Survival Part 8

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I'm so sorry this took so long to come out! Band camp, friends, and family seems to eat up all time :/ Well I worked hard on this one and I hope you all enjoy it!

You left off sitting in the tree with James, and King Donovan showed up as the king you were going to negotiate with....

Created by: CountryBayRythm
  1. I snarled and leaped from my perch. I found that in mid air, I had managed to put on my claws. When landed, I took up a defensive position with my claws extended before me. King Donovan's smile grew. I felt a feral growl grow in my throat, one I didn't think possible. Instantly I felt the presence of my comrades behind me. James was in the tree with his arrow aimed, and his eyes narrowed. Anton stood before me with his sword drawn, an even more threatening and scary growl was coming from him. Ava leaned on an axe with her eyes fixed on the king, and Eloise was crouching besides me with a chain. I watched as Timmy hid within the surrounding grasses. Casually, Vincent walked his horse between the king and our group. "King Donovan has come alone so as not to make you feel threatened. Queen Crystal was aware of the problems between the two groups and planned for such a reaction. Only I knew what kingdom we headed for. Now. We must accompany the King to peace talks. Come." The king looked at Vincent with an amused smile, he then turned and began to head to what I assumed was his kingdom. Everyone put away their weapons but me. I watched as everyone packed everything, everyone keeping a wary eye on the king. He just watched with a smug little grin. Timmy was kind enough to put away my things to so that I wouldn't rip it all up with my claws. We departed, following the black king on his black steed. I was going to walk besides Bo for a while, with my claws on. Ava rode besides me, her axe glittered at her waist. I looked at it curiously, it was silver that was tinted a bluish color. The hilt was of swirling aquamarine stones. She caught my stare and chuckled. "I'll reveal my secrets when you reveal yours." She said with a wink. I rolled my eyes and gave a slight smile. I quickly moved on from my moment of contentment, and returned to my alert mind. I did not trust this man, and I did not trust this area. The grasses began to lessen, and trees began to grow. Soon becoming the full blown forest I knew so well to avoid and be wary of. A shiver shot down my spine as we went deeper and deeper into this place of dread and cruelty.
  2. Slowly, men started to show their faces in the surrounding area. Whispering and looking on in curiosity. I would have clenched my fists if it weren't for my claws. Eventually we came to a large clearing, in the middle of it stood a large stone castle. Well, more of a fortress. Farms were scattered around, and as we passed them, the men in the fields stopped to look on with awe. We finally reached the castle. I stopped before I entered its gigantic wooden doors. I looked up at the stones that towered above me, and I frowned. I always thought I'd be dead before I was brought here. My gaze lowered and I found that everyone was waiting for me with their eyes on me. I took the first dreadful step in and shuddered. We walked through streets and passed by men. I'd occasionally catch the face of a woman, her eyes would be filled with fear. We eventually reached the palace and entered to leave the public's sight. Soldiers came to take the horses, but I growled when one reached for Bo. The soldier argued and reached again, this time Bo pinned his ears. When the man paid no attention to that, Bo bit off one of his fingers. The man screeched and jumped back holding his hand. As Bo spat out the finger, a booming laugh filled the hallway. I turned to find King Donovan without his main armor and horse. He was taller than all of us and smiled at us with his perfect teeth. "I like him. He's got spirit. If you'd prefer he stays with you, so be it." He told me. I didn't turn my back to him as I released Bo from all of his gear, and placed it all on the floor. I kept my weapons however. This seemed to amuse the king. A couple small boys came and showed us to our rooms, and the king vanished. We each received our own rooms, all luxurious. And yet, mine seemed to be the largest and richest. It was decorated in crimson and gold. The furniture was all made of gold and adorned in rubies. Bo strode to the opposite side of the room and kept his eye on the door. I sat on my bed and sunk into the softest sheets I've ever felt. I looked up at the large canopy above me and felt so out of place. I live in a forest, not in spoiling luxury. I removed my weapons and walked into the bathroom. I placed them in easy reach and looked over the place. It was all in marble and sapphires. I closed the door and removed my clothes rather reluctantly. I prepared a bath and sunk into it's warm waters. I removed all the dirt and grime from my skin and hair rather hurriedly and didn't allow myself a moment to just sit and relax. This wasn't a place to relax. I rose from my bath and wrapped myself in a fluffy blue and white towel. I gathered my things and left the bathroom. On my bed sat Eloise waiting for me. I gave her a small smile and set everything down. I then came and sat besides her.
