take care of each other. I must make sure he's never taken from me...

7. Beautiful Demon

Kerrien sat on the bench outside of the family's house, his back against the timber wall, his eyes barely seeing the people milling around. His mind was still taken by the meeting with Axel. He had seen in his childhood friend a clear message. I don't want to mess up your innocent boyfriend. You could probably handle me, but he can't.

Axel looked haunted. Kolia looked haunted. All the survivors looked haunted in Caer Nittak. It was a town trying to grow out of its ashes, and Kerrien could see it was a struggle. But he couldn't help them. He'd been to war, he'd killed and been wounded, but everything had happened away from his hometown.

His warrior life had tempered him in a different way from his family. He loved them, had missed them, but at the same time he realized he had to leave them again. They weren't on the same page anymore. They'd gone different ways. He felt sad at the thought, but there wasn't much he could do about it.

Rithvik came back from the outhouse and sat next to him with a sigh.

"Better?" Kerrien asked, staring at the clean-shaven face.

"Yes." The green eyes looked at him, suffused with melancholy. Rithvik had been touched by Axel's pain, and he could only imagine it. Kerrien had a much clearer idea of what Axel had been through, but he wasn't going to tell that to the beautiful prince.

Axel was right, Rithvik was still an innocent. He hadn't killed, hadn't suffered, hadn't been taken prisoner, tortured, wounded... he was young and naïve and starry-eyed. And madly in love with Kerrien who promised himself he'll always protect Rithvik from harm.

"This town wasn't so bad when I was a child," Kerrien said. "But we had too many internal struggles. Now everybody is beaten and struggling..."

"Is that why you didn't want to come back?" Rithvik asked.

"I didn't want to come back because I knew my tastes in relationships would never be approved. I wanted to spend my life with another man, which was... is impossible within these walls. I should have stayed and fought with my family, but well..." He shrugged. It was too late now.

Rithvik nodded and looked away, still very serious.

"You know, it's a little like you waking up in Ker Eziel and finding it abandoned," Kerrien said after pondering. "I left a long time ago and now it's hard for me to recognize anything. The place has changed, the people have changed..."

"At least there are still people around," Rithvik grumbled.

"Well, I've been away for fifteen years, not two centuries," Kerrien said.

"But there's been some kind of slaughter here, much like apparently there was in Ker Eziel when I fell asleep." Rithvik frowned in concentration. "The bloodshed made people leave Ker Eziel, but they stayed here in spite of at least three changes in the leading family..."

"Rithvik, in your case, there was magic involved," Kerrien reminded him. "Most Humans run away from places where there's magic at work. They're so scared that it takes them centuries to go back to a place where something magic happened."

"Oh. Right." Rithvik nodded, absentmindedly.

Kerrien looked around again and saw a woman head on foot towards the entrance of the castle.

"Brenda!" he muttered, unhappy. "What is she doing here?"

"Who is that?" Rithvik looked at the woman with curiosity.

"In Salamar Kolia and Joris shared the house with two women, Britta of Ker Tiasul and Brenda. From the outside they looked like normal couples, but they were both same-sex couples."

"So Brenda has left Britta and has come here looking for Kolia you think?" Rithvik asked, puzzled.

"Maybe she wants to follow tradition. Like Kolia. After fifteen years going against tradition, he's back here. I'm sure his brother will soon find him a bride. Unless he can set up a fake marriage with Brenda – I mean, they get married but they don't consummate because they don't care about sex between them."

"Or maybe, since they know each other from before, they can fall into each other's arms and make everybody happy..." Rithvik said, thoughtful.

Kerrien stared at him, surprised.

Rithvik focused on him and smiled sheepishly. "If I hadn't met Manusia, that's what I might have done. Married my childhood friend, at least I liked her. Because guess what? She preferred women."

Kerrien was impressed by Rithvik's insight. He hadn't thought about that, ever. Probably because he didn't have female friends. And even though he'd seen Britta and Brenda and figured out they were a couple, he'd never befriended them. But Rithvik's words made sense. Maybe Britta was gone and Brenda had come to the only other man she knew and trusted...

"Right," he grumbled. "Another one bites the dust and I'm not going to stay and watch! Let's get away from here." He rose from the bench and looked at the sun's position. "Tomorrow morning. Let's start packing and getting provisions for the journey."

Rithvik promptly followed him, grinning from ear to ear. He probably hadn't liked Caer Nittak much. Which was fine. One last night in the family stable and they'd be free again to do as they pleased.

***

Away from Caer Nittak's wall, they stuck to the edge of the forest and kept going west. Summer was coming and Kerrien began to think they should spend it in the wild. And then find a place to spend the winter, possibly in a big town where nobody would care about what they did in their bed.

"Are you liking the nomadic life so far?" he asked Rithvik while the horses carried them at their usual slow but steady pace.

Rithvik pondered, looking at the trees looming to their right, and the hills and meadows to their left.

"I like being out here with you. Especially now." He flashed an impish smile. "I hope tonight we can do what we want."

Kerrien chuckled.

"We better find a protected place. I wouldn't want a boar finding us at the wrong time!"

"We'll stay away from the forest, then."

"The open countryside isn't safe either... Maybe we should get ourselves a tent in the next town."

"And how far is it?" Rithvik asked.

"I'm not sure. I haven't been this way yet."

"So it will be a discovery for you too?" Rithvik grinned.

"I like exploring. I'm a good scout." Kerrien winked, making Rithvik chuckle.

"You will have to teach me that too..."

"I'm not done with teaching you, Rithvik. Believe me, there are still plenty of things I can show you..."

"In all departments?"

