One Hundred Refusals

A romantasy novella

This fantasy romance novella set in a semi-medieval world, with shifter magic, love-hungry wizards and haughty princesses. A light-hearted, humorous fantasy with a touch of spice.

Part 1: The curse

“Oh, Gema… my princess… I adore you!” The poor fool moaned while the princess laid on top of him in the garden’s daybed. Gema couldn’t recall how many times had she heard those words. As the man attempted to unbutton the back of her dress with his fingers trembling lustfully, a bird chirped nearby. Cinnia appeared behind the roses. She cleared her throat and said,

“My Lady, your father inquires after you. He’s expecting you in his study this instant.”

Perfect timing, Cin! As usual.

“I must go, my dearest! I’m afraid this will be the last time we meet.”

Gema gave the fool a one last passionate kiss to let him taste what he’d be missing out on, and with a juicy smooch Gema got up, not forgetting to touch the man’s crotch on her way.

“Oh, no! Why, my love?!” he moaned. 

“My father will find out about us!” Gema cried, then lowered her voice, “the maids in this castle are treacherous creatures. This one is the worst of all. My father will not approve of our passion!” She gave Cinnia a tiny little wink. 

“I cannot live without you, my love! How can I persuade the King of my serious intentions?” the Noble man grabbed her hand.

“There is a way… but… my reputation is terrible. Those are lies, told by the pathetic men, who were not worthy of me. But you… you are everything I yearn for!” Gema leaned above the man, nearly giving him a kiss, but left him craving. 

“Those are lies, no doubt! You are as… as pure as snow, my love! Therefore…” he rolled off the bed and kneeled before her. Gema could hardly hide her victorious smile. 

“I beg you to become my wife!”

Ding! A tiny bell rang out of nowhere. The man didn’t even notice it, overtaken by his feelings. But Gema heard it loud and clear. 

Ninety-seven, she thought and smiled openly. Her smirk turned into a theatrically painful frown.

“I am honoured, but I cannot!” she cried, “I shall not deprive you from finding a decent wife. My reputation will always cloud our happiness,” and with it Gema ran out of the rose-covered half-collapsed pavilion, leaving the poor fool standing on one knee with his mouth ajar. 

“Ninety-seven, my Lady! Just three more left!” Cinnia exulted, trying to keep up with her mistress’ quick stride through the castle halls. The princess was going to her chamber, no father was expecting her in the study, of course. 

“Yes, Cin! I can almost taste freedom. We’re so close!”

“My Lady!” Cinnia chirped and turned into a tiny little bird out of fright.

Bam! Gema ran straight into the chest of a tall, black-haired man, who appeared out of nowhere, while she had turned back to speak. 

It was Ashier, who else could have sneaked upon her in such a despicable manner?!

“Let go of me!” the princess shrieked as the man grabbed her tight. 

“I wanted to give you a taste of what it will feel like soon,” Ashier whispered in her ear smiling, and released her with a vide gesture, “say what you will, princess, but you shall be mine.”

“Never! If you hadn’t noticed - this fool was the ninety-seventh,” Gema retorted. 

“I heard it,” Ashier replied casually, “but… there’s not much time left, princess. Only a month until your twenty-first Birthday. I can wait that much.” He looked her up and down shamelessly.

“You’ll wait forever! I will easily find three more fools to… to…” Gema stuttered.

“Seduce? Oh, your methods are becoming more creative every time!” Ashier caressed her cheek with his ice-cold hand. His green, snake-like eyes squinted in a devious smile. “I will enjoy tasting every bit of your corrupted skin.”

“You, Snakelings are not allowed to touch a woman before wed!” she yelled and backed away. 

“But you are as good as mine, princess.” 

“I. Will never. Be yours,” Gema grunted through her teeth and ran away.

“You can run, but you cannot hide from the curse. Only one month left, Gema!” his voice followed her into the hallway. 

Oh, the despicable, the vile man! 

Gema rushed through the hallway with her little heels clicking on the blackwood floors of Hebeny castle, a tall stone building in the citadel of Hebeny, the Kingdom beneath the vast Blackwoods, with bright cities and villages scattered among emerald-green forests.

She ran into her chamber, slammed the door behind her and sat on the floor, trying to catch her breath. 

“I hate him! I hate him! I hate him!” Gema shouted,shedding tears of anger. 

“Oh, my poor Lady!” Cinnia appeared next to her. She flew into the chamber through the gap under the door as a tiny little blue tit bird, and turned into a woman. The maid was a Birdling - the best friend and the best spy Gema could wish for. Birdlings were a breed of magical folk living South from Hebeny, in the little kingdom of Avem.

“We are so close to your freedom, don’t listen to that villain,” Cinnia consoled her.

It had been nearly three years since that wretched day when Ashier kneeled before Gema in the castle’s garden, with the offer of his heart. 

He was the youngest of the Snakeling Lord’s sons, sent to Hebeny’s court as a councillor. Snakeling’s were held in high esteem for their wisdom. They inhabited an island far away in the middle of the vast lake Autumna, East from Hebeny. This particular Snakeling was famous for his magic to become a snake at will and, as it turned out, his magic did not stop there… only a week had he been serving in the court when, on the night of the young Gema’s Birthday, he kneeled before her, madly in love with the princess. Her reply was the worst a young man in love could receive to his heartfelt proposal - she laughed. Oh, how she laughed in his face! Why would she - the youngest daughter of King Ulrich, and the handsomest of his children marry some half-breed Snakeling from a small island full of strange folk, when she could have any man in Hebeny?!  Or Avem. Or Autumna. Or some kingdom from overseas? She had only known him for a week and was not exactly fond of young Lord Ashier, though he indeed wasn’t the worst-looking man she’d met. 

Gema could swear she heard the sound of glass shattering as she laughed, but she didn’t ponder much about it, because Ashier got up, hid his ring and said in a completely calm voice,

“I curse you princess Gema of Hebeny, not for your refusal, but for your laughter. You shall be bound to me or bound to death unless a hundred Noble men offer you their heart until your Birthday three years from now.”

To that Gema laughed some more. She didn’t believe the fool! Ashier explained the nature of the curse.

“This curse shall come to life, if you do not collect a hundred proposals in three-year time. Well, ninety-nine proposals, after mine. And if you should submit to a proposal, you’ll be bound to me.”

“What does it mean - bound to you?” Gema asked hardly containing her laughter.

“It means, if you’ll try to leave my side, you’ll die. Only after the hundredth offer you shall be free to decide whom to give your heart to. But if you don’t make it on time…”

“I shall die!” Gema mocked him. “You do not give me a chance to escape, don’t you?”

“Indeed, I do not. You didn’t give me a chance either.” 

Of course, back then the princess merely rolled her eyes and marched away with her wavy, chestnut-brown hair swaying. 

But when the next man proposed to her, and Gema refused, a tiny little bell rang out of nowhere.

“That’s two,” Ashier whispered in her ear, standing behind her among the court. The more time passed, the more frightened Gema got - indeed, the curse was real! And the time was ticking away. 

“Maybe you should accept young Ashier’s offer, my Lady? He’s not the ugliest man I’ve seen,” Cinnia had said back then.

“Never! I shall not be forced to marry an evil wizard!”

Hebenians feared magic, but King Ulrich was a sensible man. And although Cinnia was right about Ash’s looks, Gema would not submit to a prince of Snakelings. His looks couldn’t tempt her. Though he resembled a snake, with his green cunning eyes and vicious smile, he was a stately man with long hair of coal-black. Hebenian men cut their hair short and wore fashionable clothes, not some strange Snakeling attire. Soon enough Gema didn’t care about his looks at all. He had forced a curse upon her, and no matter how handsome, he was a devious man! 

*A sketch of Lord Ash and princess Gema

At first it went along smoothly - Noble suitors of all shapes and sizes lined up to win the heart of the beautiful blue-eyed Hebenian princess, but after the twentieth refusal they got suspicious. Gema had no other choice but to become more resourceful, and use every dirty trick to receive a proposal. She travelled around the country, and to the neighbour Kingdoms, went to every dance and feast. Her reputation suffered greatly, but she would not give up. Her freedom she deemed higher than some reputation. Despite the rumours, Gema kept her virtue intact, well, more or less, and decided to use it as a final resource, if all else should fail. This far, she managed to convince the suitors to propose using other methods. None of them she felt proud of, but in the art of seduction Gema had become quite proficient. 

“Oh, don’t cry, my Lady! Tomorrow is your mother’s feast, a good chance to find a new fool,” Cinnia consoled her.

“You’re right, Cin.”

Gema got up, wiped her tears away and sat by the blackwood desk of her study. 

“What was this one’s name again?” she dipped a quill in the ink to write down the last suitor’s name on a large parchment scroll. Both women had made a list of the rejected men, not to seduce one that had already been refused. Although, Ashier did not specify that Gema couldn’t receive a proposal from a same man twice. But since it had to be genuine, Gema avoided to approach the same heartbroken man. 

“Adalbert, a Noble from the Oak valley, here to discuss the Blackwood trade business with your father,” Cinnia did her spying extremely well. 

“Adalbert…” Gema wrote down. “He was not the worst kisser I’ve had. No excessive slobbering, no blatant groping,” she pondered casually. If there was one thing she learned in these three years - all men were the same. Mostly they needed a bit of cleavage, some passionate kissing and unambiguous hints - and that did the trick!  Of course, Gema had to find a way to get around her bad reputation, but a bit more seduction with some lies sprinkled in, and just like poor Adalbert, they were falling to their knees. 

“Tomorrow I’ll have to look my very best. Is the red dress ready?”

“Yes, my Lady. Are you sure about the… cleavage?”

“We are so close, Cin. I’ve nothing to lose.”

“Except your virtue,” Cinnia chirped.

“That I shall not use until the very end. But since everybody likes to gossip about my reputation so much, let’s give them something to talk about!” Gema smiled. 

The Grand feast was held once a year, strangely enough, on the day of the queen’s death. Her early passing was the reason king Ulrich did not care about his daughter’s behavior. He had been in mourning these last four years, the only reason for the feast was the dying queen’s wish for them to celebrate her peaceful passing into the blessed realm of the Foreverold. King Ulrich honoured the Queen’s last wish, but it gave him no joy. Nothing did. He nearly lost all sense of ruling the kingdom. Luckily, three years ago a young Snakeling prince joined the court. He had been a great helper to the king. 

Gema suffered her curse alone. Except for Cinnia, no one knew. Nobody could help her. Ashier could not take his curse back, or so he said. 

Gema woke up in the middle of the night from the eerie feeling of being watched closely. Every time it happened, she questioned her sanity; was it a nightmare or did Ashier really dare to slither past the snoring guards?

“What do you want?” she asked staring into the darkness.

“You!” Two shining, green eyes floated closer to her. She felt him leaning above her body in the bed.

“You can’t have me!” Gema retorted.

“I can have you anytime I want, but I’ll wait until you come willingly, begging me to take you.” Gema sensed him smiling even in the pitch-black dark.

“Never! I’d rather die!”

His face lowered slowly, Gema could feel the cool from his lips nearing hers. His breath smelled of peppermint and honey. To her own surprise she raised her lips closer to his, the same feeling she had when standing up high - Gema feared heights and sometimes wished to jump down just to end the fear. Do it already! She thought.

As every time, Ash left her waiting.

“Oh, princess, why must you be so stubborn? One word and you’d be free from the curse.” he straightened up, sitting on the side of her bed.

“Why must you torture me?” Gema whispered.

“I love you.”

“If you really do, why wouldn’t you release me from the curse?” She had to try her luck.