  3. "Well, we are supposed to go and dine with the king. He wants to welcome us before we negotiate. Rather, you and Vincent negotiate. Since I do not feel comfortable here, and I enjoy your company, I figure we can help each other get ready!" Eloise said. I smiled, "Why not? But for the record, I refuse to wear heels!" She giggled, "Then I won't either!" She dived into my closet and brought out a dress. "Put it on, let me see." She told me. I put it on and smiled when I looked into the mirror. It was a red gown. The top was tight and strapless, while the bottom bellowed out in tool and silk. The top was accented in diamonds to top it off. "Perfect." I said turning to her. A smile lit up her face eyes. She took me to the bathroom and put my golden hair into a fancy side bun of braids. She put on a slight black eyeliner and mascara, and darkened my lips to a red. I watched as she slid a diamond ring onto my right middle finger, and added a little diamond bracelet to both wrists. Then, Eloise put on my tiara. "Where did you get that?" I asked. "Timmy. He has had it since your mother gave it to him to take care of. At these things, you are supposed to appear as the princess you are." She responded. I nodded. I then rushed to the closet, it was my turn!
  4. We looked at each other and nodded in approval. There was a knock on the door and Eloise said they could come in. Timmy came in wearing a cute little suit, but his hair was still a mess. I smiled and kneeled to fix it. When done I looked up at who was waiting for me. Anton had Ava on his arm, and Eloise took James's arm. I looked over at Vincent and knew he would be my escort. "You look stunning." He whispered when I took his arm. I looked into his eyes and knew he meant it in earnest. I smiled in appreciation. We followed the boy that was taking us to wherever the king had planned for us to go. We reached a large dining room with suits of armor lining the walls. The center table was enormous and filled with foods, many that I couldn't even identify. King Donovan stood from his seat at the head of the table. He welcomed us in with a large booming voice. I was to sit at his right, and he helped me into my seat. It took all of my focus not to jump away from his near presence. We dined in an awkward silence, heightened by how he always had his eyes on me. When we could eat no more we all left to our rooms, under the gaze of the king.
  5. (KING DONOVAN'S POV) I watched as the Princess left my sight. I knew my constant gaze made her uncomfortable... but I couldn't help myself. She looks so much like her mother, but so much better. Even her slightest flaws are perfection. I groaned and left to my room. I looked around when I got there and realized how lonely I am. My room was vast and luxurious. A place I enjoyed to escape from my responsibilities in. But tonight, it's a prison. Without her sharing this space with me, it's nothing, it's worthless. I'd rather sleep with the dogs than endure another night here without her. This is so bizarre, I've never yearned for a woman like this. Never. The oddity of it is heightened by the fact that I do not even know her! The few facts I know are enough.... She's strong, intelligent, brave, exotic, and absolutely gorgeous. Anything further could only increase her perfection. I walked to my window and overlooked my kingdom, I'd give it all up for her. I growled and punched the wall. I couldn't be having such thoughts, I can't... but Ashlyn... oh Ashlyn. Just her name rolls of my tongue with ease. Before my eyes I could see her beautiful green eyes, eyes that have seen everything but the love of a man. Only if I could give it to her. Only if I could give the world to her. Then maybe her hatred and mistrust will turn to love.... I wonder if she knows what I did for her mother. I'll bring it up to her sometime. Perhaps then I'll gain some sort of trust from her. Oh what I'd do to see a smile on her perfect lips! I rubbed my face with my hands and turned from the view. I undressed and put on only a pair of boxers. I walked over to the mirror and looked at myself. I knew I was an attractive man, but for the first time in my life, I was worried about what a woman would think of me. I then turned and looked at my back. Scars that I normally saw as a sign of my strength turned to something ugly and reminded me of a brute. I knew they were the work of my father... but Ashlyn would see them as disgusting, I just knew it. I turned, hiding them from my sight. I then inspected my face. I wiped my black hair from my face and looked at my pale face. Would she think that's not attractive? Then what of my hard features... does she prefer soft? I groaned again and went to collapse into my bed. My large lonely bed. Ashlyn must be a trained temptress, for she certainly owns my heart and soul.