"Yes, with or without your clothes on."

"Good!" Rithvik looked satisfied. "What's that tower over there?"

He pointed ahead to a solitary tower at the top of a single hill. It didn't seem to have any other buildings next to it.

"Looks like a sorcerer's tower," Kerrien said, frowning. "If it's not abandoned, I'd stay away from it. Unless you want to play with magic again."

"No, no!" Rithvik shook his head. "No more magic, thank you! I'm happy now! Do you think we'll find some other structure to spend the night?"

"There are villages on this side of the tribes' lands. And farms. And fortified towns. If we really want to be on our own we better get up those mountains down there." He pointed at faraway peaks that had only the highest tops still white. "Summer in the mountains," he mused. "And winter in town... could be an idea."

"Whatever you think is best," Rithvik said. "You're the seasoned nomad."

Kerrien laughed. He wanted to hug and kiss Rithvik on the spot, so he spurred his horse to go slightly faster.

He'd always liked wandering. Leaving Caer Nittak had been the best decision of his life. Staying for short periods in places suited him. Even moving around with a mercenary company, or with Braedick, had been fun.

But now maybe it was time to find a place to call home. He couldn't drag Rithvik left and right with no purpose. Maybe they should build a cabin in the woods and settle there. They could hunt and maybe plant a couple of things and live happily ever after...

"If I find the right place to build a house, I'll tell you," he said at last. "I think it's time I put a steady roof over my head. I'm not getting any younger..."

"You're not old!" Rithvik protested.

"Rithvik, I'm thirty," Kerrien chided. "And sometimes my scars hurt. I mean, my body sometimes reminds me I should be gentler..."

"You've fought for so many years and on so many fronts..." Rithvik sounded awed. "I wonder if I'd survive as long as you did."

"And that's another reason to stop and settle," Kerrien said. "I don't want you to get in trouble."

"I can take care of myself!"

"Yes, but in a battle? What if you're wounded or taken prisoner? I'd never forgive myself if that happened. Therefore I won't enroll in any mercenary company from now on. I can always be a bounty and treasure hunter. Or a scout. Or we can settle and live happily ever after."

He waited with his heart beating faster for Rithvik's reaction. The prince frowned as he pondered the options.

"I think I want to see more of the world," Rithvik said at last. "We'll take only the safer jobs. And then we'll settle. Unless you already have the perfect place in mind?"

"To be honest, no. That's why I'm exploring this part of the country. I haven't found anything that I liked back east."

"Good!" Rithvik grinned. "Then we'll look together!"

"Deal!" Kerrien squeezed Rithvik's fingers and let go immediately. He still wanted badly to kiss the prince and throw him on the grass and undress him...

Rithvik cleared his throat. "Kerrien?"

"What?"

"Can we stop? And... um... get naked? It's plain daylight, we can see danger coming..."

"Really? You can see danger coming when you're moaning under my caresses?" Kerrien teased.

Rithvik blushed and looked away.

"Let's tie the horses under those trees," Kerrien said, pointing at a hazelnut wood to their left. "That place looks safe enough for what you had in mind..."

Rithvik's adoring stare made him spur the horse to a trot. He also looked forward to getting off the saddle and undressing his lover...

***

They'd found that place a few days away from Caer Nittak and had opted for an early camp since it looked perfect for a relaxing stop. The sun reflected in the water of a quiet little lake surrounded by chestnut trees. The calm surface was a mix of blue and green, as if both the leaves and the sky were having a party in the water.

There wasn't much for the horses to eat, so they tied them to low branches and gave them their last hay. They cleared the ground on the lake shore and prepared a fireplace for later, but their eyes kept going to the lake. They badly needed a bath.

"Do you think it's very cold?" Rithvik asked.

Kerrien hesitated. "I don't think so. Let's try it."

Rithvik grinned and they quickly undressed, rushing to dive into the clear water from a group of gray rocks. The lake was deep, especially on the rocky side. The water felt cold at first, but swimming and playing in it soon became quite comfortable. They didn't have soap, but they scrubbed off the dust of the journey and washed their hair.

"Think we could shave as well?" Rithvik asked with an impish smile.

"You should. I don't like it when facial hair hides your beautiful face," Kerrien answered, pulling him closer in the water. They stood on the lake's ground with water up to their chests.

"I don't like your beard either," Rithvik replied.

Kerrien smiled and briefly kissed him. "Let's shave, then. We can continue our games on the ground..."

"You swim like a fish," Rithvik protested following him back to the shore.

"But I'd rather have sex on a bed of chestnut leaves than in the water," Kerrien replied, making him laugh.

They sat on their spread cloaks, still naked, and pulled out their shaving implements. They were each other's mirror, telling the other what he missed. It was more fun than using the clear water of the lake.

Since they were very close to the trees, Rithvik's eyes were greener than usual. Kerrien caressed his freshly clean-shaven face, and then his fingers continued down his neck, along the leather thong and to the amulet Rithvik still wore around his neck.

Rithvik smiled and touched Kerrien's amulet in return.

"Do you think they work?" he asked.

"I don't know." Kerrien shrugged. "I don't trust amulets for protection."

"You're wise for a Human." The female voice startled them both.

Sitting on the rocks was a woman with a tunic made of a nacreous fabric they'd never seen before. She had dark blond hair and blue eyes, and stared at them with an amused smile on her thin lips.

"W-who is she?" Rithvik's voice shook as his eyes widened in wonder.

"Don't worry about me," she answered with a dismissive gesture. "I'm not here to hurt you. But when I saw two handsome young men playing in my kingdom, I had to take a closer look. Aren't you Rithvik of Ker Eziel? What are you doing this far west?"