“I can’t. The binding curse is irreversible.” Gema could see the green eyes widen in despair.

“Go back to sleep, princess, tomorrow is a big day,” he said and Gema listened. She closed her eyes and felt his cool lips touching her forehead gently.

She woke up covered in hot sweat with the morning sun blazing through the gap in the curtains.

The day of the feast was a hot one. Scorching sun burned the tree tops of the magnificent Blackwood forests, covering most of Hebeny. Though the sun couldn’t break through the emerald-green leaves, the moist heat of the forest was truly unbearable.

Princess Gema of Hebeny was getting ready for yet another hunt for a suitor. Her prey had to be a gullible soul, since her bad reputation was well known in the Noble circles. Gema sighed - the poor fool will definitely be ugly. Not a dashing Autumnian prince for sure. Oh, those were the best kissers, but Gema had refused them already!

“Oh, no need to be discouraged, princess! You still have plenty of time,” a voice full of ridicule hummed near her ear. Ashier! Gema jumped up startled. He had slithered into the chamber through some hole as a snake, and turned into a man behind her.

“Very nice,” he noted looking at the princess in the mirror. Her fiery-red silk dress had a low-cut front, revealing as much cleavage as it possibly could.

“Get out of my chamber before I call the guards!” she yelled.

“Save your strength for your suitor. I think it’s going to be a very long and a very hot night.”

Indeed, poor Gemma was hot and sweaty in the heavy gown. Ash traced her neck with his cold finger. Even all this heat could not warm up the cold-blooded Snakeling.

“Or you could end the curse this very moment by accepting my offer.”

“Never!” Gema said spitefully, still she observed the two of them in the mirror. She did not believe her eyes - Ashier leaned down and kissed her neck. Gema shivered after the touch of ice, the Snake prince turned into a black grass-snake and slithered away.

“I hate you!” she yelled.

Cinnia shower up shortly after.

“What took you so long?!”

“Forgive me, my Lady! I saw a perfect fool among the arriving guests - a Noble man from overseas, who doesn’t know a thing about your reputation,” Cinnia explained.

“Is he handsome?”

Cinnia grimaced and shook her head.

“I thought so…” Gema sighed, “oh, well! Just three left. Let’s hope this one at least has a good breath.”

Oh, Gema could write a whole book about her kissing adventures! The one thing she hated were men with extremely bad breaths…

“I hate pretending to be a passionate lover, when all I want is to vomit,” Gema whined.

“He is not an Autumnian prince, my Lady, but you have refused all of them already,” Cinnia shrugged.

“Alright, Cin! Let’s start the hunt! Show me the man you found,” Gema pushed up her breasts to make them appear even more plump and marched out of the chamber.

Cinnia did not lie, the potential ninety-eighth on their list was a sturdy, bearded man, whose height barely reached Gema’s breasts.

Oh, well, that’s not such a bad thing after all, thought Gema, because the poor man stared at her cleavage right under his nose with a violent appetite. Easy prey!

Gema flashed a victorious grin at Ashier observing her. He shook his head suppressing a smile of ridicule.

Laugh all you want, Bastard! This one is eating from the palm of my hand already!

The feast had barely begun, Gema danced with the man, his eyes full of joy looking at her breasts bouncing cheerfully in the rhythmic music.

Gema did not chase her poor prey all the while, she knew the power of keeping her restraint. It also made her appear somewhat virtuous, at least for the sake of her father. King Ulrich sat by the table oblivious to the happy noise surrounding him, staring blankly at the dancers with his eyes clouded by tears.

Gema bowed her head shyly to her possible suitor and went to greet the King.

“Oh, dear father!” She smiled at King Ulrich sympathetically.

“You do look lovely, my dear. But… I’m afraid your mother would greatly disapprove your choice of attire.” He sighed and wiped a teardrop from the corner of his eye.

“I miss her too, father…”

“…every day,” he finished the sentence. Both pressed their foreheads together.

“Do behave, my dear girl, for your mother’s sake.”

Gema hated herself every time she promised father to behave, because that was a lie. She knew very well, her next move would be dancing with her prey much closer than she should, whispering in his ear an invitation to the garden and then… well, seduce him with the art of kissing and touching.

Cinnia was sitting on her shoulder, the little birdie chirped in her ear everything that might be useful in the game.

Gema saw the man approaching with a lustful smile all over his round face, she took a deep breath, but… a tall, slender figure, dressed in black, hurried to slither in front of the bearded man.

“May I have this dance?” Ashier bowed to her and looked into her eyes with the coldest smirk.

She squinted her eyes hatefully, but could not refuse, because her father’s face lit up at the sight of Ashier - he was always happy to see his councillor, who had become one of the King’s closest friends.

“Wonderful, Ash! I’m glad to see you here enjoying yourself. I did not expect you to come,” King Ulrich exclaimed.

Gema took a deep breath and bowed approvingly. The court buzzed with bewilderment - what was this Snakeling about to do?! All knew - Snakeling men were not to touch a woman if not wed to her!

The dance was a pavane - the dancers would hold hands and march gracefully around each other. Instead Ashier held his hands locked behind his back, but he did not shy away from coming close each time they were supposed to. Their bodies stopped just a half an inch from each other. So did their lips. Sparks flew from their eyes. It wasn’t a dance, it was a battle. The guests stared in awe - the fire clashed with ice.

The guests had no doubt the Snakeling would go on one knee after the dance. Nothing else could proceed such an open display of desire. Just before the final chords, the doors of the dance hall slammed open, and with the blazing red light of the setting sun, a tall manly figure entered. All eyes turned to him - a stunning young man, impeccably attired with a short wave of golden hair and eyes black as a hot, starless summer’s night.

Gema noticed deep dislike on Ashier’s face. He turned and disappeared in the crowd.

“Young Lord Valeur of Thilia valley,” the Master of Ceremony declared.

A sketch of Lord Val

The young Lord marched to the King and bowed, with the guests assessing his every move. He was perfect in every way. Lord Valeur bowed to princess Gema and kissed her hand courteously. Gema had stopped counting how many times her hand had been kissed by men, but this one made her heart skip a beat and butterflies flutter in her stomach. As her eyes followed the young man’s tight buttocks, Cinnia chirped on her shoulder,

“Are we changing the suitor? This one is very handsome indeed.”

“Too handsome, Cin. I don’t want to lose my head.”

“So, the sturdy lord? Oh, what was his name?!”

“Yes, the same. Let’s just get on with it,” Gema sighed.

She joined the Sturdy man, as they called him, by the table. They drank wine and the Lord could not stop bragging about his huge fleet and his giant castle, and Gema was not listening, because she caught Lord Valeur looking at her again and again. Of course, she wore the brightest and the most obnoxious gown of all the ladies present. For the first time in these last years, Gema wished her dress would have been less revealing…

What must he think of me?

She was convinced Lord Valeur would gladly dance with her, but she had to sacrifice each dance to her cause; the Sturdy lord was obviously quite contempt and nearly ready to propose. He just needed a little taste of the forbidden fruit, to embolden his appetite…

Gema led him to the half-collapsed pavilion deep in the darkest corner of the garden. The roses smelled richly, the daybed was covered in silk and velvet and a lantern was casting soft light on it.

Thank you, Cin!

The Sturdy lord did not stop blubbering about his large realm with the highest towers, but Gema was in a hurry to get rid of him. Maybe she could make it back to the feast just in time to dance with the handsome Lord Valeur, or… maybe not. If he’s a decent man he would want nothing to do with her. Gema sighed woefully.

Whatever the Sturdy man was saying, Gema pulled him close by his vest and kissed him the best she could. It felt like kissing a bucket full of rotten fish. Indeed, he had been feasting on seafood just earlier. Gema released him and ripped her lips from his face. Hideous! She straightened her back and expected a passionate confession of his feelings and a proposal. She did not expect what happened next; the Sturdy lord pushed her onto the daybed, laid on her with all his weight and forced a kiss upon her, simultaneously ripping open the front of her dress.

Although shorter, he was undoubtedly stronger. Gema couldn’t speak, when not pressing his fat lips on her face, he held her mouth shut with his hand, manically trying to undress himself with the other hand.

“Let go of me! Help! Help!” Gema managed to scream, whilst fighting back.

The man yelled in pain and looked at his shin - a black snake had bitten him. But before he got back to his violent business, Sturdy lord received a fast blow to the face, and he fell off the bed. It was Lord Valeur, who grabbed the bastard and shoved him out of the pavilion, kicking his buttocks.

“And stay away, you dirty swine!”

Lord Voleur’s melodious voice was the loveliest sound Gema have ever heard.

“Are you alright, My Lady?” he rushed to her with his eyes lowered, though Gema had covered her nude breasts with a blanket.

“You saved me, Lord Valeur! Thank you!”

“At your service,” he bowed.

Cinnia appeared near them.

“Oh…” she could only gasp at the sight of the handsome man. Lord Valeur escorted the two women to the castle and alerted the guards to throw the vile Sturdy out of the castle grounds.

“I shall not deprive you from sleep, my Lady. Tomorrow it will all seem like a bad dream, nothing more.” He winked at her with the most charming smile. Gema smiled back speechless; what a man!

“Oh, isn’t he just… change of the suitor, my Lady?” Cinnia chirped excitedly.

“Change of the suitor, Cin, but tonight I don’t want to think about men.”

Gema drank a glass of wine that the courteous Lord Valeur had ordered the servant to bring her, and snugged in her blankets.

She woke in the black of the night, crying and covered in cold sweat.

“It was just a bad dream. He will never touch you again,” a familiar voice said.

“What do you want?” Gema yelled at Ashier, who had turned up on the side of her bed.

“To see that you’re well.”

“Why? Don’t fear, your desired prize - my virtue, is still intact!”

“I never wished for that to happen.”

“It’s all your fault!” Gema kept screaming, “why did you have to propose to me?!”

“I admit to have been hasty with my proposal. But I came to this court unprepared - the Snakeling court is very different. I was dazzled by all the splendour, the colours and by… you most of all. I had never seen such beauty. For a whole week I could not think about anything else but you. I couldn’t eat or sleep. It was a disease and I needed a remedy. I am a Snakeling, not some half-wit Fishling, I knew you would refuse me. I hoped it would cure me from you. What I did not expect was your cruel laughter. I would gladly settle for a civil refusal, but no man’s honesty deserves to be ridiculed,” Ashier went silent after his confession.

“Rest now, I’ll leave you alone,”’ he added.

“I don’t want to be alone,” she cried, “I’m…scared!”

“Don’t be. Would you… want me to guard you?”

Half-asleep the princess nodded and snugged back into her blanket. She felt the cold touch of his lips on her forehead and fell into a peaceful dream.

Was Ash’s presence also just a dream? Gema could never tell, because he never gave himself out. At daytime Ash was his usual cold-blooded self.

***

“That did not go well. We’re still three suitors short,” Gema sighed after breakfast in bed. Cinnia smiled,

“Maybe not, my lady. Young Lord Valeur has stayed here overnight and he had a letter to your father from his father, Lord of Thilia valley. I presume he wants to stay in our court for a while,” Cinnia couldn’t hold back her excitement.

“I doubt he’ll want anything to do with me.”

“But yesterday…”

“He was just being courteous, Cin. I don’t believe we should expect a proposal from this one, therefore no matter how handsome, I cannot afford to waste my time on him,” Gema replied and got out of bed. She had merely a month left to find the missing suitors.

The day was full of surprises. She was summoned to the Throne hall. To her horror Sturdy stood in front of her father’s Throne. Gema wished to turn around and run.

