Tests of Worth

The Tests of Worth are what one must go through if they want to
win the hand of a Fire Country Prince, but if you fail, you forfeit
the right to ever marry.

Warrior Prince Serywn of the Lightning Country is a legend
throughout the world. He has won countless campaigns across the
land for his kingdom, but his brother King Cadeyrn worries that
these campaigns will be the death of Serywn. So he suggests the
idea of marriage to the prince.

Serywn abhors the idea and looks at the Tests of Worth as a way
out. However, meeting Prince Micheil of the Fire Country, bright
and strong and beautiful as he is, looks set to change Serywn's
mind. As he is tested on his wealth, his generosity, his
intelligence, his strength, his speed, his power, and his love, the
Lightning Prince begins to realise that he wants more than
anything to be worthy of Micheil.

Genre: Alternative (M/M or F/F), Fantasy, Historical
Length: 22,794 words

TESTS OF WORTH

Holly Meadowes

EROTIC ROMANCE

MANLOVE

Siren Publishing, Inc.

www.SirenPublishing.com

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TESTS OF WORTH
Copyright © 2012 by Holly Meadowes
E-book ISBN: 978-1-61926-860-9

First E-book Publication: July 2012

Cover design by Christine Kirchoff
All cover art and logo copyright © 2012 by Siren Publishing, Inc.

ALL RIGHTS RESERVED: This literary work may not be
reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, including
electronic or photographic reproduction, in whole or in part, without
express written permission.

All characters and events in this book are fictitious. Any resemblance
to actual persons living or dead is strictly coincidental.


PUBLISHER
Siren Publishing, Inc.
www.SirenPublishing.com

Letter to Readers

Dear Readers,

If you have purchased this copy of Tests of Worth by Holly
Meadowes from BookStrand.com or its official distributors, thank
you. Also, thank you for not sharing your copy of this book.

Regarding E-book Piracy

This book is copyrighted intellectual property. No other individual or
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The author and the publisher work very hard to bring our paying
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This is Holly Meadowes’s livelihood. It’s fair and simple. Please
respect Ms. Meadowes’s right to earn a living from her work.

Amanda Hilton, Publisher

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DEDICATION

I would like to dedicate this book to many people. First my editor,

Chad Andrews, whose patience and guidance helped me perfect my
story and make it the best it could be. I would also like to dedicate it
to hopeful writers everywhere to let them know that a book with their
name on it is out there. But most of all I would like to dedicate Tests
of Worth to my readers, especially those who believe in Happily Ever
After.

TESTS OF WORTH

HOLLY MEADOWES

Copyright © 2012

Chapter One

King Cadeyrn looked at the letter in front of him. It was a

correspondence from his younger brother, Serywn, who was head of
his army. He turned his head to look at the man who had delivered it
to him. The soldier was now bowing low at the waist awaiting
instruction from his king. “You may withdraw,” said Cadeyrn in his
usual even but not-unkind tone.

“Good day, Your Majesty, and I pray with all my heart His

Highness Prince Serywn returns soon.”

“Thank you, soldier.”
With a final bow, the man left. Cadeyrn was glad. He preferred to

be alone when reading about his brother’s campaigns. There was
always the sinking feeling that something had gone wrong. Still, it
was only a small feeling. It wouldn’t do for a King to show worry,
and Serywn was perhaps the best warrior in the history of their great
Kingdom. Cadeyrn slowly opened the letter after examining Serywn’s
royal seal to make sure it was from his brother’s own hand. Once he
was certain it was, he proceeded to read, recognising Serywn’s neat
calligraphic handwriting.

Your Royal Majesty,

Tests of Worth

9

Our campaign was a success to outweigh all others. The Earth

Country has surrendered its assets to us, and their King is no more.
The spoils of war my troops and I have collected are things of great
beauty as well as power. As Your Highness knows, the Earth Country
is famous for its blacksmiths, not to mention its gold mines, so the
weapons we have collected as a result of our victory are unlike any I
have ever seen. This success is sure to enrich our great Kingdom of
Lightning in many ways. Most of all, I look forward to seeing Your
Highness after such a long time. I assure you that I am in perfect
health, so you needn’t worry. Our casualties were few, and with the
help of Lady Catherine of the south Lightning province and her well-
trained medical troops, we have managed to return with few losses. I
hope Your Highness is well and that my return does great things for
you.

Your loving brother and servant, Prince Serywn

Cadeyrn ran his hand over the carefully crafted script for a

moment, thankful to the heavens that his brother was well and that his
campaign had been a great success. The King smiled for a second as
he remembered their parents. Both their mother and father had died in
battle when the Earth Country invaded several years ago. Luckily,
Cadeyrn smothered his grief and took charge securing victory. He was
only seventeen at the time, so the whole country hailed him as a king
unparalleled. Serywn was only twelve when their parents were killed
in battle, so he couldn’t do anything to help his brother. Cadeyrn said
he didn’t care. All he wanted was his brother safe. He said that
Serywn had helped by just being there. He said that he could live with
their entire brethren gone as long as Serywn was all right. Serywn,
though, didn’t listen. Cadeyrn still remembered that day as clear as if
it was yesterday. On the day of his formal coronation, Cadeyrn
watched his thirteen-year-old brother drop to one knee in front of him
and say, “Your Majesty, I have failed you not only as a subject, but as
a brother, too. I swear on the graves of our parents that I will never

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Holly Meadowes

again be so weak. I swear to you here and now that I will never allow
such an injustice to happen again in your Kingdom. I will become
stronger, and I will secure revenge for our parents and our brethren.
This, on my honour as Prince of the Lightning Country, I do vow.”

Ever since then, Serywn had trained relentlessly to become as

strong as he could possibly be, and he had succeeded. The young
Prince had kept all his promises. Cadeyrn smiled at how much
Serywn had become like their father, a hardened leader who never
backed away from danger but who still had a soft spot for his family
and his subjects. Cadeyrn, on the other hand, was more like their
mother, a gentler soul who enjoyed peace and longed for the
happiness of her people. Not that she wasn’t a warrior. She was a
Queen the Lightning Country would remember forever, and Cadeyrn
was proud to be her son. Their parents’ reign was an equal
partnership. While the throne belonged to King Lysander, Queen
Frigga had played more than her part in the elevation of their
Kingdom. It was their differences that made them such a powerful
royal couple, and Cadeyrn missed them with all his heart. That was
exactly why he wanted Serywn to calm down when it came to war, or
one day, he wasn’t going to come back. Perhaps marriage would settle
his brother down, but the problem was, how could he convince
Serywn into it?

It would be at least three days before Serywn’s troops reached the

Lightning Country’s borders, so Cadeyrn had plenty of time to plan
what he was going to say. While Serywn respected Cadeyrn as his
older brother and his King, the young prince was extremely stubborn.
If he didn’t want to get married, then it was going to be a great trial to
convince him to do so.

* * * *

Somewhere many miles away from the Lightning Country, Prince

Serywn tried to resist the urge to slump forward on his horse. He was

Tests of Worth

11

a Prince, so he kept his posture upright. He turned his head around to
look at his soldiers, who were all tired and hungry. He decided to take
pity on them and ordered that they stop for the night. After a long
campaign, he was looking forward to seeing his Kingdom and his
brother again. He had finally secured revenge for their parents, and he
hoped with all his heart Cadeyrn was proud of him. Ever since he was
little, he had been jealous of his brother. Cadeyrn was always so
smart, so strong, so talented that it was almost impossible to keep up
with him, and the fact that his father heaped all of the attention onto
him didn’t help either. Serywn was always smart and strong and
talented, but he never quite measured up to his brother. Still, Serywn
was a mature child, and he never blamed his father or Cadeyrn. The
bad thing about that was the only person he felt he could blame was
himself. Cadeyrn tried to break him of that and mostly succeeded, but
Serywn was still desperate to prove his worth. Ever since he was
little, Serywn worshipped Cadeyrn. Even if he was constantly trying
to overtake him. The second Cadeyrn had a free moment, Serywn
would run to him, begging him to play. His mother would always say
Cadeyrn was too busy, but the elder boy took one look at his six-year-
old brother’s disappointed face and said he could study or train later.
Serywn always wanted Cadeyrn’s approval, perhaps even more so
than he wanted their father’s, so the now-warrior Prince decided that
it was a good idea to rest, as it would mean nothing seeing his
Kingdom and his brother again if he wasn’t awake for it.

* * * *

Cadeyrn sat on his throne in the great hall attending to business

with his council when a sentry came in with an urgent look on his
face. He bowed to Cadeyrn and said, “Pardon me, Your Majesty, but I
have been ordered to inform you that your brother’s soldiers have
entered the Lightning Country and are minutes away from reaching

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the palace. His Highness Prince Serywn is carrying the sword and
crest of the King of the Earth Country.”

Cadeyrn smiled. “Thank you, sentry. Inform my brother as to

where I am, and tell him I wish to see him immediately.”

“Yes, Your Majesty.”
Twenty minutes later, the great hall doors opened, and Prince

Serywn entered the room. His presence filled the room. Just like his
father before him, when Serywn entered a room, everyone became
still. Dressed in his royal blue armour and robes, the Prince made his
way toward his brother, carrying the King of the Earth Country’s
sword and wearing his crest around his neck. As he passed the people
of the court, they bowed in respect. When he reached his brother’s
throne, he dropped to his knees and presented the sword to Cadeyrn.
“My brother, this is the sword of the King of the Earth Country.”

