Ola! I'm pretty happy with the reviews you good people have given me and hope that this chapter will answer some questions like how Flamelle is gonna react or what's gonna happen to Stefan n Kori (cant tell. there's hints though). Its only fair to warn you that i wrote this chapter while watching the FIFA world cup game on tv. So if its a little messed up, remind yourself to blame the Japan team. (Why? WHY? WHYYYYYYYYY!) And Paris Hilton while while you're at it. Cant get her stupid song out of my head. grumbles

Disclaimer : Do we really need to do this EVERYTIME i update!


"My broken wings still strong enough to cross the ocean with, My broken wings how far shouldI go drifting in the wind? Across the sky just to keep on flying."


I could not believe my senses as I walked along the path with Richard, the King Richard and his companion, Arthur. I do not know which is worse; me being ashamed that the King found me as I was weeping or the fact that Flamelle will soon see me emerge from the woods with Richard, whose arm were currently linked with mine. Richard and Arthur were good friends, I can tell. They talked easily with each other without courtesy or title.

Once or twice, Arthur would steal glances at me and I would glare at him in return. I was glad to see the man, but I was also furious with him for proposing me to the Richard. Ooohhh! What I wouldn't give to knock some sense into that royally empty head of his! Arthur must have sense my hostility towards him for he excused himself from our presence and ran as fast as his legs could carry him.

Richard was amused at first, but shrugged it off.

'I never expected to meet you here.'

My eyes immediately made its way to look at Richard's face.

'I came here because.. well you see..' I watched with interest as color began to flood his cheeks. 'I wanted to escape from.. meeting you.'

I stopped walking and it was a few moments before he noticed that I was left behind. He looked at me with great concern in his eyes, and perhaps a little ashamed as well. My mind was buzzing as it processed the information that was thrown at me. He did not wish to see me? Does this mean he does not wish to marry me as much as I refuse to marry him? This was of course, good news to me. But what about my uncle? Or my aunt? I do not care much of Flamelle for she will be more than happy to learn the fact that the King feels reluctant to marry me.

I woke up from my musing as Richard took my hand in his.

'Forgive me. But honestly speaking, I did not mean any insult to you, dear Kori. I was not.. keen on marrying someone I have never met.' He spoke with gentleness and honesty. Needless to say, I was delighted that he feels the same as I do.

'There is nothing to forgive, My Lord. I have felt the same way when I was told of our engagement.' I flushed. 'But perhaps it would be better if we try to.. befriend with one another? Then perhaps things will be less awkward.'

'Befriend?' His blue eyes twinkled as he chuckled. 'Yes, yes of course. I was hoping you would say that. And please, address me as Richard.'

'But- My Lord!'

'But nothing. All of my friends call me by my name and I see no reason why my fiancée cannot.'

'As you wish, Richard.' He gave me a friendly smile and linked his arm once again with mine. I sighed. There is more to this man then mere King.

We walked in silence after that, listening to the sounds of nature. Richard was nothing I thought he was. Before this, I had thought of him as an arrogant boy who walks with his nose pointed skyward. But instead, he had proven himself to be a man of honor, humble and serves as a pleasant company. I watched as he stopped and picked wild berries before popping it into his mouth. It was refreshing and less scary to see him like this as it reminded me that he's as much as an adolescent as I am.

'You are young.'

I snapped from my reverie and stared. 'Pardon?'

'You are younger than I thought.'

'Oh.' I shifted my eyes and focused them onto a wildflower instead. 'You are.. not pleased?'

'Kori, I cannot lie.' He tugged my dress's sleeve and I had no choice but to face him. 'I am, as you say it, not pleased. I was hoping for someone of the same age, perhaps. Do not take it as an offence, my dear!' he quickly added as he saw the mortified look on my face. 'I am worried that you might not be able to take the strain of becoming my Queen. Mark my words, Kori. Ruling an entire kingdom is not a stroll in the garden.'

'Then I shall have to compromise with the duties so that it may be naught but a stroll in the garden for me. Finding the middle ground would be the best solution, don't you think?'

Richard went awfully quiet that I was terrified I might have offended him in a way. What was I to do if I offended him? Perhaps Flamelle was right. Perhaps I will be the death of him. I had not spent one hour with him and I had offended him already!

My concerns, however was wasted as he burst into laughter.

'By God!' he chocked between laughter. 'Stefan was right about you lass! You are one in a thousand!'

