A/N: sup guys I'm back early to post a new chapter! :D I hope you all enjoy and thank you for the reviews. They inspire me to keep writing. Anyway I hope you enjoy the chapter!

A few days went by since the torture that Xander went through. He never went through anything like it. Saizo had him go through water torture. Apparently the Hoshidans had a few rods on torture methods, but that was no different than the torture tome that Nohrians used on prisoners. Rod had two fish made of water, force their way into Xander's lungs, and before he would pass out from the pain of not breathing all the water would leave and he would be able to breath again. This felt like days, an everlasting nightmare for Xander but in actuality it was only about one hour. The pain was absolutely excruciating. Afterwards Saizo decided to inflict the pain himself. Xander remembered the feeling even though he looked absolutely fine. Unlike Nohr, the Hoshidans decided to heal the prisoners with staves, so the future torture can always be excruciatingly painful, no worries for the prisoner dying on them. Saizo slowly pushed a knife into Xander, he repeated the process over and over again until. Xander couldn't take the pain anymore. Now a few days went by since then, well Xander thought maybe a few days went by, unable to tell time down in this dungeon. Now Xander was all alone down there for quite some time now.

He hated it

The feeling of torture was horrible, but the feeling of being left to rot struck fear to his very core. Now Xander knew a day would come where that wouldn't be the case. That he would want death over the constant pain inflicted upon him.

That's what scared him the most

Wanting death, the thought would have never crossed his mind before these events took place. Now Xander knew that this would end up being a struggle for his whole life. Would he want it all to stop? To just give up one everything? He fought hard enough? Maybe just let it all end?

"Stop it Xander" Xander spoke aloud, silencing his dangerous thoughts, his weak thoughts. Well on the bright side Saizo healed his shoulder by mistake.

What does it matter though?

Xander scoffed at the thought of staying in this position for the rest of his life. Kneeling in a dirty mud puddle mixed with old water, blood, and his excretions. A sad thought indeed

But he was still alive

Xander knew he had to fight, to push forward. He had too much pride to roll over and die in a torture chamber. But how will he escape? How I'll he make a comeback? Xander sighed again. Xander was debating on counting to ten thousand again to past the time but he head the door click open. Walking in came the usual servant that Xander came to recognize. She only came at dinner or breakfast she said once before to Saizo, apparently the king of Hoshido said Xander had to stay alive so of course he would be fed, like an animal no less but it was better than starving to death. The young servant with blue hair opened Xander cell door and slowly stepped forward, fear evident in her approach. When she finally reached Xander, he looked up and saw fear in her eyes as she held a cup of water and a loaf of bread. Xander continued to look at her as she put the bread in his mouth. He chewed then swallowed piece after piece until it was gone. She slowly placed the cup of water on Xander's mouth and slowly tilted upward. Xander drank the water at steady pace, savor one every drop, making sure none spilled. Once she was finished she slowly stepped back and proceeded to leave his cell.

"Thank you" Xander said, the girl stopped and looked at Xander, Xander noticed she stopped so he looked up at her face and he saw her eyes had a questioning look.

"Why do you thank me? I don't understand" she whispered, as if she was unsure of her words, wondering if it was safe to speak to such a man. Xander continued to look at her. He looked into her green eyes and spoke again.

"I always thank someone who is willing to take care of me, my pride would not let me otherwise" Xander said, Xander could have sworn she saw a blush on her face but he decided not to even care about such things. He just lowered his head and closed his eyes, seeing if he could fall asleep once again. She stared at Xander for a moment longer until she begun to walk away. Once she shut Xander's cell she stole one last glance at Xander,

"I'm Kotegawa" she spoke, Xander was not expecting her name, nor did he care to know it. Xander was not stupid though. He knew that this was progress. This was something that he could use, at a later date if he needed to. So Xander had to make sure that she started to get this girl on his side, now the possibility was low, very low in fact.

But what did he have to lose?

Xander looked up her and gave a genuine smile, that made the girl blush again.

"I'll shall remember it well" was all he said before he lowered his head again. Xander heard Kotegawa scurry away, as quick as possible. Xander smiled to himself.

A speck of hope has emerged.