Cadeyrn took it as it was offered.
“And this is his crest. They are the things I promised you so long

ago. Our parents are now avenged.”

Cadeyrn smiled a gentle smile and carefully sat the sword and the

crest aside. He then enveloped his brother in a warm embrace and
whispered, “These gifts mean the world to me, but only because you
have returned with them.”

Serywn smiled and hugged his brother back.
“I’ve missed you, Serywn,” said Cadeyrn.
“I’ve missed you, too, my brother.”
Just then a voice called out, “Long live Prince Serywn.”
Then another joined in, saying, “All hail Prince Serywn.”
Soon the entire court was calling out praise to the young Prince,

and a feast was proclaimed in his honour.

* * * *

That night as the celebration was underway, Cadeyrn

conveyed

his desire for Serywn to marry. The young Prince wasn’t afraid to

Tests of Worth

13

insult his brother, and in this case, he wasn’t afraid to tell him what a
stupid idea he thought it all was. Of course, he was too dignified to
raise his voice, but despite this, they were overheard.

“I beg your pardon, Your Highness, but I couldn’t help

overhearing.” The two Lightning brothers turned around to see Lady
Catherine smiling at them. “May I say something, Sire?”

“Speak freely, Lady Catherine, you have earned it,” said Cadeyrn.
“Thank you, Your Majesty. Well, you know I trained with the

famous Lady Tsunna of the Fire Country.”

“Yes, King Lear’s royal advisor. I believe she frequented this

country as an ambassador during my father’s reign.”

“Yes, Sire. Well, King Lear’s son, Prince Micheil, has been

looking to get married since I left the Fire Country.”

“I have heard of him. He is claimed to be one of the greatest

Princes born in this world.”

That made Serywn a little angry. He took it as a direct challenge

to him by this Prince he had never met.

“He is, Sire. There is no one quite like him. I remember, when I

first arrived in that Kingdom, I took him for a mere mischievous
child, but his determination to never give up and surpass all Kings
before him has made him into a great warrior and leader.”

“Why, Lady Catherine. You are not married, are you?”
Catherine giggled. “Why, no, Sire, and the reason why is tied into

this story. I became great friends with him during my time in the Fire
Country. In fact, we did a few aspects of our training together. My
father saw an opportunity here and offered my hand in marriage to the
King for his son, but the Laws of the Fire Country state that the
spouse of an heir can’t just be anyone. They have to pass seven
ancient tests known as the Tests of Worth. They are wealth, power,
strength, intelligence, speed, generosity, and love. I was subjected to
these tests, and I failed, and of course, failure doesn’t come without a
price. Otherwise, many people would take this test without thought.
As a result, I had to forfeit the right to ever marry.”

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“I desire to take these tests,” said Serywn. This way, if he won, he

would prove to this Prince Micheil who was the greatest prince to
walk this earth and also acquire power for himself and his kingdom,
and if he lost, at least he would have an excuse for never getting
married.

“Now, Serywn, this should take some serious thought. One might

think you wanted to take this challenge just to acquire an excuse not
to marry.”

Serywn scowled. His brother knew him too well.
“Well, Sire,” said Lady Catherine. “If you do desire to take these

tests, then I am returning to the Fire Country as a favour to Lady
Tsunna to help train new medical soldiers. You are welcome to
accompany me.”

Serywn looked at his brother.
“It is your decision, little brother. Just choose wisely,” said

Cadeyrn.

Serywn paused, then spoke, “I will go with you, Lady Catherine,

but I will wait to decide whether or not I will take these tests until I
am there and I have met the Prince.”

Catherine smiled. “I believe it will be an interesting meeting.”

Tests of Worth

15

Chapter Two

The journey on the ship was long but smooth. Serywn, being the

restless soul that he was, was bored out of his mind. He was an
accomplished sailor as well as a soldier, and he regularly asked the
captain if there was anything he could do. The captain always made
obeisance to him and said that His Highness shouldn’t bother himself
with the trifles of the ship. This made Serywn frustrated, and he
suddenly wished he had taken his own ship. There he knew his crew,
and his crew knew him. Therefore, he could captain the ship, and the
journey would go a lot faster.

As he was standing on the edge of the boat looking out onto the

water, Catherine came up to him and laid a hand on his shoulder.
“Don’t worry. We’ll reach land in a couple of hours.”

Serywn decided conversation was the only way to pass the time,

so he turned to Catherine and asked, with a small but concealed
amount of interest, “Could you tell me a little about these tests I will
be subjected to, should I choose to take them?”

“Well, as I said before, there are seven tests in total. Wealth,

power, strength, speed, intelligence, generosity, and love. Some of the
tests they give you are blatantly obvious. Like, the test of speed is a
footrace, and the test of strength is a fighting match, but there are
some cases when you won’t even know you are being tested, such as
generosity and love. In those cases, they will be watching you and
setting you up, and if you perform unconsciously with generosity or
love, then you will pass that test. You are a powerful warrior, Serywn,
but to defeat these tests, you have to appeal to your gentler side as
well. I know you have it, because I saw your face in that tent during

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Holly Meadowes

the battle with the Earth soldiers when we were bringing your men in
to be treated for serious injuries. You care about people, but you are
afraid to show it for fear you’ll look weak. If you allow those fears to
control you in these tests, you will fail without question.”

Serywn nodded, understanding everything she was telling him

even if he was annoyed that she had seen through his mask. “What
made you fail when you were taking these tests?”

“Power, speed, and love. I failed power because, despite my

colossal strength and medical talents, I don’t have many powers other
than that, and while strength and medical skill would be important for
a spouse, it wasn’t enough. I failed speed because I wasn’t nearly as
fast as I had to be to pass that test and love because I...well, since that
was a silent test, I don’t exactly know how I failed, but I think it was
because I didn’t love Prince Micheil. I loved him as a friend, and I
loved how kind and wonderful he was, but that wasn’t enough.”

“Will I like this Prince?”
Catherine giggled. “I have no doubt that you two will knock heads

as soon as you say two words to each other, but I also think you might
be exactly what each other needs.”

Serywn looked at her strangely and then scoffed.
It was a long few hours before the ship finally reached land, and it

was another day’s travel on land before they reached the Fire
Country’s borders, as the land was a long way from the ocean. The
only land that was farther away from the sea was the Wind Country
ruled by the Sotou family. King Mordred was famous for having
overtaken his two older siblings and acquired the throne. He was
meant to be ruthless and unforgiving until he went to war in the Fire
Country. No one knew exactly what happened, but his army was
defeated but forgiven, and when King Mordred returned, he still had
his hard demeanour, but he was a more merciful and caring leader.

Lady Catherine rode on her horse just a few paces in front of

Prince Serywn. “What’s on your mind, Your Highness?”

“Nothing. I was just thinking about the neighbouring Kingdom.”

Tests of Worth

17

“Coincidentally, King Mordred of the Wind Country was one of

the last people to take the Tests of Worth.”

“One of the last?”
“Oh, yes, Lord Jamie of the elusive country of Seers was the last

to attempt them. He is the nephew of the leader of that country,
although many of the members of the royal family believe he should
be the heir due to his outstanding seer abilities.”

“And neither of them passed?”
“They both failed generosity, speed, and love. Lord Jamie came

close to passing speed, and King Mordred did love Prince Micheil,
but he had no idea what emotion was, so therefore, he failed.”

“How many people have taken these tests?”
“Oh, they have come from far and wide, Your Highness, but the

last person to pass the Tests of Worth was King Lear’s wife, Queen
Freda, former Princess of the deceased Whirlpool Country.”

As Serywn’s magnificent mount trotted into view of the gates of

the Fire Country, the young Prince started to feel a nervousness he
had never experienced before.

They were greeted at the gate by Lady Tsunna and her soldiers.

She looked majestic on her horse. Serywn had been told she was in
her fifties, but when he saw her, he couldn’t fathom her being that
age. But now that he thought about it, her medical genius probably
allowed her to discover a way to keep herself young. Lady Tsunna
jumped down from her horse, as did Catherine, and they embraced
each other.

“Catherine, it is a pleasure to see you again. Thank you for taking

time to come all this way and assist me.” After she released Catherine
from a crushing embrace, she spotted Serywn. “And who, may I ask,
is your companion?”

“This is Prince Serywn of the Lightning Country. I’m sure you’ve

heard of him and his famous campaigns. He is considering perhaps
taking the Tests of Worth.”

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Lady Tsunna got a wicked grin on her face. “Is he, now? Well,

Your Highness, you’ve got your work cut out for you.”

“Before I make my decision, I would like to meet the Prince.”
“I’m sure you would.” She motioned to one of her soldiers. “You

ride ahead and tell His Majesty we may have another contender for
the Tests of Worth.”

“Yes, my lady.”
“Now, Prince Serywn,” said Lady Tsunna as she mounted her

horse and motioned for Catherine and Serywn to follow her. “Tell me
about yourself.”

“I am the son of King Lysander and Queen Frigga, former rulers

of the Lightning Country, and the younger brother of King Cadeyrn. I
have led countless successful campaigns, in the last of which I
acquired the sword and crest of the King of the Earth Country.”

Lady Tsunna gave a hearty laugh. “Oh, my, young Prince, we

know all that. It’s common knowledge throughout the world. What I
mean is, tell me about you personally. What is your favourite colour?
What is your favourite food? What are your favourite pastimes?”

“You’re kidding, aren’t you?”
Tsunna smiled. “I’m most certainly not, Sire. Do you expect His

Highness Prince Micheil to marry someone he knows nothing about?”