"How do you know who I am?" Rithvik asked, moving closer to Kerrien who narrowed his eyes.

"You're a member of a Magical Race?" the mercenary asked bluntly.

"Yes, Kerrien Wolfsbane, I'm Waiora," she said with a smile. "Both of you live close enough to bodies of water that I know you. I've seen you around for years, Kerrien, but Rithvik... he was hit by a spell two hundred years ago."

"So how do you know about him, you're that old?" Kerrien asked, still frowning.

She chuckled. "No, I'm not that old, but Water tells us many things. News swims fast, trust me."

"Are you a magic user?" Rithvik wondered.

"Not really, but enough to tell you those charms are completely useless. They make for nice pendants, but they won't protect you."

"Are we in any kind of danger for which we actually need working charms?" Kerrien asked.

"Well, let's say that you're not safe as long as you stay out here in the wild. Both you and Rithvik are magnets for Manusia. I suggest you reach the closest town as fast as possible."

"Wouldn't it be worse if Manusia attacked us in a town?"

"Not really. His attack would alert the local Fajrulo, and he or she would help you get rid of him."

"There are Fajrulo in towns?" Rithvik's eyes were wide again.

"They're the only ones who can stand living with Humans." She smiled. "But they don't like each other, so there's usually just one of them in each community."

"How do we recognize them?" Kerrien asked.

"You don't. They'll find you if you need them. They're shape-shifters, undetectable."

Kerrien wondered if and how many he'd met in his life, unknowingly. "Do they usually pass them off as wizards or witches?"

She pondered. "They used to pass themselves off as gods, but then Humans got smarter, so... I don't know. Maybe wizards, maybe minstrels, maybe storytellers... The closest town is Tassamtor. Or you can reach Havenstock or Salamar..."

"We come from Salamar."

"Ah, yes, you've been seen crossing the Ondan. Well, proceed to Tassamtor, then. I know this place is lovely and I wouldn't mind some company, but it's really for the best if you're in a crowd when Manusia reaches you."

"I'm not dancing to conjure him ever again!" Rithvik said.

She chuckled. "You don't need to anymore. He possessed you once. He can do it again anytime."

Rithvik's shoulders slumped.

"Don't worry, I won't let it happen," Kerrien said, putting a hand on his shoulder. Rithvik's hurt puppy's look made his heart shrink. He'd protect the beautiful prince at all costs.

"Rest well here today, but get back on the road tomorrow morning," the Waiora said, rising to stand on the rocks. "You're a beautiful couple and I wish you all the best."

She waved good-bye and dived back into the lake. Both were silent until the ripples on the surface had vanished.

"You think it's true?" Rithvik whispered, worried.

"She's Waiora. They know a lot more about how things work than we ever will. We'll go to that town and see what happens." Kerrien sighed, then focused on his lover again. "Come here," he said, opening his arms. "I won't let that demon get to you, I promise."

***

The next morning the Waiora emerged to point them in the right direction. They climbed back in the saddle and spurred the horses that way. The Waiora told them they should reach the walls of Tassamtor in three days at the most – one and a half if they killed their horses.

"I'm not killing Sharixen by making him gallop all the way there," Rithvik said, patting his horse's neck and caressing the white mane. "We'll get there in three days."

Kerrien nodded, but tried to make it two days, having the horses trot for short stretches when the terrain was flat and easy. He was slightly worried that Manusia might actually catch up with them, but he was unclear where the king of demons would come from.

He thought Manusia was held prisoner underground, but then he assumed that underground he could move through earth or something like that, since he'd influenced Rithvik all the way to the east and had been active also here in the west. Kerrien had no idea of the reaches of the realm of darkness, but probably the Waiora was right. They were safer with people around them.

Tassamtor appeared as a somewhat large city with stone walls on the second afternoon of travel. The sky was cloudy and a cold wind started to blow as if winter had decided on a late comeback.

"I think we should spur the horses and reach the town," Kerrien said.

Rithvik shrugged. He'd been very quiet since morning and looked paler than ever.

"Are you all right?" Kerrien asked, worried. "If you're falling sick, I really want you within the walls tonight, so we can look for a physician..."

"Sure..." Rithvik's voice was slightly slurred and his eyelids heavy.

"Can you stay in the saddle or do you want to mount with me and then we switch horses halfway?"

The green eyes looked at him, seemingly lost.

"I feel... weird..." Rithvik whispered.

And then Sharixen suddenly rose on his hind-legs with a neigh of terror and Rithvik was thrown to the ground with barely a yelp of surprise.

"Rithvik!" Kerrien tried to calm down his own horse while Sharixen galloped away towards the town.

Kerrien tied his snorting and uneasy mount to the low branches of a hazelnut tree and rushed to Rithvik's side. The young man was passed out, but didn't seem to have any wounds or broken bones. Kerrien carefully touched him everywhere and gently lay him on his cloak, making a pillow with Rithvik's cloak.

Rithvik looked asleep again. In a meadow instead of his own bedroom at the top of the tower, but still the beautiful sleeper that had first dazed Kerrien. He tried to kiss him awake, but to no avail. Kerrien sighed and settled more comfortably next to Rithvik.

The sun set and Rithvik stirred. Light faded out quickly and Rithvik opened his eyes. Kerrien couldn't be sure, but he thought Rithvik's eyes had turned charcoal black. Rithvik sat and grabbed his face to kiss him hungrily.

Surprised, Kerrien found himself in the grass, with Rithvik all over him in a very aggressive way. He tried to shake the prince away but couldn't. He felt uncharacteristically weak, as if Rithvik suddenly had power over him and was using it to pin him down and do what he pleased.

