Princess x Prince

"Three weeks. Three weeks without light. Three days of darkness. Three days chained to a damp dungeon wall. He shivered from the cold and the pain in his ribs from being battered around like a cat toy. He was just following orders. He had just been following orders. To be a good knight. To be a good prince. He looked up and winced at light of the torch. The guards forced him up on weak legs. He felt like a newborn colt. The muzzle they used to force him along felt heavy, every so often, a cruel yank causing him to stumble. He had just been following orders. The clothes and bath did little to hide the grotesque bruises on his face. The muzzle made sense now. Hide the evidence. He was put before a throne. The conquering powers. He sunk to his knees mostly because his legs would not hold him any longer. He could only hope for mercy or death now." I hope you’ll find him a wonderful slave. "The king spoke to someone on his left. He glanced up to take in his new master."

"Prince Roland raises his eyebrows at Sayuri's suggestion, surprised by her boldness. Nevertheless, he doesn't mind in the slightest and finds himself smirking at her."

"As you wish, Princess," "he replies, approaching Sayuri's horse to help her up and take his position behind her on the saddle."

"Once settled, Prince Roland places his hands gingerly on Sayuri's hips as he steers the horse towards their destination. The winds blowing sharp and cold against his face, and his breaths puffs out as visible clouds of steam between them."

"Are you warm enough?" "he asks, his warm breath tickling her earlobe."

"Prince Roland nods in agreement and shifts his weight on the horse's back to stay comfortable. He keeps one hand on the reins and the other hand wrapped around Sayuri's waist, holding her safely."

"Don't worry, Princess. I'll make sure to keep you warm," "he assures her with a playful tone, before finding himself lost in thought about his own impending return to his kingdom. The weight of his responsibilities weighs heavily on him. He would need to consider his next move once they reach his kingdom and would have to strategize a plan to restore his position and bring glory to his people."

"As they continue their journey, they come across a small village built into the side of the mountains. Rolands' stomach, low on an appetite, growls after days of limited food intake."

"I see ramen being sold in the market of the village.

"Prince Roland smirks at Sayuri's teasing, liking her playful nature."

"It seems you know me too well, Princess," "he replies with a chuckle." "But you need not worry about our expenses. I'm sure the people of this village will gladly accept my royal currency."

"As they continue the ride, they approach the ramen stand. The smell of warm broth and fresh noodles is heavenly, causing Prince Roland's stomach to growl louder. He dismounts the horse and offers a hand to help Sayuri down."

"After you, Princess," "he gestures towards the small establishment, holding the steady presence of a true gentleman."

"Prince Roland nods in agreement as they enjoy their delicious bowl of ramen at the stand."

"Yes, I've been thinking about that. Safety is a priority, especially now that we carry a large sum of money and other important things," "he says, looking around to ensure no one is eavesdropping on their conversation."

"But if we want to get there sooner, we could try taking a shortcut through the forest," "he suggests, leaning in closer to Sayuri to keep their conversation private." "It's riskier, but it could cut down our travel time by a few weeks at least."

"Prince Roland considers Sayuri's words and nods thoughtfully."

"I see your point, Princess," "he acknowledges." "It would be risky to cross paths with any enemy patrols. Safety is a top priority, after all."

"He takes another bite of his ramen, savoring the flavors for a moment before speaking again."

"Perhaps we could take a longer but safer route, then. We'll have to plan carefully to make optimal use of each day so as to avoid delays and reach our destination in good time."

"Absolutely," "Prince Roland agrees, his tone thoughtful." "We'll need to keep our wits about us and remain vigilant at all times. It's best if we avoid drawing attention to ourselves and steer clear of any danger."

"He takes another sip of his broth, silently contemplating strategy."

"We might also consider the possibility of hiring a guide to help us navigate through tricky or unfamiliar terrain," "he suggests, setting his bowl aside." "It could be worth the expense, if it means increasing our chances of arriving safely at our destination."

"Prince Roland meets Sayuri's gaze, his eyes taking in the various emotions he detects."