“I suppose I don’t. My favourite colour is midnight blue, my

family’s royal colour. My favourite food is tomatoes. Pastimes I enjoy
are training, fighting, horse riding, and reading.”

Tsunna gave him a soft smile. “That’s good. Tell me, what are

some of the things in this world you love.”

“Isn’t that a little personal, my lady?”
“Marriage is also personal.”
Serywn huffed, but decided to humour the woman after a warning

glance from Catherine told him defiance against Lady Tsunna would
cause him trouble. “I love my brother, my soldiers, and my people.
Nothing else matters.”

Tests of Worth

19

Lady Tsunna smiled. “Wonderful. I’ll leave the rest of the

questions for Prince Micheil.”

“When will I meet him?”
“If he is with his father, you can meet him right now, Sire. We’re

here.”

Serywn took his eyes off of Lady Tsunna to look forward.

Directly in front of him was the most beautiful palace he had ever laid
his eyes on. His travels had allowed him to see palaces he thought
were beyond compare, but this one practically glowed like the setting
sun.

While Lady Catherine bid her good-byes as she went off to begin

working with the medical soldiers, Lady Tsunna took Serywn into the
throne room, where a blond man sat wearing a white robe with red
flames at the hem and a gold band that circled his forehead. As
Serywn approached, he noticed the unusual crown had a sparkling
ruby in the middle. The handsome King spoke with a smile as soon as
he saw Tsunna. “Ah, Lady Tsunna, welcome home. I understand we
may have another contender for my son’s hand.”

“Indeed we do, my Lord. This is Prince Serywn of the Lightning

Country. Before he will consent to take the Tests of Worth, he wishes
to see Prince Micheil.”

“That’s very understandable. Young Serywn, I have heard of your

campaigns extensively. You have made quite the reputation for
yourself.”

“Thank you, Sire,” replied Serywn with a bow. The throne was

seated on top of a decorative flight of stairs, therefore, the King was
too far away for Serywn to get a good look at him, but from what he
could see, the Fire King was very attractive. He could only hope his
son measured up.

“My son is occupied at the moment, but he will be at dinner with

me tonight. Why don’t you join us, and we can have a formal
introduction then? For now, my attendants will show you to your

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room. You are free to explore the palace if you so wish, but dinner
shall be served in two hours.”

“Certainly, Sire. Thank you,” said Serywn with a final bow and a

good-bye to Lady Tsunna, who went off to join Catherine. He
followed the attendants through a maze of corridors and up a few
flights of stairs until he finally got to his assigned room.

“I heard you are a keen swordsman, Your Highness,” said one of

the attendants respectfully.

“That I am. What of it?”
“Well, Sire, the men are practicing in the courtyard at the

moment. If you wish to join, I am sure that would be all right.”

“Thank you, boy,” he said superiorly but not unkindly. “You may

go.”

“Good day, Sire.”
Serywn looked out of his window and discovered that his room

looked out onto the courtyard. He saw a group of soldiers practicing
and decided that he would go and observe. At the very least, it would
show him how men in this country were trained. It was a good thing
he was able to judge how to get to the courtyard from where he saw it
from his window. Otherwise he was sure he would have gotten lost.

Once out in the courtyard, he proceeded to examine the men. They

looked strong and disciplined, but they all had small smiles on their
faces like they were having fun. Serywn turned to look at the two men
who were fighting at the moment. He guessed they knew each other
quite well, as they were tossing insults and smiling at each other. One
was tall with brown hair and brown eyes. They were quite strange
eyes. The pupils were slit as if they were the eyes of an animal. He
was handsome and well built, but Serywn only noticed this with bored
acknowledgement. He then looked at the man he was fighting, and
Serywn’s breath caught. This figure could quite literally be the most
beautiful man Serywn had ever seen. He had hair that could very well
have been spun gold and eyes the colour of brilliant sapphires. His
body was toned and muscular, much like Serywn’s own. No doubt

Tests of Worth

21

this young man was a hardened warrior. But, Serywn thought, if he
was, then why did he have such a contented smile on his face?
Serywn’s gaze traveled discreetly across the young soldier’s body,
taking in the way he moved, his flexibility, his strength, his speed.
Serywn noticed everything, but when his hungry gaze landed on the
soldier’s firm ass, he thought it was time to pull himself together.

About a minute later, the brunet soldier found himself on the

ground, flat on his back, with the blond straddling him.

“You’re losing your touch, Logan. Maybe you need more

practice,” said the blond. “Or maybe I’m just too awesome for you.”

“Fuck off, you ass, and let me up.”
The blond just smiled down at Logan and said in a teasing voice,

“Hmm, should I or shouldn’t I?” Then the blond caught sight of
Serywn. “Well, who do we have here?”

“My name is Serywn,” he said, not feeling the need to share the

fact that he was a Prince, as he was amused by the attitudes of the
soldiers, and divulging his rank might change those attitudes. “I’m
from the Lightning Country.”

“Hmm, a nation of famed warriors, I’m told. So, Serywn, do you

think you have what it takes to beat me?”

“I don’t think, idiot, I know.”
The blond’s eyes narrowed. “What did you just call me?”
“I called you exactly what you are, cretin.”
“Oh, it’s on, bastard. Logan, get this ass a sword.”
Logan scrambled to obey, so Serywn guessed this guy must be of

pretty high rank. “That’s not necessary. I have my own.”

“Where is it, then? Shoved up your ass?”
This comment angered Serywn, and he reached behind himself

and drew the sword that was crafted for him at birth out from under
his royal blue cloak. Serywn always kept his sword strapped to his
back. He felt it got in the way when strapped to the waist. The blond
in turn drew his own sword, and Serywn tossed his cloak to the side.

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The blond was topless, and sweat gleamed on his beautiful, tanned

skin like crystals. The trousers he wore were tucked into his large
boots, and they hugged his long toned legs, not to mention his
gorgeous ass, perfectly. However, Serywn was in the middle of
combat now, and he wouldn’t be distracted, no matter how tempting
the distraction was.

All the men gathered around to watch as these two beautiful men

battled it out. The blond struck first, and Serywn blocked with ease,
though he was surprised at the amount of power that was contained in
that blow. The blond struck again this time with his legs. Serywn
nimbly hopped over the oncoming foot and aimed a blow with his
sword at his opponent. The blond proved to be just as good at
blocking as Serywn was. It was quite a few minutes into the fight
before someone finally landed a hit. The soldier managed to get by
Serywn’s guard and punch him directly in the gut. The first hit was
the blond’s, but the first blood was Serywn’s. The young Prince
fought for a further five minutes until he finally found an opening and
slashed his opponent across the chest. It was a very shallow cut, just
like Serywn intended it to be, but it was enough to show the blond and
all the spectators that he was just as skilled as he claimed to be. Both
men proved to be agile and flexible during the fight. There were many
times when they made graceful jumps into the air or used acrobatic
moves. Their fighting styles differed immensely, but it was very
strange how they seemed to cancel each other out. Who knows how
long the battle would have raged on if the same attendant who had
been among those who showed Serywn to his room hadn’t come into
the courtyard calling, “Sir!”

The two swords clashed, and the fight stopped. “What is it, John?”
The young boy came close to the blond and whispered in his ear.

Said blond then sighed and said, “I’m afraid we’ll have to continue
this some other time. I’m needed elsewhere. It was an experience
fighting you, Serywn, and maybe if you weren’t such a bastard, we
might be friends.”

Tests of Worth

23

Serywn replaced his sword in the sheath on his back as the soldier

left, and replaced his cloak, ignoring the awed looks from the
spectators.

The young Prince made his way back to his room, glad he had an

impressive memory. When he reached the luxurious space, he
gathered he had about forty minutes until he was called for dinner, so
a quick wash was called for as he had spent the last fifty minutes
engaging in rigorous exercise. He walked into the connecting
bathroom and was about to call for a servant to fill the bath, but then
he saw something amazing. In the middle of the bathtub was a slim
but beautiful fountain that was spouting water into droplets that
looked like rain. Serywn felt mesmerized and stripped off all his
clothes. As he felt the warm water hit his body from above, Serywn’s
mind drifted to the blond soldier.

Serywn was considering finding the soldier and paying him a visit

later. The young Prince had ideas about how he would love to pound
into that incredible ass, but then again, when his sexual thoughts
drifted to the blond, they mostly included Serywn himself being bent
over a table or held down on the ground like Logan was and having
his own ass fucked mercilessly. This was new for Serywn. The young
Prince had had many lovers in the past, both male and female, though
no one special, but it was always him who was on top. Granted, many
of the men whom Serywn had allowed to grace his bed had all but
begged to be fucked by him, because, after all, he was not only known
as the greatest warrior the land had ever known but also the most
beautiful one. Still, Serywn had never found anyone worth bending
over for. Now that he was having thoughts about the beautiful blond
soldier fucking him into the ground, Serywn felt rather annoyed.
Another thing that annoyed him at the moment was the fact that those
thoughts had made him hard.

He had a little less than half an hour before dinner, so he

swallowed his pride, wrapped his hand around his cock, and stroked it
slowly. As he was doing so, he heard a low, husky voice in his head

24

Holly Meadowes

saying, “I knew you would get fucking hard for me. I knew you were
staring at my ass the whole time I was fighting Logan. I bet you’ve
never been bent over in your entire life. I bet you were always the one
who shoved your cock in someone else’s ass, and I bet they all
begged for it, too. Well, just wait until I get my hands on you, bastard.
I’m going to make you beg.”