Hinoka woke up in a very sour mood. Thoughts of what Klovis said again blanket the back of her mind. She sighed and then yawned. Scratching her stomach as she lifted her sheets to get out of bed. She walked over to her dresser to put on a tunic, planning on some morning training to release her pent up anger. Feeling very happy about being able to train instead of going out onto the real battle field. Ever since the belief of Xander's "death", King Garon hasn't sent any more troops. The belief was that he must still be grieving his first sons loss, but that was just a belief. Nobody knew what he was up to. Hinoka appreciated it all the same though because these days of peace were wonderful. Takumi should be returning soon as well, after taking care of the Mokushu resistance. Now all her siblings will be together again and she couldn't wait to see them all. Hinoka walked out after grabbing her naginata. She proceeded down the hall and went down a flight of stairs. Once she was at the bottom of the stairs, she smiled, feeling great pride at the sight of the main room of the castle and it's beautiful design. Wooden columns stretched a good twenty feet up where they met with the ceiling, and in the center of the ceiling was a white dragon that was spiraling through flames. The dawn dragon. She puffed out her chest proud to know that her family was blessed by such a creature. She walked through the grand room with pride as she opened a door that led into the courtyard, and then from the courtyard she walked until she came across the royal training grounds.

"Lady...Hinoka" Hinoka heard some one lazily say her name. She looked over and saw a woman with green hair that covered half her face.

"Setsuna, how are you this morning?" Hinoka asked while walking over to Setsuna. Setsuna just yawned in response. Hinoka sighed.

"Where's Asama?" Hinoka asked Sersuna, Setsuna looked at Hinoka for about a minute, then shrugged.

"It took you that long to shrug?"

"I don't... know"

Hinoka feeling tired just from talking to Setsuna decided it would be a good idea to start practicing with her naginata. She stood in the center of the training field and begun whirling with her naginata, it was beautiful, Hioka was dancing with the spear like it was her partner in life as it spun around her body. She felt lost with the rhythmic movement she performed.

"Aaah... Oooh... Uuuuuh"

"Setsuna! You're distracting me!" Hinoka yelled, red with anger and embarrassment. Setsuna walked over to the far wall and say on a bench.

"Ooookay" Setsuna said, leaning her head back and watching the clouds drift by. Hinoka sighed, she will never understand Setsuna that's for sure.

'Now where was I?' Hinoka thought, trying to get back into the rhythm of things. However she was interrupted again by someone slamming a door shut. Hinoka jumped a bit and Setsuna released a loud snore, sleeping from watching the clouds. Setsuna just laid down more on the bench and stretched. Not even bothering to open her eyes. Hinoka turned around to see Saizo walking over.

"Lady Hinoka"

"Saizo, what brings you here?" Hinoka asked, Saizo stopped before Hinoka and crossed his arms.

"I was wondering if you needed someone to help you train" Saizo asked, Hinoka thought about it, never sparing with the man before, well she assumed he meant sparring.

"Do you mean to ask if I may spar with you?" Hinoka asked Saizo, Saizo shook his head.

"Not with me, King Sumeragi had an idea the other day, I don't necessarily agree with the notion but he insisted. So I was wondering if you needed help with your training?" Saizo asked her again, but what he said only confused her further. Hinoka just sighed.

"Sure" was all she said, Saizo then disappeared, Hinoka looked around, but he was gone.

"Still wish I could do that" Hinoka said. She still wondered what he meant though. How is he gonna help her train? Moments later another door slammed open, Hinoka whirled around just in time to see someone she never thought she would see again flop onto the dirt of the training grounds. She looked as she saw a half naked chained man rise from the dirt, his blond locks sticking to his face.

Prince Xander

To say Hinoka was shocked was an understatement. She knew he was captured, knew he was in the dungeon, but that didn't mean she was going to go and see him, or even wanted to see him for that matter. Hinoka noticed Saizo behind Xander, holding a long chain went up to Xander's hand cuffs, and said hands were cuffed behind Xander's back.

"What is this Saizo" Hinoka asked looking at Xander skeptically. Xander's eyes were squinted as he looked around, trying to adjust to the sudden change in light Saizo kicked Xander in the back of his leg, bringing Xander to his knees.

"King Sumeragi suggested that we use prince Xander to help train you," Saizo spoke, Hinoka and Xander's eyes both widened.

"Why would he ever suggest such a thing?" Hinoka asked, Saizo only sighed as tugged on Xander's chain. Xander went to stand up but only got kicked down again.

"Either crawl like the bug you are or get dragged like a disobedient puppy" Saizo spat, Xander looked into Saizos eyes and said nothing. Saizo pulled again, and Xander was dragged. His pride wouldn't allow him crawl, no matter what. Saizo dragged him front of Hinoka and then kicked him in the ribs. Xander leaned in himself, rubbing the area.