It was the wildest and most violent sex Kerrien ever had and it drained him of all energy. When he woke up at dawn, he felt still dizzy and bruised. Rithvik stared at him with his black eyes and smirked.

"Get up, Kerrien. I was about to leave without you."

The tone was blunt and the face was stern. Kerrien felt something was wrong with his lover, but couldn't tell what. He groggily sat and gathered the cloaks, mounting his horse behind Rithvik who took the reins. He'd never felt this dazed in his life before.

Rithvik was in command. There was something wrong with that. But Kerrien was too confused to object. He couldn't put two thoughts together, they kept flying away and he couldn't concentrate on anything.

He hurt everywhere and seemed to remember that Rithvik had scratched and bitten him in the heat of passion. But the night had been so dark that his memories were a confused mess of pain and pleasure.

Rithvik spurred the horse forward, but before they reached the town's gates, another rider came forward as if to meet them. Kerrien recognized Sharixen's almost white mane and tail on the black body.

Rithvik reined in when he was close enough to confront the other rider.

"That's my horse! Give it back!"

"Finders keepers," the other replied with a pleasant smile. He was fair-haired and oddly dressed, with a lute hanging on his back. He didn't wear weapons except a small dagger and looked more like a minstrel than a warrior. "So you're the one who scared this poor animal away?"

"I didn't scare anyone," Rithvik snapped. "Give me back my horse."

"Make me."

Rithvik jumped off the horse's back and unsheathed his sword. The other elegantly dismounted and put down the lute. Kerrien could only stare, unable to do anything.

"This time you won't get me, Runedemon," Rithvik said through clenched teeth.

"Oh, please. I got rid of you when I was much younger!" The other shrugged. "Why do you keep using this body? Do you like it so much?"

Rithvik scoffed. "Your spell preserved it quite well, don't you think?"

"I didn't think Rithvik deserved to die. He was stupid and naïve, but this doesn't mean he was bad."

What the hell is going on? Kerrien thought, confused. He's talking to Rithvik as if he were... possessed... Wait, there's a demon coming after us, isn't there? I can't remember...

Rithvik attacked with a scream of hatred, but his sword bounced on an invisible shield. The stranger tsked and shook his head.

"Manusia, you should know better than trying to use brute force with me," he chided.

Manusia! The king of demons! The name was like an alarm trigger. Whatever spell had held him vanished. Kerrien's mind finally connected the dots. Manusia was inside Rithvik's body! How could he free his lover? He couldn't strike Rithvik's body!

He got off the saddle and stared, hopeful, at the stranger, meeting wise brown eyes.

Rithvik was panting and glaring at both of them. Black eyes. Definitely not Rithvik's eyes. This explained the different behavior since last night.

"I will kill you, Runedemon," Rithvik growled. "But I'll get rid of this stupid Human first!"

Kerrien unsheathed his sword just in time to parry Rithvik's blow.

"I can't hit him," he shouted at the stranger. "Tell me what I can do!"

"I don't want to see Rithvik dead either, don't worry," the other answered calmly. "Just disarm him and hold him still."

Easier said than done, but Kerrien's sword skills were obviously better than Manusia's. Rithvik's sword flew out of his hand and Kerrien bounced forward, throwing the possessed young man to the ground.

They wrestled for a moment, but Manusia had lost the surprise effect and didn't manage to spellbind Kerrien again. When he looked into those black eyes that had tainted his beloved's face, Kerrien's anger grew. He managed to roll Rithvik's body over and twist his arms behind his back, making the demon inside him scream in pain.

"Pull him up," the stranger said, coming forward.

Kerrien used all his strength to pull the struggling Rithvik to his feet. Foul words were coming out of his mouth, and Kerrien didn't understand half of them. But he held Rithvik's arms behind his back and kept him as still as he could against him, although the prince tried to kick himself free.

The stranger came forward, serious, and put a hand over Rithvik's face. Kerrien thought he saw fire coming from that hand and Rithvik screamed with the distorted voice of Manusia. Flames grew and Kerrien let go.

Rithvik's body collapsed, writhing through flames that didn't consume it but purified it, until the prince lost consciousness again. Kerrien fell to his knees and touched the clean-shaven face and body to check they were indeed unharmed and unburned.

"It was a spell, not real fire," the other said rubbing and then shaking his hands as if he'd washed them with air. "He's fine, don't worry."

"Is he in some kind of magic sleep?" Kerrien asked, worried.

"Yes, but I'd wait to kiss him awake if I were you." The stranger smiled. "Give him time to recover."

"Should I let him sleep for another two hundred years?" Kerrien asked, frowning.

"Oh, so you're the one who found him! What's your name?"

"Kerrien. And you are?"

"At the moment Aedwyr the Minstrel. But Rithvik knew me as Morthi, the court wizard. I also looked different, more like an old man. Young wizards weren't really trusted, so I took on the face of a white-haired wrinkled man..."

"So you're a Fajrulo," Kerrien said, rising. "Runedemon is your real name?"

"No, it's not my real name. It's the Fajrulo name I'm known by. My real name holds too much power to be told. Not even Manusia knows it, or he'd have defeated me."

"So how should I call you?"

"I told you, Aedwyr. You know, Tassamtor over there is well known for its race tracks and talented street performers. I'm one of them. You can usually find me at the Fighting Knave Tavern which is just beyond the entrance."

Kerrien glanced at the town walls now not too far away. The horses were grazing peacefully.

"Do they have stables?"

"Yes, of course. Are your horses trained for races?"

