FSE

Furry search engine

formerly SoFurry search engine

Sylvi sniffed the cool air of the spring evening on her balcony. She didn't feel like studying to be the next ruler of the country the whole evening again. She wanted to do something different, something to cheer her up and relieve her from her boredom.

Seeing the lights at the garage just outside the castle gave her an idea. She used to visit there when she was little, the owner being a friend of her father since they were little boys. He always had a few funny stories to tell, but she hadn't been down there since they started to groom her for the throne.

She left her room, peeked inside the maid's common room where they usually spend the evening and found two playing cards. 'If anyone's looking for me, I'll be in the library.' she said.

The maids bowed their heads. 'Very well, princess.' one of them said.

She smiled and went to the library, taking a couple of history and biology books from the many bookcases and left them open on a table at the fireplace. Satisfied it looked like she was reading them, she left the library and found a maid in the study across the hallway.

'I'm going to take a quick bath.' she said. 'My heads needs clearing from so much reading.'

The maid bowed. 'Will you need anything?'

'No, thank you. I'm just going to soak in peace and quiet for a while.' Sylvi said and smiled wider as she went into the direction of the bath, but turned to the back-garden before reaching it.

There, she unlocked a small door in the castle wall leading outside, and locked it again before walking down the quiet road to the garage.

*

Sylvi walked into the office of the garage, found it empty, but there were sounds of hammering coming from the workshop so she went there.

'Uncle!' she called out to her father's friend like she did as a little girl.

The sound of hammering from underneath a truck stopped for a moment. 'Sorry, the boss is out for the moment. You'll have to come back tomorrow.' said a young man's voice and the hammering continued.

She moved around the truck to see a pair of legs sticking out from under the front of the truck. Its hood was open and chains hung down from a crane to the engine.

'If it's just a moment I'll wait.' she said, not liking the idea of having to go back to the castle already.

The hammering stopped. 'It's better to come back tomorrow, we have too much work to do tonight.' he said, followed by the sound of a rattle.

'He always had time for me.' she said, thinking there was no way he wouldn't make some time for her visit after so long.

'Sorry to disappoint you, missy.' he said, continuing his work. 'But we really have no time to spare right now.'

'Missy?' she said, getting irritated from the lack of respect she received and huffed. 'I'm no missy! You're talking to the princess, so show some respect and apologise!'

The rattling stopped, several tools were shoved from under the truck and Roh rolled from underneath it. The human was a little taller than her, probably only a few years older than her, she guessed.

He wiped his sweaty face with a rag and looked at the angry face of Sylvi. 'Sorry, princess, but I really don't have time for pleasantries right now.' he said, checked the chains, grabbed the crane controls and lifted the engine block carefully from the truck.

'When royalty is present, peasants are supposed to pay attention and listen!' she said, clenching her fists while he moved the engine over a stand and set it down.

He sighed and turned to her, taking a good look as it was the first time he had seen her in real life. She was indeed the beauty that people said she was, pure white thick fur and long curly hair, bright blue eyes, large fluffy tail, and the cream coloured dress suited her very well. She was a full member of the Kat species for sure.

She looked up at him, thinking how he dared to look down on her with grease all over his face, his light-brown hair all over the place, and pouted.

'When I'm finished with this job, you can come back and I'll give you all the attention you need, but for now I have more important things to attend to.' he said and unhooked the chains from the engine.

'Are you saying this thing is more important than a princess!?' she snapped.

'Right now it is.' he said, unscrewing a side panel. 'If we don't get this truck fixed by tomorrow morning there won't be a delivery of grain to the mill, no flower, milk, vegetables and meat to the town, and there will be plenty of people who will have no breakfast because they don't have a chef with a personal garden.'

'Can't they just use something else to eat for breakfast?' she huffed.

He stopped working for a moment. 'You have no idea what's needed for a healthy breakfast, do you?'

She looked away, folding her arms. 'Of course I do!'

'When you have a chef who always cooks for you so you don't have to?'

'Are you saying I don't know how to cook!?'

He shrugged and continued with his work.

'I'll have you know I can do such things!' she said. 'Just wait and I'll show you a breakfast that will make you beg for my forgiveness!'

He heard her stomp her feet as she left the garage and chuckled. 'Oh boy, she's one feisty cat.'

*

She went back into the castle through the same back-door and grumbled on her way to the library.

'Princess? Are you all right?' asked the maid who saw her in the hallway.

'I'm fine.' Sylvi said. 'I just have something to do.'

She went through the selection of cookbooks and took three of them to the small kitchen used as extra capacity in times of large banquets. It was also next to the store rooms so she had enough ingredients at hand to make breakfast for the first time.

'I'll show you what I can do when I set my mind to it.' she said and opened the books.

***

Roh woke up from the sounds of a table being set. He had repaired the engine together with Mr. Moss, the garage owner, and finished putting it back into the truck in time. Since it had become late Mr. Moss told Roh he could use the stretcher in the office to get some sleep while he drove back the truck. Roh yawned, stretched and sat up, scratching his head. He felt groggy, but since he had a few hours of sleep it would be hard to fall back asleep now and decided to get up and see who was busy in the kitchen.

To his surprise he saw Sylvi arranging plates on the table, putting containers of food down and unpacking silverware. She saw him standing in just his pants as he scratched his chest and let out a yelp.

'Don't you have any decency!?' she said, looking away.

'Not after having worked all night and just a couple of hours of sleep before I got woken up again.' he said and walked over to the sink, splashing water in his face to help him wake up. 'What are you doing here at this early hour?'

'I told you I would make breakfast.' she said with pride. 'And you'll admit you were wrong and I was right.' She glanced at him as he dried his face and noticed his long brown tail. 'You're Kanine?'

'Yeah?' he said and sat down at the table.

'I should have known where the rudeness came from.' she said, rolling her eyes.

'No, that's called honesty.' he said and looked at all the food laid out on the table.

She saw him checking out everything and taking a spoonful of the porridge. His emotionless expression made her smirk. 'Impressed enough already to beg for forgiveness?'

He swallowed, grabbed the can of juice in front of him, poured a cup quickly and took a big gulp.

Again, his face became frozen for a moment, then tears came out of his eyes. He put the cup down, took an egg, tapped it with his knife, tapped harder, hit it on the table and looked at the small crack in the shell. He poked at the blackened strips of what might have once been bacon and looked up at her. 'I'll be begging for forgiveness alright.' he said. 'Except it's for mercy.'

Her smirk vanished. 'What!? This is a great breakfast!'

He pointed to the porridge, 'Salty.' then to the juice, 'Sour.' eggs, 'Rocks.' bacon. 'No idea.'

'Nonsense!' she said. 'You just don't know excellent food when you see it!' She took a bite of the porridge to prove it and discovered new facial expressions.

'It's the best I ever had..' she said with a hoarse voice.

'I can see it brought you to tears.' he said, grinning slightly.

'I just had bad luck with the kitchen!' she said. 'I had to use the extra one because I didn't want to bother the chef in the main kitchen.'

'Sure..' he said, leaning back in his chair, poking at what he guessed was supposed to be bread, but could probably be used as a blunt weapon. 'Still looks like you royalty can learn a few things from us peasants.'

She leaned over to him, looking into his eyes. 'I'll show you I can do whatever you can and then you'll have to admit you're wrong and I'm right.'

He smiled and leaned closer to her. 'Fine. If you can prove that, I will publicly announce I was wrong and say how great royalty is.'

She grinned. 'All right, it's a promise.'

'So, how will you do that?'

She pondered for a moment. 'I'd need a place with lots of ordinary work to be done.'

He nodded. 'Something like my home on the farm with the family.'

A devious smile grew on her face. 'Wait here.' she said and walked out of the kitchen. 'Don't you dare to leave before I get back!'

'Wait. What are you going to do?' he asked, then looked at the scene on the table. 'And what do I do with this..?'

**

When Sylvi got back she found him doing the dishes, and the table empty. A glance at the trash-can showed it hadn't been thrown in there.

'What did you do with the food?' she asked.

Roh let out a series of small burps. 'Excuse me..'

'You ate it all!?' she asked, seeing him swallow a few times.

'I couldn't throw away a breakfast that a girl put together for me with so much effort.'

She puffed up her cheeks. 'Who said it took so much effort?'

A tiny smirk appeared on his face. 'The bandages on your fingers and the singed fur on the back of your hand.'

She felt her cheeks blush because he had noticed her hands. 'That was just from some needlework and an accident with a burning candle!' she said. 'It had nothing to do with cooking for you.'

'What's this?' he asked, seeing two big bags on the floor beside her.

'I've accepted your challenge.' she said, folding her arms and looking smug. 'I'll come with you to your family's farm and show you I can do the same work there.'

It took a moment to register the meaning of her words, then his jaw dropped. 'Wait, what!? Coming to my farm!?'

She nodded.

'Are you crazy!? You can't just leave the castle!'

'I can. I move often between the castle and our mansions so they'll think I'm at one of the other places. I already said I'd be going away for a while to study.'

'What about the king and queen? They'll know you're missing.'

She looked away, pouting. 'They're too busy with ruling the country and entertaining guests or visiting others they won't miss me for a long time.'

He shook his head, leaning against the kitchen sink. 'And what would my family say when I show up with the princess at the door!? "Hi mom, I brought someone who wants to learn about living and working on the farm. By the way, she's the princess of our country too." They'll go nuts!'

Sylvi shrugged. 'Something like that.'

He looked up and sighed. 'What did I do to deserve this..?'

'You were the one who started it. Or do you want to admit I'm right already?' she said with a sly smirk.

He turned to her. 'Fine. I'll take you.' he said, then muttered 'You'll get sick of it soon enough..'.

He grabbed his stuff from the office and left a note for the boss stating he'd gone home and would be back tomorrow.

'Let's go then, before anybody shows up while you're here.' he said when he got back to the kitchen.

He wanted to leave the kitchen when Sylvi cleared her throat and turned back to her. 'Yes?'

She gestured at her bags. 'Well?'

'Well, what?'

'Aren't you supposed to carry these for me?'

'Rule one for peasants, each carries their own baggage.' he said, then left for his car.

She huffed and grabbed her bags. 'Fine.'

*

They'd just left the town when Roh thumbed the steering wheel. 'So, how will we introduce you? And I'm Roh, by the way, short for Rohkeus.'

'As myself?' Sylvi said, looking around at the landscape.

'And let the whole country know where you are?'

'Right. Don't want to be found and dragged back to the castle.' she said, frowning.

'Who could you be impersonating..?' he said, pondering. 'Ah, I know.'

She looked at him.