As the words glided through his head, his stroking got faster and

Serywn suddenly got an image of himself and the blond. Serywn was
pinned to the ground right after their fight, and the blond was undoing
his trousers as he whispered, “The winner fucks the loser. I’m willing
to bet that, on some level, you lost on purpose.”

When his trousers were down, the blond undid his own and

shoved two fingers into Serywn’s entrance. Serywn screamed in
pleasure as those fingers found his prostate. The men around them
cheered the blond on as if it was still a fight. Serywn felt humiliated,
but that just made him harder. Then the soldier withdrew his fingers
and replaced them with his large cock. Serywn’s imagination had to
fill in the size of said cock, but regardless, Serywn saw himself being
flipped over onto his hands and knees, his hair grabbed mercilessly,
and his ass fucked hard as he screamed and screamed until he came.

Back in the real world, the young Prince tried to stifle a cry of

pleasure his orgasm earthed in his body. Luckily enough, the fountain
washed away all the evidence, and Serywn had just enough time to
scrub himself and change into his formal dinner clothes, which
included black leather trousers which were soft and fit for royalty,
which of course he was, black leather boots of the same quality, and a
midnight blue velvet tunic. He wound a silk sash that was a little
lighter than the tunic around his waist. That sash belonged to his
mother and was given to him on his tenth birthday. Minutes after the
young Prince finished making himself presentable, an attendant, a
young girl this time, came in and announced that dinner was ready,
and if he was too, then she would show him the way to the King’s
private dining hall.

Tests of Worth

25

* * * *

The guards opened the door of the dining hall, and Serywn went

inside. The King stood to walk over and greet him. Serywn bowed in
respect and took in the King’s appearance. He was wearing the same
robes as before, but his attire under them was more formal. He was
wearing a dark red velvet tunic and brown trousers that made him
look like the personification of the Fire Country, and of course, he
was also wearing his gold headband with the deep red ruby. It was an
unusual crown, but then again, when Serywn thought about it, it must
be more comfortable than a standard crown, and also, it could be
worn at any time without the fear of it falling off.

“Sit down, my young Prince. Dinner shall be served in a

moment.”

Serywn obeyed and said, “Forgive me, Sire, but I seem to have

noticed the absence of a Queen and a Prince.”

King Lear gave a sad chuckle, “Well, my dear boy. My Queen

died giving birth to the Prince.”

“Forgive me, Your Majesty. I did not think...”
“Relax, Prince Serywn. You come from a Kingdom that is worlds

apart from my own. I am surprised you even heard of my son’s
availability.”

“That is Lady Catherine’s doing.”
“Oh, yes, I remember her. She was one of the first to attempt the

Tests of Worth. She was a wonderful friend to my son, but I’m afraid
friendship isn’t enough for the spouse of an heir. My Queen, Freda,
was a woman unparalleled. Her death almost destroyed me, but the
fact that I got such a wonderful son as a result was above and beyond
what I could have wished for.”

“Where is His Highness Prince Micheil, if I may ask?”
The King chuckled again. “While he is known for many of his

great virtues, he is not known for his manners. He will be here soon.”

26

Holly Meadowes

As if on cue, the doors opened and Prince Micheil entered.

Serywn was dumbstruck. Whom did he find standing in the doorway
but the blond soldier he had fought not an hour ago. However, now he
was dressed like a Prince. He was wearing a tunic much like
Serywn’s, only his was a light ocean blue. He had on robes the same
as his father’s, only his were red with black flames at the hem, and his
crown, instead of being gold with a ruby, was silver with a sapphire.
The sapphire sat in the middle of his forehead and was exactly the
same colour as his eyes. Despite the fact that his clothes were worlds
apart from the ones Serywn had last seen him in, the Lightning Prince
recognised him immediately and found himself feeling foolish that he
did not make the connection, as the Prince was the spitting image of
his father.

“You,” Serywn said before he could stop himself.
“You,” repeated Prince Micheil, looking just as stunned.
“I take that to mean you two have already met,” said the King, and

even though Serywn had his back to him, he could hear the man’s
amusement.

“Yes, Father. We met in the training field.”
“Ahhhh,” exclaimed King Lear, and Micheil didn’t appear to

appreciate his amusement any more than Serywn did. “I believe this
will be an interesting dinner.”

The three royals sat in silence until the attendants entered with

trays and announced that dinner was ready. Once the food was on the
table, King Lear looked from his left to his right, taking in the two
Princes, who were staring at each other with scowls on their faces.
“So, Prince Serywn,” said the King to the young man on his right. “I
understand you are thinking about taking the Tests of Worth.”

“What?” exclaimed Prince Micheil. “This bastard is here to take

the Tests of Worth? He’d fail the first one.”

“You’re certain of the idiot,” said Serywn, slapping his hands on

the table.

Tests of Worth

27

“Of course I am. You don’t have virtues worth their weight in

firewood, never mind the hand of a Fire Prince.”

“Now, Micheil,” said the King in his usual calm meditator’s

voice. “We won’t know that until he actually takes the tests. Now,
Prince Serywn, these tests are designed to examine every inch of your
nature. Some of the tests will be explained to you, and some of them
will be conducted without your knowledge. I suppose you already
know that, if you fail, you must forfeit the right to ever marry.”

“Yes, Your Majesty.”
“The tests will be conducted over a couple of weeks. You will

take all of the tests before you know whether or not you have failed.
The reason for this is that we must get the balance of virtues just right.

“Now that you have met my son, do you feel ready to give your

answer? Or do you need more time?”

Serywn took a good, long look at Micheil. He took in his Prince-

like appearance, his soldier-like body, and his carefree attitude. He
remembered his skill and his surprisingly wise parting words as he
left the training field. He remembered how just thinking about the
man had made him feel. It was something new, something exciting,
and something more pleasant than anything he had felt in his entire
life. Serywn didn’t know what this feeling was, but he wanted to hold
onto it. Not to mention, he wanted to see Micheil’s face when he
passed the tests...and that was when.

“I accept the challenge, Your Highness,” he said to Micheil in a

mocking fashion. “And I look forward to claiming my prize at the
end.”

Micheil scowled. “Father, you can’t be serious,” he implored, but

the King just shrugged.

“The decision is made. Anyone is allowed to attempt the Tests of

Worth, and Prince Serywn is no different.” The King turned his head
to the Lightning Prince. “Now, young Serywn. Your first challenge
begins now.”

“Which test is this, my Lord?

28

Holly Meadowes

Micheil smirked and said, “You are not to be told what test you

are taking. You are welcome to guess, but that is not wise. You may
as well act on instinct so we can see your true nature.”

Serywn scowled at Micheil and then looked to the King. When

Lear didn’t object, Serywn realized that he would have to do these
tests in the dark. That was something he never liked to do, but he had
made a commitment to these tests, and he never backed down from a
challenge. “Very well, Prince Micheil. I will prove to you that I am
worth your hand, and I will do it using nothing but my brain, my
instincts, and my heart.”

Micheil’s eyes softened at this, and the King smiled. “Well said,

Prince Serywn.”

“Thank you, Sire. May I now know what my first test entails?”
“Absolutely. You must bring a gift to my son.”
“A gift?”
“Yes, dear boy. You have until tomorrow morning to decide what

you will give him, and there will be a presentation ceremony in court
before the day’s proceedings begin. You will also be required to
explain why this gift is the one you chose.”

“I understand, my Lord.”
The King smiled again. “Would you like to join the court for

breakfast, or would you prefer to have it delivered to your room?”

“Thank you, my Lord, but I fear I would disrupt the proceedings

of the day were I to join the court, so I would prefer to be served in
my room.” Serywn always preferred to have breakfast in his room,
but he didn’t want to seem rude.

“Very well. I will inform the kitchen staff.”
When dinner was over, Serywn stood and bowed respectfully to

Lear and Micheil, then excused himself, saying he had a lot of careful
thinking to do. The young Prince was led back to his room and asked
if he required anything further that night. “Please light the fire and
heat up some water. My feet are beginning to ache.”

The attendants bowed. “Yes, Your Highness,” said the elder.

Tests of Worth

29

A few minutes later they returned, each carrying a jug. The elder

was carrying hers with a folded cloth, so Serywn guessed that one
must be the hot one. The younger, as well as carrying a jug which
Serywn guessed must have been the cold one, was also carrying a
flaming torch.

“Light the fire, please, Moegi,” said the elder.
“Yes, Madame Tenten.” The younger attendant, named Moegi,

put her jug down and placed the torch on the wood that was sitting in
the fireplace, while Madame Tenten went into the bathroom to bring
out a large marble bowl. She set it down in front of the chair and was
about to pour in the hot water when Serywn held his hand up. “That’s
all right, ladies. I prefer to do it myself.”

“Are you sure, Prince Serywn?”
“Yes, that way I can judge the temperature. Thank you for your

service. Good night, ladies.”

The attendants curtsied. “Good night, Your Highness.”
As an elegantly dressed, serious-faced Prince, Serywn knew he

appeared to be someone who liked to have things done for him, but
no, Serywn was much more independent than that and also rather
respectful of people in a lower class than him. Well, as much as
someone raised in a superior setting could be, he supposed.