“My dearest daughter, would you come nearer, please!” King Ulrich asked.

Slowly Gema paced forward with her heart almost breaking her chest, it pounded more quickly than ever before. The despicable Sturdy had probably told father how she acted like a slut, and deserves to be shamed in front of the court!

“Don’t be afraid. It’ll be fine,” Ashier whispered in her ear as she passed.

“Dearest daughter, Lord… this Lord has done us the greatest honour and wished to ask for your hand in front of all the court.”

Two things were clear - King Ulrich could not pronounce Sturdy’s real name, and the violent bastard thought Gema would not dare to refuse him in front of witnesses. Little did he know - Gema had done it many times before. She straightened her back, raised her chin high and stated,

“I am grateful for the Lord’s generous offer, but I shall have to refuse.”

Ding! A tiny bell rang cheerfully. For the Ninety-eight time. Gema smiled victoriously, and with the corner of her eye she noticed Ashier giving her a cunning smirk.

“Preposterous! Scandalous! How dare you refuse me?! I shall not tolerate this!” Sturdy cried, and went on, “does your father know, he has raised a…”

“Allow me to escort you to the King’s study, we simply must discuss the benefits of trade with such a magnificent realm as yours, with the largest crop fields ever seen,” Ashier stepped in and led the man out of the hall.

“They are large indeed, sir…” Gema heard Sturdy brag. She felt grateful to Ash for saving her skin, but maybe he was saving his own cowardly backside - the King would not approve him putting Gema under a deadly curse, no matter how she slighted Ashier’ s proposal. Gema had pondered whether to tell father about it, or not. But she didn’t - he had enough sorrow on his mind after losing his wife. The possibility of losing his daughter would not brighten the king’s days. No, Gema shall deal with the stupid curse alone, especially when she was so close to freedom.

But her day just kept getting better. Lord Valeur showed up at the court’s lunch. He gifted Gema his brightest smile, and her heart trembled… or maybe it was Cinnia clinging on to the front of her dress.

“Oh, my Lady, would you reconsider? The young Thilian Lord is obviously fond of you,” the little birdie chirped.

“If there’s one thing I’ve learned over these three years is - a smile is worth nothing, nor is a kiss until I see the ring,” Gema whispered.

“What did you say, dearest daughter?” King Ulrich sat near her.

“Oh, nothing, father.”

“Did I hear you mentioning a ring, Gema? Are you finally ready to accept one? I did not want to force it on you, but I do wish you found happiness in love and marriage,” King Ulrich sighed painfully.

“Dear father,” Gema held his hand.

She had thought about it. What will happen after she breaks the curse. No doubt, she’ll do it, but what’s next? What man would want to marry her, except the despicable Ash? That was obviously his endeavour - she would have no other suitors but him.

Ha! Let the snake think again. He can keep his cold little adder in his pants - she will not grant it a warm place to cuddle in. Gema snorted spitefully. She’d rather stay an old maiden for the whole eternity, than…

“What wonderful daydreams have occupied your beautiful mind, my lady?” a melodious voice broke into her thoughts. Lord Valeur bowed to her. He had just greeted the King.

“Oh, it’s nothing…” the wide-eyed princess stuttered.

“The young man expressed a wish to see the surroundings of our citadel. Would you agree for a nice ride into the woods, my dear? Sadly, I cannot accompany him. Me and dear Ash have a lot of work to be done today…”

“Of course, father, I’d love to!” Gema heard herself exclaim too eagerly.

“I’m truly delighted,” Lord Valeur kissed her hand once more. Gema tried to keep her cool, but the tremble of her palm gave her out.

She noticed Ashier walking past them - he always kept close to Gema. The Snakeling gave Valeur a hateful look and moved on.

That’s it snake, you’re nothing in compare to this man!

Despite her earlier doubts, Lord Valeur or Val, as he bid Gema to call him, showed genuine feelings toward her. Though Gema noticed him suppressing them under the guise of restraint.

They rode through the Blackwood forest, along the river, accompanied by a whole pack of bodyguards. They talked about the beauty of nature, about the latest trends in music, about… oh, Gema didn’t care, just to hear his voice would‘ve been enough. He knew all the right words, he smiled and he laughed, oh, his sunny laughter!

“I’ve been to Thilia valley several times. Why have we not met before?” Gema wondered, whilst both sat on the picnic blanket enjoying snacks and wine.

“I studied abroad since the age of seven, and I enjoy traveling. There’s nothing quite like discovering new worlds, my lady,” Val looked at the river with a dreamy stare. Gema agreed. She would agree to anything he says. She observed Val’s manly facial features, his slightly tanned skin, his golden hair, and the dark eyes. Those suddenly darted at her.

“Do you enjoy travelling, Gema?”

Both sat close, the princess could not take her eyes off the handsome face nearing hers. Just a tiny bit closer… but a sound from the river drew Val’s attention, he turned his head away from Gema, leaving her craving for the kiss.

“I think I heard something.”

“I hear it too,” Gema confirmed.

A meowing sound came from a sack flowing past them in the black stream.

“Oh, it sounds like kittens!” she exclaimed. Some evil creature had thrown the poor souls into the river to drown them.

“Not to worry! Excuse me, but my deed shall be more honourable than my appearance,” and with it, Val took off every bit of his clothing, except for pants, and dived after the meowing sack. Gema stood observing him - what an excellent swimmer! His body was perfect, masculine and stately, his skin smooth and tanned. Gema sighed lustfully as Val came toward her from the river, little droplets shimmering on his muscled chest. From all the men Gema had seen half-naked, this one was the best. He placed the sack at her feet, apologised for his nudity and put his white shirt back on. To Gema’s great joy, his chest still showed, as he left the shirt unbuttoned.

Val untied the sack - three lovely kittens rolled out meowing.

“Oh, they’re just precious!”

“I think now we are bound to become their Godparents,” Val smiled, “I shall name this one Princess Gema. It’s the prettiest one.”

He took a chestnut-brown kitten with blue eyes, and held it in his large palm. Gema smiled warmly.

“And which one should we call Lord Valeur?”

“Oh, that black little rascal with the torn ear. He’s the mischievous one, I can tell,” Val suggested. Gema giggled.

“Are you really a mischievous little rascal?”

“Oh, I’m the worst! There’s always a malicious little mischief on my mind.”

“Even now?” Gema gave him a cheeky smile.

“Especially now, when you are so near,” he said with a serious expression on his face. Gema was stunned - she expected a seductive smirk and an attempt to kiss her, but his face clearly showed the profound feelings he had developed in such a short time. It was too much - a man so tender and yet so serious, it was beyond Gema’s strengths. She was the one who leaned forward and kissed him passionately, despite all the guards around them. The kiss was perfect. Gema wished for it to go on forever, but Val pushed her away gently.

“My dear Gema, I do not wish to corrupt your reputation, although I would gladly taste your lips forever!”

There’s nothing much left to corrupt! Do go on!

“Of course! Forgive my weakness, I… have never met a man like you, believe me. But I promise to behave from now on,” that was a lie, as usual. But she did keep her promise for a while.

“How shall we name the third one?” Val turned his sight to the kittens.

It was a fluffy grey creature with bright green eyes, he sat calmly, observing the other two playing, then attacked them from the back, biting viciously.

“He reminds me of someone. Let’s call him Ash, and hope he’ll grow up to be a good cat someday,” Gema pondered.

“Honouring your father’s councillor? He seems like a ruthless man, though I can be wrong after meeting him just yesterday.”

“Indeed, you are right, Val. That man is a cold, devious snake!” Gema exclaimed. Val smiled once again.

Both rode back to the castle with their precious load of kittens in the picnic basket.

Gema took the basket from Val’s hands by the castle’s entrance. She couldn’t help herself and gave him at least a peck on the cheek, although there were guards and some Nobles of the court around.

“I hope to meet you at dinner,” she said.

“Of course, my Lady,” Val’s dark eyes smiled.

Gema ran to her chamber skipping. What a wonderful afternoon. If only… she suddenly stopped from the terrible realization; if only she wouldn’t have to refuse him… of course, it wasn’t certain if he would propose, but if he did…Oh, Gema’s heart ached already. Maybe she could explain, tell him about the curse. But that demanded her to confess what she had done. Rumours were one thing, but confessing the truth seemed frightening. She had been meddling with 98 men before him, and though her virtue was still intact, she couldn’t be considered a virtuous maiden either.

“My Lady!” Cinnia chirped flying to her and turned into a woman.

“Oh, Cin, I had such a wonderful time! He is a dream come true! He is everything a girl could ever wish for! He is…”

“A notoriously famous heartbreaker, my Lady…” Cinnia said with a guilty smile.

“What?”

“He was known with a different name a year ago - Thief of hearts.”

“I’ve heard that name. The rumours were…”

“Terrible, I remember, my Lady. I’ve sniffed around - he was missing for over a year, they spoke of his death, but then he showed up here.”

“Are you sure of it?”

“No doubt. The description fits him like a glove. I’m sorry…”

Gema frowned; what was the meaning of this? Why did he come here?

Gema observed Valeur at the dinner table. Yes, he was kind and courteous to the ladies of the court, but nothing flirtatious, nothing out of line. Just perfect. Gema was the only one whom he granted his warmest smiles from across the table. Meanwhile she noticed Ashier watching both of them with his green snake’s eyes.

Keep looking Ash! Yes, I’ve spent a beautiful afternoon with him. Something you can only dream about.

Lord Val approached Gema after dinner.

“Would you accompany me to a walk in the garden?” she asked.

“Only with your father’s permission.”

King Ulrich gladly approved their walk, with Cinnia flying behind the two.

“I know who you are. What kind of a game are you playing?” Gema asked straightforwardly.

“I see the rumours are never ending,” Val sighed, “I have changed my old ways, after a year of imprisonment. I decided to start a new life,” the sight of his sad, dark eyes dived deeply into Gema’s soul.

“Do you believe me, dearest Gema?”

The princess nodded slowly; she would believe anything Val said, when he stared at her this way. His lips were soft as moth’s wings touching her cheeks, her lips and her neck. One word, or rather no words were necessary, Gema would’ve given him anything and everything; her hand, her heart and her virtue, all at once.

“Oh no!” she backed away from Val suddenly. Gema remembered Ashier’s vicious smirk. If Val would’ve asked, she’d submit to him and that meant only one thing - she’d become bound to Ash forever. Not that! Oh, what a devious revenge!

“Forgive me, I… can’t stay away from you, Gema! I… I think I love you… would you…”

“Don’t!” Gema shrieked, “not a word!” the princess turned on her heel and ran away like a mad woman. No, no, no! He cannot pronounce the words! Not the proposal! She’ll have to refuse, she’ll break Val’s heart and lose him forever. Gema flew like a frightened bird.

“My Lady!” Cinnia chirped flapping her little wings behind her mistress.

Wham! Gema ran into Ashier full strength, knocking him off his feet. Both wound up stunned from the impact, lying on each other. Gema came to her senses, while Ash still laid unconscious; he had hit the back of his head against the floor. Oh, the vile man! She could’ve strangled him with her bare hands! As a matter of fact… Gema gestured for Cinnia to be quiet. She sat up on Ashier and slowly pulled out the dagger from its scabbard hanging on Ash’s belt. Gema held the sharp blade at his throat. One quick move may end the curse. Or maybe not. Nevertheless, it was worth a try. The dagger shook in her hand, Gema hesitated. Ashier looked different in his sleep. So calm and untouched by evil. Nearly handsome. No, Gema could not…  

“My Lady, somebody’s coming!” Cinnia whispered. Indeed, some footsteps were nearing them, it was a wonder no guard was patrolling the hallway in the first place. Gema dropped the dagger and ran away. 