'There's a friend of the boss who's Kat, and he's shown me a picture of his niece who's just as white as you. I can introduce you as her. I believe her name's Lumi.'

'Sylvi nodded. 'They don't know her?'

'No. She lives some distance away. I can say you came to see what you want to do in life, and he asked me if I could show you around the farm.'

'Sound good.' she said and smiled while looking at the road ahead. 'Lumi..'

*

After an hour's drive, Roh and Sylvi arrived at his family's farm. 'There are two square buildings with a courtyard, connected by two hallways. Living room, kitchen, and the master bedroom are in the front building, my little sister and I have our rooms in the back building.' he said while she looked at the wooden one story buildings on raised ground.

'You have a sister?'

'Yeah.' he said, parking the car. 'She's ten, and there she is, coming out the front door.'

Sylvi watched as a brown furred girl in overall hurried down a couple of steps to them, her tail wagging. Her short muzzle, short ears, big eyes and curly hair to her shoulders made her very cute. She looked at Roh.

'What I lack in Kanine looks, she makes up for it.' he said, getting out of the car.

'Brother!' his sister said and jumped up into his arms. 'Welcome home.'

Sylvi stepped out of the car and the girl looked at her. 'Who's she? Your girlfriend?'

'It's not like that.' Roh and Sylvi said at the same time.

'Pentu, meet Lumi. She's the niece of a friend of Mr. Moss.'

'Hello.' Pentu said with a big smile. 'Nice to meet you.'

Sylvi smiled at her. 'Nice to meet you, Pentu.'

Roh put his sister down. 'Now go tell mom that we have a guest.' he said and gave her a pat on her back.

'I will.' she said and hurried back to the front door.

'I see at least one of the siblings knows how to be polite.' Sylvi chuckled.

He pulled their bags out of the car and put one of hers down in front of her. 'Watch what you say, or I'll let you carry both of your bags inside.' he said and took his and her other bag to the door.

She grinned and followed him inside.

*

'What's this about a guest-' Roh's mother said as she walked out of the kitchen into the hallway and froze the moment she saw Sylvi.

'I know what you want to say.' Roh said as his mother looked at him. 'Mom, meet Lumi, the niece of a friend of Mr. Moss. She did get her nickname princess for a reason. Although she needs some fixing before she looks exactly like the princess.' he chuckled.

Sylvi smacked his arm. 'Are you saying I need fixing to look as good as her?' she huffed.

He smiled deviously. 'No, I said you need fixing to look like a princess. Your natural look is much better.'

His mother looked at him. 'You really know how to compliment your girlfriend.'

'It's not like that.' they said at the same time again.

'No?'

Roh shook his head. 'Lumi is looking around to see what she wants to be in life and her uncle asked if we would show her around the farm and let her work here for a while. I thought it wasn't a bad idea since we have room and you can use some help around the house.'

'That's a wonderful idea.' his mother said and took Lumi's hands in hers. 'I hope you'll like it here. There's lots to be done.'

'I'm sure I will.' Lumi said, thinking how young and human his mother looked. 'Miss..?'

'My name is Wenta, but just call me mom like my kids do. While you're here you're part of the family.'

'Well, I'll leave her in your capable hands, mom.' Roh said and grabbed the bags. 'I'll take these to the guest room in the back and then get some sleep.' He looked at Sylvi and winked. 'Mom loves to have another pretty girl around the house, but don't let her spoil you.'

'I've never heard him talk about any girl like that.' Wenta said as they watched him walk to the back building. 'Are you sure you're not..?'

'No way!' Sylvi said, shaking her head, but Wenta smiled softly as she saw Sylvi twirl a lock of her hair.

'Let's go and have a cup of tea.' she said and Sylvi followed her into the kitchen.

*

It was the end of the afternoon when Roh arrived at the kitchen and sat down at the table while his mother had started on dinner.

'Where's Lumi?' he asked, taking a piece of bread to tide him over until dinner.

'She's with Pentu at the barn, taking care of the horses.' his mother said, giving him a smile. 'She's quite enthusiastic to be here.'

He recognised the look in his mother's eyes. 'Forget it, mom. That's not going to happen.' he said, standing up to check on Sylvi and his sister.

'What isn't?'

'Whatever you have in mind.' he said with a slight smirk and left the kitchen.

*

The barn was attached by a covered path to the back building and Roh found the girls brushing the two horses.

'So, how's she doing so far?' he asked his little sister.

'I like her.' she said. 'She's too good for you. I'm telling you just so you know.'

Snickering came from the other side of the second horse.

'What are you talking about? I have no such thoughts.' he said.

'You'd better not.' said Sylvi.

He shrugged. 'Who would, with such a haughty princess..'

'You wish you had a girl like me at home.'

'All the more reason for me to spend more time at work.' he snickered and went back.

'Then you can live there!' Sylvi said while Pentu snickered.

*

Roh used the time before dinner to chop some firewood, then went to the bathroom to take a quick shower. He had turned it off and stretched before reaching out for his towel when the door opened and Sylvi and Pentu walked in naked. Sylvi almost bumped into him, saw his wet and naked body and let out a short meow before trying to hide herself.

'Brother!' his little sister said. 'Why are you here!?'

'Can't I take a shower after getting all sweaty?'

'Couldn't you have said something!?'

'I didn't hear you. Didn't you see my clothes back there?'

Pentu realised they've been so busy talking that she hadn't noticed. 'But we have a guest here so you should be more careful!'

He chuckled. 'Right. Well, I'm done, so you have the bathroom all to yourself.' he said and stroked his little sister's head, then bowed to Sylvi, who glanced at him. 'My deepest apologies, princess, for such a terrible sight.'

She felt embarrassed as she remembered her biology lessons, which hadn't prepared her for the real thing.

'Sorry, Lumi.' Pentu said.

Sylvi smiled softly at her. 'Don't worry. Now, let's start with washing your back.'

*

Sylvi and the siblings had barely sat down for dinner when Roh's father came in and grabbed his wife to kiss her passionately.

'Dad, not now.' Roh said.

'Can't I show my love for your mother?' his father said with a grin.

'Not in front of our guest.'

His father saw Sylvi at the table now, who looked away shyly. 'Sorry, son. I didn't mean to embarrass you in front of your girlfriend.'

'It's not like that!' Sylvi and Roh said, making the others chuckle.

His father laughed. 'It's okay, you've got quite the catch there. She's-' he said before his jaw dropped as he looked closer at Sylvi.

'No, dad. Lumi looks like her, but she's the niece from someone I know at work. She's here to learn about work at the farm and see if it's something that fits her. I thought she could help around here.'

'Ah, okay then.' he said, smiled and nodded. 'I'm Galrum, but call me dad. I hope you'll have fun here while learning a lot.'

'Thank you.' Sylvi said, amused at how familiar they all were with someone they just met.

'And I hope he has shown his good side already.'

Pentu rolled her eyes. 'More like he has shown his worst side already in the shower.' she said while Sylvi and Roh almost choked.

'Oh my.' Wenta said while Galrum laughed.

'Reminds me of how I met their mother.' Galrum said as he sat down at the table, watching his wife chuckle. 'I was working at her father's farm, helping out while he had a sprained wrist, and I had just driven his sheep inside the barn when I slipped and fell face forward in the mud. This young lady here, who had been nagging me for some time because I am Kanine, was laughing her ass off.'

'You just looked so funny, your muzzle covered in mud.' Wenta said as she put the food on the table.

'Well, I wanted to get back at her, so I pulled her into the mud.' he said and chuckled, stroking his wife's back. 'We ended up wrestling until we were out of breath.'

'I can still remember my mother scolding us. And that was how our life together started.' she said, ruffling her husband's hair.

Sylvi sipped her water and looked at the sibling's parents. He was obviously Kanine, but she didn't show any sign of canine attributes. 'You said because you were Kanine, aren't you both then?'

Wenta smiled gently at her husband. 'No, I'm fully human.'

'Pentu has inherited most of the Kanine blood, Roh most of the human.' Galrum said. 'We were really lucky to have them.'

Sylvi nodded. She knew interspecies couples with children were rare. But those who were born from such a union were usually stronger than the purer species. She looked at Roh and remembered his firm body, then felt her face turn hot and looked back at his parents.

'So,' said Galrum with a grin. 'don't worry and everything will work out fine.'

Sylvi coughed. 'Worry? Why would I worry?'

'Dad,' said Roh. 'eat.'

His father laughed and filled his plate.

*

After dinner they sat in the living room and Pentu asked about Sylvi's home-town. Sylvi talked about the small town near one of the royal mansions, pretending to have grown up there as an average girl. Roh tried his best to keep a straight face and concentrated on his beer. Sylvi didn't have to hold back when his parents talked about him growing up.

Roh escorted Sylvi to the guest room at the end of the evening. She giggled, feeling a little tipsy from the two glasses of wine she had.

'That was fun.' she said. 'You have a great family.'

'Yeah. We're pretty close.' he said when they arrived at her room. 'Well, the room isn't as comfortable as a castle, but I hoe you'll sleep well.'

'I will, it's not like I need to be pampered all the time.'

'Oh? So only some of the time then?'

She smacked his arm. 'You know what I mean!'

He grinned. 'Sleep well, princess.' he said, bowing to her as he stepped back. 'Let me know when you miss your own bed and I'll drive you back home.'

'Idiot.' she said and went into her room, sticking out her tongue at him before closing the door.

She sat down on the big soft bed and giggled. 'I'm actually away from the castle and on my own at a farm out of town. This is so unreal..' she said to herself, then giggled at the goosebumps her excitement gave her, before undressing and crawling into bed to sleep.

***

'Good morning.' Sylvi said as she walked into the kitchen.

'Good morning Lumi.' Wenta said, sipping a cup of tea while she read a book. 'Did you sleep well?'

Sylvi nodded. 'Very well, thanks.'

'Tea?'

'Please.' Sylvi said as she sat down. 'The others not here?'

'My husband is working on the fields, Roh has already gone to town to work and took Pentu with him to spend a day at a friend's house.' Wenta said, putting down a cup of tea in front of Sylvi. 'Hungry?'

Sylvi nodded and Wenta set the table for her.

'So, what can I do today?' she asked.

Wenta sat down again. 'We'll start with the vegetable garden and the glass house today. Need to pull the weeds and harvest the first carrots. But first I need to get you something better to wear when you're digging in the dirt.'

Sylvi looked down at her short dress. 'I don't have anything simpler than this..'

'I have some old clothes that should fit you. I'll teach you to make some clothes for yourself later.'

Sylvi smiled as she ate, thinking about doing the things she was forbidden to do all this time.

**

Roh and Pentu arrived home at the end of the day and she hurried inside to see what Sylvi was up to.