Serywn began undressing when the doors closed behind the two

young women. Though it was considered improper, the young Prince
preferred to sleep naked. Still, he was in someone else’s residence, so
he decided just to wear a pair of plain black, loose-fitting cotton
trousers that sat low on his hips and showed off his toned abs and
clear-cut hip bones. Serywn gave his face a quick wash, and then
proceeded to mix the hot and cold water into the basin that the ladies
had left. When the temperature was right, Serywn placed his aching
feet in the soothing water and allowed the fire to heat him up. As he
sat there, he contemplated his first task.

He knew he was advised not to guess which test it was he was

taking, but he couldn’t help it. He was meant to present a gift to the

30

Holly Meadowes

Prince, and he was advised to think carefully about it. This could be a
test of generosity, but then again, it was just as likely that it was a test
of wealth. Serywn didn’t have many things to choose from, as he
didn’t like to travel in luxury, so he had to think very carefully about
what he would give the Prince.

Serywn shook his head. It didn’t help to try to guess the test, as a

gift would mean a different thing if he were being tested on wealth
than it would if he were being tested on generosity. Serywn was not
looking forward to the presentation ceremony. He had had many
people, Princes and Princesses as well as Lords and Ladies, present
him with gifts, so he knew the drill. He knew the etiquette that was
required when presenting a gift. His mother and brother had made
sure he knew that.

When you presented a gift to someone you didn’t know well,

especially royalty, you were usually asking something of them.
Therefore, every time someone had presented a gift to Serywn,
etiquette demanded it be done on their knees. Serywn didn’t mind that
so much because he was on the receiving end of it. Many Princes and
Princesses had come to Serywn and presented him with extravagant
gifts. They were either asking for his hand in marriage or his military
support. Since he would be the one asking this time, he must show the
same respect when making his presentation. The young Lightning
Prince had a lot of pride, but if the occasion called for it, he could be
humble. This was thanks to his brother’s lectures.

Serywn thought back to the many men and women who had come

to his brother’s court to ask for his hand or his support. He went over
their attitudes and their presentations. He remembered that he had
always refused those who came in search of marriage. Serywn had
taken some of them to his bed, but with a warning that there were no
promises afterward, and they shouldn’t hold their breath. They had
submitted their bodies to him anyway, but despite the fact that they
were all beautiful, smart, and powerful, none of them had interested
him very much. The more he thought about it, the more he realized

Tests of Worth

31

that he was more taken in by the people who made smaller
presentations, the ones who seemed more honest. That was how he
would present his gift to the Prince. The only problem now was, what
was the gift going to be?

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Holly Meadowes

Chapter Three

The next morning, the young Prince was awakened by a gentle

knocking at his door. He sat up and took a minute to compose
himself.

“Enter,” he called.
The young attendant Serywn remembered as John came in with a

tray of delicious looking and smelling breakfast foods. “Good
morning, Prince Serywn,” said the young boy as he placed the tray on
Serywn’s lap. “His Majesty has asked me to tell you that the
presentation ceremony will take place in two hours, and he will send
someone to escort you when the time comes.”

“Thank you.”
John bowed and left. Serywn couldn’t help thinking he saw a lot

of Prince Micheil in that boy. They had the same mischievous glint in
their eyes and the same happy demeanour. Serywn turned his eyes
toward his breakfast and his mind toward the gift he was meant to
present to Micheil in two hours. If he had been a less controlled man,
he might have panicked, but he just calmly ate his breakfast and
thought carefully.

When he had finished his breakfast, he set aside the tray and went

to wash himself and get dressed. As Serywn was pulling on a black
silk tunic, his eyes caught something, and he was suddenly reminded
of Micheil’s eyes. He suddenly realized he was looking at the perfect
gift and snatched up his mother’s sash. He wound a black one round
his waist, folded the ocean blue one carefully, and held it gently.

A palace sentry then entered and said, “Your Highness. The

ceremony is about to begin. I have been ordered to escort you.”

Tests of Worth

33

“Indeed,” said Serywn simply.
He was again led through a maze of corridors until he reached the

great hall. The doors were opened to reveal the King, the Prince, and
many other members of court. Serywn kept his head high and walked
toward the two royals with admirable grace. When he reached
Micheil, he dropped to one knee and could practically feel the other
man grin. Serywn held up the sash to Micheil and said, “Your
Highness. I have come to your country to ask for your hand. I
understand that I must prove myself worthy of you, so here is a start.”
Micheil took the sash from Serywn’s hands and examined it. Serywn
continued. “This sash is made from the world’s finest silk by the
Lightning Country’s most accomplished seamstress and was given to
my mother by my father before she consented to be his. It was then
given to me at the age of ten, and I was told to give it to the person I
wished to give myself to.” Serywn paused. “And I also noticed that it
was the same colour as your eyes.”

That last sentence seemed to surprise Micheil most of all, but he

composed himself and said, “Thank you, Prince Serywn. I swear to
you it will be treasured.”

King Lear smiled in a manner that showed he had high hopes for

this prince.

* * * *

After the presentation ceremony, Serywn didn’t see Micheil for

the rest of the day. The Lightning Prince explored the palace, trying to
familiarise himself with the surroundings. It was just getting dark
when Serywn decided to return to his room. The young Prince knew
something was wrong immediately as he walked into the room
because it was dark. There was one torch lit in the corner. Serywn,
being the seasoned warrior that he was, dropped instinctively into a
fighting stance. It wasn’t long before someone attacked him from
behind. A strong arm found its way around Serywn’s neck and

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Holly Meadowes

squeezed hard. Serywn knew that the position the arm was in was
cutting off oxygen to his brain. It would take ten seconds for him to
pass out, so he had ten seconds to throw this guy off of him. Serywn
tried to flip his attacker over his body, but the man was in a good
position, so he could hardly get him of the ground. The young Prince
was smart, though, and he knew anything and everything was a
weapon, so he ripped a pointed gold plate off of his belt and made to
jab the artery in his attacker’s neck. The man obviously noticed this
and let Serywn go, sliding in front of him so that the Lightning Prince
could see his face.

Serywn was beyond pissed off when he saw the grinning

countenance of Prince Micheil. “What the fuck,” shouted Serywn.
Then a second later, he internally slapped himself for losing control of
his emotions like that.

Micheil’s grin never wavered. “I just wanted to check out how

good you were off guard. Plus, I said we would have to finish our
little match some other time.”

“I could have killed you,” said Serywn, placing the pointed gold

plate on the table beside the door.

“And it’s just as likely that I would have managed to kill you. We

don’t know who won.” The Fire Prince paused. “And I have a sneaky
feeling that we never will.”

Serywn held back a smile and said, “Is the only reason you came

here to attack me?”

Micheil smiled and grabbed the one lit torch and lit two more.

“Well, from what I saw today, I see that you have a better grasp of
virtues than I first suspected you to have, so I thought maybe we
should talk. Old Lady Tsunna told me your favourite colour is your
family’s royal colour, your favourite food is tomatoes, your favourite
pastimes are fighting, training, horse riding, and reading, and the
things you love most in this world are your brother, your soldiers, and
your people. I have to say, the more I hear and see of you, the more I
like. I want to know more.”

Tests of Worth

35

Serywn looked at Micheil, strangely happy that the Prince had

taken an interest in him. “What do you want to know?”

“What do you want to tell me?”
Serywn always loved being in control of things, but he kind of

resented the fact he was being handed the reins at the moment.

“Tell me about your parents,” said Micheil.
“They died in battle with the Earth Country when I was twelve.”
“Come on. You can do better than that.” Micheil backed up and

sat on the bed, indicating that Serywn should join him. It was a very
intimate place to sit, but Serywn did so anyway. “I’ve never lost
anyone, so I don’t know how it feels. I lost my mother, but I was too
young to even remember her face, and sometimes that’s hard, but I
suppose it can’t be nearly as hard as watching the people you have
loved for your entire life just disappear.”

Serywn looked at Micheil like he was seeing him clearly for the

first time and started to speak with his heart, which was something he
had never done before. “It was awful. They were so powerful and
such amazing people. It seemed like they would live on forever.
When I first got the news, I didn’t believe it, but then after Cadeyrn
won the war and they brought our parents’ bodies home for a funeral,
the truth began to sink in. I just wanted someone to blame. First, I
blamed Cadeyrn. He won the war, so my mind rationalised that if he
had taken charge earlier, our parents would still be alive. He was
almost a child himself, seventeen years old. When I told him what I
thought, I screamed at him and cried hysterically. He didn’t look
shocked or angry, he just looked sympathetic. He was always a gentle
soul, and he hates war, which is precisely the reason he wants me to
marry so I don’t go on as many campaigns. He just poked me in the
head like he always used to when I was little and held me until I
stopped crying.

“After that, I started to blame the country for their dependency on

my parents, but those feelings left me when Cadeyrn took me on my
first tour around the towns shortly before his coronation. Before that, I

36

Holly Meadowes

had barely left the castle. I saw the people in the Lightning Country,
my country, working hard and struggling to survive after the terrible
effects of the war. They looked at me and Cadeyrn like we were their
salvation, and when it was time to hand out alms as is the tradition, I
had people kissing my hand as I gave them a coin and saying, ‘Your
Highness, thank you,’ and ‘Bless you, Prince Serywn.’ It was then I
realised that it was the duty of my parents to protect these people. It
was the very reason they were on the throne in the first place, and
what was their duty became mine. A coin that wouldn’t even pay for
one of the three meals I eat a day was something they were eternally
grateful for, and I had to give them whatever I could, as was and is
my duty. After that I had no one left to blame but myself. I felt like I
was too weak to do anything, and if I had only been stronger, things
might have been different. I know that is ridiculous, but it was how I
felt.”

