The princess, although she did want the company and protection the two boys offered, she hated Erik. He treated her like he treated his slave boy - something to be bossed around. Around him, she almost felt like he was kidnapping her. But he wasn't; Annabelle had agreed to travel with them.

But Sheo...that boy was different. He was respectful and kind, the sort of man who should be considered a gentleman but wasn't because of his status. His black hair was cut messily, especially on the left side so that it fell into his dark eyes. He was constantly swiping the strands away. And his eyes were so angry and full of sorrow. Deep half circles underlined his eyes, and the boy's eyelashes were long and dark - just like the rest of him.

Annabelle pondered this the next morning at breakfast as she sat beside the prince, but opposite of Sheo. The boy kept glancing at her, then hurriedly back down at his meal of biscuit and bacon.

The prince, however, didn't even notice her. He was too busy chatting with the innkeeper, who, apparently overnight, had become his new best mate.

"And, my fine Sir, may I ask where yous' is going?"

"Off to slay a dragon, sir."

"Ah, good luck! My own boy, just thirteen, decided to try his fate in that. So, although I wish you Grather's blessing, it's my son who will have my prayers, m'lord."

"Of course, sir! I wouldn't imagine another way. If I see him, would you like me to tell or give him something?"

"Tell him he'd better come home soon, he's got a load of chores to do!" The innkeeper laughed, then suddenly turned sober. "Tell him I love him, and even if he doesn't slay this dragon, he always has a home here. He's my only boy, you see. I need him home and he needs a home. Tell him to come back."

"I will, sir."

"Thank you, m'lord. I've 'ot a bunch of customers that need tending, so I wish you speed and health. Grather's blessing on you, Sir."

"As to you." Turning to Sheo, he asked, "Is the princess done eating?"

"Ask her yourself," Annabelle snapped.

"Tell the princess I'm not talking to her," Erik told Sheo.

"Annabelle-"

"Well you can tell him I'm not talking to Prince Erik either if he's going to behave like a child," Annabelle retorted. Erik's face burned in silent rage.

"Erik-"

"Tell her she's the one being childish after acting so rudely."

"You started it!" Annabelle exploded.

"It's true," Sheo murmured.

"You stay out of this!" Erik snapped. Sheo shrugged and resumed eating. The prince and princess glared at each other. Finally Erik turned away and growled, "Sheo, get the horses ready. Annabelle will be riding with me."

The boy stood, wiped his mouth, and left the room. Annabelle continued to glare.

Finally Erik hissed, "What?"

"Ride with you?"

"If you'd rather walk..."

"I would, thank you. It's much more pleasant," she informed him.

Erik shrugged and stabbed at a piece of sausage. "Suit yourself. It's a long journey."

"The horses are ready, Sir," Sheo called.

"Off we go. After you, milady."