  6. (MY POV) I woke to find Eloise in my face. I squealed and jumped out of my spot and she laughed. I looked around and saw that Ava was staring down Bo, who seemed to be keeping her from my weapons. I laughed. "Yes?" I asked them. Ava turned from Bo and to talk to me. "Even though you will not play such a big roll today, you have to appear professional, powerful, and poised. We need the respect from these people. And it wouldn't hurt if they feared you a bit too. I'm here to teach you a bit. Eloise is here to help dress you." She finished. "Do I have to wear shoes?" I asked with a hint of fear in my voice. Ava chuckled and nodded her head. I groaned. 'I can't stand in those damn heels.' I followed Eloise into the closet and she offered me choices to wear. I chose...
  7. When Eloise finished with me, Ava took over. She studied me a moment and finally decided to begin. "Walk for me first. You can walk slowly if you wish, just take strong and steady steps. Do not slouch, and keep your chest out and shoulders down. Keep your chin raised and never approach anybody. Have them approach you. Now walk." I walked for her and tried what she asked. She fixed a few things and I tried again. We continued this way for a good half hour, her constantly giving me advice and fixing my mistakes. Once she was satisfied that I was presentable she let me sit a moment. "Alright, this is good. We can always improve, but your a fast learner so we can leave it there for now. I will not leave your side unless if you will enter a private conference for negotiations. Vincent has been with King Donovan for a couple hours now, soon, they will want your presence." She finished. "What are you going to do Eloise?" I asked. "My job!" She winked. I watched as she stripped from her simple long black dress. Underneath it was black pants and shirt that fit her body perfectly. She put her hair into a tight, slick bun, and removed her shoes. I watched with a mixture of amusement and curiosity as she scaled the seemingly unclimbable wall into the beams above. I couldn't see her any more, but I knew she left for the door opened slightly and closed again silently. I looked back at Ava. "She's good, do not worry." She said. "Always have Bo at your side. For one, he can carry your weapons. This makes you more frightening. And two, he's intimidating himself. Additionally, I like that he is protective of you and smart. Therefore, no one can surprise you." She added. I nodded and Bo seemed happy that he could always be with me. He walked over to Ava and gave her a nudge, his way of thanking her. "One of these days, I'm going to make you let me see those." She told him with a hint of affection in her voice. He pinned his ears, but I could tell he was playful. I smiled, watching them would bring much amusement through these boring days!
  8. The three of us left and found the dining hall. It was empty save for a couple servants. I sat at the table and let the servants wait on me. I didn't like it, I prefer to rely on myself, but I had to. I ate for a couple minutes when Anton came in. He whispered something in Ava's ear and she frowned. She left the room quickly. I looked at Anton, asking for answers. "Women are gathering, I didn't understand why. I figured Ava would have a better shot at figuring out why." He answered simply. "I'm going to be with you until she returns." He added. I motioned for him to sit, practicing what Ava had taught me. He smiled amused, but followed what I had said. "Would you like to eat?" I asked. Anton just shook his head. I shrugged. I continued to pick at my platter. I wasn't that hungry, but I felt terrible for not eating it all. Anton saw my dilemma and took my food. "Thanks." I said as he finished my food. He just nodded. There was a look in his eyes I couldn't quite place. Normally I just let it go, but I've seen it in his eyes before. Why couldn't I place it?
  9. (ANTON'S POV) She sat there for a while longer, sipping at the water before her. It's funny that she just can't waste food, but I don't blame her. It's hard to brake a habit like that. I stood and took out one of my samurai swords. I just inspected it at first, but played with it next. I was bored, and it was the best thing available that wouldn't make Ash uncomfortable. I wonder what she'd think if I called her that. Ash. I chuckled to myself and I saw, in the corner of my eye, her look at me curious. I just shook my head and practiced some moves. I smiled when some of the servants looked at each other nervous. I often forget that just my practicing is better than most can dream of. I put it away and Ash stood up. She left the room with Bo at her heels. I normally hate acting like a body guard, but I didn't mind with her. Following Ashlyn was the best possible past time right now. I hate to admit, but I could follow her around all day. Half of me doesn't want Ava to return.... I followed her as she found a balcony. I watched as her eyes changed from the eyes of a woman, to the eyes of a huntress. I hate hunters, I normally think them to be cowards. But she is so skilled and so strong, I can not help but admire her in this state. She surveyed the sight below her, of the kingdom, and I surveyed her. I realized what I was doing, and quickly snapped out of it. I looked around to try and spot any dangers, but none were there. The women had all vanished from the streets, and from the distant muttering, I could tell they had now entered the castle. Behind us I heard the approach of a large man, so large it could only be one man. That b------ Donovan.