"King Sumeragi heard how you were almost killed by Xander, outraged he wanted to kill him. However, Ryoma suggested that instead he could be used for the better. Ryoma said that Xander is the strongest soldier in the Nohrian army, so if we could use him to train our men, we could develop tactics to fight against the Nohrians more efficiently" Saizo said, Hinoka looked down at Xander, who begun to laugh. Saizo looked angrily at Xander, kicked him a few more times while he was down.

"What's so funny" Saizo said kicking Xander, Xander chuckled again.

"Why the hell would I ever help you Hoshidans?" Xander spat, standing up to be at eye level with them. Saizo punched Xander in the stomach. Xander coughed as he curled up, but still stood. Hinoka looked, and for a moment felt sorry for the man, but shook the feeling off almost as soon as it came.

"If you don't, you die by my hand, and I would hate for that to happen. I haven't nearly gave you enough pain" Saizo said as kneed Xander in the stomach. Xander huffed trying to breath. Xander, after he caught his breath just smiled again.

"I would gladly die instead of betraying my brethren" Xander said. Saizo looked enraged, not believing the words that Xander spoke. Hinoka looked at Xander and was also surprised by his choice.

Hinoka thought it was very admirable. She knew abundant of men who would give in after countless torture but Xander fought on. Even if Hinoka didn't like the man one bit.

Xander definitely earned her respect.

"That's too bad prince Xander, i guess you'll have to die very soon once I report this to King Sumeragi" was all Saizo said before he punched Xander in the stomach yet again. When Xander kneeled down however this time Saizo kneed Xander in the face, and Xander with his arms to pull himself fell over onto his side. Saizo the begun to drag him out of the training grounds. Hinoka watched as Xander was dragged, she looked and as she looked she met Xander's eyes as his met hers. Hinoka gasped slightly then covered her mouth hoping know heard her. Then when Xander was dragged into the door way, Saizo kicked it shut. Hinoka let out a breath she held in.

"Poor... Thing" Setsuna said standing next to Hinoka, Hinoka jumped, not noticing Setsunas approach. Hinoka looked shocked at Setsuna.

"Poor thing? He is the enemy Setsuna! How could you even feel that way!?" Hinoka asked, Setsuna just scratched her chin.

"Just... Do" she said, Hinoka sighed again, feeling as though that's all she does nowadays, sigh. Setsuna bent over a little looking at Hinokas face.

"How about you... Malady?"

"What about me?"

"How do you feel?" Setsuna asked, Hinoka looked at Setsuna, then Hinoka looked down. How did she feel? Apart cared not what could happen to Xander because he was the enemy, but a part of her felt, dare she think it, sorry for him? I mean he was doing his duties, no more no less, why should he be tortured for it? And that look in his eyes, Hinoka has only seen that look on someone's face before. It was only her late mothers, before her passing she had that look, her mother had the same look in her eyes just before she died. She knew what those eyes meant, and Hinoka knew they were directed at herself but why would Xander do it? What made him feel like that?

"Malady?" Setsuna asked again, yawning into her mouth. Hinoka just shook her head, lifting her naginata onto her shoulder as she begun to walk away.

"Find Kotegawa, tell her to bring me my bathrobe, towel, and soap. I'll be in the woman's Royal bath house," Hinoka said as she walked away, wiping sweat off her face with the neck line from her tunic. Setsuna just bowed half heartedly.

"Yes... Malady" Hinoka heard Setsunas response as she walked into the castle making her way to the bath house. Hinoka realized she avoided Setsunas question, not like it matters anyway. Hinoka didn't feel sorry for him. Just resentment, yeah that's the word resentment. Resentment for losing to him in battle yeah, nothing more and nothing less.

But those eyes

Hinoka shook her head as she continued to walk. Trying her best to get that look out of her mind but it just wasn't happening. Why did he look at her like that? She couldn't make sense of it.

Why did he look at her apologetically?

It made sense why Hinokas mother did. She left her and all her siblings. So of course she would feel sorry. Now why would Xander have that look? Why? Gah! It made her so mad! She just can't make sense of it all. Lost in her own thoughts she didn't even realize that she was soaking in the the bath. She looked around and noticed it was just her, her tunic folded nearly on the table and her naginata lying on top of it. Hinoka was surprised that all that happened in her trance like state. Hinoka relaxed further into the bath, feeling at ease. She didn't realize it at first but her muscles were quite sore still from yesterday's intense. Today she didn't get much done due to Saizo showing up, but she can just work twice as hard tomorrow. Kotegawa came in and gave Hinoka her soap, as well putting Hinokas towel and bathrobe next to her tunic. Hinoka thanked Kotegawa. She just bowed then she was on her way. Hinoka begun to wash herself. Once she felt that her cleaning was sufficient she left the tub. Hinoka walked over to the table leaving a trail of water. She begun to dry herself off with the towel. Afterwards she wrapped the towel around her head, slipped on her bathrobe, threw her tunic in the dirty hamper in the corner, grabbed her naginata, and she was now on her way out of the bath house. She went to the door that led to her room. She stopped though when she heard the door behind her click open. She looked behind her and immediately gagged.