I flushed. So he had met up with Stefan. I had the right to suspect that Richard had arrived earlier than today, only he told no one but his Companions. It also made me think what kind of report Stefan had given him. Was it an honest one? Or was it a story coated with honey to please the King? I did not have time to think upon this matter for we were intercepted by a lady clad in blue near the wood's exit.

'Ah, Raven dearest. I see that you have found me at last.' Richard said with a sly smile on his face.

'And I see that you have wasted no time in finding yourself a girl, My Lord.'

I stared at her. So, this is the powerful enchantress Raven, sister of Richard. She was, in my opinion, a handsome lady. Her hair, true to her name, was blue-black which contrasts with her fair (almost pale) skin. She has a slender body with curves all in the right places and the simple dress she wore complemented her figure beautifully. I have also noticed that she was wearing a hooded cloak despite the heat. Perhaps it was to protect her rather frail body from the weather. She was, as I concluded look very much like a doll made of porcelain, what with her clear blue eyes and small, delicate lips.

Her attitude, however, was a different matter. What surprises me most is the way the two siblings handle each other.

'Oh, I wouldn't say that if I were you, Raven. This,' Richard slipped an arm around my waist, pushing me gently forward. 'Is the lady Princess Kori herself. Ask Arthur if you do not believe me.' Richard winked as Raven pouted.

'Don't,' She says, emphasizing greatly on that single word, 'remind me of that, that—'

'Handsome, dashing and irresistible young man?' I shot Richard a startled look and saw that he was wagging his eyebrows making him look very much like the sixteen year old boy he is. Nay, seventeen I reminded myself. He celebrated his birthday two months ago.

'Richard,'

Richard flinched.

'What,' the lady Raven walked deliberately slow towards us, perhaps granting her brother time to escape. 'Did I tell you about mentioning that scoundrel's name in my presence?'

'That you never wish to hear me speak of him?' Richard still had that sly smile on his face but his eyes showed fear at the sight of his thundering sister.

'That's right. Is it too much to ask from my own lord and brother?'

'Now, now sister. Let's not forget my status as King.. you'll get into a right mess if you hurt me..'

I had no idea whether to laugh or frown at this scenario. Two royal siblings, arguing –fighting by the looks of it- over a joke. I can't help but feel a little jealous of their affection towards each other. They may not say it out loud, but I can see that they enjoy each other's teasing immensely and would do anything to keep the other happy. So very much different compared to me and my sister. We argue out of hate, not affection. Richard and Raven does not know the precious bond they have.

Fearing that the others might be worried about my absence, I cleared my throat just in time before those two grab each other's necks. Richard grinned sheepishly and Raven blushed.

'Perhaps I should head back to the clearings, my lord. I mean,' I stuttered as I saw Richard raised an eyebrow. 'Richard.' He smiled and I let out the breath I was holding.

'Yes, of course you should. I am heading there as well. My friends are expecting me.' He spread out his free hand indicating the exit. 'Ladies first.'

'Come, Kori.' Before I knew it, I was swept away by Raven who took me by the elbow and together, climb the hill.

We were a few meters away from a dumfounded Richard when she spoke.

'My brother seems to like you.'

'He- he does?'

'Oh, yes. I was watching the two of you as you walked and talked. And,' she sent me a brief smile, 'You made him laugh. He hasn't laughed since we got back from the Hive's territory. Even Arthur couldn't make him laugh.'

'But.. he said that he was trying to escape from meeting me.'

'True.' She nodded. 'He was still wondering whether marrying would be the best thing for him right now. He is convinced that Titania is much more important than his own well being.'

'What did you do to make him agree to be wed?'

'Oh, the usual. We told him that it was his duty as King to provide an heir to the throne and the only way to do it is through a wife.'

I blushed and kept silent for awhile. A glanced behind and saw that Richard was walking slowly, deliberately giving us girls time to talk.

'I heard Stefan's report of you.'

My head snapped back into place and my eyes were cast downwards. 'Oh. Really?'

'Yes. He speaks highly of you.'

'He must be exaggerating. I am naught but a woodland princess. And you, my Lady are princess of all of Titania.'

'True, but I was adopted by the late King Bradley after my parents were slaughtered during the war. But you, Kori are of true royal blood. I am no better than you. Besides, I can see that Stefan was not exaggerating at all. You are as he described you.'

'Thank you.'