She did not witness Ashier waking up from the noise of the blade clashing against the floor. 

“What are you sitting around here for?” Val nearly ran him over. It was him following Gema. 

Ashier got up.

“We need to talk,” he said. Both went along together and entered Ashier’s study. 

“How did it go?” Ash asked coldly.

“Smooth as butter,” Val smirked, “the lovely princess nearly melted in my arms. I thought you said, she’s an experienced temptress?”

“She is, but I guess there is no soul dirtier than yours,” Ash’s voice expressed deep contempt.

“Oh, says a man who put her under a deadly curse, if she doesn’t take his offer or make a whore of herself?” 

“Do not. Call. Her. A whore,” Ashier grabbed Val by the front of his shirt and grunted slowly. 

“It is what it is, cousin,” Val straightened his collar after Ash released him. 

“I did not get you here for your opinion. Should’ve left you rot in the Snakeling prison!”

“I know, I know, and I’m forever in your debt.  Have no fear, just a bit longer and the little gem would’ve said “yes” and become yours forever. Though I’m puzzled, why settle for one when you can have them all?” Val smiled lustfully. 

“I don’t expect you to understand,” Ash paced around him slowly, “I expect you to succeed. The time is running out. You must propose.”

“It wouldn’t be genuine,” Val shrugged.

“We’ve been through it already - it doesn’t have to be genuine on your part because she must submit to you and Gema will never know you lied.”

“Your craving for her is just pathetic! You’re willing to make her fall for another man to get her,” Val shook his golden-haired head, “what if she still refuses? What then, huh? Do you want the little gem to die?”

“That will not happen, because you are a proficient in your trade, aren’t you? And if you should fail, I have a one last solution… I will not let her die,” Ash ended sternly.

“A curse made in haste… Even the wise Snakelings are fools in love. But, lucky for you, cousin, I shall not fail. I could write a book on seducing even the most prudish maidens. I know every move, every sight, every word that makes them weak in the knees. Thank you for the kittens, by the way! Perfect timing. And the one that resembled her was a nice touch. I couldn’t have chosen better myself. Maybe you’ll learn something useful from me,” Val winked. 

Ashier looked at him hatefully.

“Just do your part. She is more cunning than you think.” 

Val smiled maliciously and walked to the door.

“Two more days and princess Gema will take my offer without a second thought.”

Part 2: Peaches and cream

“You nearly killed him, my Lady!” Cinnia shrieked as soon as the two ran into Gema’s chamber.

“Hush, Cin! I wish I could’ve done it…” Gema fell in bed sobbing. 

“It’s all his fault! I hate Ash! I wish he’d just die!” Gema howled.

“What am I to do, Cin? If Val proposes, and he will, I’ll have to refuse him, or else I’ll belong to that snake. Either way I cannot have Val…” Gema cried, “unless…”

“Unless?”

“Unless I tell Val the truth and he understands my ways with the 98 before him, and he agrees to become one of them, and watches me trick the 100th one…oh…” Gema fell back into bed sobbing.

“That might be too much to ask from a man,” Cinnia concluded.

“Especially when we’ve not discovered our feelings for long. Oh, no decent man would agree to such a despicable plan!”

“But in your defence, my Lady, your virtue is still intact,” Cinnia tried to console her mistress.

“My virtue, Cin, is like a bare cake with its topping nibbled off bit by bit!” Gema yelled in despair.

“But the cake is still there,” Cinnia objected.

“Oh, Cin… I don’t know what else to do. I will tell him the truth. Maybe… maybe he’ll help me. Oh, I don’t believe it myself!” Gema kept crying all through the night. She tossed and turned, but could not get any sleep. Ashier didn’t show up at the black of the night, which made Gema even more convinced his nightly visits were merely dreams inspired by her fears. 

Poor girl looked tired and powerless the next morning. Frightened, but determined, she got herself ready for the conversation with Lord Valeur. 

But before she went to find him, a servant summoned her to the King’s study.

“You wished to see me, father?” 

Ashier stood behind the King’s chair. His face remained emotionless, but his sight showed concern, observing Gema’s tired, red eyes. 

“I have received some alarming news, my dear,” King Ulrich held a letter in his hand.

“It seems the… Lord who proposed to you the other day has declared a war on Hebeny,”

“Oh, no!”

“Unless…”

“Unless I accept his next proposal?” Gema asked hopefully, maybe she could get another genuine proposal out of this situation?

“I’m afraid not, my dear. Unless you join his court, which would mean… I can’t even say it! There’s no swear word to describe his means!” King Ulrich exclaimed. 

“Unless I become his mistress,” Gema realized. 

“Therefore, I am forced to start a war with his kingdom overseas,” the King sighed.

“Oh no, father! Should I have accepted his offer?” Gema asked, but Ash cleared his throat. Of course, she would have been his wife by now, if she’d accepted Sturdy’s proposal, either way the war would still be inevitable. 

“Of course not, dear daughter. A vile man! He would’ve found another reason for a war. Have no fear! Although his fleet is good, ours is better,” King Ulrich gave her a sunny smile. 

Gema left the study even more devastated. Ashier caught up with her in the hallway.

“It’s all your fault!” Gema yelled in his face, before Ash had opened his mouth. 

“Quite the contrary - had you taken my offer, this would never happen,”

“Had you not cursed me, we wouldn’t be on a brink of a war in the first place!”

“The Sturdy Lord could’ve still proposed to you anytime,”

“No, he wouldn’t! It’s your fault!”

“It’s our fault,” Ash said, “we shall have to find a way to avoid this pointless war,”

“As if I didn’t have enough on my mind already,” Gema said sobbing and ran off. She wished to find Val as soon as possible and just get it over with. Ashier squinted his green eyes and hurried away. He found his cousin before Gema did.

“Gema is on her way to tell you the truth,”

“And?” Val asked idly. 

“And she’ll ask you to propose,  so that she could refuse you and then you’ll have to wait for her to get another one, until you’ll reconnect after the hundredth refusal,” Ash explained.

“I’m afraid I didn’t follow,” Val wasn’t even listening.

“You cannot propose in this case! She’ll know you lied, because her refusal will not count, you fool!”

“Oh… what do you suggest then?”

“Play the proud Noble man. Her request shall be vile in any case. No honorable man should agree to it. Act cold. Must I teach you?!” Ash threw his hands in the air irritated. 

“You’re the cold-blooded one here, cousin. Alright, as you wish. And then what?”

“I’ll think of something. Hush, here she comes!” Ashier turned into a snake and slithered into the shadow of the hallway. 

“Lady Gema, what a joy to see you early in the morning,” Val’s expression completely changed, he was the smoothest flirt ever seen. He held Gema’s hands and listened carefully as Gema tried to explain herself. She could clearly see shock and denial in his handsome face. Oh, no…

“Will you help me, Lord Valeur? Val?”

“I’m afraid… I… I… cannot. You’re asking me to resume my old ways - full of lies and deceit. I have left it all behind me. My old self would have challenged the vile Snakeling to a duel and murdered him for putting the terrible curse on you… but… I can’t afford to be imprisoned again. Not for my sake, oh no! For… for my dearest mother’s sake! Yes!” Val nearly gave himself out, but quickly found an excuse.

“You will not help me?”

Val held her hands again.

“I truly am in love with you, but I can’t go against my conscience. You would despise me afterward!” he exclaimed and stormed off dramatically. 

“I would never… despise you,” Gema spoke to the wall, because he ran off too quickly. She was beyond devastated. The princess felt crushed, she spent all day crying in her chamber. The King presumed his daughter was terrified of the upcoming war and did not bother her. Gema even made Cinnia leave her. The only company she tolerated were the kittens. They grey one turned out to be the most lovable of the three - the fluffy grey ball would never leave her side, and cuddled on her pillow while she wept. The other two didn’t care for her, the mischievous one even peed in her slipper. 

“Oh, you little pest!” Gema heard a familiar voice cursing in the darkness. She had dozed off after all the crying. 

“What are you doing?”

“Fighting off your little monsters! Apparently, they don’t like snakes,” Ashier’s green eyes appeared in front of her. 

“What do you want?” she asked as usual.

“I never wanted you to cry,” Gema felt him sitting down on her bed. 

“Do you think I wouldn’t cry when I’d become your slave?”

“No, you wouldn’t have to. I’d be the best husband you could wish for,” Ash said heartily. 

“Only if I am completely under your whim and fulfill your every wish!” Gema retorted. 

She saw Ash’s eyes narrowing in a smirk. 

“No matter what I’ve said, I could never be violent to you like that hideous Sturdy,” 

“I don’t believe you,”

“I understand,” Ash closed his eyes, “I’ll leave you then,” 

“No… no…” Gema grabbed his cold hand in the dark and saw the green eyes widen in true surprise, “I don’t want to be alone and I know how Cin loves to sleep…”

“I’ll stay until you fall asleep,” he smiled, “truly you are a mystery, princess,” and he kissed her on the forehead. 

In the morning, the whole castle buzzed with the rumours about the upcoming war. The King seemed quite calm, his councillor on the other hand was running back and forth, sending letters, arranging negotiations for a peace treaty. 

Gema was numbed by the heartache. She did not care for the war as much as she cared for Val’s cold attitude toward her. He ignored her the next couple of days, the poor girl cried herself to sleep every evening. She held Ash’s hand every night, still believing it to be the apparition made by her restless mind. 

After a couple of days, Gema noticed that Lord Valeur is flirting with other ladies of the court. There was no doubt about it. His warmest smiles shone for other women, not her. 

“Oh no, Cin! That was to be expected. A man like him will always be surrounded by vicious women,”

“My Lady, I thought Lord Valeur didn’t want to go back to his old ways… and it appears he has replaced you far too quickly,” Cinnia chirped cautiously. 

“No, Cin! You’re wrong. He loves me. He’s just heartbroken and wants some company to forget himself. Perfectly understandable,”

Gema could not stand the sight of Val chatting with other women at the lunch table, joking, laughing light-heartedly. Something had to be done. 

“Cin, I must get him to help me. Enough is enough! I’m not going to sit around and wait for some dimwit court girl take my man,”

“He isn’t exactly an innocent lamb, my Lady. You cannot force him to help you, or make him wait until you refuse another suitor. Speaking of - you should be thinking about another one…or two…Your time is running out,” 

“No, Cin! If there’s one thing I’ve learned through these last years - men are easy to manipulate. I’ll be the only one to manipulate Val. He’ll understand later, I’m sure,” Gema sat by her blackwood desk and dipped the quill into the ink.

“Oh, I know that look, my Lady. You’ll get yourself into even bigger trouble,” Cinnia shook her head. 

She scribbled some words on the little note, folded it and gave it to Cinnia.

“Give it to Lord Ashier,”

“Him?!” Cinnia shrieked. 

“The perfect way to ignite a man’s determination is through jealousy and rivalry. If Val sees me with another man, he’ll get back to his senses,”

“But why the snake?” Cinnia’s asked disgusted.

“Val has to believe I’m going to submit to the snake. And… no other man would want to come near me in this court, my reputation is…”

“What it is,” Cinnia smiled. 

The little blue tit bird flew to Ashier with the note in its beak. The Snakeling frowned and confirmed,

“Tell her I’ll be there,”

Gema knew Val’s chamber had a good view of the orchard. All she had to do was make him glance out the window at the right time. It would be Cinnia’s task to knock on the window with her little beak. Val should be in his chamber after dinner. 