It was Klovis

"Aw, I missed your naked body this time, hmm?" He said as he walked over, Hinoka pointed her naginata at the man, Klovis stopped before the naginata.

"Last time will REMAIN the last time" Hinoka seethed, she for the door knob behind her trying to open the door. Klovis lifted up an eyebrow.

"In a rush my little princess? Don't wish to see your husband to be?" Klovis said in mock hurt. Hinoka tried her best to not throw up.

"I will never wish to see you!" Hinoka spat out, "I would rather die at the hands of the Nohrians, then stay with you. One Nohrian almost accomplished said task!" Hinoka raged, Klovis backed up slowly, not wanting a piece of that naginata.

"Well he must be long gone now if you are still here" Klovis said. Hinoka scoffed in response.

"He's in this castle as we speak" Hinoka said, now Hinoka was surprised to see the shock on Klovis face.

"The man that almost killed my fiancé is in this castle?" Klovis said, getting angry. Hinoka hated the thought of him getting angry over her. Hearing him call her his "fiancé" sent a shiver down her spine.

"Stop acting I know you don't really care" Hinoka said squinting at the man, Klovis just started laughing.

"Haha figured it out huh? Nothing gets by you my pretty" he said taking a step closer, to which Hinoka rose her blade. "I could care less about you or this kingdom, your father is just afraid of two on one which is acceptable, and the only reason that my kingdom sided with yours. . . " Klovis without warning used footwork which Hinoka never even seen before to get between her and her naginata, Hinoka was too shocked to do a thing about his nearness. ". . . Is so I may clench this ache" Klovis said as he pressed his core into Hinokas. Hinoka screamed slapping Klovis in the face, Klovis shocked, grabbed his face as Hinoka rushed away from him to the servants door. Klovis started laughing manically.

"You will not get away with this wench! You are lucky I am leaving today for a counsel meeting back in Silistia, but when I return your nightmares shall begin, married or not" Klovis yelled at Hinoka, Hinoka did not care for his outburst. She only cared for her escape away from the man. She opened and then immediately slammed the door shut. Breathing heavily, fear and anger radiating through as she shook violently. Constantly clenching and in clenching her fist.

"Malady?"

"Hinoka looked and saw several servants, the one that spoke to her though was Kotegawa. Hinoka ran up and hugged Kotegawa. Hinoka couldn't believe her situation, hated it, hated it so much that she wanted to run, but how could she do that to her family? How could she make Sakura go through what she is going through? So instead Hinoka cried. Letting out all her pain with her tears as she clutched Kotegawa and cried. All the servant were silent as they stared at Hinoka, everyone but Kotegawa. Kotegawa held Hinoka, caressing her head as she whispered sweet words into her ear. After a few minutes of this Hinoka finally stopped crying. Hinoka lifted her and sniffles a bit looking at Kotegawa.

"I'm sorry" Hinoka said looking down at Kotegawa. Kotegawa shook her head.

"Don't be sorry malady, everyone needs someone to lean on" Kotegawa said, Hinoka smiled weakly at Kotegawa. Kotegawa then lead Hinoka through the quarter.

"Come Malady, let me make you some tea"

Xander was thrown back into his cell, battered and bruised after the beating he received from Saizo. Xander laid on his back, his hands still cuffed behind him, looking up into Saizos face. Saizo made his way to leave, not even bothering with Xander's restraints.

"You stay like that for all care, knowing that you'll be left here to rot for all eternity brings great pleasure" Saizo said as he shut Xandsrs cell. Xander sat up to look at Saizo as he left. Xander noticed that Saizo did not lock the cell. Almost daring him to leave. Now Saizo didn't seem like the man that would forget something so crucial. Xander knew he didn't lock it, why he left him able to walk. Saizo wanted Xander to leave so he could kill him. Wanted the excuse to kill him. Xander deducted this thought precisely upon one thing of evidence.

Xander killed Kaze

He pleaded for death after the months of torture, months. Now he was a very strong man and he never gave the Nohrians any information. Xander thought he was quite admirable, and felt sorry for Kaze so he gave him his final wish. Xander to test his theory pushed the cell door a little with his foot, and sure enough it opened a little. Xander thought this was very reckless of Kaze, what Xander got rid of his restraints and. . .

