Dragonborn

Elowyn

I trailed my fingers along the soft, velvety petals of the orchids bursting with color amidst the greenery. The garden really was spectacular. I've always loved the outdoors, and spent all the time I could outside. It reminded me of Zarya.

Following the path, I made my way to the small pond hidden in the depths of the garden. There was a large wisteria tree planted at the edge, its vibrant purple flowers dancing in the light breeze that wound lazily through the garden, petals trailing in the water. I sank to the ground, removing my shoes and dipping my toes in the warm, pleasant waters, leaning my face back towards the dying sun as I tried to soak up the last rays of the day.

The hair on the back of my neck rose and I shot up, hands withdrawing daggers as I sank into a fighting stance, turning towards the threat I sensed.

A tall, muscled figure had his arms crossed in front of his massive chest, short black hair dancing in the same wind that stirred up the wisteria leaves. His skin was tanned, nose straight, and golden eyes deep set, bordered by impossibly long lashes and a strong brow line. He was handsome, I'll give that to him.

"Who are you?" I snapped, fisting the daggers harder.

"I should be asking you that question, seeing as you are in my garden." He hissed.

"Your garden?" I cocked an eyebrow. "I thought it was open to all the members of the palace."

"Even so," he bared his teeth, canines flashing. "So who are you?" Aen flickered at the edge of my conscious, waiting.

"Elle. I'm a conscript for the Elites. Who are you?" I flicked a dagger around so I was gripping the blade. "Don't make me ask again." I cocked it back, threatening the mysterious stranger.

"Ez," he replied, smirking. "You gonna throw a dagger at me Princess?"

"Thinking about it. And don't call me that." Ez's smirk grew to a full on evil grin. Fuck.

"Well Princess," he smirked once more. "It's nice to meet you. May I join you?"

"Why?" I asked warily.

"I enjoy sitting at the water's edge. It reminds me of my mother."

"Sure, I guess."

"Thanks." He walked towards me as I sheathed my blades once more. I waited for him to sit and relax before I did as well, still not trusting him.

"What brought you to the Elites? We never get women trying out."

"I wanted to prove myself. And you have two women this year." I retorted.

"Ah yes, Karyna."

"You know her?"

"We are.." he paused, searching for the right word. "Acquaintances."

"Do you live in the palace as well then?"

"I do." He smirked, golden eyes glowing. "But if you'll excuse me, I'd like to lay back and sit in peace."

"Go for it." I muttered. Ez grunted and leaned back, hands going behind his head, the portrait of utter carelessness. I studied him after his eyes closed. He was unfairly handsome. If I wasn't on a mission right now and he wasn't Braven, I'd jump his bones. I haven't been laid in a while. I need to get out more.

Fucking hell I do not want to think about that right now. Aen growled.

Then stop listening. I sang back.

I can't, because, annoyingly, our minds are interconnected. He retorted.

Leave me be, you overbearing grandpa. I'll be fine.