“Yes. I know it doesn’t compare, but I sometimes blame myself

for my mother’s death. She died bringing me into the world, and
thanks to me, the kingdom lost their Queen and my father lost his
wife. I know it isn’t truly my fault, and I know you do, too, but you
only know it in here,” said Micheil gently as he touched Serywn’s
head. “You don’t know it in here,” he said as he pressed his palm
above Serywn’s heart.

“Exactly,” said Serywn in a whispered gasp as he looked directly

into Micheil’s eyes. They were kind in the low light, and Serywn felt
like he might melt.

They stayed like that for a couple of minutes until Micheil finally

smiled and said, “What games do you play back home?”

Serywn was stunned at the change of subject but grateful for it. He

was so surprised that he had revealed so much about himself to the
Prince he had met only yesterday. Despite the fact that he was looking
for this Prince’s hand in marriage, his feelings still confused him. He
thought the acceptance of these tests was merely for personal gain,
but now he wasn’t so sure. “Card games are what the Lightning

Tests of Worth

37

Country is famous for. They are always made more exciting if you
play for money.”

“Oh, no,” said Micheil rather adamantly. “I remember when baa-

chan came back from being the ambassador to your country. She got
into gambling while she was there and lost a bucket load of cash.
Now she’s hooked. There is no way I’m gambling.”

“Coward,” said Serywn, deliberately goading the Fire Prince.
“What did you say?”
“If you’re too scared that you’ll lose to me, we can just play

without money.”

Micheil scowled. “We’ll play without money this time until I get a

better hang of the game. Then we’ll see who’s the coward.”

“Very well,” Serywn mockingly sighed.
The two Princes played cards together, and Micheil proved to be

quite lucky with the cards he got. When the two young men realised
the time, Micheil bid Serywn good night and returned to his room.
That night must have been the most peaceful night’s sleep Serywn
had had since his parents died.

* * * *

The next day wasn’t so relaxing. Serywn was hustled out of bed

very early and informed that the King requested that he be escorted
down to the palace grounds. At first, the young Prince had no idea
what he was requested for, but when he saw many members of court
and some members of the public gathered on either side of a rather
long path, Serywn determined that he was to be subjected to the
footrace Catherine had told him about. When he took a look at all the
spectators, he spotted her next to Lady Tsunna. When she noticed
him, she waved and winked knowingly.

Micheil was standing at the beginning of the path, though he

wasn’t dressed like a Prince. He was dressed like any other simple
village man from his Kingdom and, strangely enough, he looked more

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Holly Meadowes

at ease in that attire. Serywn took in the short tower a couple of
meters behind the path. Serywn guessed, since it wasn’t very tall, that
it was some sort of announcement tower. His suspicions were
confirmed when the King appeared on the tower balcony and the
spectators cheered.

“My people. We are here today for two reasons. The first is to

introduce you to Prince Serywn of the Lightning Country, who is the
next candidate for the hand of your Prince.” With those words,
another cheer rose from the crowd, and the King smiled and waited
patiently until it died down. “The second reason is to see if this famed
warrior Prince is able to accomplish what no other has ever done. We
are here to see if he is able to defeat Prince Micheil in a race and a
fight.”

Serywn’s eyes widened. He had to race and fight Micheil on the

same day. He had seen the blond’s skill in the area of fighting, and
from the look of him, particularly his leg muscles, he was probably a
trained runner as well. Good thing Serywn himself was also a trained
runner.

“The rules of the challenge are simple. Both contestants must

follow the clear path to the Fire Country’s lake. They must sail across
it, and when they get to the other side, they must come back to the
starting point by running around the lake. The first man back must flip
the hourglass you see to the right of Prince Micheil. If the second man
returns before the sand runs out, then the fight will begin. If he
doesn’t, then the challenge is over.”

It all became clear to Serywn in that moment. If he didn’t win the

race, then not only would he fail the test of speed, he would also fail
the test of strength, which was what he was pretty sure the fight was.

“The path is clearly marked out, but since Prince Serywn doesn’t

know our lands, he is granted a five-minute head start. The race
begins when the hoop ignites.”

Tests of Worth

39

Serywn watched as King Lear pulled out a bow and arrow. He lit

the arrow on fire and aimed it at a metal hoop that sat a few meters in
front of the two princes.

Serywn prepared himself to run, and as soon as the arrow went

through the hoop and it ignited, Serywn was off like a shot.

Like the King said, the path was clearly marked, so Serywn had

no trouble with the beginning of the race. The path was about a mile
and a half long, but Serywn’s stamina was impressive thanks to all his
training. The young Prince’s impressive mind guessed that now was
about the time Prince Micheil had started to run. As Prince Serywn
reached the lake where two boats were waiting, he looked behind him
and saw the blond-haired prince approaching him at an impressive
speed. On top of that, he didn’t even look tired. On the boat coming to
the Fire Country, Catherine had told him stories about Prince
Micheil’s stamina, but he thought she was just teasing him.

The Lightning Prince boarded the boat as fast as he could and put

his sailing skills into full gear. He couldn’t see the end of the lake
thanks to the fog, which led him to believe it was at least a couple of
miles long. He had never seen Micheil sail, but he couldn’t
underestimate the man. He had seen many fools on the battlefield, as
well as on the high seas, but he had always treated them as if they
posed exactly the same threat. Since the Fire Country was quite far
away from the sea, Prince Micheil probably didn’t get to do as much
sailing as he did, but he also remembered the King saying that no one
had ever beaten Micheil, so he must be at the very least a decent
sailor.

Serywn judged that the wind was coming from the south.

Therefore, the boat was traveling with the wind which made the
journey shorter, but his opponent would also be traveling with the
same wind.

Serywn looked back, and he could just see the shore fading into

the fog. He also saw that Micheil was getting closer. Either the Fire
Prince was an excellent sailor, or he somehow wasn’t using the same

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wind as Serywn. Seeing as the latter seemed very unlikely, Serywn
decided he had to step up his game.

When Serywn reached the other side of the lake, it had been just

over two hours since the race had started, and Micheil was right on
top of him. The Lightning Prince’s feet hit the shore less than two
minutes before the Fire Prince’s. Not too long later, all Serywn could
do was watch as Prince Micheil overtook him on their way around the
lake. Serywn was determined not to lose Micheil from his sight. He
didn’t know how long it would take for the sand in the hourglass to
run out, so if he couldn’t catch up to Micheil, he’d have to stay close
to him.

By the time they came within view of the finish line, Serywn was

determined to catch up to Micheil. Sure, he didn’t have to win to pass
the test, but there was no way he wanted to lose to Micheil, especially
since he had been given a head start.

The Lightning Prince picked up his pace and came closer to

Micheil. When the latter noticed this, he, too, sped up his pace. For a
while, they were neck and neck, and the crowd cheered wildly. When
Micheil finally touched the hourglass, Serywn was barely three
seconds behind him. Both Princes stood looking at each other, saying
nothing and panting heavily. Serywn was extremely upset that he had
lost, and Micheil seemed extremely upset that he came so close to
being beaten.

The entire crowd screamed and applauded, chanting things like,

“All hail Prince Micheil,” and “Heaven bless Prince Serywn.”

It wasn’t long after the two young men managed to catch their

breath that the King came down and touched them both gently on the
shoulder. “For the life of me, I have never seen anything like that in
my life. Both of our contestants will retire for lunch and return later to
commence with the fight.”

Serywn knew this test was probably going to be a long one, as

when he and Micheil fought, they seemed to cancel each other out and
it was damn near impossible to determine a winner. What Serywn

Tests of Worth

41

didn’t know was the fight that was to begin in a couple of hours
would be a fight that would become a legend.

* * * *

Serywn went to his room to shower himself. He knew there

wasn’t much point in cleaning up, seeing as he was only going to do
more rigorous exercise very soon, but warm water always relaxed his
muscles, and that was just what he needed. Serywn had never seen a
fountain indoors before he came to this country, but he now thought
the idea was a very good one.

When he exited the bathroom, one towel wrapped around his

waist and the other in his hands, which he used to dry his face, he
spotted a beautifully prepared meal on the table next to the door. He
deduced that some servants must have brought it in while he was
showering. Taking the meal and setting it on the table near the
fireplace and pulling up a chair to sit down, he ate silently. As he ate,
he thought about the next test. As it was a fight, it was probably a test
of strength, but it could also be a test of power, but then again, it
didn’t do well to think on it.

When Serywn had finished his meal, he sat back in the chair

wondering how long he had before he was called to complete the
second part of the challenge. He looked down at his lap and suddenly
realised he wasn’t dressed. Immediately, his mind went to Micheil.
What was he doing just now? Was he thinking about Serywn? Did he
know how much Serywn was thinking about him? The Lightning
Prince remembered the conversation he had had with Micheil the
night before. It was the first time he had allowed himself to be
vulnerable to anyone since before his declaration at Cadeyrn’s
coronation. He had unveiled a lot of his soul to the Fire Prince, and
they had not long met each other, and in return, the Fire Prince had
opened up to him a little, too, but Serywn suspected Micheil was the

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kind of person who wasn’t shy about his feelings. How Serywn
wished he could be that carefree.