How could he get rid of his restraints?

Xandsr sighed, deciding to think about it another time. Xander pressed his face against the cell bars to look around. Not daring to go outside of the cell. Xander looked to the left to see nothing special. All he saw was a candle on the wall, the door, a hook that had keys, a stool

KEYS

Xander focused on the hook to make sure his mind wasn't playing tricks on him, and sure enough they were shining with the sunlight of the candle. If he got ahold of those keys he could undue his restraints. Once that was done he may be able to find a weapon.

SIEGFRIED

Where the hell was his sword being kept! The Hoshidans knew of his special weapon no doubt. The Hoshidans must be keeping it somewhere nearby, treasure room perhaps or a barracks? That's if they are in the castle. Xander must be because that one girl was here, Xander knew little of the Hoshidans but he was familiar with their royalty. She was the oldest daughter of the royal family. he believed, her name was Himiko, Hamika? Xander wasn't sure, and he didn't realize it was her on the battlefield until he thought about it. After all, he only sleeps, eats, thinks and gets tortured now. A horrible life to live Xander thought. The thought of that being his existence made him look at the keys even longer.

"I'm taking those keys" Xander said as he rushed as fast as he could, grabbing the keys and then closing his cell. He fiddled with them long enough until eventually he managed to get the keys in the shackles. He cursed, realizing that none of them worked, ran out quickly and put the keys back on the hook and quickly entered his cell. Now Xander had to think of what to do. Those were the keys to his cell and most likely the door leading into the dungeon, still useful but his restraints are still keeping him down. He looked at himself and realized he lost some weight. He was still quite muscular but he was definitely losing strength. Xander couldn't afford to lose anymore. If he was going to escape one day, he had to stay in shape. Xander started to think when he heard the door open. Xander looked up and saw the girl from before come in, Kotegawa? Something like that.

"I brought you your dinner" she said as she set the food down in Xander's cell. It was one sandwich on a napkin. Xander looked at it then looked up.

"I can't eat with my arms behind my back" Xander said looking at her, Kotegawa looked at Xander and noticed his position. No shirt, ripped pants and rippling muscles. Kotegawa blushed and looked down.

"I-I ca-can take your h-handcuffs off" she said, Xander quirked an eyebrow at her. Internally Xander was ecstatic that she would already do this. He definitely wasn't expecting it. "P-put your hands against t-the cell" Kotegawa said, looking at Xander than looking away. Xander stood up, Kotegawa looked up at his face and saw nothing but happiness.

"Thank you Kotegawa, for treating me like a person" Xander said with a genuine smile because that was how he actually felt.

Relief

Relived that he wasn't entirely alone. That someone treated him a little humane and not like an animal. It made him quite happy. Well as happy as anyone could be in this small piece of hell that he had to live in. Xander turned around and let his hands touch the bars. Kotegawa rummaged through her kimono until she found the keys. She jumbled through until one fit in his shackles. She undid them quickly then quickly retracted her hands. Putting the keys on the table. Xander rubbed his bruised wrist.

"You have my gratitude Kotegawa" Xander said as he grabbed his sandwich and munched. Kotegawa smiled looking down at her feet. Then she remembered she forgot his water. She rushed to the corner where the faucet was on the left side of the room. Xander remembered it from his first torture experience. He shivered unintentionally, hating the experience. Kotegawa quickly filled a bucket, left it for Xander and scurried out of the dungeon. Xander looked at the bucket then at the rest of his sandwich. Then it just occurred to him.

Saizo doesn't know his restraints were undone. Xander grabbed the shackles left on the floor and pretended to have them behind his back, he sat and leaned against the wall. Waiting for Saizo to come back. Daring him to come back now that he wasn't defenseless.

Or he could try leaving

Xander dismissed the thought. His excitement to leave shrouded over his rational mind. Rationally he would not get far at all with servants and guards roaming around. So he might as well wait for Saizo later in the night, where everyone would be tired and asleep, less guards hopefully too. Afterwards he could ask where Siegfried is if everything goes according to plan.

Xander had some hope

Hinoka left the servants quarters feeling much better, the tea and cookies really helped calm her down. As Hinoka was leaving she bumped into Kotegawa. Kotegawa being small and only twelve fell on her butt.

"Ah Kotegawa! I'm sorry are you okay?" Hinoka asked picking up Kotegawa. Kotegawa nodded rubbing her tush.

"Yeah I'm fine, I was just coming back from the dungeon" Kotegawa said, Hinoka nodded.