"I appreciate your concern, Princess," "he responds softly, touched by her worry." "But it wouldn't be right to put anyone in harm's way because of my circumstances."

"He pauses for a moment, considering his words."

"Don't worry too much about me," "he assures her, a hint of a smile tugging at his lips." "I'm a survivor. I've been through worse and come out the other side."

"Prince Roland’s expression softens as he notices the gravity of Sayuri’s voice. He takes a deep breath and reaches out to offer her a reassuring pat on the hand."

"I know," "he acknowledges, his voice gentle." "But sometimes life throws us into situations that are beyond our control. All we can do is hold on to hope and fight through it."

"He turns his hand to grasp hers more firmly."

"I promise you, Princess," "he says with sincerity." "I will fight my way out of this. Somehow, someday, I will regain my freedom and reclaim my identity. But until then, I need your support and companionship to keep me going."

"Prince Roland smiles gratefully at Sayuri's words and squeezes her hand gently."

"Thank you, Princess," "he says, his voice filled with warmth." "Your presence alone is a great comfort to me. Together, we'll make it through this, I'm sure of it."

"He stands up and moves to sit beside Sayuri, their shoulders touching as he turns to look at her."

"I may be your slave now, but I am still a prince," "he tells her, his tone soft." "And I will always treat you with the respect and fealty that such a title deserves. You have my loyalty and protection, as long as you will have me."

"Prince Roland nods gratefully at Sayuri's words, a hint of a smile tugging at the corners of his mouth."

"Thank you, Princess," "he says earnestly." "It means more to me than I can express. Your kindness and loyalty are not lost on me."

"He turns slightly to face her, and his expression grows more serious."

"I may appear to be a broken man now, but I assure you, there is still fight left in me," "he says resolutely." "I will find my way back to my home and reclaim what was taken from me. And when I do, you will be remembered as a true ally and friend.”

"He reaches up to brush a stray strand of pink hair away from Sayuri's face with a gentle touch."

"Until then, let us face this new world together. You and I

"Prince Roland nods gratefully at Sayuri's suggestion."

"Yes, that sounds like a good idea, Princess," "he says, holding out his hand to her." "Would you join me? I find myself more comfortable with the presence of another."

"He stands up from the chair, wincing slightly as he does so. He still feels the bruises and pain that resulted from the rough treatment he received at the hands of the guards."

"But first, allow me to ask, is there anything I can do for you, my lady? Anything at all?" "He looks at Sayuri, his eyes shining with sincerity."

"Prince Roland walks alongside Sayuri as they make their way towards the inn. He glances at her with a soft expression."

"Thank you, Princess. I will do my best to stay safe," "he responds reassuringly."

As they reach the inn, Prince Roland looks around at his new surroundings, taking in the unfamiliar sights and smells. He feels slightly out of place in this new place, but he's grateful that Sayuri is by his side.

"I am in your care now, Princess," "he says, smiling gently at her." "Where would you like me to rest?"

"Prince Roland looks at Sayuri appreciatively, appreciating her practicality."

"I completely understand the need to conserve money and rations. One bed would suffice for me, if that's alright," "he says."

He then turns to the innkeeper and begins to negotiate the price of the room. Once they reach a mutually agreeable price, Prince Roland follows Sayuri to their room.

"This is quite sufficient for my needs," "he says, glancing around the small room." "Thank you, Princess."

As Sayuri changes into her nightgown, Prince Roland turns away politely to give her privacy. He takes off his tattered clothing and slips on the provided nightshirt which, although plain, is a welcome change from the damp and filthy clothes he was previously forced to wear.

"You look comfortable, Princess," "he says, turning back around and giving her a small smile." "I must admit that this is a luxury for me."

"It's alright, Princess," "Prince Roland replies, understandingly." "I am simply grateful to have a bed and some clean clothes. It's more than I could ask for given the circumstances."

He watches as Sayuri undresses and lets her hair down. Despite her exhaustion, she still looks beautiful to him. He finds himself feeling grateful for her kindness and company.

"Rest well, Princess. I will keep watch to ensure our safety," "he says, laying back on the bed and closing his eyes."