Gema stood in the orchard waiting. She skipped dinner and came early. The sunset hour was set as the meeting time. The ripe fruits hung above her head, evaporating luscious scents of apples, plums, pears and peaches after the hot day. The summer came to its end, but the heat still lingered. Gema was anxious, not every day you invite your worst enemy to play games of jealousy with him, for your beloved to see…

The game might backfire, Val could turn his back on her completely. Nevertheless, she had to try. 

“Why did you invite me?” Ash appeared from nowhere. The black snake had slithered through the grass unnoticed. 

“Can’t you guess why?” Gema smiled at him unambiguously. Ash frowned and smirked in disbelief.

“Are you… willing to accept my offer?” he asked cautiously. 

“My time is running out. I don’t want to die,” she came close and brushed a little grass stem from his hair, “but first I have to make sure I’ve chosen the right path,” Gema gave him the most flirtatious smile. 

“Oh? And how… “

Without letting him finish, Gema pressed her lips on his and displayed her kissing skills in full. 

Now, Cin! She though, because the little birdie sat on the windowsill of Val’s chamber to knock at exactly the right moment.

Ash was caught off guard. The Snakeling did not expect the kiss. Gema threw her hands around his neck, Ash pulled her close. The kiss was pure fire, it ignited the cold-blooded Snakeling’s senses. Gema lost track of time, she lingered kissing and pushed Ashier against a tree trunk.

“Oh, look who’s awake,” she whispered.

“Gema, I’m a Snakeling, my reputation…” her tormentor begged desperately looking around, still kissing. A couple of ladies from the court were passing by. Ash gathered all his will and pulled both of them behind a tree trunk. 

Not good, now we can’t be seen from the window.

But Gema grew to like this game - her executioner was driven into a corner, oh his reputation is at stake? Ha! Enjoy, snake! Isn’t this what you wanted?

She would not let go of Ash, and it appeared neither would he, despite his nervous murmuring about the Snakeling’s reputation. Both kissed heatedly, caressing each other’s body hard.

“Not bad… not bad at all, Lord Ashier,” Gema said through kisses.

“Why must you torture me, Gema?” he finally ripped the princess from his face.

“You created a monster. Now you’ll get to know her closer,” and with a violent kiss she pushed the tall man against the tree once more. 

“Are you accepting my old offer of marriage?” he asked in a hoarse voice, after quite a while, when both were out of breath. 

“Let me think,” Gema gave him a naughty smirk, “Oh, look, it’s getting dark. Pleasant dreams, Lord Ashier!” She swung her long chestnut-brown hair and paced away with her hips swaying and a victorious smile rising on her lips. She gave him one last look over her shoulder. Ash sat down leaning his back against a tree trunk, aroused and confused, his cheeks burning and his eyes shining in the dark.  This game Gema had won.

“Did he see it?” Gema asked as soon as the little blue tit flew toward her near the castle entrance.

“No, my Lady! He wasn’t there. I knocked and I knocked and I looked, but I couldn’t see him. I stayed there knocking in hope Lord Valeur is coming soon, or maybe refreshing in the bath chamber, but there was no sign of him. Besides, you two disappeared behind the trees. Oh, my poor Lady! What torture you had to endure!” Cinnia whimpered. Gema kept quiet avoiding Cinnia’s sight. 

“My Lady?”

“I wouldn’t call it torture. At least not on my part,”

“My Lady!” Cinnia exclaimed shocked.

“Well, he was decent for a man who has never kissed before, and his breath was excellent. Peppermint and honey, just the way I like it. And he touched all the right spots and his…”

“What?”

“Let’s just say, the cold little snake I pondered about, is not cold, nor little,” Gema gave a guilty smile. Cinnia covered her face.

“Are you submitting to that villain after all that we’ve gone through, my Lady?” she chirped.

“No, of course not! But now I know the perfect way to torture him. Oh, he fears for his reputation? He should be afraid now!” Gema laughed melodiously. 

After all that kissing in the fresh evening air Gema fell asleep easily. She saw beautiful fruits in her dream - heart shaped peaches, juicy apples and giant plums hanging just within her arm’s reach. Ash stood underneath them biting into a rosy peach and smiling at her. 

She woke to find the dream wasn’t far from reality - Ash’s green eyes shone above her. He had already climbed into bed staring at her standing on all four.

“I can’t sleep,” he grunted.

“Am I to blame? Or is it your damaged reputation?” Gema asked innocently. 

“Stop playing games with me!”

“Why? It’s quite entertaining. Let’s play a new game - what will happen if my father finds out about your nightly visits? Shall we?”

“You are…” he began spitefully, but Gema pulled him close and kissed with all her might. She felt Ash’s whole body tremble. 

“You are… a disease… I can’t… eat or sleep… I need a remedy… Ash mumbled kissing her. 

“A remedy, huh?” she released him, Ash raised his body back up, and Gema kicked his crotch with her knee full strength. The poor man moaned and fell off the bed.

“Better?” she asked.

“Oh yes, I think I’m cured,” Ash whined lying on the floor. He turned into a black grass- snake and slithered away awkwardly, still suffering from the pain. Gema laughed out loud, she hugged a pillow and soon enough fell asleep.

Gema woke up from the grey kitten licking her nose. Oh, stop it little Ash! You’re just like your daddy! She smiled.

Cinnia brought her breakfast and grim news - the Sturdy’s fleet was nearing the North shores of Hebeny. King Ulrich had left early, he wished to be near his fleet and oversee the battle. 

“Your Father didn’t wish to wake you,”

“I don’t like this, Cin. I must go to him. Father thinks he’ll get through easily, but I fear the worst,” 

“You have your own life to worry about, my Lady. How about we find us a nice fool to trick?” Cinnia suggested. 

Gema remembered Val’s deep eyes and her heart melted. She must find a way to convince him!

“Will we use jealousy? It clearly didn’t work, my Lady,”

“I… I think we might try again with the jealousy. Besides, tormenting Ash brings me great joy. Revenge is the sweetest dessert, Cin. This one is truly peaches and cream!” Gema said victoriously. 

Cinnia rolled her eyes, but did not object. 

At lunch Gema did notice Val flirting with other women, but she was occupied with her own mischief. The princess tried to catch Ash’s eyes whenever she could. No trouble at all if he keeps staring at me, she thought. Gema gave him dirty little hints at every chance, wether giving her spoon a lengthy lick, or eating a peach very, very slowly. She caught Ash staring with his mouth ajar more than once. Her next move was to invite him to the orchard again. 

“Tell your mistress I’m not coming,” Ash replied without even looking at the birdie, “tonight I’m busy with the paperwork and tomorrow I’m leaving for the North coast where the King has summoned me,”

“Playing the cold snake game, isn’t he?” Gema said after hearing of his refusal. 

“I have to lure him out of the study for Val to see us,” Gema sat thinking. 

“Oh, my dear Lady! You should be thinking about a new suitor. Clearly these two are a waste of your precious time,” Cinnia tried to persuade her. 

“You’re right! But I’ll do it tomorrow, when we’re leaving to the North coast,”

“Are we?”

“Yes! I’ll accompany Ash, but he doesn’t know it yet. I’ll tell him myself. Oh, and Val is coming too,”

“Does Lord Valeur know about it?”

“Not yet, Cin! But he’ll find out soon enough,” Gema once again sat by her desk. She wrote a new note. 

“Take this to Lord Valeur. I’ll be waiting for him in my father’s study,”

“But that’s where Lord Ashier usually works,” Cinnia blinked.

“Exactly,” Gema smiled at her own inventiveness. 

“Come in, put it on the other scrolls, Cedric. I’m not going to sleep anytime soon. So, I might as well keep myself occupied with another pile of rubbish to skim through,” Lord Ashier said casually, not raising his eyes to the one who entered the King’s study. Ash sat by the King’s large blackwood desk, immersed in scribbling his signature on scrolls and documents,”

“Now why wouldn’t you want to sleep tonight?” Gema asked slowly pacing to him.

“Oh…” Ash’ s eyes grew twice as wide at the sight of her, “princess Gema, what brings you here in this late hour?” he regained his posture and attempted to sound serious. 

“I came to inform you that I’m coming with you to the North coast tomorrow,” Gema stood by his chair; the Snakeling didn’t dare to move. He cleared his throat.

“Your Father did not tell me anything about it. Is there a reason you’re coming?”

“I want to be sure my Father is safe and…” she cupped Ash’s face. She could clearly see - Ash melted like butter in her warm hands, completely under her whim. 

“And I think we might get to know each other closer tomorrow,” Gema caressed his face, Ash sat with his eyes closed, weakened by her touch. 

“Or maybe we could start right now,” she crawled into his lap, facing Ash. Yet again, the poor man was lost for words.

“Gema, I must beg you… Cedric can walk in any minute… or someone else…” Ash stuttered.

“Whoever comes, let us not disappoint him,” Gema kissed Ashier, he could not resist. 

“Must you…?” he cried both tortured and overwhelmed as Gema placed his cold, shaking hands on her breasts.

“They don’t bite, silly,” 

He gave a muffled moan as they kissed and caressed, and Gema wouldn’t let him rest not for a minute, when somebody knocked on the door.

“You summoned me my Lady? Are you there?” Val spoke behind the door.

“Come in,” Gema exclaimed. What Val saw was princess Gema awkwardly sitting on the chair alone and confused, what he didn’t see was a black snake slithering down from the chair and under the table.

“Are you alright, princess?”

“Yes, thank you,” Gema faced Val and sat properly. 

“I summoned you because I and Lord Ashier would be leaving to the North coast to see the King. I’d wish you to accompany me, along with some others from the court. Since your visiting time in our court is short, I think it might be beneficial for you to get acquainted with our fleet,” she spoke in a casual tone.

“Of course, as you wish, my Lady,” Val was charming as always, kissing her hand and smiling. 

The minute he left, Gema got up and snorted furiously; another chance to make Val jealous was wasted. 

“Come out, come out wherever you are! No matter, we’ll have a lovely ride to the seaside tomorrow, I’m sure,” Gema shrugged and left the study with her little heels clicking, because Ash would not come out of his hideaway. 

She didn’t have to wait until the next day to meet him. Gema dreamed she was stranded on a small island in a great blue lake. There was a shack made of sticks, reeds, clay and mud. She laid in the dark shack and saw Ashier approaching in the light of the dying embers. His naked body leaned above her and his long, black hair touched her nude shoulders. Yet again Gema opened her eyes to discover - Ash’s hair indeed was touching her shoulders. Though he was not naked, still his shirt was unbuttoned.

“Sleepless night?” Gema teased him. She reached out to touch his nude chest and belly. The Snakeling was cold, but well-built indeed. 

“I have underestimated your temptress’ skills greatly, Gema, but I must beg you to stop tormenting me,”

“Oh, I’m just giving you a taste of your own medicine, Lord Ashier,” she kept touching his torso, “and you’ll love it, I promise,”

If Ash wanted to object, he could not, because his lips were occupied returning Gema’s kisses. 

“And to think I was afraid of you these three years. When now I see you’re afraid of me,” she exclaimed releasing him.

“I’m not afraid of you,” Ash declared with his voice trembling. 

“Oh, really?” Gema did not hesitate to touch the front of his pants to unbutton it. Ash pulled back in an instant, but Gema wouldn’t have it; she jumped at him, both tumbled out of the bed. Ash hit the floor heavily with Gema on him.

“I’ll feel that tomorrow,” he moaned. 

“What were you saying? Oh, yes! I remember - you’re not afraid of me,” Gema pondered sitting on him. 

“I’m not,” Ash confirmed.