"Why were you coming back this late?" Hinoka asked looking at Kotegawa, and not failing to see her blush a little. Hinoka rose her eyebrow.

"I have the pri-Duty! Duty to bring Xander his meals" Kotegawa said as she looked down fiddling with her thumbs. Hinoka looked at her then shook her head. Getting thoughts of the man out of her head, not wanting to get angry at the moment. Still upset about her only defeat.

"Well I hope he appreciated your kindness" Hinoka said, Kotegawa nodded earnestly

"He most certainly does! He thanks me everyday I come" Kotegawa said. Hinoka looked a little confused as to why he would even bother, considering that he was a prisoner of war getting tortured. Whatever though, none of her business. Suddenly Kotegawa eyes grew wide and she started digging through her pockets. Kotegawas face paled.

"I left my keys back in the dungeon" she said looking really upset. Hinoka only sighed. Knowing Kotegawa this is a common occurrence and is often left to sleep outside her room because of her constant mis placements.

"Just go back and get the keys" Hinoka said, Kotegawa shook her head.

"No! What if Saizo is there! He terrifies me" Kotegawa said shivering on the spot. Hinoka could only smile at her childish antics, finding them extremely cute and funny.

"I'll go get them then" Hinoka said, Kotegawa looked up at Hinoka

"You would do that for me malady?" Kotegawa asked, Hinoka just rubbed kotegawas blue head of hair.

"Of course" Hinoka said, starting her walk to the dungeon. Kotegawa looked at Hinoka.

"You are too kind malady" Hinoka said as she bowed "I'll be waiting here malady!" Kotegawa called after Hinoka. Hinoka just waved her hand, not stopping her walk down the hall to the dungeon. Hinoka met a door, knowing that it led down a flight of stairs. Hinoka descended the stairs only to reach another door. Hinoka blew a breath, then she breathed in bracing herself. She opened the door to find herself walking down a hall that had multiple doors. She walked until she saw a dim light emanating from one door. Hinoka opened the door and walked in shutting the door behind her. She walked forward and looked to her right to see prince Xander in his cell. Prince Xander looked shocked.

"What are you doing here?" Xander asked looking at Hinoka, Hinoka looked at Xander. Should she even bother to answer him? Eh it couldn't hurt.

"I'm grabbing Kotegawas keys, she left them here" Hinoka said as she grabbed the keys, Xander looked on the table just noticing the things.

"Ah, a clumsy girl I see" Xander said. Hinoka nodded, beginning to walk out but something was in the back of her mind, egging her on to ask. She needed to know, she couldn't live not knowing.

"Why did you look like that?" Hinoka asked, stopping her walk out to now stand in front of Xander's cell. Looking down at Xander who sat on the dirt floor, arms behind his back, Hinoka assumed Saizo didn't undue the shackles from earlier. Xander looked at Hinoka.

"What do you mean" he asked looking into her eyes, Hinoka bit her lip, unsure of how to exactly say it. She sighed.

"When you were getting dragged by Saizo, you looked at me the way my mother did before she passed. You looked sorry, like apologizing. I don't understand why" Hinoka said, Xander just continued to look at her. Hinoka looked at him, searching for the answer, but finding nothing. Xander opened his mouth to speak but was cut off by the door slamming shut. Hinoka looked to her right and gasped in surprise. It was Klovis, Klovis smirked at Hinoka. Hinoka backed away from the door slowly, evident fear in her eyes. Xander chose to remain seated though. None of it his concern.

"Princess Hinoka," Klovis said.

"Why are you here? I thought you were leaving?" Hinoka asked, still backing away slowly. Xander looked on in wonderment. Thinking that Hinoka was a strong woman, what could she be afraid of? And that voice. Xander swore he heard it before.

"I don't leave till early morning so I had some time to spare to stalk after you, but I could ask you the same thing, why would someone as pristine as you visit a prisoner?" Klovis asked taking a few steps forward, coming into view of Xander. Xander's eyes widened as soon as he noticed who it was. Remembering the man from trading meetings when he was younger.

"Klovis!" Xander yelled standing up now, rushing over to the bars of the cell. Klovis turned to look at Xander, just noticing his existence. He looked back at Hinoka.

"Are you here to see him?" Klovis pointed to Xander, who in return just scoffed. Hinoka rolled her eyes.

"Why would I do that?" Hinoka asked throwing her arms in the air. Klovis squinted at her. "And even I did what's it to you?" Hinoka asked again narrowing her eyes at Klovis. Klovis looked at her then turned to Xander who looked outraged.