By the time Roh walked into the kitchen she and Sylvi were talking about what Sylvi had done in the garden while Sylvi peeled potatoes. His mother was preparing the meat.

'Hey mom.' he said, giving her a peck on the cheek. 'Did she behave today?'

'Hey, she's a very sweet girl. Be happy she's here.' his mother said and Sylvi gave him a devious smirk.

'Did you worry about me all day?' Sylvi asked.

'More about finding home in one piece when I got back.' he grinned and ducked to avoid a piece of potato.

'No playing with food.' Wenta said. 'Go and get yourself cleaned up, dinner will be ready soon.'

Roh tossed the potato back at Sylvi sticking out her tongue before going to the bathroom for a shower.

*

After an evening of more talk and relaxing, Sylvi and Roh walked to their rooms in the back.

'So, how was your first day? Ready to go back home?' he asked with a chuckle.

She bumped him with her shoulder. 'And admit you're right? Never.' she said and smiled softly. 'Besides, I had fun today, taking care of the garden, getting taught by mom, I mean, your mother.'

'She's happy to have someone around the house during the day. She's often alone when dad and I are at work and Pentu's at school. Her friends aren't exactly in the neighbourhood, so she sees them only about once a week.'

Sylvi nodded. 'I understand.'

They stopped at her room. 'So, I'd like to thank you for coming up with this crazy idea of making me take you here.' he said. 'Mother looks like she has gained another daughter.'

'Hey, it was your idea, you suggested your farm as an example.' she said, sticking out her tongue playfully. 'And there's no need to thank me, I'm glad you gave in and brought me.'

He put up his hands. 'Only to see you fail and have to admit I'm right.' he said, smiling deviously.

She moved up to him and poked his chest. 'Oh, you'll regret that soon enough when I'll have you grovel through the dust.'

'Like at the breakfast you made me?'

She roared in mock anger and tried to hit him while he warded her off and laughed. He managed to grab her wrists and she struggled for a moment before giving up. 'I hate you..' she said.

'And I wish you a good night, dear princess.' he said, letting her go. 'I'll see you tomorrow at breakfast.'

She watched him go into his own room before closing her own door and chuckled at the idea of being a daughter to his mother. She thought that would only come true if she got together with him and her heart skipped a beat. She shook her head. "Not happening.." she thought and prepared to go to sleep.

***

'Good morning, princess.' Roh said as he met Sylvi at the bathroom.

'Good morning.' Sylvi said and folded her arms. 'Do you have to go around like that in the morning?'

He looked at himself, wearing nothing but his pants. 'Well, I wasn't planning on getting fully dressed to go freshen up in the bathroom where I'd take off my shirt anyway.' he said. 'Or does royalty do it like that?'

'Of course not! But we do have bathrobes for that.'

'Ah.' he said and nodded. 'Well, we're just simple folk with simple habits.'

She saw the smirk on his face and poked him. 'Don't try to play dumb with me! You're in the presence of a princess!'

'Princess?' asked Pentu, rubbing the sleep out of her eyes.

Sylvi looked back at her. 'Ah, I mean, I was just trying to teach him some manners. All men should treat women as princesses.'

'Oh.' said Pentu. 'I like that idea. Then all men have to be knights.'

'Right.' said Sylvi, glancing at Roh. 'They should be courteous and decent all the time.'

He grinned. 'Sorry to disappoint you lovely princesses.' he said, taking their hands to kiss them as he bowed. 'This black knight does not belong in the dreams of sweet girls.'

'My brother will never be like a real knight.' Pentu sighed as they watched him return to his room.

'But you like him more like this, don't you?' asked Sylvi, seeing Pentu's tail wag.

'Of course! My brother's the best.' Pentu said and walked into the bathroom. 'Don't you like him, Lumi?'

'Why would I?' said Sylvi, following her. 'If I marry someone, he has to be a real knight.'

'But then you'd have to be a real princess.'

'Ah, yes, right.'

'So then you'll have to marry my brother.'

'How did it come to this!? I haven't even gotten close to him yet!'

'Yet? So you will?'

Sylvi let out a groan. 'Wash your face.' she said and splashed her own face with cold water.

*

Wenta looked at Sylvi after breakfast. 'You don't have anything else than dresses?'

Sylvi looked at her dress. 'Not really. I never got simple clothes.'

'Then I'll teach you how to make clothes you can safely wear around the farm. If something happens to those, it's no big deal.'

Sylvi followed Wenta to the room which held the washing machine and sewing machine. Wenta showed her the clothes she had made and the various materials she had. She started off first with an overall that belonged to Roh when he was a few years younger. It was the right height for her. Sylvi learned to alter the clothes and with a bit of effort she could wear the overall to work in the garden or in the barn.

'What's this?' Sylvi asked, seeing a black, shiny roll.

'I got that from someone in trade for a couple of bags of vegetables. He had no use for it.' Wenta said and stroked the soft material. 'I haven't had any use for it so far.'

'It's beautiful.' Sylvi said, stroking the roll.

An idea sprung up in Wenta's mind. 'Lumi, take off the overall. I need to measure you again.'

**

Roh came home early since things were quiet at the garage. He walked to the back when he almost bumped into Sylvi coming out of the wash room, wearing the long, sleeveless dress Wenta had made from the silky black textile. His attention was drawn at once at the low cut on her back and the contrasting curves between the shiny blackness and her fluffy white back, arms, and swaying tail.

'What? Does it look bad?' she asked after he kept staring at her.

'On the contrary, you look beautiful..' he said with a soft smile.

Her heart skipped a beat and she looked away, her cheeks heating up. 'O., of course I do! Be grateful you get to see it because it's too precious to wear again.' she said, then hurried to her room.

'My, my..' said his mother and smirked a little. 'Looks like you do know how to woo a girl.'

'Huh?' he said and looked at his mother. 'It's not like that!'

She chuckled as he went to his own room.

*

After he returned he found his mother and Sylvi in the kitchen. 'Hey, is that?' he asked, seeing the overall Sylvi wore.

'Yes.' his mother said. 'After a little adjustment they were perfect for her.'

'Well, less glamorous than the dress, but these do fit you.' he said to Sylvi. 'How does it feel to wear my clothing?'

'Don't remind me..' she said, sticking out her tongue.

His mother chuckled. 'It's not like she's wearing the shirt you wore last evening.'

Roh opened his mouth, then shut it. 'Never mind. I'm going to chop firewood.' he said and left the kitchen.

'Well,' said Wenta. 'ready to get cooking?'

Sylvi nodded.

*

Sylvi took a mug of cold water to Roh some time later at the request of his mother. She heard the chop of the axe at the barn and walked inside to see him swing the axe and let it fall to split the wood on the chopping block. She had seen the gardener chop wood before, but seeing the muscles work in Roh's sweaty bare back was something new. The tension as he swung the axe back and overhead to strike the wood rippled through his back.

'Sylvi?' he asked, spotting her when he picked up the next piece to split.

'Your mother asked me to bring you something to drink.' she said and handed him the mug.

'Thanks.' he said and emptied it at once, ending with a satisfied sigh. 'I was just getting thirsty.'

She looked at the large pile of wood to avoid looking at his partially naked body. 'You have to do all that?'

'Yeah, but I usually chop some every evening, so there's no big hurry to get it all done. And it's good exercise.' he said with a grin.

'Have fun then, I'm going back.' she said and went back, but took a moment to watch him swing the axe one more time.

*

'Smells good.' Roh said as he walked into the kitchen. 'What are we having?'

'Something new.' his mother said as he sat down at the table with the rest of the family.

She and Sylvi placed the last pans on the table and sat down.

'Ohh.' said Galrum, watching the skewers still sizzling in the frying pan. 'I already think we'll be short.'

'Da-ad.' said Pentu. 'Don't be such a pig.'

'Hey, if it looks and tastes good, I don't want to stop eating.' he said and winked at his wife.

'Behave.' she chuckled and hit his shoulder. 'Let's eat.'

They dug in and Roh was surprised at the mixture of sour and sweet flavoured pork and chicken. 'This is good. You really made something good today, mom.'

His mother smirked. 'It was Lumi who had the idea and made it.'

Sylvi showed Roh a sly grin as he looked impressed at her. 'You're going to lose.' she said.

'This is just one thing.' he said. 'Although I have to admit you won this round.'

'Be prepared for much more.'

'What are you talking about?' asked Pentu.

'Oh, nothing special.' said Roh and took another skewer out of the pan. 'I'm just wondering if we'll get more surprises like this.'

'You're hoping to eat her cooking every day from now on?' asked his father. 'It does sound she's willing to, which is good if you guys decide to hook up.'

'It's not like that.' they said.

*

'It really was good.' Roh said while he dried the dishes.

'Seeing how you and dad fought over the last skewer, I believe you.' Sylvi said, chuckling.

'I'm impressed at how quick you picked up cooking, what with that breakfast just days ago.'

She poked his chest. 'I told you that was because I had trouble with that kitchen..'

He smiled deviously. 'I guess this kitchen fits you better then.'

'Maybe.'

'But then you'll not be able to leave here.'

'You would like that, won't you?' she said, crossing her arms.

He put away the dishes. 'With food like this, I would, yeah.'

She looked away. 'Maybe I will stay a little longer after I win, only to give you one last meal to make you remember how wrong you were.'

He leaned closer. 'Make me more, and I'll say how wrong I was every day.' he whispered.

She turned him towards the door and pushed him out of the kitchen. 'Stop spouting nonsense and just go to the living room!' she said while he snickered.

'Aren't you coming?'

'I'll be there. I just have to do something mom asked me to do.'

'Okay?' he said and went into the living room.

Roh was discussing repairs on the fence at the back of the farm with his father when his father looked up and smiled. Roh looked back at the direction of the door and saw Sylvi standing there, a little unsure in the black silk dress.

'Now, this is the look of a princess.' Galrum said.

'Did you make it?' Pentu asked, moving closer to look at Sylvi.

'It was mostly mom.' Sylvi said, feeling embarrassed.

'I only showed Lumi what to do.' Wenta said. 'She makes the silk look good.'

Galrum nudged his son. 'Go on, say something.'

Roh smiled. 'I'll only repeat myself, saying she looks beautiful.'

Wenta leaned closer to her husband. 'He already saw it this afternoon.'

Galrum nodded. 'I see. Then I want to have a first now.' he said, turning on the radio, selecting a station with dance music and walked up to Sylvi, bowing a little. 'Can I ask this dance of you, pretty young lady?'

Sylvi giggled and nodded. Galrum took her by the hand and waist, then lead her into a dance.

'You dance very well.' Sylvi said.

'Thank you. Wenta and I used to dance a lot when we were young.'

