Chapter 7: What If She Comes Running?
Rylen walked into the section allocated to the crown prince in the baron’s residence. He had a whole section to himself, which was a good thing as it hid prying eyes from his shenanigans. Not that the prince cared. If it weren’t that his good actions were more than enough to counter his bad ones, he would have more haters than loyal subjects in the kingdom.
There were two guards stationed in front of the room, each holding a spear. Torch stands were on each side of the guards; since it was still daylight, the torches were unlit. The guards bowed as they saw him. Rylen simply lifted his hand to them.
Rylen knocked twice and announced himself. "It is I, Prince Rylen, Your Grace."
"Come in," a voice said.
The guards opened the door, and Rylen walked in. The doors closed after him, and he was greeted with the sight of Caius lying on the long chair, a head and legs on each arm of the chair. He was still dressed in the attire he had left the manor with. His armor, his shoes, the cape—even his sword was still around his waist.
Rylen already had a briefing on what happened. Unfortunately, he hadn’t been there in person as he had been overseeing what they actually came to Edenville to do while Caius had gone sightseeing. Rylen didn’t mind this, as the decisions were usually made by Caius; all he did was be there in person. He trusted Caius with his life, and he knew it was vice versa.
"May I ask what’s wrong, Your Grace?"
"Rylen," he groaned as he stared at nothing in particular. Caius often referred to Rylen by just his name when they were in private. "What is my title?"
Without even the slightest hesitation, Rylen started to speak. "You are Caius Ravenor, crown prince and heir to the throne of Velmount," Rylen announced proudly.
"Has any woman ever refused my advances?" he asked and slowly turned to Rylen, who stood behind him with his head bowed.
"Not that I am aware of, and I didn’t think Your Grace made advances."
Caius narrowed his eyes at the last part but chose not to dwell on it. "Good. Now explain to me why I was refused."