"No, they're for traveling and hunting."

"Then nobody will try to steal them. Come, I'll help you take Rithvik there. Is that really his horse?"

"Yes, he called it Sharixen."

"Like his war stallion." Aedwyr chuckled. "The other Sharixen was all black, though."

"Aedwyr... did Manusia influence me while in Rithvik's body?"

"You were traveling with Rithvik, right? You were the first person he found by his side, so of course he spellbound you. He wanted to use you as a bodyguard when he claimed the government of Tassamtor. There's one elected official in town, but Manusia planned to take over. And after this city, the world, of course."

"Well, thank you for stopping him. What else is Tassamtor famous for?"

"Its cuisine and a lot of illusionists. Mostly Humans trying to pretend they can do magic." Aedwyr scoffed, then looked sternly at Kerrien. "Of course you haven't seen anything here today. I'm just a minstrel and we met outside the town walls."

Kerrien nodded. "What is their most famous dish? Do they have roasted boar?"

Aedwyr laughed. "Are you trying to please Prince Rithvik? I can tell you why he loves roasted boar. He was sixteen when he killed his first boar and so proud of himself! It was probably the first time his father complimented him."

"Oh, so it has a special meaning to him... although I hope he doesn't consider me a father!"

"You're too young to be his father! And I'm sure his first thoughts at seeing you weren't the thoughts of a son for his father, no more than yours were of brotherly love!"

Kerrien smiled sheepishly. "So do they have his favorite dish at the tavern?"

"No, no boars, but very creative fish dishes that will make you forget your meat diet..."

***

The Fighting Knave Tavern was a large and decently clean place just beyond the town's main gate, much like Aedwyr had anticipated. The drinks were overpriced, the food was overpriced, but the rooms had low prices and Kerrien managed to find a room for him and Rithvik who was still passed out.

Aedwyr helped him to lay Rithvik on the double bed, and then suggested they go back to the main room.

"Let Rithvik sleep until tomorrow morning," he said. "He needs it."

"But he hasn't eaten since yesterday!" Kerrien said, worried.

"Two days without food won't kill him." Aedwyr grinned. "No more than two centuries."

The main room was filled with a healthy crowd. The noise was quiet and subdued, with some patrons openly armed. Aedwyr and Kerrien sat in a corner as far as possible from the darts game. Kerrien noticed a dangerous-looking wizard who seemed to be getting free drinks.

"Is that an impostor or illusionist?" he asked Aedwyr.

"No, Kalris does have some magic in him. Traces of Fajrulo blood, but not enough to allow him to defeat Manusia." Aedwyr shrugged and pointed at a dish on the menu. "This is one of those fish plates that might surprise you. And I'm not a fish eater myself."

"Fine, I'll try it." They placed their order, then Kerrien stared at Aedwyr again. "So you sent Rithvik to sleep two centuries ago."

"He took me by surprise." Aedwyr sighed. "I was only two-hundred and fifty back then, not an adult yet, and I hadn't realized demons had infiltrated Ker Eziel, probably drawn by myself."

"What do you mean?" Kerrien asked, deciding to ignore the true age of the seemingly young man in front of him. The Waiora had mentioned Fajrulo were shape-shifters and Aedwyr himself had said he'd worn the face of an old man.

"You see, there's this underground world, this dark magic that sometimes concentrates and comes to the surface as a pond or a spring of black liquid. That's how the Queen of Darkness was created – a Human turned into a demon-like creature. Now there's her son, Manusia. They're both limited to the underground, but they can get out, especially during eclipses."

"Mm, yes, Rithvik mentioned an eclipse when he lost consciousness."

"That's when Manusia entered his body and took control. He tried to seize the power in Ker Eziel by killing the king and his council until I managed to stop him. I sent Rithvik to sleep, but his people were so afraid of him that they all left, abandoning him in his castle."

"You left too," Kerrien said.

"Well, of course. I felt I'd made a mess, so I also ran away from Ker Eziel. It's been bothering me since, and I'm glad you found him and brought him back to life. He was very lonely and desperately wanted to be loved for who he was, not his title or his castle or his father's lands."

"You mentioned you might have drawn the demons to Ker Eziel yourself. What do you mean?" Kerrien asked.

"Ah, yes, that's another aspect of our magic. The Magical Races can't stand the Ponds of Dark Magic that so affect Humans – except us. Fajrulo are the only ones who can challenge that magic and win. I guess we're the most powerful..." Again Aedwyr shrugged.

Kerrien was impressed. "So you're a true magic user."

"Yes." Aedwyr grinned as the maid brought their meal. "But officially I'm just a minstrel, remember?" he added in a low voice.

Kerrien smiled despite himself. "Your secret is safe," he said.

"As much as yours," Aedwyr answered. "I won't tell anyone you and Rithvik are lovers."

"By the way, what are the town views on that?" Kerrien asked before leaning to smell the food on the wooden plate. There must be spices he'd never heard of. And a strange sauce covered the fish with cabbage cut in small slices and raisins. "What fish is this? It smells nice."

"Trout. And it tastes nice too." Aedwyr had ordered beef anyway. "I need some meat after the spell, I feel drained," he explained.

Kerrien tried a bite and it melted on his tongue. Unusual taste but not bad at all.

"Mm, yes, this is good. So, what do you know of male lovers on this side of the world?"

"As long as you don't show it in public, you're fine. But if you could find a couple of women to cover you, it would be perfect." Aedwyr winked and grinned.

Kerrien smiled, tasting more of the trout and its dressing. This reminded him of Kolia and Joris who had shared their house with Britta and Brenda. Except everyone knew they were both same-sex couples.