Just thinking about Micheil’s warm body pressed up against him

last night during their little tussle, and his incredible blue eyes that
were even more brilliant than the sapphire that sat on his forehead, got
Serywn hot. Some part of him wished Micheil would walk in the
room right now and see him in his state of near-nakedness. Serywn
toyed with the idea of masturbating again, but he had decided that
now wasn’t the right time. He couldn’t go into battle dazed with lust.
Putting his mind on tactics and how to get around Micheil’s skill
distracted him. He put on a fresh pair of clothes, followed by light
armour that consisted of metal wrist guards and shin guards. He didn’t
feel like he needed anything else. He felt like armour restricted him
and made him slow and clumsy. The warrior prince was just about to
pick up his sword when he heard a knock.

“Enter,” he called.
A sentry walked in followed by a soldier, but this wasn’t a soldier

from the Fire Country. No, Serywn recognised the uniform of his own
country’s army. When he realised that a messenger had been sent to
him, his heart immediately sank. The sentry exited, and the Lightning
soldier bowed low.

“Stand and speak, soldier. Why have you come here? Is there a

problem? Is my brother okay?”

“Please do not concern yourself, Sire. His Majesty is fine. He

merely sends me here with a letter and questions of your well-being
and treatment.”

Serywn almost sighed in sheer relief.
“He also sends me with the task of giving you this.” The soldier

dropped to one knee and offered Serywn a sword, which he took. “His
Majesty requests a reply, but please don’t hurry.”

“Thank you, soldier. You may leave now.”
“Thank you, Your Highness. I’ll be staying at the palace until you

compose your reply, so please don’t hesitate to call me for anything.”

Tests of Worth

43

“Thank you. Good afternoon.”
“Good afternoon, Sire.” With that, the soldier left.
Serywn sat down and opened the letter, recognising his brother’s

seal and handwriting.

Ototou,
I hope the journey was not too boring for you, although I suspect

you have come close to losing your mind. As I write this letter, you
have only been gone for two days, but I suspect you will have been
gone a week before this letter reaches you. I have grown used to
missing you, ototou, but this time I hope you will gain something
wonderful from being away. The entire country seems to be missing
you, but they wish you all the best. You see, they have grown used to
missing you, too. I know if you marry this Fire Prince then you will
still visit on a regular basis, but it will be no less than the time you
already spend in the Lightning Country. No matter what happens
while you are in the Fire Country, you will always be the Lightning
Country’s much loved Prince and my precious little brother.

I wish to know of your treatment and of the tests you have been

subjected to. I do not know what these tests are, but I sincerely hope
that what I have sent will aid you. I have sent you the sword that was
wielded by our mother. I want you to strap it to your side just as I
have done with our father’s. I have faith in you, Serywn. I just wish
you had more faith in yourself.

Your ever loving brother (always watching over you), Cadeyrn
On a related note, I also wish to know about this Prince Micheil.

What kind of man is he?

Serywn smiled. This was exactly the kind of letter he’d expected

from Cadeyrn. Wise, yet with a small bit of veiled humour. He had
realised that if he did marry Prince Micheil, he was going to have to
live mostly in the Fire Country, but now that he thought about it,
Cadeyrn was right. His visits to his own country had been quite

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limited between campaigns. Perhaps if he completed these tests, he
could secure a position as ambassador to the Lightning Country. That
would give him perhaps even more time in his own country than his
campaigns had given him.

A different sentry to the one that had escorted his messenger

entered and said, “Your Highness. It is time.”

Serywn picked up the sword Cadeyrn had given him that once

belonged to his mother. Serywn had inherited a lot of his mother’s
features. Cadeyrn always commented on how odd it was that Serywn
had their mother’s soft features and yet he wore their father’s hard
expression, whereas it was vice versa with Cadeyrn.

As commanded to by his King, he strapped the sword to his side

proudly and walked toward the battlefield, promising himself he
would write to Cadeyrn when the day was over. He didn’t know that
he wouldn’t be returning to his room before the day was over.

Tests of Worth

45

Chapter Four

The Lightning Prince arrived at the arena. It was really just a plain

bit of land in the middle of the palace grounds. People who wanted to
watch had to stand. Serywn deduced that the Fire Country didn’t think
well on exhibition fighting so, therefore, didn’t have any arenas for
such an occasion.

Serywn looked at Micheil, who was dressed in different clothes,

but they were of the same class as the ones he was wearing for the
race. He looked amazing. Like a Prince, but also like a man. Someone
who didn’t think of himself as better or worse than anyone else in his
Kingdom.

The King stood outside of the battle area and declared, “Prince

Micheil and Prince Serywn have come here today to display their skill
and their powers. As you all know, people of royal blood have
substantial magical energy inside them. We are here today to see
whose is the greatest. Contestants, begin when you’re ready.”

Micheil and Serywn stood staring at each other for a minute. They

dropped into a fighting stance and started circling each other. Each
Prince was anxious to find out what powers their opponent possessed.
People of royal blood rarely ever used their powers. It was to do with
their honour. Centuries ago, Kings and Queens decided that their
magical gifts would be harboured for when they were really needed.
Mainly the only times they were used were when royals were fighting
each other, like Serywn had done with the King of the Earth Country.
The Earth Country’s leader stood no chance against Serywn in a face-
to-face fight. With Serywn’s ability to control lightning and his secret
ability to control fire as well left him at a great advantage. He thought

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that would also be true in this fight, but he didn’t know what Prince
Micheil had up his sleeve, so he wasn’t nearly foolish enough to give
himself a false sense of security.

The fight started with hand-to-hand combat, which both Princes

were astounding at. Micheil proved to be very flexible despite his
build. He was not as flexible as Serywn, though, and when the Fire
Prince launched a well-executed kick at Serywn’s head, the latter bent
his spine right back and touched the ground with his hands. This gave
Serywn a chance to backflip completely, in an acrobatic fashion,
kicking Micheil in the face in the process.

This hand-to-hand combat went on for hours. When the sun began

to set, they had exhausted their hand-to-hand skills, and there was
nothing more they could achieve fighting in this manner. Serywn was
astounded that it went on as long as it did. Micheil had more tricks up
his sleeve than Serywn expected. Next, weapons were introduced to
the fight, and the Princes began fighting with them. Serywn didn’t
want to be pushed into using his magical powers until he had no other
choice.

Serywn brought out his mother’s sword. It was gold-hilted with an

onyx studded into the handle and his family’s motto engraved into the
gold. Might is the path to peace.

After meeting Micheil, Serywn wasn’t sure if he agreed with that

anymore. Micheil in turn drew his own mother’s sword. The hilt was
red and gold and had the motto of the deceased Whirlpool Country on
it. Love is the path to peace.

The swords clashed for hours, all through the night. Prince

Serywn didn’t even notice the sunrise as it slowly illuminated their
battle again. Serywn had only vaguely noticed that many people had
left for their meals and returned when they had finished eating. Some
people had fallen asleep where they stood, while most seemed too
excited to sleep.

Micheil made a swipe for Serywn’s head, but the Lightning Prince

gracefully ducked. While he was down, he tried to swipe Micheil’s

Tests of Worth

47

feet with his blade, but the sword was nimbly hopped over. The
swords moved left and right, made swipes and stabs until they clashed
and both Princes pushed against them. Neither would yield, so they
just stared into each other’s challenging gaze. Serywn turned his head
and noticed the sun was in the opposite direction to where it was
when he last looked, but he didn’t care. Now was time to use what he
and Micheil had been holding back.

Both Princes tossed their swords aside and stood catching their

breath. Serywn was so pumped up with adrenaline that he was
clueless to the needs of his body. He unconsciously drew on his
magical ability to sustain himself, but now he was about to call on his
powers for a different reason.

Serywn directed his palm toward the sky, and clouds gathered.

The spectators looked on in awe as the black clouds covered the clear
sky. In a motion that was too quick to be seen by the naked eye,
Serywn drew on his elemental ability and directed a violent flash of
lightning toward Micheil. Micheil didn’t move from the spot where he
stood. The young Fire Prince just splayed both his arms out to the
sides of his body, and, all of a sudden, a whistling could be heard, and
a powerful gust of wind surrounded Micheil and redirected the
lightning back to Serywn.

The Lightning Prince moved out of the way as the electrical strike

hit the ground. He was stunned at this revelation. Micheil had the
power over wind. That was unheard of. Serywn didn’t think even the
King of the Wind Country had that ability. Nevertheless, the
Lightning Prince didn’t let it bother him for long. He jumped back up
and recalled his powers to strike again. Serywn knew there wasn’t
much he could do with his main ability, as lightning was weak against
wind, so he decided to unleash his second ability. He took in a deep
breath and summoned the fire in his soul to come alive. Within
seconds, Prince Micheil was dodging these attacks.

The elemental battle raged on and on and on until both Princes lay

on their backs, panting and sweating. Serywn was unable to move a

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single part of his anatomy except his eyes and lungs. The King
stepped into the arena and stood between the two Princes. The battle
had lasted for nearly two days without coming to an end or even
pausing.

“This battle ends here. There is no winner and no loser. I believe

these two fine young Princes have proven themselves enough for this
test of worth to be decided. Hail their greatness, my people, because it
is something the world is likely to never see again but still something
I can’t imagine the world will ever forget.”

When the King was finished talking, the crowd erupted into

cheers and applause. The King knelt down next to his son and cupped
his face. This was the last thing Serywn saw before letting oblivion
consume him.

* * * *

As soon as Micheil opened his eyes, his father was called for.
Lear fell about his son’s neck, crying in sheer relief. Micheil at

this moment was still a little dazed, so all he could do was wrap an
arm around his father until he stopped weeping.

“Father, I’m fine.”
“I’m so glad,” he said into his son’s shoulder. “I was worried you

would never wake up.”