'My friends were a little jealous when they found out he could dance better than their boyfriends.' chuckled Wenta.

Pentu grabbed her brothers hand. 'Dance with me.'

He smiled. 'All right, but don't complain if I step on your toes.'

When the song changed, Galrum said 'Switch.' and handed Sylvi over to Roh while he took his daughter in his hand.

'Milady.' Roh said, taking Sylvi's hand.

'Milord.' she said. 'I'll try to keep quiet if you step on my toes.'

He snickered. 'Thanks. I'll try to keep my feet in check.'

The family had danced together the whole evening when Roh gave Sylvi a nod in the direction of his parents. They were dancing slowly, gazing into each other's eyes. He moved quietly with Sylvi out the door and into the court.

'That was the song they played for their first dance at their wedding.' Roh said.

'It's a beautiful song.'

He nodded. 'Pentu and I are planning to be gone for the day and night at their anniversary later in the year to give them a little romantic privacy. Pentu can stay at a friend's house that day.'

'And you?'

He shrugged. 'I'll go for a drink and a bite and sleep at the garage.'

'If you're nice and beg, I could let you stay in one of the dog houses.' she chuckled.

Oh, so you really think of me as a dog, eh?'

'Well, aren't you?' she said, smiling innocently.

'I should chase you up into a tree.' he said and barked a little at her.

'Ah, help me!' she said, pushing him and laughing. 'I'm threatened by a mad dog!'

He pulled her tighter, growling and barking more. 'Put me in the dog house and I'll keep you up all night.'

'Fine! Fine! You can stay in a basket at the end of my bed like a good pet.' she said, laughing and struggling.

Roh growled more while she struggled and she lost her footing, pulling him down with her on the floor. Sylvi chuckled as she saw the surprised look on his face. 'Bad dog.' she said.

'And I thought a cat always landed on her feet.' he chuckled.

She hit his arm. 'Not when she's wearing a tight dress and being pestered by a dog.'

'Remind me to pester you only when you're not in dress then.' he grinned.

'I think I'll keep wearing this one from now on then.'

'Then I'll have at least something good to look at.'

She looked into his eyes, her heart beating faster, wondering why his words had an effect on her.

He stood up, took her hands in his and pulled her up quickly, making her end up in his arms. She thought he was strong already, but in his arms she could really feel his strength.

He stroked his fingers through her hair. 'Got some dust in your beautiful hair.' he said. He let her go and for a moment and she wished there had been more dust in her hair.

He walked her back to her room again. 'It was fun, see you in the morning.' he said.

'It was, see you tomorrow.' she said, giving him a little wave as he looked back once on his way.

She went into her room, looking into the large mirror at her dress one more time and smiled softly, imagining how Roh would look in a suit next to her. She told herself to find an unused suit at home and ask Wenta to adjust it for him, then got ready for bed.

***

Roh was pleased to hear his mother praise Sylvi's skills and how good of a help she was around the farm. He was certainly surprised at what she was able to create in the kitchen.

'It's going to be your fault when I grow fat.' he said, sitting down after dinner on the porch, rubbing his full stomach.

'First you say I can't cook, and now you complain it's too good?' Sylvi snickered. 'You're horrible.'

He leaned back on his hands and smiled. 'You should have warned me you're quick at picking up things.'

'And spoil my victory over you? Don't think so.'

He gave her a poke in her side, making her squirm. 'You're not there yet. I have to see more.'

She pushed him down and sat on top of him. 'You just can't face the fact I'm right.' she said, poking his nose. 'Or maybe you want me to stay as long as possible to eat more of my cooking.'

He smiled deviously. 'Damn, you found out my plan.'

She chuckled. 'Whatever will you do when I'm going back home?'

He shrugged. 'Probably beg at the gate every evening to have some of your cooking.'

'The guards will get sick of you and throw you out.'

'Then I'll just have to sneak my way inside.'

'And then get caught by my father?' she laughed. 'He'll throw you into the dungeon for sneaking in to see his daughter.'

'I can live with that as long as you feed me.'

'You're crazy.' she said and tickled him, making him squirm.

'I give up! I give up!' he said. 'Besides, I have a request for you!'

She stopped tickling. 'What, more food?'

'Something like that.' he said after taking a deep breath. 'The baker's daughter got the flu and will be staying in bed for several days. He told me today when I went there to pick up lunch for work. He said he could use someone to help out until his daughter got better and I told him I might know someone. Interested?'

'Me?'

He nodded. 'I told him how good you are at cooking. It would be another opportunity to prove me wrong..'

She grinned. 'Then I accept. Get ready to kneel before me.'

'I already talked to mom about it and she thinks it's a good idea to gain experience. I'll take you with me to town tomorrow morning.'

A polite cough made them look at the doorway with a smirking father. 'You lovebirds ready for a drink and snack?'

'It's not like that!' they said and he laughed as he went back to the living room.

Sylvi looked a little embarrassed as she got off Roh. 'Let's go.'

He nodded and followed her, his tail wagging more than usual.

***

Roh dropped Sylvi off at the bakery in the morning. 'Good morning Fort.' he said to the baker. 'Let me introduce Lumi, your angel in need.'

Fort looked back and smiled. 'So glad to have you help me!' he said, wiped his hands on his apron and held one out to shake hers, then looked closer. 'Has anyone ever told you..'

'Yes.' Roh said. 'She heard that more often. But why would a princess be working like a peasant?'

Sylvi saw his little smirk and elbowed him. 'The question would be, why would a princess get near a scoundrel like you?'

Fort laughed. 'She's right about that.'

'Well, I see you'll get along fine.' Roh said. 'I'll pick you up after work. Unless you manage to blow up the shop before that.'

'Why don't you make sure you don't blow up the garage.' Sylvi said and pushed him out the door as he laughed.

'Are you two..?' Fort asked.

'No way!' Sylvi said. 'He's horrible!'

Fort laughed and invited her to the back. 'Let me give you one of my daughter's spare outfits. Can't have you mess up your clothes with flour, dough, and cream.'

He showed her simple tasks she could do to finish pastries and how to help customers. Mira, his daughter came down once to check on the shop and he sent her back up after she was sure they could handle things.

'She worries easily.' Fort said to Sylvi. 'I told her you were a quick learner and things were fine.'

'I hope she'll get better soon.'

'A couple of days rest for her will do her good. She's been helping out since she was little and will surely take over the business when I'm too old.'

Sylvi nodded and heard the doorbell ring as another customer walked in. 'Then I hope I can fill her shoes a little in the next days.' she said and went to the counter.

Fort smiled. 'I'm pretty sure you can.' he said to himself and continued kneading dough.

**

Roh walked into the shop at the end of the day and waved at Sylvi while she helped out a little girl and her grandmother. Sylvi gave him a quick wave and smile before she told the girl all about the different pastries and what they tasted like while her grandmother smiled at them.

'She's such a sweet girl.' the grandmother said to Roh.

'You have a cute granddaughter, yes.' he said, watching the little girl wag her tail in excitement.

'She is, but I was talking about the new help.'

'Ah.' he said and smiled. 'Yeah, she is..'

The grandmother turned to her granddaughter. 'Well, do you know what you want? We can't have this young lady's boyfriend waiting for long.'

Sylvi looked embarrassed and saw Roh clearing his throat, looking away. The little girl choose a strawberry topped cake and Sylvi wished her plenty of enjoyment eating it. Roh watched the bright smile on the girl's face as she and her grandmother left.

'So, ready, or does this boyfriend have to wait a little longer?' he said chuckling.

'The boyfriend will have to wait until I'm done cleaning up.' she said and stuck out her tongue before going to the back.

'Ah, Roh!' Fort said as he came in from the back. 'You've come to pick up Lumi.'

Roh nodded. 'How did it go today?'

'Wonderful. She's a big help already. Mira can rest easily.'

'I'm glad to hear that.' Roh said. 'Then I won't have to worry about getting lunch here next time.'

Fort shook his finger at him. 'Don't speak badly of her. You're lucky to have such a good girl.'

Roh smiled. 'I know what a great girl she is, but she's not mine.'

Fort raised an eyebrow. 'Really? But you seem so close.'

'Yeah, we're friendly, but I doubt we'd become more than that. We're from different backgrounds.'

Fort nodded. 'Well, if you say so. Just make sure you can't get any further before giving up.'

'I'm done.' said Sylvi as she came from the back. 'Or do you need me to do something else before we go?'

Fort shook his head. 'No, I'll take care of the rest. You have a good evening now, and I'll see you tomorrow.'

'See you tomorrow.' she said, and followed Roh out to the car.

*

'Something on your mind?' asked Roh.

'Hmm?' said Sylvi, staring out the window at the fields.

'You're rather quiet.'

Sylvi smiled softly. 'I guess I'm a little tired. This has been a different day than one on the farm.'

Roh nodded. 'I can imagine. I'll bet you'll sleep like a log tonight.'

'I'd rather not. I've seen what you do to logs with your axe.'

Roh laughed. 'I wasn't planning on throwing you into the fireplace.'

*

At the farm, Sylvi told everything about what she had done that day and told Wenta that she would make pastries when Fort had learned her how to make them. Wenta suggested a little competition and she accepted. Pentu volunteered to be the referee.

Roh walked with Sylvi again at the end of the evening. 'Looks like I have to practice speaking in public soon.' he said.

'Hmm?' hummed Sylvi.

'Well, to admit you can do what us peasants can do.' he grinned.

'Yes, you'd better. I'm so going to humiliate you.'

He held up his hands. 'Go easy on me!'

'No way. Not after all I had to endure to prove you wrong.' she said, pushing him.

'Oh, don't start complaining now, you have fun here.' he said, pushing back.

She roared playfully and pounced him, causing him to fall back on the floor. 'Maybe I have, but I will still have my revenge on you.' she said, then got up and opened the door to her room. 'So be afraid, very afraid.'

She gave him a smirk and closed the door. He sat up and sighed. 'It's not revenge that makes me uneasy..' he said to himself, then got up and went to his own room.

***

Roh walked into the bakery at the end of Sylvi's third day there. 'I have to run a quick errand, so can you wait for me until I'm back?' he asked her.

She nodded. 'No problem. I'll wait outside and read. I got a book with all sorts of recipes today as a present.'

'I'll see you a little later then.' he said and gave her a wave before going outside.

Sylvi said goodbye to Fort when she was done and went outside, flipping through her new book in a sunny spot.

'Hey cutey. Are you free?'

She looked up at a young man with cat ears and tail and a sly smile on his face. She didn't like the greedy way he looked at her.

'Sorry, but I'm not interested.' she said, turning away.

'Come on, we'll have fun!' he said, moving in front of her.