Nobody knew him or Rithvik in Tassamtor, though, so maybe...

"Are you sure I can kiss Rithvik awake tomorrow morning?" he asked.

"Absolutely. And then you can come and listen to my show. I'll be in the main square all morning..."

***

Tassamtor had unusually narrow streets. Kerrien hadn't explored it yet, but a glimpse from the room window had showed him how maze-like and chaotic it was. Aedwyr had mentioned their economy was based on crafts, especially woodworking.

Kerrien was awakened by the noise of artisans and peddlers passing under the window when the sun was still rising. Light flooded the little room and the smell of fried eggs reached his nostrils, making his stomach rumble.

He turned to look at Rithvik and noticed he was still asleep. Sort of a good sign, considering that usually he'd woken after the prince when he thought he was under a spell – and when Manusia had entered Rithvik's body.

He watched his lover's peaceful expression for a moment before leaning to brush his lips. This time he didn't back away and waited eagerly for Rithvik's awakening.

The prince's eyelids flapped open. The irises were green again, which made Kerrien realize he'd been holding his breath. He exhaled while Rithvik stirred and started to move like he'd done in the tower.

"Kerrien." The green eyes stared at him, confused. "What happened? Where are we?"

"In Tassamtor," Kerrien answered, tousling the prince's hair.

"Have I been sick? I feel so strange!"

"You've been possessed." Kerrien decided to tell the truth. "Manusia was inside you and he didn't kill anyone just because I was the only one around. You were stopped before you could do more damage."

"Oh!" Rithvik's eyes widened in shock. "I didn't hurt you, did I?" he whispered, fearful.

"No, it's been an interesting night of rough sex, but it wasn't too bad." Kerrien grinned. "You must be famished, you haven't eaten for two days."

"I am hungry." Rithvik's lips trembled into a smile. "Are you sure I didn't do anything bad?"

"I told you, you were stopped before you did. Apparently by the same guy who stopped you two hundred years ago. He's a Fajrulo. He was posing as court wizard at Ker Eziel."

"You mean Morthi? He's still alive?"

"Obviously. He told me of when you killed your first boar. He also said he was very young at the time, although he impersonated an old man. I think he's four-hundred and fifty now, but I have no idea of how long Fajrulo live."

Rithvik gaped at him. "Can I talk to him?" he asked, still awed.

"He said we'll find him in the main square. He's masquerading as a minstrel about my age now. I'm curious to hear him sing or tell stories. So... breakfast?"

Rithvik sat up a little too quickly. "Ow, my head spins... I guess I really need to eat!"

Kerrien chuckled. "I won't take you downstairs bride-like," he warned.

"I can get downstairs," Rithvik replied with a pout. He stretched his arms and legs before putting his feet to the ground. He was unsteady for a moment, but refused help. "I'm fine."

"They saw you come in passed out, Rithvik, it's okay if they see you leaning on me," Kerrien chided, seeing him wobbly. "We'll tell them you've been sick, but you're recovering just fine."

With a huff of frustration, Rithvik used him as a walking stick, especially on the stairs that took them down to the main room.

Kerrien got him as many pastries as he could eat and watched him fill his belly with a warm omelet. It was a pleasure to see color come back on Rithvik's cheeks.

"Oh, my, I ate too much!" Rithvik said with a sigh of contentment.

"A stroll will be perfect, then. I haven't been to this town before, so we need to explore it and find the things we need."

"Like public baths?" Rithvik asked, hopeful.

"We might as well find a place to live," Kerrien said, rising from the bench and heading for the tavern's door.

Rithvik frowned. "You think there's still danger that Manusia might get to me?"

"It's probably safer," Kerrien answered stepping into the narrow street. "But we must be discreet."

"Haven't I been discreet in Caer Nittak?" Rithvik asked with an impish smile, following him among the two-story stone buildings with sliding roofs.

Kerrien shot him a tender stare. "Yes, but that's why I want to find a place where we can have some intimacy."

Rithvik nodded with a beaming face. "Does this tavern have stables?"

"Yes, don't worry, Sharixen is being taken care of."

Soon Rithvik grabbed his wrist, fearful of getting lost in the crowd and maze of narrow streets.

"How can you not get lost?" the prince wondered. "You've never been here, how will you find your way back to the tavern?"

"I have a good sense of direction, trust me. The river is that way and the main gate is that way."

"No, I'm sure the river is over there..."

"Excuse me." Kerrien stopped by a slightly plump, arrogant girl who was clearly waiting for someone. "Can you please tell me which way is the river?"

She sniffed and upturned her nose, looking away and waving in the direction Kerrien had pointed.

"Oh." Rithvik was impressed. "All right, but don't leave me behind."

Kerrien took his hand and kept guiding him. He managed to locate the public baths, but they'd have to come back with clean tunics. Finally he found the main square, which had an open-air market. The square was rectangular with two maple trees planted one almost in the center and the other more to the side. Between them was a semi-permanent makeshift structure that sold spices.

The traffic was very heavy, with a few guards milling around and some beggars. Kerrien noticed only a couple of pickpockets and warned Rithvik about them.

"I didn't bring my purse," Rithvik said with a sheepish smile.

"Good." Kerrien smiled as they wandered through the stalls. Hopefully nobody would break into their room at the tavern and steal their clothes with the gems still sewn into them.

He found Aedwyr examining merchandise at a stall of scrolls and musical instruments on the other side of the central tree. The male vendor had displayed his wares on a large cart that could be opened. He had a small variety, but the musical instruments seemed above average in quality, at least by listening to the notes that Aedwyr was pouring out of a lute.