  10. (MY POV)I heard King Donovan approach us from behind. It took all I had not to grab my bow and aim it at him. I was made of instincts. But this place, it was not for instincts. I turned slowly, holding on to all that Ava had taught me. Before my eyes I found Donovan and Anton having a stare down. Each having a hand on their weapon. "Yes?" I asked, breaking the stare. Donovan's eyes instantly softened when they laid on me. "I request your presence in the main hallway princess. I have business to wrap up. I need you there for this. I eyed him suspiciously, but nodded in consent. He smiled a brilliant smile that caught me off guard. It was genuine. I followed him with my two boys close behind me. We soon came to the main hall where all the women were found. A small line of men stood to the side, what I assumed to be Donovan's council. Ava sat with her legs crossed to the other side. Curiosity exploding in her eyes. I stood in front of the group with Anton on one side of me and Bo on the other. His ears pinned, daring anyone to approach with hostility. "Well, I happen to know that there is a woman here that has helped Princess Ashlyn in the past. However, I do not know who. To be honest, this is to ease my curiosity only. I promise no harm will come to the woman who has done so. No harm in any way to you and loved ones." The king declared while studying the crowd. I rose my eyebrows. "This is what all this trouble is about?" I asked annoyed. He chuckled and nodded. A moment of silence followed. Iris then appeared out of no where and approached me. "He does not lie. How else could I survive in his courts so well? I can read the man." She winked. I smiled and came up to her. She took me into a hug and pulled back with her hands still in mine. "Oh Ashlyn, I'm thrilled to find you well, let alone a princess! Who would've known!" I chuckled. "You never told me of my mother." I told her sternly. "I never knew it was of importance! I never saw the poor woman's face, only heard of her. Her isolation was an attempt at breaking her. Ha, how amusing huh? A woman used to a solitary life can survive without socialization. I only heard of the news today. If I knew she was your mother I would have instantly told you that." She turned to Bo. "So this is the infamous Bo! It's about time I've seen your face." She told him while slipping him an apple that came from who knows where. "I'm thrilled my products have served you well." Iris said motioning to my weapons. She then turned to the line of men. They all looked surprised, all but one. He was the same age and had the same silvery hair. Only, his eyes were hazel. He shook his head at her. "Oh Iris, my love. Of course it was you." He told her. She smiled at him. "Ashlyn, this is my husband Robert." He bowed and I smiled. I turned to Iris and was about to continue our odd little meeting when booming laughter shook the halls. All seemed to quiver a bit but Iris and Robert, my people, and me. "I agree with your husband, of course it was you Iris. It could only be you." The king boomed. "All may go but you two, I'm asking you to lunch with us." He told the couple. They nodded looking at him carefully. Everyone left gladly.
  11. "Just the four of us." Donovan said a bit more stern when Ava rose to come to my side. Her eyes narrowed, "Surely her horse can come with her?" She said that more as a statement than a question. He looked at me with warmth in his eyes, "If it pleases the princess." I nodded, a bit put off by his obvious affection. I took his arm reluctantly and we went to the dining hall in silence. Once their, we were served with a light lunch. Iris was a blessing. She kept up conversation so it wasn't nearly as awkward and uncomfortable. I witnessed for the first time the kinder side of Donovan. He seemed to be fond of Iris and her husband. We left the king when finished, and I said goodbye to Iris. After this, Vincent appeared out of no where. "Don't get too excited to go princess, it's time to peace talk." He told me. I groaned and looked back into the room. Vincent chuckled, "Another room, it'll be a lot more comfortable." I followed him to a room on top of a tower. The walls were entirely of glass, and the furniture were of different shades of purple. Vincent motioned to one seat and he sat in another. Shortly after I sat, Donovan entered the room.