'I already have plans.' she said, walking away.

'Hey! You can't turn down a good offer from me like that.' he said and reached out to grab her arm.

'Yes, she can.' growled Roh as he grabbed the guy's wrist and squeezed it hard.

The guy squirmed, trying to pull himself free. 'Let go!'

Roh pulled him closer and leaned into his face. 'Not before you apologise to her.'

'I'm sorry! I didn't mean anything!' the guy said, seeing the anger in Roh's eyes.

Roh let him go and the guy fell back against the wall. 'I'm sure you didn't. If I ever catch you acting like this to a girl I'll break your wrists before teaching you some old-fashioned manners.' Roh growled.

The guy grabbed his painful wrist and scrambled to get away as fast as he could.

'Damned bastard..' Roh said, then turned to see Sylvi looking quietly at him. 'Ah, sorry! I got carried away when I saw him bothering you.'

She smiled softly at him. 'That's okay. You're the knight who protected the princess from harm.' she said and took his arm. 'Thank you.'

Roh felt embarrassed and looked away. 'I only did what any guy would do for family.'

'Family?' she said, feeling a flutter in her stomach.

'Ehm, well, you're like family now.' he said, glancing at her. 'It sounds stupid, I know.'

Her bright smile made his heart skip a beat.

'I think it's great, thinking of me like that.' she said and held his arm tight against her, leaning her head against his shoulder. 'Let's go home.'

They walked to his car, unaware someone had been watching them the whole time.

***

Roh stopped his car at the bakery to drop off Sylvi for the last day her help was needed.

'Have a fun day, and don't get into trouble.' he said.

She smiled at him. 'I won't, as long as you keep being my knight.' she said and stuck out her tongue.

'I'm not going to let any man near you.' he grinned. 'Not even the king himself.'

'Oh?' she said, opening the door. 'Are you that protective of me?'

He shook his head. 'No, just can't have another guy go through the experience of being around you.' he said and stuck out his tongue.

'Jerk.' she said and got out, giving him a raspberry. 'Just for that you won't get any of my own made cakes tonight.'

He laughed and they waved as he drove to the garage.

She turned to walk into the bakery when she heard a polite cough. She looked left and saw one of the castle maids standing there.

'Sorry to bother you, princess.' she said and bowed her head.

'Ehm, you must be mistaken.' Sylvi said, making sure nobody was around.

The maid came closer. 'I'm not. We checked the castle and your room. You haven't been there, or at any of the other mansions.'

'Maybe, I'm abroad?'

The maid chuckled.

Sylvi sighed.

'Don't worry, we won't tell. We think it's wonderful to see you helping out here and having a good time.'

'Really?'

The maid nodded. 'We have been checking up on you, and we get the feeling you've been happier than ever before.' She looked over her shoulder, then back. 'We think it also has to do with him.'

Sylvi looked away. 'I have no idea what you mean. Roh's just a friend who's helping me out.'

The maid giggled.

'No, really! I'm not interested in a boorish guy like that! He has no manners!'

The maid smiled. 'Anyway, we just wanted to let you know we've set things up so it looks like you're staying at one of the mansions, in case anyone asks.'

'Thank you. That helps a lot.'

'If you need anything else, let us now.'

Sylvi smiled. 'I will.'

They got startled by the door of the bakery opening and the baker stepping out.

'Oh, good morning ladies. I heard voices and wondered what was going on outside.'

'Ehm.,' said Sylvi, looking from him to the maid. 'we were just discussing pastries.'

The maid nodded. 'Indeed. I came here to buy some.'

'Ahh.. Well then Lumi, don't make them wait. Let's open up.'

'Lumi?' whispered the maid.

Sylvi nodded and smiled. 'The name Roh gave me.'

The maid nodded and smiled, then followed Sylvi into the shop.

At the end of the day Roh walked into the bakery. 'Hey there.' he said to Sylvi.

'You're early. I haven't finished here yet.' she said, gathering the unsold pastries and bread for cool storage during the night.

'I know, but I came here to deliver something.'

Fort came out from the back. 'Roh, my boy. Just in time.'

Roh pulled out a thin package and handed it to Fort, who turned to Sylvi.

'My dear Lumi,' Fort said while his daughter Mira came out the back with a cake. 'we wanted to thank you for all the work you did while Mira was sick, and give you something to remember this time by.' He gave the package to Sylvi, who looked surprised at everyone. 'Open it.'

Sylvi opened the package and held up a necklace with a silver rolling pin.

'The pin represents the time working here.' said Fort. 'It was Roh's idea.'

Sylvi looked at Roh.

'It's not much, but they wanted to give you something special.' he said, smiling gently.

Sylvi looked at Fort, then hugged him. 'Thank you.'

He hugged her back. 'Thank you, for all you've done.'

Sylvi hugged Mira, who then presented the cake. 'One of my best cakes, for you as dessert tonight.'

'Oh dear.' said Roh. 'We'll have to roll her to bed tonight.'

'Shut up.' Sylvi said. 'You'll be begging me for a piece later. So if you're nice I'll let you have one.'

Mira snickered. 'Sounds like she's got you under her thumb already. And you're not even married yet.'

'We're not like that!' Sylvi and Roh said while Fort laughed.

Sylvi hugged Fort and Mira one more time before they left. 'Roh didn't want us to tell you, but he chipped in for the necklace.' Mira whispered to Sylvi as they hugged.

'He did?'

Mira nodded slightly and pulled back, giving Sylvi a wink. 'Don't hold it against him.'

Sylvi smiled. 'I probably will.'

*

'Thank you.' said Sylvi softly on the way back to the farm.

Roh looked at her fingering the necklace around her neck and smiled. 'What for?'

'For this.'

'I only provided the idea, thought something like that would look good on you as a reminder.'

'Exactly. I haven't had a present with a real meaning before.'

'Glad we were the first one then.' he said, happy to see the soft smile on her face all the way home.

*

Pentu and her mother admired Sylvi's necklace when they came home. 'Beautiful.' said Pentu.

Roh's mother nudged him. 'Thoughtful.' she said.

'Heh, I just happened to get an idea.' he said and walked out of the kitchen. 'I'm going to take a quick shower.'

After a good dinner and a thick slice of cake the family retired to the living room where Galrum poured drinks for everyone and held up his. 'To Lumi, for a job well done.'

'Lumi.' everyone said and Sylvi looked embarrassed.

'Thank you, all.'

'Now,' Galrum said. 'since Fort wasn't the only one who wanted to give you something to remember us by.., Roh?'

Sylvi looked at Roh, who handed her a small box and smiled. She looked at the box, opened it and found a small silver fork and knife, horse, carrot, spool of thread and needle and a heart.

'The fork and knife are for the great cooking you did.' Roh said.

'The horse for taking good care of the animals.' said Galrum.

'The carrot and thread for gardening and household work.' Wenta said.

'And the heart because you have a place in ours.' said Pentu.

Sylvi looked at their smiles and felt tears welling up in her eyes.

Pentu looked worried at her. 'Is it wrong?' she asked.

Sylvi smiled at her and pulled her tight in her arms. 'I love it.' she said, tears falling down her cheeks. 'Thank you so very much.'

*

Sylvi and Roh sat outside after the rest had gone to bed, listening to the breeze in the trees and the insects buzzing around.

'It's so peaceful and open here.' she said.

Roh nodded. 'A bit different from living at the castle and town, eh?'

'There's always someone busy at night.'

'I just hope it's not ruining a kitchen.'

She looked at his straight face, then roared playfully and poked him while she straddled him. 'Will you forget about that!'

He fell back laughing and she saw a small silver lemon falling out of his breast pocket. 'What's this?' she asked, taking it between her fingers.

He smiled, pushed her a little back to sit up, took it from her and pinned it to her necklace. 'To remember me by and the first time you cooked for me when you are back at the castle.'

She saw a little sadness in his eyes and hugged him tight. 'I don't want to leave here. To leave you..' she whispered.

He held her tight, his heart pounding hard. 'I don't want you to leave either, but I also know you will have to go back.'

She nuzzled his neck. 'I know.. I know..'

'At least you've proven me wrong.' he chuckled softly.

'Only, too quickly.' she giggled.

They held tight for a while when Sylvi whispered 'Can I sleep next to you tonight?'

Roh's heart almost stopped. 'Tonight?'

She nodded slightly. 'I just want to be close to you while I still can. Even if we can't do anything. Unless you don't want me.'

He stroked slowly through her hair. 'It's my honour..' he whispered.

She stood up, taking his hand in hers and he followed her silently to his room.

'I need to go to the bathroom quickly.' she whispered. 'Wait for me in bed?'

He nodded and she smiled softly before going. He felt nervous and excited when he went into his room, undressing and fluffing up his pillows. He usually kept things tidy, but he still checked for anything out of place. His bed felt cold after her warmth when he crawled into it. He let out a chuckle thinking she might just get too scared and sleep in her own bed, then sighed. 'She's a princess, you dope.' he told himself and closed his eyes. 'What would she do with you?'

A soft knock startled him and she walked into his room. He still wasn't sure he wasn't dreaming.

She closed the door slowly. 'Is it still okay?' she asked.

He smiled at her, thinking she was absolutely adorable. 'Definitely..'

She smiled softly. 'Mind if the lights go out?'

'Of course not. I understand.' he said and turned off the lamp at the head of the bed.

There was still some light coming through the window, but all he saw was her ghostly figure revealing itself while he heard the rustle of her dress falling to the floor. She came closer and he lifted up the blanket for her. She crawled against him, laying her head on his shoulder while he tucked her in.

'Sleep tight, my princess.' he whispered.

'Sleep tight, my knight.' she whispered, stroking her fingers across his chest before wrapping her arm around him.

He relished the scent and touch of her warm and soft fur, her soft body pressing against his and gave her a soft kiss on her forehead before falling asleep.

***

Roh cherished every moment she spent in his embrace. She hadn't moved at all during the night, just held on to him and stirred just a little as daylight woke her.

'Good morning, princess.' he whispered.

She looked up, sleepily and smiling. 'Good morning, dear knight.' she whispered, cupped his cheek and kissed him to his pleasant surprise.

He pulled her tighter and kissed her deeper, letting her tongue meet his for a slow dance. She moved one hand along his body while his hands caressed her back.

After a while she pulled back, looking up at him like an innocent little girl. He stroked her hair and caressed her ear, smiling gently at her while feeling his heartbeat racing with hers. She gazed into his eyes and knew she wanted to be one with him, to have him inside her.

The urgent voice of his little sister and her knocking on his door broke the magic of the moment. 'Brother! Wake up! I can't find Lumi!' she said as she opened the door, then froze.