"Why are you here Klovis? What happened to the trading agreement between our kingdoms?!" Xander asked slamming against the bars again. Still pretending to have his arms behind his back. Klovis started to laugh in his face, once Klovis settled down he turned back at Hinoka, evident rage on his face.

"You did come here to see him didn't you? Don't tell me you love this man?" Klovis yelled pointing at Xander. Xander scoffed and Hinoka was taken a back. Obviously confused. She clenched her fist at her sides.

"Are you insane? We only met on the battle field?!" Hinoka yelled at Klovis who just rested his hand on his sword. Hinoka, noticing the action, and realizing that she was unarmed at the moment, found her self in an even worst situation then she believed she was in. Xander noticed the action as well, preparing himself just in case Klovis decided to lash out at him.

"You are not only a sorry excuse for a prince but also a fool if you think there is anything between us you scoundrel" Xander said looking at Klovis. Klovis looked at Xander evident anger raging on his face, he begun to shake.

"You two do have something? Why else would you defend her?" Klovis asked.

"I'm not defending anyone, are you the village idiot of your kingdom?!" Xander yelled in Klovis's face. Klovis looked at Xander. Then all of a sudden Klovis smiled, a devilish smile, Xander didn't like the look of it, nor did Hinoka. Klovis drew his blade and pointed it at Hinoka. Hinoka gasped, readying herself. Hinoka knew she didn't have much to work with in this tight area but she refused to die without a fight. Xander only narrowed his eyes at the man. Slowly walked over to Hinoka then with great speed and footwork Xander nor Hinoka have ever seen before, ended up right in front of Hinoka with the sword pressed flat against Hinokas neck, his body against hers. Hinoka gasped, she went to scream but Klovis cover her mouth.

"We don't need anyone to that now my little play thing" Klovis said as he thrusted his core against Hinokas. Hinoka shoved and pushe did everything she could, but too no avail. Klovis with his sword pressed against her neck and masculine strength, didn't budge. Xander looked from his cell, furious at the scene.

"You mean to rape her right in front of me you swine?" Xander spoke as he looked right at them. Hinoka looked at Xander teary eyed, absolute sadness evident on her face. Klovis went and licked Hinokas neck. Hinoka shivered out of disgust, yelling into Klovis's hand. Klovis then just slapped her across the face, Hinoka went down to the ground, on her knees holding her cheek. Klovis rested his sword on her shoulder, as he pushed her into all fours. Klovis locked his lips.

"The real fun begins now" Klovis said, as he started to unbuckle his belt. Hinoka had tears run down her face, she went to crawl but his sword on her should cut her neck a bit, blood trickling down a little. She winced at the reaction.

"I wouldn't move too much if I was you" Klovis said, one hand on her hip. Hinoka looked up and searched for anything that could help her but found nothing, she wept.

"Someone, anyone!" Hinoka yelled, she got punched in the back of the head, forcing her face down and hips up. Klovis smirked.

"Shut up or I'll leave a nasty mark" he licked his lips again.

Xander stood there, shaking with anger at the scene before him. If he left to help her he would definitely suffer greatly, even die from the aftermath. If he didn't help her though he could never look at himself again, his pride as a man shattered. Xander had all these thoughts running through his head until he saw Klovis pull down Hinokas skirt. Hinoka looked up, teary eyed and absolute fear on her face. She looks at Xander in the eyes, and those eyes pleaded for him.

"Help me. . . Xander" she said looking at him. She felt Klovis get closer, she closed her and her voice cracked from her sobbing.

"Please!" She yelled, to which Klovis slapped her again.

"No one is coming to save you bitch!" Klovis yelled. Xander shook uncontrollably. Xander no longer for the repercussions because every ounce of his being wanted to help this woman. His pride would not let him turn away and ignore this. How could he call himself a man if he let her get rape before his eyes? He couldn't live with himself, which is why he shook off his fake restraints, and like a hurricane opened his cell and leaped onto Klovis. Klovis and Xander crashed into the ground behind Hinoka. Hinoka scurried forward pulling up her skirt and immediately turning back to look at the scene. Absolute shock at seeing Xander break from cell. Seeing Xander beat Klovis senseless even without his weapon. Klovis swiped at Xander with his sword but Xander just grabbed Klovis's wrist, and then punching him in the face yet again. Xander kept punching until Klovis was out cold. Xander huffed for air as he stood up leaning against the wall. Hinoka walked over to Xander, Xander stood readying himself for another fight but was instead shock to find Hinoka wrapping her arms around him. Xander was stunned, as Hinoka only cried into his chest.