  12. (VINCENT'S POV) The King walked in and sat in his throne. I could tell Ashlyn hated the situation, but she held herself well. I'm going to have to compliment Ava later on her teaching abilities. I was dreading what was to come. I was not happy with our arrangement, but it was the best compromise I could muster. "Princess, I am very willing to join as allies on a few conditions as you have yours as well." Donovan began. "I have agreed to the conditions that Vincent has given me. Conditions for the women here will immediately improve. As for trade and travel between our kingdoms, that will be filled with ease. Now. Vincent has complied to my conditions, but you are required to approve. I have asked that we share responsibilities in guarding our borders and that training for our warriors and hunters be joined for a stronger out come for all." He paused, looking for approval from her. She nodded, obviously fine with the arrangement. But that's not the part she will dislike. And I dislike it too.... "Now, the next condition is purely for my sake, and is a must if we are to become allies. I wouldn't force you into any marriage princess, but I'd like to accompany you on your journeys. I'd like at least a chance at winning your heart. I'm not asking for you to be kind to me or give in to me, I merely ask for a chance." King Donovan finished, fear swelled in his eyes. For a moment I could relate. Rejection from Ashlyn was probably what I feared most at the moment. But that was only a moment. I already am in competition with James and Anton, whether they and Ashlyn know it or not yet, I didn't want the king to be added as well. But we needed this. It would be so unbelievably selfish to have refused, all though I was tempted. Ashlyn looked down at her hands in shock. This must be hard for her, I couldn't imagine being in her place, and yet here she is. She nodded. It was barely visible, but unmistakable. The king smiled largely and sighed in relief. As for me, I was not relieved in the slightest.
  13. (MY POV) I left the room with mixed emotions. For one... I hated this man a week ago, I wanted to rip his heart out! And now... I'm giving him the chance to rip mine out? A week ago, I would rather die to be with a man! So much has changed, I'm frightened I'm changing too. Vincent started to follow me, but I needed a minute alone. I hopped up on Bo, and he knew instantly what I needed. As he took off I could hear an exasperated sigh from Vincent. He would have to deal. We stormed out of the palace and out of the kingdom. I can do whatever I want now. We rode and rode, numbing ourselves from the stress. The freedom of the wind in my face and the power beneath me is beyond words. We thundered past men and trees, running from the life we launched ourselves in. When we reached the end of the forest Bo stopped. His hoofs didn't go past the last tree. "We could go, we've run from hoards of men at our heels and still made it out." I told him. He didn't move. "Have I changed Bo? Am I still me...." Bo reached back and nibbled at my toes. I realized that I had lost my shoes. I got off and rubbed his face. "You promise?" He nickered and nudged my shoulder. I gave him a small sad smile and huddled into his neck. I sat there for a minute, soaking up his warmth and let his steady breathing soothe my nerves. I was so lucky to have such a tremendous horse at my side through thick and thin. To be honest, his intelligence and strength sometimes made me wonder if he was half Pegasus. It would make sense. A crack of a twig snapped behind me. I turned quickly to meet the eyes of James.
  14. (JAMES POV) I looked at Ashlyn, she looked so lost and upset. I wouldn't suspect anything less. She's been thrown into this world without any adapting period, not to mention the whole thing with the king. He's not so bad on his own, but in her eyes he must be terrible. The moment I heard what the treaty was, and saw the wax seal of Vincent's, I came to find her immediately. I was on Sis, my mare. "Follow me." I told Ashlyn. She complied by getting on Bo. I walked with her on the edge of the forest in silence. We were both more solitary creatures, silence was calming in a loud world. I knew she needed no words, only actions. We finally came to the towering tree I had found earlier in the day. It was larger than it's neighbors, yet surprisingly easy to climb. I dismounted off of Sis and climbed the tree. Ashlyn followed surprisingly well for what she wore. We both reached the tallest branch at the same time and sat facing the sunset. The forest was a mere silhouette against the brilliant colors. The far off sky was an orange, and the clouds above us reflected reds and purples. However, it's beauty was nothing in comparison to the brilliance of Ashlyn's eyes. I touched her shoulder ever so slightly, not to shock her. "It's hard. I know. But if it wasn't, we wouldn't have been chosen. Take it step by step. Don't dwell on the past, and don't second guess the future. Let us do that, just play your role right now. And from what I've seen, your one hell of an actress." I told her softly. Her green eyes never left the painted sky, but a smile showed at the edges of her lips, and I knew she heard my words loud and clear.
  15. Well that's all for this part! I'm sorry I've taken so long to get it out... I've been busy :/ However... I love it when you all comment and rate! So please do so :)
  16. Who is it that your thoughts seem to continue to wonder back to?

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