As Sayuri lays down next to him and closes her eyes, Prince Roland hesitates for a moment. He's been trained to be vigilant and wary of potential dangers at all times, but in this moment, he feels strangely comforted by the presence of another human being.

He slowly relaxes and attempts to get some rest himself, but his mind is restless with memories of his past life and worries about his uncertain future. He finally drifts off into an uneasy sleep with his thoughts still churning in his head.

As Sayuri cuddles up against him, Prince Roland tenses briefly in surprise and instinctively pulls away. His past experiences have made him wary of being physically touched by others without his consent.

But as he feels her comforting presence and the softness of her body against his, he slowly begins to relax. He realizes that Sayuri is only trying to comfort him and protect him from his own fears.

He wraps an arm around her and pulls her close, returning the embrace. For the first time in a long time, he feels a sense of safety and warmth in another person's arms.

"Thank you, Princess," "he whispers, his voice hoarse with emotion." "I needed this."

Prince Roland smiles gently as Sayuri drifts back to sleep in his arms. He watches her for a moment, taking in her peaceful expression and the way her hair falls around her face.

He feels a sense of protectiveness towards her, despite their current situation. He vows to himself that he will do whatever he can to ensure her safety and wellbeing, as long as they are in this together.

He leans his head back against the pillows and closes his eyes, letting himself relax in the warmth of her embrace and drift off into a deep slumber.

As Prince Roland wakes up in the morning, he feels Sayuri's head still resting on his chest. He looks down at her and admires her delicate features for a few moments, taking in her peaceful expression and the way her pink hair falls around her face.

He quietly shifts his body to avoid disturbing her, not wanting to deprive her of any more rest. He pulls the blanket up to cover her fully and chuckles to himself when he realizes that he had subconsciously guarded her from his own cover.

He then takes a moment to stretch his limbs before realizing that they are still in dire circumstances. "We should get moving, Princess." "he whispers softly, trying not to wake Sayuri". "We don't want to be seen lingering around here for too long or we might attract unwanted attention."

Prince Roland notices Sayuri stir in his arms. He looks down at her and smiles gently, glad that she understands the urgency of their situation.

"Good morning, Princess," "he whispers softly as he strokes her hair" "We should get ready to leave soon, to avoid any unnecessary attention."

He then slowly sits up and gently sets Sayuri down on the bed, making sure she's fully covered with the blanket. He then stands up and starts getting dressed, his movements quick and precise, hoping to avoid any distractions that would delay their escape.

Prince Roland nods in agreement as Sayuri suggests getting warmer clothes. "You're right, Princess. We can't rely on the current weather being always favorable. Let's see what we have left to eat and then look for some warmer clothing."

He moves towards their supplies and begins rummaging through them, taking out a few provisions that they can quickly consume. Once they finish eating, he helps Sayuri pack up their belongings and gear, making sure that they have everything they need before heading out.

As they leave the room, Prince Roland takes one last look to make sure they haven't left anything behind. He feels nervous about leaving the safety of the building and venturing out into the unknown, but he knows it's their only chance at finding freedom.

Prince Roland looks back at Sayuri, noticing the unspoken emotions in her eyes. He squeezes her hand reassuringly, understanding the gravity of the situation they are in.

"We'll make it out of this," "he says with a soft smile" "As long as we stick together and don't lose hope, we'll find a way to escape this place and start anew."

He leads Sayuri towards the exit, ready to face whatever challenges await them outside. As they step out into the open air, Prince Roland takes a deep breath, enjoying the feel of the fresh air on his face, and turns to Sayuri.

"Let's do this, Princess," "he says with a smile."

As Sayuri whistles, Prince Roland turns to see a majestic horse trotting towards them. He looks at the horse in amazement and then turns to Sayuri. "That's a fine-looking horse you got there, Princess."

He approaches the horse and strokes its mane, feeling the well-built body of the animal. "This horse looks well taken care of. I bet it can carry us for miles without a problem."

He then looks at Sayuri and gestures towards the horse. "After you, Princess."