"Thank you! Thank you so much prince Xander!" She said as she cried into his chest. Xander was too shocked to say any words as he looked down at the red headed girl.

Hinoka was as happy as she could be, so happy that she didn't care if Xander was a prisoner or not. To her he was something more. He was a hero. He did what no one around dared to do because of the threat of a 2 sided war. Hinoka held onto Xander crying into his shoulder. To her he wasn't a prisoner.

Xander was her knight in shining armor.

No one dared to stand up to Klovis, afraid of angering him into getting Silistia to destroy Hoshido with Nohr. It was for the greater good to tolerate him Hinoka thought. Not today though. Today she was hit and almost raped. However, she was saved. Saved by the one person she least expected to ever save her. A unexpected hero. Prince Xander of Nohr saved her, a princess of Hoshido. Hinoka started to calm down a bit, she looked up at Xander who just looked shocked at her. Hinoka stepped back, hands behind her back.

"Why did you save me?" Hinoka asked, Xander still shocked, shook his head to clear his thoughts. He looked at her again this time with a natural expression.

"Because nobody else could have" was all Xander said. He then walked past her and got back into his cell. Realizing that his once in a life time chance to escape was blown because the bastard lying on the floor unconscious. He sighed as he sat down leaning against the wall. Hinoka just watched as he walked by and say against the wall of his cell. Xander closed his eyes and sighed.

"I was planning on escaping too, I had Kotegawa undue my restraints so I could eat lunch. Saizo was coming back and he wouldn't have a clue, so I would have left him unconscious just like that disgusting piece of trash then make my escape" Xander admitted. Hinoka was shocked at Xander's exclamation. Then Hinoka shook her, a slight blush on her face.

"You ruined your elaborate plan, your only chance at escaping, just to save me? Your enemy?" Hinoka asked, Xander looked up putting the back of his head against the wall. He then looked at Hinoka, and Hinoka breathed in a little and flushed more. She didn't notice before, but now she definitely did. His sharp nose and piercing eyes, his blond locks that complimented his blue eyes perfectly with his strong jaw line and pink lips.

He was beautiful

"You may be my enemy, but I would never let a woman be raped before my eyes. My pride would never allow it. I'd rather rot and die down here knowing that you are okay than live free knowing that I let an innocent girl get forced upon" Xander said looking into her eyes. Hinokas heart skipped a beat. Her eyes went wide, gasping, she put her hand on her mouth. Tears about to fall again.

This man would go so far just for her? Throw away freedom even? Hinoka looked at Xander again, but his eyes were closed and his arms were wearing on his knees. He was resting. Hinoka saw strong broad chest move with every breath, his strong arms flex every so often. Hinoka bit her lip, she quickly grabbed the keys, closed the cell door and ran out of the room. She had too many thoughts racing through head to stay there. She had to get away from him, his mere presence made her heart ecstatic. Her body longed for his touch, his hard body against hers again. Hinoka shook her head again. Slamming her door shut she entered her room. Hinoka couldn't believe herself. She put her hands in her hair and started thinking about everything to try and calm herself down. Her heart wouldn't stop racing though. She started to breath in and out, calming her nerves Until she was finally calm. Hinoka went to bed and laid atop it. Hinoka tried to think sbout everything that happened today.

"I woke up, ate breakfast, went to train a bit, but it was ruined thanks to Saizo bringing Xander"

Ba-thump

Hinoka blushed at the remembrance of Xander at the training grounds. Hinoka turned over and yelled into her pillow. Angry with herself. Every time she thought of Xander heart thumped and she got all nervous and she couldn't get those words out of her head from when he saved her. Hinoka started to hug herself, her own thoughts clashing with themselves.

He's a prisoner!

Only by circumstance

He is your enemy!

Because of a feud started by your ancestors

I hate Nohrians!

But you love Xander

Hinoka gasped. No way hell she felt that way! She yelled in her pillow again. Just because he was half naked, just because said those sweet words,

He saved you when nobody else would

Hinoka widened her eyes as she looked at the ceiling clutching her chest.

"No! This isn't possible and that's that!" Hinoka yelled as she threw her pillow at the wall. She went under the covers and tried to sleep. As she was about to fall asleep, one thing kept crossing her mind, and it was Xander. The phrase kept repeating itself.

Where's my knight in shining armor?

Where's my hero?

Where's my fair prince?

Hinoka was afraid to admit it, but she knew who it was.

It was prince Xander of Nohr.

A/N: what did you guys think? I hope I didn't make Hinoka seem crazy or too love struck. Anyway I'm hope you all enjoyed the chapter! Without the light turning off! XD