"Like it, eh?" the vendor asked, hopeful, as Aedwyr put down the lute.

Kerrien watched him haggle for the price and understood it was discouraged when he saw the man wasn't willing to do any discount.

"Would you like me to buy you that?" he offered, startling Aedwyr who was so taken by his discussion that he hadn't noticed him yet.

"Ah, no, thanks, not worth it." Aedwyr made a disgusted face and turned his back to the vendor's cart, retrieving his own lute. "Mine is still brand new after all. Did you find the apothecary?"

"What for?" Kerrien was puzzled.

"Balms for your bruises?" Aedwyr raised his eyebrows.

Kerrien shrugged. "It's just scratches," he muttered, feeling Rithvik's eyes on him.

Aedwyr smiled and shook his head, turning to look at the prince.

"Hello, Rithvik. I'm Aedwyr the Minstrel," he said.

The prince shot a puzzled glance at Kerrien.

"Let me buy you a cold drink, I'll be on soon," Aedwyr added, directing them to another stall – a wheelbarrow and some baskets that sold fish, cold drinks and nuts. They got a snack from the owners – a male, very young, above-average looks and a female, generous, mildly flamboyant – then went to sit on a bench outside of a house with its door locked.

"I helped Kerrien to carry you to Tassamtor," Aedwyr continued as if they hadn't been interrupted while Kerrien savored the toasted nuts and tasted the cold herbal drink he'd bought.

"So you're the Fajrulo?" Rithvik whispered, impressed.

Aedwyr chuckled. "Yes... It's unbelievable how you haven't changed. My spell kept you frozen in time until Kerrien showed up."

"Thank you," Rithvik said, grateful. "You really saved me. Twice, I think."

"Ah, don't mention it. Like I said, I didn't want to watch you die young. I was very fond of you. I think we were very similar in some ways."

"If you'd have approached me with this face you have now, I'd have fallen at your feet," Rithvik said.

"And what makes you think I haven't walked to you with a more attractive face?" Aedwyr winked, startling Rithvik.

"You did?" he asked, confused.

"I thought you were a virgin," Kerrien said. "That nobody dared touch you because you were a prince."

"Exactly." Aedwyr burst out laughing. "No, Rithvik, I never walked to you with a more attractive face, but I did consider it once or twice. Your father kept me busy enough as court wizard, though!"

Rithvik exhaled in relief and glanced at Kerrien who smiled.

"I think you two will be very happy," Aedwyr said, raising his goblet of lemonade. "Now if you'll excuse me, I must take the stage. Will you mind if I tell the story of a legendary prince who was possessed by a demon and killed his father?"

"As long as you don't tell how it really ended," Kerrien replied.

"I shall not say the prince is awake now," Aedwyr promised solemnly.

Epilogue

They were headed back to the Fighting Knave and the streets were emptying fast, since it was almost meal time and the sun was close to setting. Rithvik gasped and grabbed Kerrien's wrist, stopping him.

"Look!" The prince pointed at an alley with an awed look on his face.

Kerrien got closer to the alley entrance and saw a small gray cat curled up against a light brown dog.

"Like us," Rithvik whispered, excited. "Cat and dog can get along!"

They both went to crouch by the two animals that barely looked at them.

"Aren't they cute?" Rithvik said, allowing the dog to lick his hand while Kerrien caressed the cat's fur, making it purr.

"Not really like us, though," Kerrien said, amused.

"Well, of course, we're men and they're..."

"Female."

"Oh." Rithvik looked closer. "Right. She-dog and she-cat."

"They grew up together." The voice startled them.

It was a young woman with red hair and freckles holding a plate of food. She knelt to put it next to the two animals as they backed away to leave room for her in the alley. She had also brought a saucer of water and watched the animals eat for a moment before turning to face them.

"Yes, it's two females and they take care of each other – and each other's offspring. I can't tell you how many puppies that cat has protected and how many kittens that dog has kept safe."

"That's so wonderful!" Rithvik brightened. "Two females taking care of each other even though their species should be at odds!"

The young woman giggled. "Well, sometimes it happens with humans too," she said, looking away. "I mean, like me and my sister-in-law..." Then she frowned and shut her mouth. "Sorry, I talk too much."

But her words had lit a light in Kerrien's mind. Britta and Brenda. This young woman and her sister-in-law. Aedwyr's suggestion. The fact that Rithvik and himself would be safer in a town where Manusia would be stopped as soon as he tried to possess Rithvik's body again. And they were looking for a place to settle and build or buy a house.

"My name is Kerrien," he said, offering his hand. "And this is Rithvik. May we come to speak with you and your sister-in-law?"

"About what?" she asked, puzzled.

"Uh... marriage?"

"Kerrien, are out of your mind?" Rithvik protested.

The redhead stared at both, hesitating for a moment.

"My name is Judy," she said at last. "Come. I doubt you can convince Candy to marry anyone. You know, she's the strongest woman that ever lived. They tried to abduct her, to force her, but she wouldn't have it. She never married. And when her brother died, she took care of me..."

Kerrien could recognize love in Judy's brown eyes. She was the sweet one of the couple, like Brenda had been. Candy must be as fiery as Britta, the warrior woman from Ker Tiasul.

Judy led them around the corner and back into the narrow street. Her house was one street away from the tavern. Rithvik kept poking Kerrien who only managed to signal him to keep quiet and trust him. He didn't have time to explain right now.

Candy was blonde and pretty. She had a long braid on her shoulder and wore a long gown, which meant she wasn't a warrior woman. But she looked fierce and stared warily at Kerrien when he introduced himself. She pushed Judy behind her, ready to protect her with a big kitchen knife.