Prince Roland follows Sayuri's lead as she mounts the horse first and takes the reins. He then climbs up, sitting behind her on the horse with his arms securely wrapped around her waist. He leans over to take a hold of the reins, but the proximity of his face to her back causes him to blush slightly.

Clearing his throat, he takes a firm grip on the reins and reaches forward to adjust Sayuri's hold on them.

"There we go," "he says, his breath warm against her ear." "Ready when you are, Princess."

Prince Roland adjusts his hold on the reins as the horse begins to trot towards the mountains once again. He feels Sayuri lean back into him, and he instinctively pulls her closer to provide her some warmth.

"It's cold up here in the mountains, isn't it?" he comments, his breath warm against her neck. "Don't worry, we'll be near the summit soon. You can warm yourself by the fire when we get there."

He then cast his eyes around the landscape, admiring the snow-capped peaks and the sprawling valleys beneath them. "Such beauty," he muses. "It's a shame that we're unable to enjoy it as we'd like to."

"You speak truth," Roland replies with a nod. "It is important to find joy in the small things, even during difficult times."

As he speaks, the horse starts to climb up a hill and he instinctively tightens his grip on the reins. "Steady now," he murmurs softly to the horse.

Once they reach the top of the hill, he takes a deep breath of the fresh mountain air and lets it out slowly. "Perhaps you are right, Sayuri," he says thoughtfully. "This journey may not be what we anticipated, but that doesn't mean we can't find happiness along the way."

"And I am honored to have you by my side, Sayuri," replies Roland with a soft smile, clearly touched by her words. "It has been a long and difficult road thus far, but I find comfort in knowing that I am not alone in this journey."

As the horse continues up the mountain, he turns to look at her with genuine warmth in his eyes. "Your presence provides solace in an otherwise bleak situation. Thank you for choosing to accompany me on this journey."

"It is not your fault, Sayuri. You cannot be held responsible for the actions of your father," reassures Roland, his tone gentle. "You need not feel guilty or burdened by the events that have transpired."

He pauses for a moment before speaking again, his voice taking on a serious note. "That being said, I am grateful for your company and the kindness you have shown me. It is not easy to remain compassionate and understanding towards one's captor, and yet you have done so. It speaks to your character and strength of will."

Roland's jaw clenches at the mention of his capture, his eyes flickering with a hint of anger and pain.

"I was a knight of my kingdom, sent to the front line to defend against invading forces," he explains, his voice tight with emotion. "Unfortunately, we were outnumbered and outmatched. My countrymen fell one by one until we were forced to retreat. I was captured during that retreat."

He takes a deep breath, trying to regain control of his emotions. "It was a brutal fight, Sayuri. Many lives were lost."

Roland nods slowly, his expression pained. "They were brave men indeed. They fought with honor and pride until the very end."

He takes a moment to compose himself before speaking again. "As for being captured, it is not an easy pill to swallow. To be stripped of one's freedom and subjected to torture and humiliation...it is a fate worse than death. However, I am resolved to survive and keep fighting in my own way, even if it means adapting to a life of servitude."

At the mention of returning home, a small spark of hope lights up in Roland's eyes. "Yes, it will be a long journey, but at least I will have the chance to return to familiar lands and be among my own people once again."

He pauses for a moment, considering his next words. "However, I wonder what kind of reception I will receive after being taken captive and forced into servitude. Will they see me as a failure, or as a victim of circumstance?"

Roland's eyes soften at Sayuri's words, and he gives a small smile. "Thank you for your kind words, Sayuri. It is heartening to know that even in a foreign land, there are those who see beyond my current circumstances and recognize my true worth."

He takes a deep breath, his expression thoughtful. "In truth, I long to be seen as more than just a survivor. I want to prove myself once again as a capable leader and warrior, to regain my honor and dignity that was taken from me."

Roland's eyes flicker with surprise and gratitude at Sayuri's words. He seems to be at a loss for words for a moment, before finally offering a humble thank you.

"I appreciate your support and words of encouragement, Sayuri. They mean more than you know, especially in these trying times."

With a thoughtful expression, he adds, "Perhaps my time here may offer me the chance to learn and grow in ways I never thought possible. Who knows what the future holds?"