'Is it that bad to see us together?' Roh chuckled.

Pentu shook her head. 'But I don't think that man that came will like it.'

'What man?' he asked.

'There's someone in uniform who demands to see the princess.'

'Princess?' asked Sylvi.

Pentu nodded, and Sylvi knew she had found out who she really was. 'I wished it could have lasted just a little longer.' Sylvi said.

'We'll be out there in a minute, Pentu. Just don't say you found us together.' Roh said and Pentu nodded before leaving.

Sylvi looked with sad eyes at him. 'I wished we could have enjoyed a few more peaceful days together.'

He nodded and caressed her cheek 'So did I.' he said and smiled gently. 'I started to dream about living with you for the rest of our lives.'

She kissed him once more, then pulled back. 'I guess I'll have to face reality.' she said, moving out of bed while moving her fingers along his arm.

'Not on your own.' he said. 'I'm going to be by your side as long as I can.'

She smiled at him, then realised she stood naked in broad daylight and grabbed her dress from the floor to cover herself. 'Don't look!' she said.

He snickered. 'Too late.' he said and swung his legs over the edge of the bed to sit up. 'I will never forget that beautiful sight.'

She looked away embarrassed. 'Pervert.'

He stood up and pulled her face back to him by her chin. 'Yes. Absolutely. Because I've fallen in love with the best girl any guy could wish for.'

She couldn't control her heart or body anymore. 'Don't make me weaker than I am now..' she whispered.

'Then don't make me as nervous as I am now, spilling out my feelings for you.' he whispered, kissing her softly once more.

He took her dress and held it up for her, helping her put it on, then she helped him put on his pants and shirt.

'Ready?' she asked, straightening his hair.

He nodded. 'You?'

'Not really.'

He took her hand in his, reassuring her he was at her side, and walked with her to the front.

Outside, they found his father and mother waiting with a gruff looking, red-brown Kanine.

'Princess.' he said, giving a quick nod.

'Princess? Me?' she said, her voice shaking as she squeezed Roh's hand. 'Whatever do you mean? I'm not her.'

'You've been seen at the bakery by the staff.'

'You're mistaking me?'

A quick glance at Roh's father and mother told her they knew.

Wenta nodded. 'We know.'

Roh chuckled. 'Figures.' he said.

'I saw Roh's boss a while ago, and he knew nothing of a friend with a pure white Kat for a daughter.' Galrum said. 'We played along because it seemed you were happy to be out here and needed it.'

'I'm sorry..' Sylvi said.

Wenta smiled softly. 'Don't be, it was a pleasure having you here.'

'Princess, the king has ordered me to bring you back.' the Kanine said.

'My father?' Sylvi said, feeling angry. 'What does he care? Tell him I'm not coming home just yet.'

'Your highness, he told me to get you back, one way or the other.'

Roh took a step forward. 'You want to try the other?' he asked.

The Kanine pulled out a gun and pointed it at Roh's head. 'My name is Kharr. I am the captain of the castle guard and will not hesitate to do as my king has ordered me. Please don't get in the way of me to bring back the princess.'

'I can't go back!' Sylvi shouted. 'I'm pregnant!'

Kharr's eyes grew wide. 'What..?'

'I'm pregnant so don't you dare to shoot the father!' she said, looking defiantly at Kharr.

'Princess..?'

'I know you had your eye on me and the throne, but you can go back empty-handed!'

Roh felt her tremble through her grip on his hand. 'You heard her.' he said. 'You may follow the king, but I will follow Sylvi with all I have.'

Kharr watched the determined look in everyone's eyes and put back his gun. 'Fine. I'll inform the king.' he said and walked back to his car.

They watched him drive away and Roh stroked Sylvi's hand with his thumb. 'Pregnant?'

'The idea just popped into my head.' she said looking at him.

He chuckled. 'Your father will be furious.'

'Serves him right for neglecting me for so long.'

'I guess I'll make us a big breakfast.' Wenta said. 'I think we'll need all the energy we can get today.'

'I'll help.' Sylvi said. 'I've got so much to make up for.'

Wenta smiled softly at her. 'Don't even dare to think that way.' she said, stroking Sylvi's hair. 'You've given us a wonderful time. And I enjoyed being like a mother to you.'

'Mom..' Sylvi said and hugged Wenta tight.

*

After a big breakfast and lots of laughter when Sylvi and Roh told the reason how it all started, they decided to wait at home for the king's reaction. Roh and Sylvi took a stroll around the cluster of trees and bushes at the far back of the farm to take their mind off things.

Roh chuckled as they walked, their fingers entwined as they held hands.

'What?' Sylvi asked, her thoughts filled with what may happen in the near future.

'Pregnant.' Roh said, smiling.

'Would you hate it?'

'It would be one of the greatest things in my life.' he said, then stared off into the distance. 'Too bad it's just an excuse.'

He halted as Sylvi stopped walking. She looked down at the ground. 'What if we make it true?' she whispered.

His heart tried to burst through his chest. 'Wh, what..?'

She shuffled her feet. 'We could make it the truth?'

Crickets chirped in the sun while the wind blew softly across the grass field. Roh turned to Sylvi, lifted her chin gently and kissed her tenderly. 'I'll want you next to me, day and night.' he whispered. 'Together with the family we'll have.'

She kissed him back. 'Then I'll give you any son and daughter you want.'

They laid down in the soft grass, kissing deeply with their tongues intertwined. She moaned as he ran his hands along her curves, pulling her body tight against his.

'Make me yours, right here..' she whispered.

He rolled on his back with her and unbuttoned the back of her dress. 'You will be mine forever, as I will be yours.' he whispered, pulling up her dress while she straddled him.

He laid it down next to them and looked at the magnificent white curves of her furry body. 'You are beautiful.' he said, smiling softly. 'More beautiful than anything anyone could create.'

She unbuttoned the top buttons of his shirt and pulled it off him, then caressed his chest with her fingers. 'You're the best pillow I could hope for.'

'Then I won't have you sleeping one night without it.'

She lowered herself onto him, giving him the wonderful feeling of her soft humps against his chest, and kissed him passionately. He ran his fingers through the fur along her back and ass, making her rub her body slowly against his.

'I want you inside me..' she whispered in-between kisses.

'Then let me get you ready to receive me.' he whispered and rolled her on her back.

He had learned a few things from the stories which were popular by women and had read out of curiosity, and he finally understood the hunger described in them by the men. He looked into her eyes and could lose himself in them forever. Primordial instincts overflowed him and he sat on his knees, looking at the young Kat lying before him, defenceless and naked, her curves and embarrassed face firing up his desire for her.

He leaned closer, kissing her again, licking her tongue and fangs, holding back his urge to eat her. Going down slowly he kissed her neck and throat, running his fingers down her side and across her ass as she pulled up her knees. She moaned softly as he kissed around her breasts, then harder as he found her nipples sticking out of her fur and kissed, licked, and nibbled them, going from one to the other.

When her nipples couldn't get any harder he moved down her belly and kissed the insides of her thighs. 'Your fur is so fantastic..' he whispered. 'I want to be wrapped up in you so much.'

She hummed in pleasure. 'I'll be your blanket anytime.' she whispered.

He moved up a little and kissed along her pussy, the slit in her fur gleaming with moist. She gasped at his touch, then moaned softly as his lips caressed her softly. Her scent was intoxicating to him and he kissed her lips, moving the tip of his tongue slowly between them.

She moaned more and he moved his tongue deeper, sliding it all the way between her lips. He loved her taste and the twitches of her body while he licked her. Her clit grew rock hard and he pushed the tip of his tongue along it, forcing louder moans out of her until she gasped for air when he slid his tongue deep inside her soaked pussy. His hunger could not be controlled and he licked her insides as deep as his tongue let him, spurred on by her moaning.

'Roh..' she moaned, running her fingers through his hair. 'I'm going crazy..'

He moved his tongue back to her clit, sliding two fingers inside her to massage her. She pushed her hips against his face, yowling as the cat in heat she was until she couldn't push back her climax and came with a long groan, moaning Roh's name constantly.

He watched her pant, her eyes filled with tears and she clawed at him, pulling him up to her. She frantically unbuttoned and unzipped his pants. 'Inside me, now..' she said, her voice hoarse with desire. He pulled down his pants, kicking them aside while she stroked his dick, which almost burst from the pressure of his blood. She guided his slippery head between her lips and let out a deep sigh as he slid inside her hungry pussy. 'Finally..' she moaned.

He pushed his dick slowly up to his hilt inside her, her heat surging through his dick almost making him lose his mind. 'Take me..' she moaned and he answered her with a low groan, sliding his dick along the depth of her pussy, thrusting harder inside her every time and mixing her moaning and his groaning into one cacophony of lust.

She roared his name, every thrust inside her sending a shock-wave of desire for more through her and tensing the muscles inside her hips and abdomen harder. The squeeze of her pussy around his dick made him thrust it deeper and harder inside her, desiring to empty his balls completely in one burst inside her.

He groaned hard as he could no longer hold back and shot his burning load deep inside her most intimate place.

He gasped for air as his arms trembled trying to keep him up. Sylvi pressed her hips against him, keeping his throbbing dick deep inside her. He leaned closer and kissed her with all his passion. She wrapped her arms and legs around him, wanting to meld together with him.

'Roh?' she whispered after they finally calmed down and cuddled.

'Hmm?' he said, caressing her back and hair.

'I wish we could stay like this forever..'

He kissed her forehead. 'If it were up to me, I'd grant any wish you have.'

She stroked his cheek. 'I love you..'

'If you didn't, I'd love to see what you'd do if you did.' he chuckled.

She hit his chest softly. 'I'm serious.'

He lifted up her head to look into her eyes. 'No words come close to describe how much I love and desire you, my heavenly princess.' he whispered. 'I have neither kingdom, nor land, but I will offer my last thread of clothing and piece of bread at your feet.'

She kissed him, pulling him as tight as she could.

*

They heard Pentu calling out for them and quickly dressed, giggling at the funny situation.

'What is it, Pentu?' Roh asked.

'That captain is back!' she said.

Sylvi sighed. 'I guess there's no way to get out from under it.'

He kissed her cheek. 'Remember me at your side.'

She felt her cheeks turn hot. 'That might just make it worse.' she chuckled.

They met with Kharr hand in hand. Roh could see him taking a quick look at their hands and twitch his upper lip.

'I've got orders to take you both to the king.' he said.

'Fine.' Sylvi said. 'We're ready.'

Kharr led them to the first car he came with for the princess and gestured at the second car for Roh, but Sylvi didn't let go of him and pulled him inside with her. Roh could see the frustration on Kharr's face and liked it. If he really had his eye on Sylvi and the throne, he didn't like him at all.