"What do you want?" she demanded as they faced each other inside the house.

No witnesses besides the two women. Kerrien focused on Candy, ignoring his surroundings. He had no idea if the house was big enough for four, but he didn't care right now.

He smiled briefly, then took Rithvik in his arms and took his breath away with a kiss. He heard the women gasp. He let go of Rithvik who almost collapsed, panting, and kept him on his feet.

"I'm Kerrien and this is Rithvik, the love of my life," he said, watching the two women's expressions closely. Candy frowned, but Judy looked pleasantly surprised. "I have a proposition. We set up a fake wedding and find a house to live all together. We keep our room, you keep yours. If this house is big enough for two couples, we can stay here, if not, we'll find a bigger place. To the city, we'll be regular husband and wife couples. What happens within our walls is nobody's business. Right?"

He heard Rithvik exhale in relief.

"Why didn't you say so immediately?" Rithvik whispered.

"I'm improvising, Rithvik," he answered, squeezing his fingers.

Candy put down the kitchen knife and came forward, narrowing her eyes.

"And I should marry you while Judy walks to the altar with your boyfriend?" she asked, putting her fists on her hips and cocking her head to the side.

"That's the idea. And unless you want kids, we don't have to ever see each other naked."

"Really?" Candy scoffed and crossed her arms above her generous bosom. "Would you be able to give us kids if we wanted to?"

"Of course, if you really really really wanted to."

"Not me," Rithvik muttered, staring at his feet.

"Yes, you too," Kerrien chided. "I'll help."

"Are you suggesting an orgy, Kerrien?" Candy mocked.

"Only if the ladies are up to it. Like I said, I'm content with my Rithvik and I don't need any woman to feel complete."

"Good, because I don't need any man," Candy retorted. She glanced at Judy. "What do you think?"

Judy nodded with a shy smile.

"We'll let you think about it tonight," Kerrien said, seeing Candy was thoughtful. "I'm afraid my boyfriend will need some coaxing too. May we knock on your door tomorrow to learn your decision?"

"Sure." Candy sounded less harsh now. She shooed them out with an amused smile.

Rithvik was speechless until they reached the tavern.

"Kerrien, I can't go through with this," he protested as they sat in a corner of the still crowded main room. "I mean, a fake wedding! How can we pull this off? And with two strangers..."

"Two strangers who are like us, but of the opposite sex, Rithvik," Kerrien replied. "They take care of each other. Judy loves Candy as much as you love me. The wedding is just a ceremony... we might act as betrothed first and get to know them better. I'm sure it's the best thing that could happen to all of us."

"But..."

"Rithvik, nobody knows us here. We can be just friends who met two lone women and fell in love, and nobody will ever find out the truth. We'll have a house and a room where we can do whatever we want and we'll be safe from Manusia and whoever else will try to hurt us..."

The maid interrupted them. Rithvik was so upset that he said he wasn't hungry, so Kerrien ordered two fish dishes like the one he'd had the night before.

He took Rithvik's hand across the table and squeezed. "We'll be all right, Rithvik," he said in a low voice. "Trust me."

Rithvik looked at their intertwined fingers and gulped. His green eyes looked up again, slightly blurred by tears. "I'm scared," he mouthed.

Kerrien squeezed his hand again and pulled back. Not here and now, but he'd wipe out Rithvik's fears. Not that he didn't have any – Candy and Judy were two strangers. But they had a chance of settling with them and he didn't want to miss it.

The maid brought the plates.

"Try this, it's delicious," Kerrien said, smiling at Rithvik.

The prince hesitated, sniffed the dish and then tried a bite.

"It is!" he said, brightening. "What is it?"

"Just eat it and then I'll tell you," Kerrien answered. He knew Rithvik wasn't too fond of fish. Luckily his appetite was back. Everything would be all right.

"I didn't know fish could taste so nice," Rithvik said as they went to their room to sleep. "Tomorrow we go to the public baths before heading to Candy and Judy's house," he added as Kerrien locked the door behind them.

Kerrien went to sit on the bed next to Rithvik and took him in his arms to kiss him.

"Let me undress you," Rithvik said then with his bedroom eyes.

Kerrien smiled, forgetting everything else.

Rithvik gasped at the sight of his bruised torso. He turned him around and brushed the signs of scratches on his back whispering, "Oh, my... who did this to you, Kerrien?"

Kerrien guffawed, but Rithvik's outraged face made him turn serious again.

"It was you, Rithvik. Well, Manusia in your body. I wasn't aware it was him, I thought you were a little rougher than usual, but well... I think I was under a spell, so I didn't really put up much resistance. He is the king of demons after all. And he did have your face and body to confuse me..."

Rithvik opened his mouth then threw his arms around his neck. "I'm sorry, I'm so sorry!" he sobbed.

"You weren't yourself," Kerrien replied, patting his back to calm him. "And I wasn't either. It's fine, Rithvik, it's just scratches. Tomorrow we'll buy a balm, like Aedwyr suggested, and there won't be any scars to remind us of that fateful night."

Rithvik pulled away and sniffled. "Are you sure?"

"Definitely. These other scars are from much deeper wounds. You don't have such long nails that could damage me like a blade or an arrowhead would."

Rithvik's lips trembled into a smile. "You shouldn't joke about that. You could have been killed."

"I survived long enough to find you in that tower," he replied. "Which probably means you were right from the start. We're meant to live happily ever after."

Rithvik held his breath as Kerrien's words sank in. Then he grinned and started kissing Kerrien all over his face, making him laugh. They both fell on the bed, giving vent to their passion.

THE END