'But I must warn you, princess.' My face, had turn from delighted pink to deathly pale, for I can feel blood draining from it. 'He was telling the truth, but his words, in my opinion were the words of a man in love.' My breath was caught in my throat. Oh, when will it end? 'Richard may not realize it, but I do. And I am warning you for the sake of my only brother. Adopted as I may be, he is still my brother and I have the duty of protecting him. Guard yourself well, princess.'


I was still shocked and scared to move that I didn't even notice her picking up pace and leave me behind. So, that makes two people who know of Stefan's feelings for me. Was he being that obvious? What about me? Surely the Lady Raven haven't known my feelings yet. She hasn't seen me with Stefan. But what if my reaction just now showed how guilty I felt? What if she brought this up on purpose to trap me? Have I made a new enemy? Lady Raven seems to be a good enough person, but her protective nature over her brother might just get the better of her. God knows I am absolutely oblivious to these kinds of feelings. Flamelle and I do not share the same love as Raven and Richard.

'Kori? Are you all right?' I closed my eyes and took a deep calming breath before facing Richard. He was panting and there were beads of sweat on his forehead. Richard must have noticed me looking at him quizzically for he grinned.

'It seems that I had put too much distance between you ladies that I had to run all the way here just to talk to you.' He explained. His grin, however turned into a frown as he looked at me carefully. I can feel my insides churn in discomfort at the sight of his scrutinizing eyes. They give me sense of being dissected for lies and defects.

'But, really now. Are you all right?' he asked after several minutes.

'Yes, of course I am. Whatever made you think I'm not?'

'Well,' he started to walk and I followed him. 'You look a little pale as though you might be sick. In short, you look exactly like you did in the woods when I found you.'

'I am fine, Richard.' I tried to keep my face straight as I lie to the most powerful man in all of Titania. 'I just cannot help but feel a little guilty that I might have caused my friends to worry about me running into the woods alone.' Very well.. perhaps half of the truth would be enough. For now.

'I see.'

His reply was simple, yet I can see that he was not convinced. 'So, tell me my dear. What are your interests?'

We spent the entire climb talking about my interests. I was baffled at first, but grateful that he decided to drop the subject. He explained that the more he knows about me the better, for he needs to adjust his castle to my taste sooner or later. No one, he says; likes to live in a place where there is nothing to entertain them. He was relieved and delighted to learn that I love to ride and that I am interested in hawking.

'So it is settled then,' he says as we drew nearer to the top clearing. 'I shall get you a hawk of your own to train and you shall accompany me to my morning rides. A fair trade,' I was pleased and gave him my best smile. Talking to him was a very pleasant experience. Somehow, I felt that I might even tolerate the idea of marrying him. But as we walked along the path, Stefan came into view. He was accompanied by Cyrus, Benedict, Arthur and lady Raven. It was then reality came crashing down on me, making me realize once again the mess I have gotten myself into.

'Stefan! Benedict! Cyrus! God I missed you lot!' Richard laughed and glance at me. I nodded, telling him I did not mind. A smile accompanied by a kiss on the hand, and he was off running towards his best friends. Once again, I was surprised at his playfulness. As I watched him slap his companions' shoulder and made funny remarks at the state they were in, I find it hard to believe that this is the King the Hives tribe fear so much; this is the King that took the throne at the age of fourteen; this is the King that had commanded the fleet that drove the intruders out of our lands forever; and.. this is the King I am told to marry.

Stefan looked at me who was standing still, not at all moving from the spot Richard had left me. I can see that he wanted to me to come, yet afraid to speak. For a moment, his mahogany brown eyes flashed from joy to sadness, and joy again when Raven scolded Arthur. I can see his courage returned as he smiled broadly at me. 'How long are you planning to stand there, Princess? Come and join us!'

'Well, I was wondering if you were ever going to invite me at all, honestly.' I retort, not unkindly. Arthur laughed while the rest tried vainly to hide their smile at Stefan's embarrassed face. 'And you, my dear friend Arthur.' I reached the group and look at the little culprit menacingly. 'I wish to speak to you when I have the time. There are things I need to ah, "discuss" with you.' He stopped laughing at that remark and smiled ruefully, as though begging me to spare him.


As the group made its way towards the clearing, I got to see the hidden side of every character. It seems that they act different around another, more natural, more fun, in other words, their bonds over the years had cause them to act like siblings rather than King and servant. I got along well enough with them for I had spent the last few weeks with Stefan, Cyrus and Benedict. Arthur was no problem at all since I have known him already. I like Richard fairly well. After all, he had shown me great kindness back in the woods and his attitude fascinated me. Besides his good looks, I suppose. Raven, however, was a little complicated for me to strike conversation with. Not that she acted beastly or such, it's just that we do not share common interest and she seem to enjoy solitude.