“I remember once you said you’ll taste every bit of my corrupted skin? Why not start now? I’m as good as yours, remember?”

“Not until the wedding!” The poor Snakeling exclaimed.

“Oh, I know you’re just shy because, you, Snakelings lack experience, but lucky for you - I don’t mind sharing with mine,”

Gema leaned lower and began to kiss his naked chest from neck down.

“You wouldn’t dare!” he attempted to push her away, but Gema’s nearness made him weak. 

“Try me!”

Ash moaned.

“You can leave anytime, little snake, but I know you don’t want to,” she kept kissing him. 

“Isn’t revenge wonderful? Tomorrow every rat in the castle will now that the pure Snakeling has betrayed the virtue of his people,” Gema rejoiced. 

“No!” Finally Ash got to his senses, turned into a snake, and slithered into the dark.

“Oh, you’re such a killjoy, Ash. I’m right here. Come and claim me!” Gema’s melodious voice sang while she laid on the floor. Yet again she laughed - why didn’t she try this sooner? She had discovered the Snakeling’s weakness!

Part 3: Lost at sea

Gema told Cinnia all about Ash’s visit.

“And we thought him to be a cold and ruthless snake!” Cinnia exclaimed.

“That he still is, but there’s more to him. Ash wants everybody to deem him truly virtuous, when behind closed doors he is not. Well, at least not entirely. And he fears greatly for the truth to be discovered,”

“It’s odd, my Lady. He comes to your chamber at night, half-naked, climbs into your bed and begs you not to touch him,”

Gema laughed heartily.

“Indeed, Cin, it sounds ridiculous, doesn’t it? But I do understand. He wants me desperately, but he fears to break the rules of his people and to lose my father’s trust,” Gema shrugged, “sadly, this knowledge can serve solely for my entertainment, because he cannot call off the curse,”

“Speaking of, my Lady, what about a new suitor?”

“I’ll find some half-wit Lord or a Noble general by the sea, but I’ll try to convince Val along the way,”

“Oh, I think you take too much upon yourself, my Lady!” Cinnia chirped. 

“I haven’t got much time, Cin, so I’ll try to make the most of it. And tormenting Ash all the way to the end shall be my greatest pleasure,” Gema winked.

“What in the bloody horsedung do you think you’re doing?!” Ash exclaimed at the sight of his cousin, lying in bed with a maid. The girl ran off swiftly. 

“I was bored, since our plan is done. After a whole year of imprisonment, I am in desperate need of some entertainment. A man has his needs, you know,”

“A man knows how to keep his cool,”

“No! That would be a snake. Besides, the little maid was more than pleased, trust me,”

Ashier rolled his eyes furiously.

“The plan is not done yet. It’s quite the opposite - you must put double effort to be sure she accepts your offer,”

“But I thought…”

“You’ll only have one chance. Charm her, tease her, do whatever it takes, but she has to say “yes” to your proposal,” Ashier paced around Val’s chamber frantically. 

“Whatever it takes?” Val raised his eyebrows.

“Yes… no… “ Ash mumbled pacing.

“You seem confused, cousin. I understand - you want to be the first one to taste the cake, but if you have to choose wether to have just one piece or nothing at all…”

“The cake? Alright, do whatever it takes without taking her virtue,”

“Of course, she would lose all sense if she had the taste of what I can offer, but… I shall not disappoint,”

The two stately men along with some others were waiting in the courtyard for Gema to join them on their ride to the North coast. The roads in Hebeny were straight and well-made, paved with cobble stone and kept tidy. The road would take up three days, the Noble travellers were to stay in decent inns and other Nobles’ castles. 

Gema came to them wearing a lovely sapphire-blue travelling dress and a matching cloak. She was a good horse-rider; another skill she had to obtain to please her suitors. Usually, they were amazed seeing her graceful figure riding on horseback.

“Gentlemen, shall we ride?” Gema got on her horse with ease.

“Yes, my Lady,” both Ash and Val replied in a chorus and looked at each other hatefully. Gema smirked and rushed her horse onward. 

Gema and Val rode side by side most of the time, Ash kept behind. The two laughed and joked all the way, and for them the day passed like one moment. Poor Ashier could hardly sit on his horse - the back ache was killing him, and those two humming like doves…

“I must apologize for my coldness toward you. I do not want to take part in your scheme, dear Gema, but I cannot stay away from you either. Will you help me?” Val sat close by the princess at lunch and smiled innocently, looking into her eyes. 

“However can I help you, Val?”

He took her hand.

“Grant me your precious company, it’s all I yearn for,”

Gema lingered to answer, playing with a peach before her on the tavern’s table and smiling.

“Of course, dear Val. How can I refuse such an honest request?” 

But with the corner of her eye, Gema noticed Ash staring at the two of them and drinking his wine. Look all you want, Ash! Val will be the one whom I’ll grant my virtue after the curse is broken. Or maybe even sooner, who knows?

 Indeed, Gema still hoped to persuade Lord Val to take part in her plan, and she was determined to succeed. 

The day was as sunny and pleasant as an August day may be. The whole column rode through an orchard, the lovely scent of ripe fruits ignited Gema’s recent memories of standing under the peach tree with Ash… She glanced back at him, riding behind her and Val. Lord Ashier returned her gaze and took a quick look at the peaches, then back at her. A spark of mutual understanding ignited between them. She would love to torture him some more tonight and he’d gladly turn up at her chamber to endure the torture. 

“…would you not agree, dear Gema?” Val spoke to her, but she wasn’t listening. 

“What beautiful daydream has captured your mind, Gema? I hope it’s about me?” Val smiled at her.

“Forgive me,” Gema coloured up, and mused about it - how could she still blush?! Meddling with Ash was the forbidden fruit, a dark little secret that Val wouldn’t understand. Therefore, he didn’t have to know. 

Other than peaches, nothing peculiar occurred on that afternoon. Gema and Val indulged themselves in light-hearted flirting, whilst Ash was his old indifferent snake-self. 

They had to spend the night in a local Noble man’s castle and the grey Lord granted them lovely chambers with a garden view. Gema parted from Val, wished him good night and locked herself in the chamber, waiting for Ash impatiently. He usually showed up in the depth of the night… to her great surprise, Gema heard a knock on the window. Could it be Cinnia?  To Gema’s great surprise it was Val! He had climbed up the vines growing all around the castle, and sat casually on the windowsill.

“Val! What brings you here?” Gema adjusted to his leisurely tone.

“Oh, I wasn’t in the mood for sleeping on such a lovely night, and wondered would you accompany me to the local dance?”

“I don’t know… the day was long, but… why not?!” she couldn’t refuse Val’s warm smile.

“If you don’t mind sharing your wine and ale with low-born and me?”

“I don’t mind the low-born, but I don’t wish to share with you,” Gema laughed, “how shall we sneak out?”

Val offered to hold on to his masculine body, while he climbed down the same way he got up. It was truly pleasant - Gema enjoyed holding on to him, feeling all his muscles tensing; he indeed was very strong. The climb was not too high and both ran into the town holding hands. 

The peasants were kind-hearted and the two were not the only Nobles among them - the locals greeted Gema and Val with great hospitality. Val pulled the princess into the dancing crowd, both skipped and danced to the lively folk music, they drank the wine and laughed and laughed… until, exhausted,both ran into the surrounding forest. The dusk crept beneath the magnificent black oaks, the cool fog soothed their sweaty bodies. The forest was quiet and mysterious before nightfall.

“We mustn’t stay long. They say the Northern forests are crawling with dangerous creatures after sunset,” Gema said playfully, leaning against a blackwood tree.

“Your beauty could tame the fiercest beasts, Gema,” he came closer. 

Val touched Gema’s face, both pleasured themselves with kissing for a long while. He knew all the write moves, he pressed the princess gently against the tree trunk - not too hard, just enough to make her feel the promise of pleasure he could offer. Gema replied with her excellent kissing skills. Both were in the same trade, but Gema did not ponder about it much - who was she to judge Val? She was no better! 

The night was warm and the moss - soft as a pillow beneath their feet. Val slowly unbuttoned Gema’s dress one button at a time. Every button she allowed to undo, was an invitation to go further. His hands caressed her nude back. Although immersed in the moment, Gema didn’t lose her head - was Val worth it to waste her last weapon on him? Maybe she could get something useful out of it… 

“I must ask, Gema, may I lay you down? I do not wish to corrupt you, but my love shall rip me apart if I don’t have you tonight…” Though she felt the same, Gema  was about to suggest he must agree to her plan before they go any further.

“What was that sound?” she asked instead. A growling noise grew behind Val’s back, but the fool would not listen.

“Oh, it must be my soul aching for you,”

“No, Val! Listen…”

A large beast ran to them from the nearby bush, it threw the two aside with great strength. Gema shrieked, the beast was nearing them growling, with its eyes glowing red. Val laid half-conscious after hitting his head on a tree trunk.

“Val, wake up! Wake up!” Gema shook him. The beast made its savage leap to them, Gema pulled the dagger out of Val’s scabbard and the monster jumped right on to the blade held by Gema’s steady hand. It fell on them dead, Gema pushed the smelly monster aside. 

Val came to his senses.

“You saved me! Why would you save me?” he asked frantically touching the bleeding back of his head. 

“I think it was a Northern wolverine. I’ve heard those giants still thrive in the Northern forests,” Gema tried to calm down her breathing, “come, we should get out of here, before any more show up,” 

She supported Val and the two of them stumbled out of the forest and to the castle. 

“You are the bravest woman I’ve ever met,” Val said with genuine admiration. Their host took care of Val’s injury and bid him to stay in bed the next day. Gema wished Val good night again.

“Thank you, Gema. You are truly special,” Val had tears in his eyes as the two parted. 

“Try to get some rest, I’ll keep you company tomorrow,” she promised. 

The princess returned to her chamber. It was the hour before dawn and all she wished for was to lay down and…

Ashier was fast asleep in her bed. He had obviously been waiting for her and fell asleep whilst doing so. 

As much as she desired to give him her special torture, Gema stopped herself - Ash looked so peaceful, his face handsome and his chest rising and falling like the calm waves of the sea. She smiled and brushed a strand of hair from his face, then carefully snugged under his arm. 

When Gema woke, he wasn’t there anymore, but somebody had covered her with a blanket. 

“My Lady!” Cinnia rushed into her chamber with a loud cry, “the rumours I heard! They say Lord Valeur tried to take your virtue, but you’ve beaten him up!”

Gema laughed heartily. 

“But why did the castle guards see your dress undone?” Cinnia asked after Gema told her about the wolverine. 

“Val can be extremely charming and I nearly…”

“Did you? Oh, he indeed is the handsomest man ever seen and so courteous,”

“The giant wolverine stopped us,” Gema shrugged.

Val was examined by the town’s physician and he strongly suggested him to spend the day lying in bed. The whole company decided to wait till his recovery. 

Gema indeed kept him company all day. They talked, she read out loud to him, and when there were no maids around, they kissed. Val appeared somewhat different toward her. Something about the way he looked at her had changed.

“Gema, I must confess; I always thought all women were the same. All they saw was my handsome face and all they yearned for was my body, but you… you are unlike any of them. You confessed such an unpleasant truth to me. You saved my life. Now you’re taking care of me, though I can give you nothing in return,” yet again tears shone in Val’s eyes. Gema smiled and caressed his face. 

“And your beauty can only be surpassed by your kindness and honesty….”

“Hush! Save your strength, you must rest now,” Gema did not wish him to continue, because honest she was not. The truth struck her mind with the cruelty of a blade - she was meddling with two men at once, but this time it could not be excused by ending the curse… although she could object that teasing Ash was just a guilty pleasure, but it did not make her deed more honorable. 