<As the horse suddenly bucks, Roland barely manages to cling on to it with a startled yelp. He loses his balance and slams into Sayuri's back, causing him to groan in pain.>

"Ah, sorry about that," he grunts out, rubbing at his sore crotch and wincing in pain. "I should learn to hold on tighter."

Roland grimaces slightly as he tries to regain his breath after the sudden impact. He nods weakly at Sayuri's question, although it is clear that he is still in considerable pain.

"I will be fine, thank you," he manages to say through clenched teeth. "Just need a moment to catch my breath."

He continues to massage his sore crotch for a few more moments before finally taking a deep breath and pulling himself upright once more. "Let's continue on, shall we? Can't let a little fall dampen our spirits."

<As the cold chills you to the bone, Roland notices Sayuri shaking and leaning back into him for warmth. He instinctively wraps his arm around her in an attempt to offer some comfort, pulling her closer to his body in an effort to share his own body heat.>

"Are you alright, Sayuri?" he asks softly, concern evident in his voice. "Perhaps we should make camp soon and try to get warm."

He then pulls his own cloak tighter around both of them, trying to shield Sayuri as much as possible from the biting cold.

"It's hard to say," Roland responds, his voice measured and calm. "We're making good progress, but we still have a ways to go. It'll depend on the weather and how difficult the terrain gets."

He feels Sayuri lean heavily against him, wincing slightly at the additional weight. However, he doesn't complain and instead tries to support her as best he can.

"But don't worry, we'll make it there eventually," he adds with a reassuring smile. "Just try to stay warm and keep your spirits up."

"It's alright, Sayuri. Don't worry about me," Roland says, shaking his head slightly. "I can handle a bit of discomfort. I'm more worried about you getting through this cold than anything else."

He notices Sayuri clinging to the horse's neck for warmth and gestures for her to move closer to him, so he can wrap his arms around her and shield her from the biting wind.

"Come closer," he says softly and pulls Sayuri close to his chest, trying to warm her up with his body heat. "I know it's cold, but we'll make it through this together."

Roland holds Sayuri carefully, feeling her leaning back onto him and resting her head on his chest. He wraps his arms around her, closing his eyes as he concentrates on keeping them both warm.

He breathes in the cold, crisp air deeply, relishing in the icy sensation that fills his lungs. Despite his discomfort, there is a part of him that appreciates this rugged, wild terrain. He wonders what it must have been like for his ancestors to live off these mountains.

"I hope you're feeling a bit warmer," Roland whispers softly into Sayuri's ear. "We'll get through this frosty peak together."

Roland laughs softly when the horse deposits the blanket onto them, surprised by the animal's intelligence and thoughtfulness.

"Looks like our trusty steed is trying to keep us warm," he says with a grin, picking up the blanket and draping it over themselves. The warmth of the blanket is a welcome change and helps take the edge off the biting cold.

"Thank you, my friend," Roland says, patting the horse affectionately on the neck. "I'm glad we have you with us on this journey."

Roland smiles as he watches Sayuri pet Braxton gently before retreating back under the blanket and into his arms, feeling a sense of warmth and contentment.

"That's a good name for him," he says with a grin. "I can tell from the way he's taking care of us that he's a loyal and reliable companion."

He holds Sayuri close, wrapping the blanket around them tightly, enjoying the intimacy they are sharing under the blanket together. He feels safe with her in his arms and trusts this journey through the harsh environment with her by his side.

Roland continues to hold Sayuri close, feeling her body relax against his as she drifts off into sleep. He strokes her hair gently and whispers soothingly to her as the horse continues to carry them through the harsh terrain.

He takes in the serene view of the snow-capped mountains in the distance and stars filling up the night sky. These are the moments he never expected to cherish before his capture but is now finding comfort in sharing them with Sayuri.

As she sleeps peacefully in his arms, Roland allows himself to fully exhale and sink deeper into the feeling of peace and gratitude. For the first time in a long time, he feels a sense of hope and freedom, even if escaping scars the soul with hidden wounds.