*

Getting closer to town, Roh felt Sylvi's hand tighten around his. He put his other hand on hers and she looked at him, his reassuring smile comforting her enough to relax a little and lean against him.

The cars went around the back and drove to the rear entrance of the castle. Kharr let them out of the car and walked ahead of them to the king's study. Roh saw a couple of maids peeking around a corner of a doorway and they smiled when they saw him look.

'Looks like the maids approve of you.' Sylvi whispered.

'I'm glad.'

'Doesn't mean you're allowed to get very friendly with them.'

He chuckled. 'You'd better stick close to me all the time then.'

She hit his shoulder. 'Unfaithful mutt.'

Kharr cleared his throat and gestured for them to go inside.

'Father.' Sylvi said when they stood before his desk. Her hand held a tight grip on Roh's.

Her Father was a big Kat, even for their species. Roh had seen him from afar before, but his size became apparent when he was this close. His black coat showed streaks of grey, but it didn't make him look old in his casual clothing. His eyes showed no sign of age as he glared at Roh, then at Sylvi.

'How dare you leave the castle and stay at this, boy's home.' he said, his voice and tight hold on his pen betraying his restrained anger.

'I had to prove my point that I was better than him.' Sylvi said.

'By getting pregnant from him!?' he shouted, rising from his chair and making it topple back. 'Kharr, send her to one of the mansions and lock him up!'

Before Sylvi or Roh could say anything, a sharp pain on his hand made him let go of her. Kharr had hit him with a stick and several of the personal guards had grabbed him and Sylvi.

'Let go of her!' he shouted and struggled to get free.

'Roh!' Sylvi shouted and struggled as well.

'Get them out of here!' her father shouted.

The guards muzzled the both of them, Roh being brought to the cellar and Sylvi to a car to take her away.

'What am I going to do?' the king said, slumping down in his chair. 'The scandals which will hit us..'

'If I may suggest,' said Kharr. 'We can charge him with kidnapping, threats against the royal safety, and I'm sure several things more to put him away for a long time. Then we can use that as a bargaining chip to have the princess give him up. Given time she will forget about him anyway.'

'But what about her pregnancy? How will we explain that?'

'If you don't mind, I can volunteer as the father.'

The king turned his head to him.

Kharr shrugged. 'This way we won't have to involve more people into the secret and chancing it on leaking out. The princess will keep quiet in exchange for his release and the newborn will be a boost to international popularity.'

The king pondered about it for a while, then smiled. 'Indeed, we can turn this into something good. But then you'll have to marry her.'

'I'll serve my king and country in any way I can.'

The king stood up and placed his hand on Kharr's shoulder. 'You're my best man, Kharr, and I'm glad I've always been able to rely on you.' he said. 'Start arranging things quietly for now.'

'As you wish, your highness.' Kharr said and left the study with a slight bow.

**

The car with Sylvi had stopped outside of town at a remote spot. Sylvi tried the doorhandles but the car was locked.

'Let me out!' she shouted, but she didn't get any response. She had not expected much since these were men under Kharr. Even threats to relieve herself in the car didn't provoke a reaction.

She looked at the area with trees all around but didn't recognise anything. Sighing deep she sank back into her seat, worrying about what might be happening to Roh. She hit the seat with her fist. 'Damned! Damned! Damned!'

Some time later she heard another car stopping behind her. Muffled sounds of orders came and the sudden opening of the front passenger door startled her. Kharr stepped in and lowered the division between the front and the back halfway.

'I hope you're well, princess.' he said.

'I hope you choke!' she said. 'Where's Roh!? What have you done with him!?'

'He's facing a long list of laws he's broken by keeping your whereabouts secret.' Kharr said with a sigh. 'He's not getting off easy.'

'It's not his fault! I was the one who started it all!'

He nodded. 'That might be, but he willingly participated in endangering the royal family, and the courts aren't lenient in these matters.'

'He did nothing wrong!' Sylvi said, slamming her hands against the division. 'Stop that nonsense!'

'I'm afraid it's the law.'

'Damned!' Sylvi shouted with another slam.

'The king is very worried about any scandals hurting the country's reputation, but I convinced him to let Roh go in exchange for a few things.'

'What things?'

'You will marry me and we'll pretend to be a couple for the rest of the world, and Roh will not be harmed as long as he stays silent.'

'You bastard!' she shouted. 'You horrible bastard!'

'My, my, such words from a princess.' Kharr grinned. 'Think it over, prison can be very cruel to a person. Especially with a lot of royal supporters around.'

Kharr closed the division under a barrage of curses and left the car. 'Take her to the cabin.' he said to one of his men. 'She's not to have any contact with anyone until we resolve the situation.'

The man saluted and gestured at the others to get ready to leave. Kharr got into his own car, smiling to himself.

**

'Roh?'

Roh felt someone calling him at the edge of his consciousness.

'Hey.'

Aches all over his body increased in intensity and he started to remember things. They had pushed him into a small room and started beating up on him. He only got a few punches in, but they were with too many.

'Hey!' the voice said and he felt a kick in his side, sending a wave of burning pain through his body.

He coughed and opened his eyes with some difficulty to see Kharr crouching over him.

'Finally awake?' he said. 'My apologies for the treatment from my men. They are very sensitive when it comes to anyone harming the royal family. I have reprimanded them.'

Roh coughed again at the absurdity. 'Right..'

'You've got a long time in prison ahead of you, but I managed to make a deal on your behalf. You give up contact with the princess and the king won't press charges against you. The princess has already agreed to it.'

Roh let out a chuckle. 'I'll believe it when I hear it from her mouth.'

Kharr looked around the stone room. 'You'll be convinced when the wedding is announced.'

Roh stiffened. 'What wedding?'

Kharr grinned maliciously at him. 'Between the princess and me, to cover up this whole business.'

Roh reached out for Kharr's scruff, but Kharr caught his wrist. 'Don't you dare touch her!' he grunted.

Kharr showed him his fangs. 'She'll give in, in time.' he said, then hit Roh's jaw and stood up. 'Excuse me for defending myself.'

Roh watched him leave the room and heard the door lock before sinking back into darkness.

***

Sylvi found herself at a large cabin and no idea where it was located. From her windows she could see hills and the forest but no sign of civilisation. Not even a road.

Occasionally one of the guards passed on horseback and she expected they had taken her to a really remote place where no one ever came. She sat into a big chair, feeling defeated. She was sure they wouldn't let her go unless she agreed to the terms of Roh's release. Pain filled her heart and she cried her eyes out, afraid for his safety.

*

Sylvi looked up as a maid came in, carrying a tray with tea and snacks. 'Are you okay, your highness?' she asked, putting the tray on a table after seeing Sylvi's red eyes.

Sylvi shook her head. 'Where am I?'

'I'm sorry, your highness, but I don't know. I got summoned from Hertford mansion in the night and was brought here in a darkened car. They told me I had to serve you here while you were kept safe and secret.'

'Figures..' Sylvi said and rubbed her eyes. 'I suppose they didn't say anything apart from having to stay here.'

'Your highness?'

'What's your name?'

'Hana.'

'Hana, there's more going on.' Sylvi said, leaning closer to Hana. 'Right now Kharr has imprisoned the one I love, and I'm afraid he's hurting a lot. Is there a way to get a message to him?'

Hana pondered for a while, then remembered an old method that the maids used for fun. 'I know something. It was used in time of war but we use it sometimes to send secret messages between us maids. It's disguised as shopping lists.'

'Oh?' Sylvi said, raising an eyebrow.

Hana giggled. 'It's mostly gossip about who has an eye on any handsome man.' she said, then took Sylvi's hand. 'What do you need me to relay?'

***

Roh stretched his sore limbs and cursed in his mind. He needed a way to get out of here and find Sylvi. He'd get her back, even if he had to fight the entire army. He would not give in into despair.

He tensed up at footsteps in the corridor. "Another beating?" he thought before his door was unlocked and a maid hurried inside.

'I haven't got much time.' she said. 'Word from the princess is that she's fine for now and wants to see you. We don't yet know where she's being held, but as soon as we know something we'll let you know.'

Roh felt relieved and leaned back against the wall. 'Thank you..'

'I have to get back now. The rats we let loose will soon be caught by the men.' she said with a wink. 'They can't refuse to help a poor maid in distress.'

He grinned. 'I'm sure..' he said as she left and locked his door again.

***

'Good morning, your highness.' said Hana when she walked in with breakfast.

Sylvi rubbed her eyes, feeling tired after too little sleep. 'Leave the good..'

Hana came close. 'Maybe not, after hearing from the castle.' she whispered.

Sylvi felt suddenly awake. 'You've heard from Roh?'

'They did beat him up, but he's not in a real bad shape. He was happy to hear you're fine.' Hana whispered, placing the tray with breakfast on a bedside table.

'I'll make them pay..' said Sylvi, grinding her teeth but happy to hear about him.

'The maids at the castle are all behind you since you looked so much happier with Roh. We're looking into a way to get him out and you two together.'

Sylvi sipped from the tea Hana had given her. 'We need more than that. Father and Kharr won't let us stay together.' Sylvi said softly. 'Father despises the idea of me with someone who isn't royalty and Kharr wants to get a shot at the throne for himself.'

Hana nodded. 'I'm sure they'll think of something at the castle. The older maids are very resourceful.'

Sylvi gave her a soft smile. 'I'll bet they are. I remember miss Hastel always finding me when I tried to hide.'

'I won't be able to send a message today, but I can do something tomorrow.'

'Thank you. If nothing else, tell Roh I love him.'

Hana smiled at Sylvi. 'I'll pass that on for certain.'

Sylvi closed her eyes again after Hana left her, thinking of Roh and feeling relaxed enough to get some more sleep.

**

'Heard anything more?' Roh asked when another maid entered his room.

She shook her head. 'We can't communicate every day. That would get suspicious.'

Roh sighed and nodded. 'Of course.'

'We're discussing options to get you out of here and back with the princess.' the maid said, taking out a small pot with salve and applying it to his bruises. 'We need something to convince the king to let you two stay together.' She stopped her treatment and looked into his eyes. 'You do want to stay with her, don't you?'

He smiled softly. 'I want to marry her and grow old with her. I already imagined our days on the farm.'

She smiled and continued her treatment. 'I wouldn't be surprised if she'd leave the castle to live on a farm.'

'I just don't get why her father doesn't want her to be with me. Being a peasant isn't good enough despite loving her more than anything?'

'Yeah, sometimes he seems uncomfortable when he and the queen discuss the princess's future..'

Roh watched the maid as she stopped massaging his arm. 'Something wrong?'