Gema left Val with a sweet kiss good night and went to her chamber. She waited for Ash long into the night, but he didn’t show up. 

She was awakened by the touch of Ash’s cool lips on her forehead. He did come, but now he was leaving.

“Wait, why didn’t you wake me?”

“You slept so peacefully, Gema,”

She grabbed Ash by the hand.

“Stay, please!”

“It’ll be dawn soon. I heard you have given your heart to Lord Val,”

“Lies!” she exclaimed and before he had time to object, she climbed into his lap. 

“Oh, how I longed for you all day…” Ash confessed as they kissed. Gema pushed him into bed and began to unbutton his shirt, kissing each spot of skin that every next button revealed. 

“Oh, Gema one word from you… can’t you see I’m bound to you without any curse? I’ll be your slave, your husband… anything you want…”

They tumbled in bed kissing with an unquenchable thirst, 

“And your reputation?” Gema asked just before unbuttoning his pants.

“I am under your power, do as you wish. Losing my reputation would mean nothing, if I could have you,” he sealed the words with a kiss. Gema lost her usual cool completely - this would be their hour, the hour to share their virtues, both taking and giving, and it was bound to end with finally accepting Ash’s offer of marriage…

“Good morning, my Lady! It’s time for breakfast. Oh…” Cinnia barged into the chamber with the first rays of the sun. 

Ash was up and out of the bed in an instant. 

“Excuse me,” he bowed holding his pants up, turned into a snake and slithered through the gap under the door. 

“My Lady!” Cinnia yelled in shock.

“Perfect timing, Cin,” Gema tried to calm her rapid breath, smiling idly, “I nearly gave him the cake,”

“Oh, no! Not him, my Lady! Why?”

“I got carried away… I don’t know why,”

“You cannot love him, my Lady! Not after all he’s put you through,” Cinnia objected. 

Gema slowly came back to her senses.

“You’re right. I just enjoy my power over him. I’ll never love him. Val is the one for me. We have so much in common,”

“A good choice, my Lady. Lord Valeur surely is more suitable for you,”

They did not see the black snake lingering by the door listening, then it slithered away with a sorrowful hiss. 

After breakfast, Gema put on her very best gown and marched out of her chamber to greet Val, but her feet took her straight to Ash’s chamber. She went without the slightest thought of what to say, but she didn’t stop until she knocked on Ash’s door. 

“Lord Ashier left to the North coast at sunrise,” the servant replied to Gema’s queries. 

“Are you looking for me?” Val’s sunny smile greeted her in the hallway.

“Oh… yes, of course. You’re out of bed?”

“Yes, and ready to resume our journey,”

Yet another day both rode onward. The day was cloudy, but warm. 

Val showered Gema with compliments even more than before, and she discovered a new expression in his eyes. An admiration of new kind. 

The more time they spent together, the more drawn to him Gema felt. Indeed, they both had gone the same path, made the same mistakes and wished to start a new, better life. In the evening when Val walked Gema to her chamber, they talked quietly.

“My dearest wish would be to enter your chamber, but I will not ask you. I’ve made more mistakes than you could imagine, and though this would be the sweetest one, I shall not do it,”

“Why not?” Gema gave him a flirtatious smile.

“Gema, I love you,” his wide, dark eyes expressed nothing but honesty. Gema felt nearly frightened by the deep stare, “you are the best woman I’ve met. The more time we spent together, the more I’m convinced of it. This time I wish to make all the right choices. Therefore, I will…” but Val didn’t get the chance to finish his offer, before Cinnia flew to them, turned into a woman and stumbled forward, shouting. 

“My Lady! Terrible news! The North coast is under attack! Sturdy’s fleet broke our defence - he indeed has a large fleet. Your father was forced to retreat,”

“Is he safe? What of Lord Ash?”

“Your father is safe, about Lord Ashier I don’t know,”

Gema grabbed her chest - a sudden pain stung her heart. What if Ash has suffered the attack?

“Your kindness is beyond imaginable - to feel for that despicable snake who cursed you,” said Val, but Gema didn’t listen.

“A horse! I need a horse! Where’s my horse?!” she yelled and paced around the hallway of the inn nervously. 

“My Lady, you cannot travel in the night,” Cinnia objected. 

“I shall come with you. I’ll follow you wherever you may go, Gema,” Val stated. 

She gave a nod and both prepared to leave. 

The two rode through the night, accompanied by some bodyguards and reached the North coast at dawn. Smoke rose in the air. Sturdy’s fleet had defeated the Hebenians on the sea and broke onto the dry land. Both sides had agreed to a truce.

Gema, tired as never before, ran into the tent for the wounded - King Ulrich sat with his bleeding head bandaged. 

“Gema, dear! It appears your suitor does not take “no” for an answer!” he exclaimed. King Ulrich had not lost his sunny nature, despite the harsh circumstances. Gema embraced him tight.

“Dear father,” She sobbed in his arms. 

“Do not weep, dear child! Lord Ash came just in time to save both me and our dignity - indeed the wisdom of the snake is irreplaceable,”

“Lord Ash? Where is he?” Gema sprung up from her father’s embrace looking around frantically. 

She saw him sitting half naked, while a physician bandaged a nasty wound on his stomach. 

She ran to him forgetting her father and Lord Val, forgetting herself and both of their reputations. 

Gema nearly threw herself at Ash, but stopped and stood blinking foolishly. 

“Lord Ashier, I’m happy to see you’re alive,” Gema stuttered. 

“Are you?” he smiled with his snake’s eyes shining. Gema laughed heartily. 

“Only you could give me such a despicable answer, yet make my heart rejoice to hear it,” she exclaimed, kneeled before him and took his cold hand. All eyes, including his, stared at the princess’ gesture bewildered. 

“I could not bear to lose you,” she whispered to the frowning Ash. 

“Indeed, we would all be lost without the Snakeling’s wisdom,” Val marched to her and helped Gema up.

“Dear princess is beyond exhausted after riding all night,”

“My dear girl, you may rest in the village, it is well guarded,” King Ulrich suggested.

Val led her out of the tent, while Gema kept glancing back at Ash. 

“That villain has more power over you than you dare to admit, my Lady,” said Val as soon as they left the tent, “he is a cunning and a despicable creature, do not give into his games,”

“Let me be the judge of that!” Gema retorted to her own surprise. She did not speak to Val anymore and slammed the door of the inn’s chamber before Val’s nose. 

“What shall you do, my Lady? Your time is running out,” Cinnia reminded, while Gema took a bath after the tiresome ride. The days had passed and her Birthday was nearing. 

“Oh, Cin, I cannot bear to think about a new suitor. I am tired and…”

Cinnia shrieked as a tall man’s figure appeared in the steamy bathing chamber. Ash had yet again slithered into the chamber unseen.

“This is unimaginable! Shall I call the guards, my Lady?!”

“Leave us, Cinnia!”

“But my Lady!”

“Out, Cin!”

Cinnia turned on her heel angrily and marched out of the chamber. 

Gema clearly saw - Ash wished to look away from her nudity, but could not. He stepped closer slowly and kneeled by the bath tub. 

“One word from you, and I’ll leave,”

“I don’t feel ashamed for you to see me naked,” she smiled, “that does not speak well of my virtue, does it?”

“You are beauty itself,” said Ash heartily.

She reached out and caressed Ash’s face with her wet hands. Then Gema leaned over the side of the tub, and took his cold hands. 

“I wish you to touch me, Ash. Not for the thrill of the torture. My heart ached when I thought you were in mortal danger,”

Ash closed his eyes and slid his hands into the hot water, gliding down over Gema’s wet skin, embracing her nude body. 

“I’ve made my decision,” she whispered tilting her body toward him for a kiss, “I shall give you my virtue and with it my…”

The door slammed open, with Cinnia yelling,

“Release her, you, despicable snake-lord! My Lady shall not become a slave, no matter what witchcraft you have placed her under! Leave this chamber and face the man truly worthy of her!”

“Come out, Lord Ashier! You shall not corrupt a helpless maiden!” Val shouted standing by the bathing chamber. 

Ash had no choice but to get up and face his cousin, while Gema stared at him leaving. 

“Clothes, Cin! Ooh, you’ll pay for this, treacherous creature!” she yelled.

“What do you want, Val? You can stop the act,” Ash said annoyed.

Unexpectedly, Val dragged him out of the inn.

“A little birdie told me you were after Gema behind my back. Why waste my time when you’ re trying to seduce her yourself? What game are you playing?” 

“Whatever it is, you may leave now, she is as good as mine,”

“Oh no, if you drag me all the way to Hebeny and make me work for nothing, I deserve an explanation. Besides, I can assure you - she is as good as mine, cousin,”

“Cousin?” Gema shrieked, following them, but the two men did not answer circling each other like two beasts. 

“Back off, Ash! She is mine!” Val pulled out his sword. Luckily Ash had his Snakeling sword with him. Two blades clashed in the fight.

“Don’t be ridiculous, Val! A pervert like you is unable to love. Or are you?” Ashier smirked at him.

“Says a man who put a deadly curse upon her because of his hurt pride! You turned her into a slut!”

“What?!” Gema yelled. 

“I pulled you out of the Snakeling prison, where you would sit until you rot, because you corrupted innocent Snakeling girls of barely sixteen! You turned them into sluts!” Ash shouted back. It appeared he was getting the upper hand in the battle. 

“Gema, he brought me here to trick you!” Val turned to her, still fighting off his cousin. 

“And he gladly agreed, Gema! He would sleep with every woman who submits! He slept with maids whilst courting you!” Ash’s sword swung ruthlessly. 

“Both of you are despicable! I hate you!”

“No Gema, you must believe…Ahhh!” Ash’s sword cut deeply into Val’s shoulder. He sat down. Ash stopped his attacks.

“He’s hurt!” Gema kneeled by Val and held his head in her lap. 

“It’s just a scratch! I could’ve cut his throat if I wanted,” Ash objected. Indeed, he noticed Val winking at him secretly. 

“Gema I truly love you, and I shall prove it right now,” Val said, looking into her eyes, “Gema, will you marry me?”

“No!”

Ding! A tiny silver bell rang out of nowhere. 

“You truly love her?” Ash exclaimed.

“And I shall save you from the deadly curse. What stops me from asking again?” Gema’s face lit up - maybe this would be the chance to regain her freedom?!

A terrible noise of explosion shattered her hope; the enemy had broken the truce without a warning. Sturdy’s ships fired cannon balls at Hebeny’s villages. 

“Run, Gema, retreat with the villagers! Val take her to safety, ride south!” Ash shouted. The “badly injured” Val got up with ease, grabbed Gema by the hand and ran to the stables for their horses. 

They rode away with haste, but a group of Sturdy’s soldiers had broken the Hebenian defence. 

“Ride onward, Gema! Take cover in the next village! I shall fight them off!” Val shouted and turned back to face the enemies following them.

“Get the princess! We only need her!” the enemies shouted, whilst Gema’s horse galloped away. 

***

Gema paced around the inn’s chamber crying tears of fear. It had been two weeks of waiting impatiently for the news of a new truce, but Sturdy would not have it. The Hebenians held their positions, but they couldn’t hold back the Sturdy’s large army. Gema’s eldest brother, the Heir of Hebeny had joined his father along with reinforcements. More soldiers were summoned toward the coast, but until they arrived, the King’s men had to hold back the enemy. 

She jumped up startled when Cinnia flew into the room and turned into a woman.

“Oh dear, oh dear!” Cinnia whimpered.

“What?!”