Roland nods as he looks around the area for a suitable spot to set up camp. He guides Braxton towards a nearby clear patch of land and carefully guides him to a stop before dismounting.

He offers Sayuri his hand to help her get down safely before beginning to gather materials for their camp. He starts by clearing a spot on the ground for the firepit and gathering wood she’d managed to collect for the fire, setting them up in the pit.

As he arranges the firewood, Roland couldn't resist gazing up at the sky to admire the breathtaking view, seeing the moon casts an ethereal glow on the snow-capped mountain peaks.

"Sayuri, did you bring any food with you?" He pauses for a moment. "I didn't find anything on Braxton's sacks, but I'm hoping there are some r

Roland takes the sacks from Sayuri and nods appreciatively. "No need to go hunting just yet," he says with a chuckle, inspecting the contents of the sacks. "These will do just fine."

He rummages through their supplies, finding a pot and some utensils. He begins to boil water over the fire and prepares the dehydrated meal in the pot.

As they wait for the food to be ready, Roland takes a seat by the fire, looking at Sayuri admiringly. "You're quite resourceful, Sayuri," he compliments her. "I'm lucky to have you with me."

He watches as the fire flickers, feeling grateful for the warmth of the fire on his battered body and the comfort of Sayuri's company. Something he never dared imagine he could have again after being a captive for

Roland can't help but chuckle as Braxton playfully knocks Sayuri into his lap, and he puts an arm around her to steady her. "Well, well, is Braxton trying to play matchmaker?" he teases, giving the horse a gentle pat on the neck.

He feels Sayuri's warmth against him and savors the moment, grateful for the small comfort amidst their difficult circumstances.

As the food finishes cooking, Roland serves them both some of the hot stew. "Bon appetit," he says with a smile before taking his own spoonful. The meal is basic, but it's warm and filling, and it'll do for their adventure in the mountains ahead.

As Sayuri shares her meal with Braxton, Roland watches with a smile on his face. "He's lucky to have you as his owner," he remarks, taking another spoonful of the stew.

Deep down, he feels a twinge of jealousy towards the horse. Braxton is well-fed, cared for, and has a loving owner. Something Roland yearns for, but knows he cannot have as a slave.

He pushes the thought away and focuses on the present moment, enjoying the warmth of the fire and the comfort of the food in his stomach.

Roland smiles at Sayuri's words. "Indeed, my lady. We'll find our way there one way or another," he says, his tone light and teasing.

He appreciates Sayuri's enthusiasm and optimism, but he knows that their journey ahead won't be easy. The mountains can be treacherous, and there are many dangers lurking in the wild. Still, he feels a glimmer of hope within him, and that has to be enough for now.

"We should get some rest while we can," he suggests, gesturing towards the bedroll. "Who knows what awaits us in the morning."

Roland nods, grateful for the warmth of the fire and Sayuri's company. "Yes, it did help," he admits, turning to look at her. "Thank you for staying with me."

He watches as she snuggles up against Braxton and the bedroll, a peaceful expression on her face. The sight brings a small smile to his lips.

"I wouldn't say no to some help falling asleep again," he says, trying to keep his tone light. "But only if you're not too tired yourself."

Roland takes a deep breath, feeling Sayuri's warmth against him. "This is perfect," he murmurs, wrapping an arm around her and holding her close.

He closes his eyes, enjoying the feel of her breath against his chest and the softness of her hair in his hand. For a moment, he forgets about his troubles and feels a sense of peace wash over him.

"Thank you, Sayuri," he whispers, his voice barely above a breath. "For everything."

Roland smiles and brushes a strand of hair out of Sayuri's face before he watches her fall asleep. The rhythmic sound of her breathing lulls him into a sense of comfort and contentment, and he, too, eventually drifts off into a peaceful slumber beside her.

As he sleeps, he dreams of home and the life that was taken from him. But in his dreams, he also sees a glimmer of hope for the future, as he imagines a life free from the constraints of his former role as a prince. For the first time in a long while, his mind is at ease, and he sleeps soundly until the morning sun casts its warm light over their campsite.