She looked him in the eyes, excitement growing in her face. 'That just might be it..'

'What?'

'I have to know for sure since I only know the old rumour.' she said standing up and carefully opening the door. 'I'm going to ask right away.'

He heard her lock the door and hurry away, leaving him puzzled.

***

The next day several messages had been passed between the castle and mansions. At the end of the day the maid came back to Roh while the guards were distracted by dinner.

'We have a chance tomorrow.' she said. 'Kharr will be driving to the princess, and we think she's at a cabin that hasn't been used in a long time by the royal family. We can get you out after breakfast, you get on that ride and keep hidden until you can take the princess to the town marked on this map.'

Roh looked at the small map she gave him and nodded. 'I don't know how to thank you.'

She smiled. 'She lets you know she loves you. Just make her happy.'

He chuckled. 'That's a given. So I'll have to think of something else.'

'We get to experience a real romantic situation, that's already something.' she said with a wink and left.

***

'Ready?' asked Kharr to his men at the van.

'All supplies are loaded.' one of them said.

'Good.' Kharr said, then had a feeling in his gut something wasn't right. 'Open the back.'

Another guard opened the back doors and Kharr got in, checking the contents of every crate and bag.

'Something wrong, sir?'

Kharr got out and hummed. 'Apparently not.' he said, then got in the van to drive to the cabin.

**

By the time the van was unloaded at the cabin, Hana sneaked to it and figured Roh didn't get a chance to get on board when she saw no sign of him.

'Damned.' she said and kicked the van. 'The princess needs you, Roh.'

A click beneath her caught her attention and the sudden opening of a compartment startled her.

'Hey.' said Roh as he looked up at her. 'You called for me?'

*

'I know that model van has a large enough compartment for tools and spare tire, so I used that to hide instead of between the cargo.' Roh said after Hana brought him to a large shed at the back of the cabin. 'How's Sylvi?'

'Unhappy, for now.' she said. 'She'll feel happy when I tell her you're here, but I'll have to keep you hidden tonight before you and the princess can get away.'

He nodded. 'I hate to be so close and not see her, but it's safer.'

'You can hide on the platform up there.' she said, gesturing at the ladder against the wall. 'I'll bring you something to drink and eat later.'

'Thank you.' he said before Hana sneaked out the shed and he went up the platform.

*

'Good evening, your highness.' said Hana, bringing dinner into Sylvi's room.

'Just put it over there, will you?' said Sylvi, pointing at the small table at the window. 'I'm not really hungry.'

'As you wish.' Hana said, then moved to Sylvi to exchange her glass with a clean one. 'Although he might not like hearing you aren't eating well when I bring him something to eat later.' she whispered.

'Who?'

Hana saw Sylvi's puzzling look on her face and smiled. 'Your knight in shining armour.'

Sylvi had to process her answer, then excitement filled her heart. 'Roh?' she whispered and grabbed Hana's arm. 'Roh's here?'

Hana gave a slight nod and Sylvi's ears pricked up. 'You're not kidding? He's really here?'

'I have him hidden for the night.' Hana said. 'He has instructions on how to reach the nearest town and where to go with you, but you'll have to hold out until it's safe tomorrow.'

Sylvi nodded. 'That's gong to be so darned hard now.'

'I'll come back to keep you company. I know the captain will come by later to check up on you, I'll be there after that.'

Sylvi nodded. 'I regained my appetite now, but I'll leave the dinner so he won't think I'm feeling okay.'

'Then I'll inform Roh.' Hana said, collecting dirty glasses and leaving the room.

Sylvi shook with delight, then took a couple of deep breaths and forced herself to look sad and angry again.

*

'You highness.' Kharr said as he walked into the room.

'What do you want?' Sylvi growled.

'Just a little talk.' he said, sitting on a windowsill. 'Have you thought it over?'

'I'm not going to marry anyone else than Roh.' she said, hugging her knees.

'That would be rather hard when he's in jail.' he said, looking around the room.

'I'll tell everyone what you did!'

A sly grin came over his face. 'That would also be hard when you have to stay here because of bad health.'

Her eyes grew wide. 'You wouldn't.'

'Your father agrees with me.'

Sylvi grabbed the glass beside her and threw it at him. He deflected it and it broke into pieces on the floor.

'Careful, your highness.' he said, going back to the door. 'It'll only confirm your worrisome mental state.'

'I'd rather go insane than accept you!' she shouted as he left the room.

*

Hana came soon to clean up the broken glass and Sylvi helped her.

'Sorry for the mess, Hana.' Sylvi said.

'Don't worry about it, your highness.' Hana said, then whispered 'Roh asked me to tell you he loves you.'

Sylvi's heart skipped a beat and smiled. 'I want to get out of here with him. I don't care if we live on our own somewhere far away, as long as he stays with me.' she whispered.

'Just a little patience. One of the castle maids lives in the town you go to, she can bring you to another town where one of the other maids can give you shelter for as long as it takes.'

'Thank you, for everything.' Sylvi whispered, her hand on Hana's.

'We're no army battalion, but the maid squad will not be underestimated.' Hana chuckled.

***

Sylvi felt groggy when she woke up, having slept little during the night while thinking of how close Roh was.

The opening of her door surprised her and she saw Hana sneaking in, putting a finger against her lips. She went to the closet and gathered warm clothing and socks. She gave them to Sylvi, whispering 'Time to go.'.

Sylvi's heart raced as she dressed quickly while Hana kept an eye on the hallway. Hana led her into another room as soon as Sylvi was dressed and they went outside through the window, where Sylvi found Roh waiting for them in the bushes.

'Ro-' she started to say but he silenced her with his hand on her mouth.

'We have to be quiet.' he whispered.

Sylvi nodded and he pulled back his hand. She didn't give him a chance to prevent her from kissing him though. He answered by a short, passionate kiss and a wide smile. 'The rest will have to wait.' he whispered.

He gestured at the garage and the girls nodded before they hurried to the back of it.

'We'll use this blind spot to go down to the stream, then we're out of sight enough to follow it further down to the forest.' he said.

They rounded the corner of the garage, only to find the king and Kharr waiting for them.

'Shit.' Roh said.

'Looks we can add more to the list of charges against you.' Kharr said.

The sounds of footsteps behind them told Roh enough and restrained his anger. 'You knew we were going to escape.' he said.

Kharr grinned at Hana. 'Did you think I didn't know about the maid code as a captain of the royal guard?'

'I hate you!' Sylvi said, tried to slash him with her claws but Roh held her back. 'He's not worth it.' he said.

'And you!' shouted Sylvi at her father. 'Why are you so against Roh!?'

'Because peasants shouldn't marry royalty!' the king shouted. 'They have nothing to do with getting involved with our class! They can't measure up to us!'

'Oh? Is that so?'

The king froze at the cold familiar voice behind him.

'Peasants have nothing to do with royalty, eh?'

'I..' he whispered.

'Looks like we have a lot to discuss later.' the queen said as she moved forward. 'Especially when it comes to how some of your staff handles matters.'

The glare of the queen's yellow eyes made Kharr cringe and he bowed. 'Forgive me, my queen. I only-'

'Silence!' she snapped. 'I've been having a word with your mother, and she's waiting for you at home right now!'

He swallowed and stepped back. 'As you command.' he said with a shaky voice, then left, knowing how good his mother could be at punishing him, even now.

Roh looked at the queen dressed in a tight, light green dress, her fur and long hair pure white as Sylvi's, her eyes commanding but turning soft as she stepped closer and looked at him. He recognised Sylvi in her face.

'So, you're the cause of all this?' she asked.

'He's not at fault, mother!' Sylvi said, clinging to Roh. 'I started it all and he just let me indulge in my stupid whims!'

Roh stroked Sylvi's arm, smiling softly at her. 'I'm just as much at fault. Especially for falling in love with her.'

'Do you think peasants and royalty can live happily together?' the queen asked.

He didn't take his eyes off Sylvi's. 'I don't know about that. I only know I could live happily with Sylvi.'

Sylvi caressed his cheek, smiling gently at him.

'Good answer.' the queen said. 'You have my blessing.'

'But the trouble it'll cause!' the king said, looking at his wife. 'You know all the sneers and harsh treatment you had to go through! I don't want her to go through all that!'

The queen looked at her husband. 'Did you think I wasn't prepared to get through all that if I didn't love you so much?' she asked. 'Weren't you?'

The king sighed. 'I just..'

'I know.' the queen said and tickled under his chin. 'Don't you think they're ready to take on the world like we did? You almost lost your daughter into obscurity.'

Roh looked puzzled at Sylvi and Hana.

Hana chuckled. 'It's only mentioned in the official history of the royal family, and only the older maids have witnessed it. The king fell in love with a peasant girl and married her despite protests from his family. I confirmed it with the head maid and she told the whole story to her highness the queen.'

'So, what choice did I have but to come in person and put this idiot husband of mine in his right place?' the queen said with a devious smile.

Roh bowed before her. 'I thank you for you confidence in me. I'll try my best to not disappoint you, or Sylvi.'

She held out her hand and lifted his chin to make him stand up. 'No, I thank you for bringing happiness to my daughter.' she said and bowed her head before him.

Roh felt a little awkward and Sylvi squeezed his hand. 'Welcome to the family.' she whispered.

'Get ready for the most harsh training you'll ever get in your life, boy.' the king said and bowed his head. 'From now on you'll be responsible for both Sylvi and the future of the country. And I'll be the one drilling you.'

Roh bowed to the king. 'I'm looking forward to your guidance.'

****

Roh sank down into a soft chair after the late wedding party. 'I've never even gotten so tired after harvest.' he sighed.

Sylvi stood before him in her frilly light-red wedding dress, her hands behind her back, and smiled. 'Well, you'll now have to prove peasants can do what royalty can do.'

He chuckled. 'You proved your point, I'm not about to lose to you now.' he said, then smiled gently at her. 'You're so beautiful.'

She loosened the knot of the string on her back, then let the dress fall to the floor and stepped out of it to straddle him, showing a note.

'What's this?' he asked as he ran his fingers through the fur on his wife's thighs, his desire for her growing.

'You remember our first time?' she whispered, leaning closer to him and kissing his nose.

'A memory I will never forget.' he whispered, kissing her nose back.

'And do you remember what I told you the day Kharr took us to the castle?' she asked, unbuttoning his shirt.

He thought for a moment, moving his fingertips along her sides while she undid his belt and zipper. 'Make the excuse of being pregnant real? Although I didn't think that would have been possible in that short time.'

She kissed him softly and opened the note for him to read.

His eyes grew big. 'Let's practice conceiving our next child.' she whispered as she slipped her hand into his pants.