“My Lady, it’s terrible news. Your brother has fallen, yourfather is badly injured. Lord Val has been taken into captivity. But that’s not the worst of it…”

“What could be worse, Cin?!” Gema cried. 

“That despicable Sturdy demands you as a ransom for their lives and freedom. You - as his… mistress,” Cinnia gasped. 

Gema stood thinking in silence for a long while. She looked out of the window, to the orchard growing behind the inn. Ripe heart-shaped peaches graced the branches with their velvet-smooth surface caressed by the soft light of the afternoon sun. Dark clouds rolled across the sky from the North; the first Autumn storm was coming.

“Cinnia, I need a red dress,” Gema said sternly and wiped off the tears.

Everybody gave way to the wondrous apparition, every soldier stared at it with his mouth ajar, and did not dare to stand it the way of the one riding into the enemy’s camp. 

Gema, princess of Hebeny sat on a white horse, wearing the most obnoxious red dress. She got it from the local brothel. It showed as much cleavage as it could. The dress was trimmed with black lace and tiny rubies. Gema’s lips were red and her cheeks rosy. Her luscious chestnut-brown locks swayed as she rode slowly. The princess arrived with the thunder rumbling above her head, unguarded and unarmed, except for the dagger in the scabbard hung on her belt. It indeed was a stunning sight. No little birdie sat on her shoulder for advice, she made Cinnia stay at the inn.

“I wish to speak to Lord Sturdy, I mean, your Lord,” Gema stated. 

When the round-faced bearded man came out of his tent, his face lit up with a lustful grin.

“Finally! My prize has arrived!” he exclaimed coming nearer. 

“I have a proposition. I’ll submit to you for as long as you shall live, if you’ll release the captives and leave the shores of Hebeny,”

The despicable man laughed in return.

“I can take you and Hebeny,”

“Oh really?” Gema pulled the dagger out and pointed it at her own chest, “I will find a way to end my life anytime, and you would be left without all the pleasure I could give you. And trust me - it’s unlike anything you’ve ever experienced,” she spoke like a true temptress, leaning down for the Sturdy to see her cleavage better. The Lord shook with desire, he licked his lips nervously. 

“Alright, alright! Release the captives! Retreat! We leave to the ships at once!”

Poor Val was dragged out of the tent badly beaten.

“No Gema don’t! Run, save yourself!” Val shouted. 

King Ulrich was brought out along with his deceased heir. The King’s last hour had come. 

“I must beg the merciful Lord and my ruler - let me say farewell to my father,” Gema begged.

“Get on with it and we move!” Sturdy retorted.

Gema kneeled by the one’s laid on the ground. She broke down in tears, caressing her eldest brother’s face, then turned to her father. King Ulrich shook in a fever. Blood, sweat and dirt covered his face. 

“My dear father,” Gema looked into his blue eyes. They were the same as hers.

“Do not cry… my dearest Gema… Geminaris… you were named after your sister’s death… now I’ll join her, the little Pearl, and your brother and your mother, my lovely Oriole… I see her…” the King’s eyes widened with a sunny smile, “I’m coming, Oriole, my love,” and the sunlight faded in his eyes. Gema cried her heart out, but Sturdy was not willing to wait any further, he pulled her up and dragged the princess to his horse. 

“What of Lord Ashier? Where is he?” Gema yelled.

“The snake disappeared in the battle. He left the King unguarded,” Val answered her. “Gema, I would give my life for you!” Val’s heart-breaking cry followed her.

“I have nothing to lose, Val! It’s my Birthday tomorrow. My suffering shall end at midnight!” she shouted back at him, as Sturdy put her on his horse and sat close, all the while groping her. Sturdy’s soldiers retreated, and roved their boats back to the ships. 

The storm raged above the sea. Soldiers rowed their boats, the furious waves nearly swallowed the wooden vessels. Gema wholeheartedly wished to drown herself, but Sturdy held her in a painfully tight grip. It took them a long while until they stepped aboard the ship. The despicable man didn’t waste any time; he was impatient to claim his prize. Sturdy dragged Gema into his cabin.

“Take the pretty dress off, lass!” He stood watching her. Gema tried to unbutton the red dress, but her trembling fingers wouldn’t listen. People deemed her to be the legendary temptress, but all she ever did was fight for her life. Her father died because of the curse and because of her schemes. This was the lowest she had ever fallen. But at least this time it was for a noble cause. 

Gema could not contain herself, tears streamed down her eyes. Sturdy got fed up with her sobbing. The sight of the nude villain nearly made Gema vomit. He grabbed the princess and threw her into bed, jumping on her. Just like the previous time, Sturdy ripped the front of her dress open, with Gema crying uncontrollably. Sturdy grinned. But before his dirty paws grabbed Gema’s beautifully-round breasts, he stopped and stared at her with a blank expression on his face. Blood oozed from the corner of his mouth. Ash’s figure rose behind him. He grabbed the stunned Sturdy by the hair and threw him to the floor. The hilt of Ash’s dagger glared from Sturdy’s back.

The ship swung in the storm, for some minutes the only sounds were the waves clashing against the ship and the wind howling outside. Gema grabbed a blanket to cover herself and crouched crying. Ash sat by her.

“Forgive me, I couldn’t come sooner. Slithering around in snake’s skin takes more time to get somewhere,”

“How did you…?”

“I turned to snake before the battle was lost, and hid among the Sturdy’s belongings. You must believe me, I did everything in my power to save the King, but I could not. My magic was of more use than my sword.”

Somebody knocked on the door loudly.

“Is everything alright, sir?” Sturdy’s servants had gone suspicious after no sounds came from their master’s cabin.

“Do not bother your Lord. He is speechless from the pleasure,” Gema lied. There was an indistinct murmuring behind the door.

“We must fight our way to the lifeboats,” Ash whispered. Gema agreed - though her last hour was nearing, she didn’t want to fall into the hands of Sturdy’s soldiers. The ship swung up and down terribly, the sailors and soldiers shouted -all hands on deck! 

Ash grabbed a sword from the Sturdy’s cabin and gave Gema his dagger. Both crept through the ship – luckily, they met no one. By the way the vessel swung, it would not survive the storm and the soldiers themselves were busy abandoning the ship. 

As both fugitives stepped on the deck, a giant wave rolled over them, it grabbed the two and threw them into the sea, whilst the ship disappeared, swallowed by the storm. Gema held onto Ash with all her strength, the waves swirled and tossed them around…

“Gema, dear Gema, please wake up! Please, it will be midnight any minute, please wake, I must ask you…” Ash shook her. They were lying on the shore, where the storm had washed them out. 

The storm came to its end and bright stars shone between the dark clouds. Gema opened her eyes and grabbed her chest. A pain was rising within it - the curse had begun to take her life, for her twenty-first Birthday had nearly come without her obtaining the hundredth proposal.

“Gema, can you hear me? I don’t know if it will count, but I must try. Please, Gema, you must live and find your happiness with the man you choose willingly. Therefore, I ask you for the second time - princess Gema of Hebeny, will you become my wife? 

The princess moaned, the pain was unbearable.

“No,” she whispered and fainted.

Ding! A tiny bell broke into the sound of waves clashing. Ash held her, desperately hoping it was not too late and waiting for any sign of life.

Finally, she opened her eyes. Ash laughed relieved and cradled Gema in his arms. 

“Gema you’re alive! And you are free from the curse!” he rejoiced. 

“You don’t know how I regretted putting the curse upon you! I despised myself for it every night,” he kissed every inch of her face, then lifted her up in his strong arms and carried the princess away. 

After a couple of days the whole company and the troops had travelled back to the citadel of Hebeny, leaving half of the soldiers to protect the North coast from Sturdy’s fleet. 

All of these days Gema kept to her chamber, she rode back in silence and wished to speak to no one. Even Val’s charms could not engage her in a conversation. 

She dressed in modest black, wore her hair braded, and prepared for her father’s and brother’s funeral. But that was not the only obligation she had to be ready for. Her eldest sister, and the next to the throne of Hebeny came to the funeral and declared to decline the honour of the queen. She was happily married to an Autumnian prince and did not wish to change anything. 

That left Gema as the heir and the next Queen. 

The day after the funeral, Gema summoned both Ash and Val to the Throne hall. 

The next Queen stood before them, dressed in black with a tiny blue bird on her shoulder. 

“Well, cousin, I believe our princess shall announce her decision. Me or you,” Val whispered. 

“Our Queen. And I think I already know her decision,” Ash gave him a devious smirk. 

Gema took her time, glancing over the two men standing before her. Ash - dressed in black and grey, with his long silky hair of coal-black, pale skin and bright green eyes. 

And Val in his crimson attire, with tanned skin, golden hair and dark eyes. 

“I have summoned you to reward your good deeds, and for justice to be done,” she said. 

“Lord Ashier, the prince of Snakelings,” she said and Ash’s face lit up with hope, “I reward you with the title of a Hebenian Noble for the loyal devotion to your duties as the King’s councillor,” she paused, “But for justice to be done, I must banish you from this court for putting the princess under a mortal curse, which led to a war and therefore - King’s death,” 

The court gasped and murmured. Ash stood shocked, with his eyes wide and his brows raised.

Val exulted.

“I knew you’d choose me, my dear Gema!” He grabbed Gema and raised her in the air. 

“Put me down this instant!” she grunted. 

“Lord Valeur of Thilia, I reward you with the title - First of the Nobles, therefore you shall serve as my royal steward. Your first matter of business is to settle with the Snakelings and negotiate to shorten your sentence there,” again a wave of murmurs rolled over the court. This time Val looked shocked and frightened.

“Gentlemen, you are free to leave,” Gema raised her chin as a proud Queen should. Both men bowed and left the hall. 

“So, she shunned both of us. To Snakeling island, cousin! Though I presume my arrival there will be more pleasant than yours,” Ash hissed into Val’s ear. The latter had turned pale.

“She will expect me back here, unlike you,” he retorted. 

“If you ever get away from the island. I barely got you out of prison the last time,” Ash said with unhidden ridicule. 

The two men prepared to leave for the Snakeling island, in the middle of the giant Autumna lake. 

“My Lady, it was a good choice - none of the two deserved you, after the curse and all the lies, although Lord Valeur could be forgiven at least for his handsome appearance. Oh, he looked dashing today, did he not?”

“Indeed, he did, Cin. But I don’t want to think about men for a change. Oh, my freedom gives me more pleasure than I could’ve imagined,” 

Gema reclined in her royal bed after her speech. 

“You may go now, Cin! I wish to rest,”

Cinnia bowed and went away. 

“You can come out now, I know you’re here,” Gema spoke to the silent room after lying in bed some moments. A black grass-snake slithered from underneath the bed, it became a man; Ash got into bed without a word and kissed her furiously. 

“I knew you missed me,” he whispered and kissed her neck.

“I missed my freedom,” 

“Say what you will, princess, you cannot hide your desire,”

It was true. Gema’s whole body yearned for his cool touch.

“I am your Queen now and you are banished,” she said, but could not stop kissing him. 

“Tell me to leave. Do it!”

“You cursed me to slavery or death. My father died because of you. What did you expect? A happy wedding?” Gema managed to say, whilst he released her lips to kiss her neck again. His hands slid over Gema’s back to unbutton her dress. 

“Tell me you don’t want me! Gema, I would marry you here and now, say one word…”

“I want you… to leave,” she said just barely.

“That is a lie, but… as you wish,” with a heavy sigh, Ash got up.

“Enjoy your freedom, Gema. Until we meet again,” the black snake hissed and disappeared beneath the door. 

To be continued…