A ridiculous thing to ask for, if you ask me. Especially with the boys around.

We were greeted with sighs of relieve by everyone. Tanya told me that the soldiers were miserable while I was gone, especially after Stefan had a word with them. She said that Stefan looked ready to bite someone's head off when he found out I was missing. Flamelle however, couldn't care less and said that I must be off riding wildly somewhere and I was bound to come back in disgrace.

Perhaps, that is why she looked murderous to see me as I made my way to the beech tree where she sat sewing with her maids. Richard's appearance only made things worse.

'I see that you are back safe and sound, dear sister. I am glad.' The smile that she gave me was so cold that it sent shivers up and down my spine.

'Thank you. I wanted some time to think.'

'Of course you do. I'm sure you have come to a decision.' She set down the piece of clothe she was sewing and stood, facing me. 'That is, if you know what's good for you. Or perhaps you haven't been paying attention to what I said?'

'Yes, sister.' I stood up a little straighter and raised my chin. 'I have. And I decided that I would love nothing more than to-'

'Than to what?' What little confidence I had vanish as I recognized that voice.

I forced my self to smile and said, 'Have you been eavesdropping, My Lord?'

'Eavesdropping is such a strong word,' he smiled that famous sheepish smile of his and took his place beside me. 'Over heard, is the appropriate word.'

I smiled a true smile at that lame excuse. A small cough met my ears and from a corner of my eyes I saw Flamelle dipped into a reverence.

'A pleasure to see you here, Your Highness.'

Richard looked surprise as though he never realized that Flamelle was there all along. I almost laugh at the possibility.

'Er, yes. Likewise, Princess.. er, Princess..?'

'Flamelle, your Grace.' Flamelle rose from her reverence and looked at him expectantly.

'Princess Flamelle. Of course.' He bowed as a gentleman should and gave her a charming smile. 'Forgive me. I must have forgotten your name after all the traveling I have done. You do not resemble your sister, if you don't mind me saying this.'

'Oh, of course not.' she shook her head slightly, making her black hair wave. A famous move of hers for seducing unsuspecting young men. 'I take after my father, while my sister takes after our mother.'

'I see. With looks like yours, I am sure there are many young men dying for your hand in marriage.' He said , the charming smile still graced his features.

'Oh dear, no. You are giving me too much credit, My Lord.' She shot me a smug look and bat her eyelashes at Richard.

Richard gave a small laugh and offered me his arm. 'Well, Kori we must be getting back. I've been told that your uncle is throwing a banquet tonight.'

I took his arm and for a short moment, grimaced as Flamelle glared daggers at me. 'Very well, My Lord.'

'Kori, I thought we have discussed this.' He mocked a stern look and I couldn't help but smile a little.

'I meant, "Very well, Richard"'I may not be a mind reader, but I can tell that Flamelle want nothing more than to strangle me at that time.

'That's better. Princess Flamelle,' he shifted his gaze to Flamelle. 'You do not mind riding alone, do you?'

'No, of course not My Lord. Why do you ask? Are you perhaps, inviting me to ride with you?' The look on her face made me sick. How can she possibly act so shamelessly? To the Grand King, no less!

'Um, no. I asked because I was wondering if Kori wanted to ride with me on my new mare.' The situation would have been funny if Flamelle did not look threateningly at me. 'Er, do you wish to ride with me, dear Kori?'

'I would love to.'

I always thought that my sister loathed me, hate me and all of the hostile feelings I can think of. But after I left with Richard beside me, talking and smiling, I knew for sure that dear sister Flamelle wish me dead. I reminded myself that she will take her revenge on me one day, possibly dragging Stefan into it as well.

But for now, I'm just glad I won over her for the first time.


HA! I personally liked that Flamelle scene. I've always wanted to humiliate her like that. Er.. no offence to the Blackfire fans. I dont know when the next update is gonna be cause my scedule is a bit tight right now. But if you want to, you can check out my Bio and see all the stuff that I'll be going through. That way, you guys cant hate me if i dont update like i should. Maybe.

Homework : Tell me what you think of Richard and Raven's relationship in thischapter and bring up the review count to 40 and above.