Micheil’s eyes widened, and he gently pushed his father away to

look at him. “How long have I been unconscious for?”

“About six days.”
“I’m sorry for making you worry so much. What happened? The

last thing I remember is calling on my powers over wind to remove
the black clouds from the sky and then redirecting Serywn’s breath of
fire...Serywn! What happened to him? Is he all right?”

“He is fine, son. Lady Catherine informs me that he is also awake.

You should rest now.”

“Can I see him?”

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49

“Later. Right now, you just rest. I’ll have the cook make

something for you. Something light and nutritious.”

“Come on, Dad. You know I’ve never been a good patient.”
“I know. The patient from hell, you have been referred to as.” The

King directed his eyes in a placating manner to his son. “Please. Do
this for me. Just take a couple of days rest.”

Micheil turned away from his father’s plea. “Oh, come on, Dad,

that isn’t fair...all right, then.”

Lear smiled and kissed his son’s forehead. Micheil might have

argued more, but since he barely had the strength to get out of bed at
the moment, he didn’t really see the point.

* * * *

When King Lear returned to his court, he was interrupted by a

sentry saying that a powerful King was demanding to see him. Since
going to meet this man would show that he was at the beck and call of
this King, he had no choice except to invite him into the court, as he
never liked dealing with hysterical men with power. However, when
the man entered the court, he was anything but hysterical. He was
majestic and looked every inch a King, but Lear, being the wise man
he was, could see worry in his eyes. The same worry that had been
present in his not but a few moments ago. The visitor gave a very
shallow bow, as was appropriate while he was in this man’s country,
not to mention court.

“Great King Lear, I am honoured to make your acquaintance after

all the legendary things I have heard about you.”

“Please identify yourself. I don’t believe we have met, but

nevertheless, you look familiar.”

“I am King Cadeyrn of the Lightning Country.” Lear wasn’t

surprised. Prince Serywn was the image of his older brother. “I come
here because I have been told by a messenger I sent here just over a

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week ago that my brother has been rendered severely injured in an
organised fight with your Prince.”

King Lear was not worried as there was no malice in King

Cadeyrn’s words. The wise young King knew that Serywn had agreed
to this fight and was, therefore, injured by choice.

“That is true, King Cadeyrn. Both Princes fought for two days

straight without stopping. They must have drawn on their powers to
keep them fighting. They gave us quite a scare, but they are now both
awake and in good health if not a little exhausted.”

“That is wonderful news. This two-day fight of theirs is becoming

legendary throughout my Kingdom. The messenger returned and
spread the story through the town faster than I could board my ship to
come here.”

“Please know that while you are here you are welcome. I hope

that you will stay for the announcement of whether or not your
brother has won my son’s hand.”

“I sincerely wish I could, but I must return to the Lightning

Country soon.”

“It is to be announced tomorrow . I am sure your council is wise

and just. Won’t you stay at least awhile?”

Cadeyrn smiled. “I have decided I shall.”
“Splendid. Would you like to see your brother? I have had the

chef prepare him something that should get his astounding strength
returned in no time.”

“Thank you, King Lear. I would like to see my brother

immediately if you can arrange to have me escorted.”

“At once. Lady Tsunna,” he called, and the woman stood up from

her seat at court.

“Could you please fill His Majesty in on his brother’s condition. I

will have no less than your expertise to ease his mind.”

“At once, Sire.”

* * * *

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51

Lady Tsunna led the Lightning King into a private section of the

castle’s ward, all the while explaining the condition of the Prince to
him. When they reached Serywn’s bedside, Tsunna left. Serywn was
sleeping, so Cadeyrn just sat by his bed. The King noticed an empty
tray and was glad Serywn had eaten. Cadeyrn was content to just
watch his little brother’s steady, healthy breathing, but Serywn soon
woke up and turned to see his brother smiling at him. Before Serywn
could say a word, Cadeyrn poked his brother’s head with a touch that
was feather-light but still teasing. Serywn weakly batted the hand
away and sat up. Cadeyrn hugged him tight enough to feel the
heartbeat of his younger brother. When he was satisfied that it was as
strong as ever, he pulled away.

“What are you doing here?” Serywn asked, sounding confused.
Cadeyrn just smiled. “I am here because I heard you had fallen

injured, little brother. I left our cousin Lord Shisui in charge. The
Lightning Country is in good hands.”

Serywn smiled up at his brother, and Cadeyrn knew he was

grateful that he was here, despite the fact that, stubborn as he was, he
would never admit it.

* * * *

Serywn was on his way to find Micheil when he bumped into

someone. Serywn was intent on looking for Micheil, so he didn’t look
where he was going properly, so he collided with a young man about
his age, and they both ended up on the floor. Serywn grunted and
stood up mumbling a sorry.

“It’s no big deal,” said the young man. “You’re Prince Serywn,

right?”

“I am. What of it?”
“I am Amatheon. My father is King Lear’s advisor, and I have

been ordered by His Majesty to take you on a tour of the town.”

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“Must we do this now?”
“I’m afraid so. It’s troublesome, I know, but it’s the King’s

orders.”

“Very well.”
Amatheon turned around and twitched his head to indicate that

Serywn should follow. “Follow me to the stables, Your Highness.”

As the Lightning Prince walked behind Amatheon, he observed

him. He was a fairly handsome young man. He had dark brown hair
that was pulled into a rather careless ponytail. He wore dark green
attire, which Serywn knew in the Fire Country meant he served a
member of the royal family. The young man didn’t even look like he
could be bothered to stand up straight, but there was a glimmer of
intense intelligence in his eyes.

When they reached the stables, Amatheon told Serywn to pick

whatever horse he wanted. Only the horses belonging to the King and
the Prince were off-limits. Serywn decided to take the mount he rode
to the Fire Country on. The magnificent black beast looked at him
without a care in the world, and to some extent resembled Serywn.
The horse Amatheon rode on was an old, slow horse that looked like
he hadn’t broken out into a trot in years. A very appropriate horse for
the young man.

They rode quietly in silence out of the palace grounds and into the

town. The Fire Country’s town was a lot noisier than that of the
Lightning Country. There were many street acts and a lot of cheerful-
looking sellers. As they passed through the town, everyone seemed to
know Amatheon and called greetings to him.

“So, tell me,” said Serywn. “I gather from your clothing that you

serve a member of the royal family. Whom do you serve, if I may
ask?”

“I serve Prince Micheil.”
“I suspected as much.”

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53

“Ever since we were children together. We would always try and

skip out on lessons until Micheil got serious about becoming King.
Myself, Logan, and Jamie served him as children.”

Serywn’s memory picked up on Logan as the one Micheil was

fighting when they first met, but the name Jamie had him confused.
“Jamie?” he asked.

“Yes. Lord Jamie of the Country of Seers was sent over here by

his uncle shortly after his father died.”

“Why?”
“I suppose he wanted to get on King Lear’s good side, so he sent

his son a servant.”

“Yes, but why send his own nephew?”
“I suppose King Hiryon felt guilty when he looked at him.”
“Guilty?”
“Yes. You see King Hiryon and Jamie’s father were twins, very

alike in appearance. So when a plot was uncovered to assassinate the
King, Lord Harron, Jamie’s father was put in his place for a while.
Hiryon didn’t want him to die as a result, just to get the assassins to
come out of the woodwork. The guards caught them, but that was
after they had killed Jamie’s father.”

Serywn could sympathise with the man, as he, too, had lost his

father, so he nodded in understanding. “This is what people find so
amazing about Prince Micheil,” Amatheon said. “When Jamie first
came over here, he was bitter and shallow and did nothing but make
obeisance to those around him, though it was mostly forced. He said
he must accept his fate as there was no way he could change it.
Micheil didn’t like that idea. He believes with his whole heart that
people should make their own destiny. He and Jamie had a bloody
fight, and once the latter was lying on the ground unable to move,
Micheil convinced him that if he didn’t like the hand he was dealt in
life, then he should fight for a better one and not just sit around all
day moping about it.” Amatheon paused, giving a small smile. “After
that, Jamie practically worshipped Micheil. When King Hiryon

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recalled him to the Country of Seers, Jamie at first refused to go. Then
he decided to take the Tests of Worth. He failed and returned home,
but he says he will forever be Micheil’s servant.”

Serywn stayed silent for a moment. “Did he love Micheil?”
“I honestly believe he did, but Micheil didn’t love him any more

than he did a friend. When the Tests of Worth are being attempted, I
am always the one close to Micheil who has to talk to the competitor.
It’s a drag, but I know I’d be better at the job than Logan would. I’ll
never forget the day I talked to King Mordred. Before he consented to
take the Tests of Worth, I was constantly afraid he was going to run
me through with his blade or his bare hands at any minute, but after
he lost to Micheil in a fight that decided the war between our
countries, he changed rapidly. I believe he loved Micheil too, but he
was so deprived of any real love in his own life that I think he
scarcely knew what the emotion was.”

Serywn was surprised at this new revelation about Micheil and

now realised that he himself had felt a change within him since he had
been in the man’s company.

Amatheon and Serywn rode around the town for a while and

Serywn was surprised at not only how lively it was, but how happy
the inhabitants seemed. Most of them looked like they were struggling
just like citizens of his Kingdom, but they looked content.

“Sir Amatheon,” someone called, and Amatheon jumped off his

horse and, taking its reins, he walked toward a street seller. “Sir
Amatheon, I am honoured to see you here. Would you or your
companion care to try some tomatoes?”

Serywn jumped off his horse and surveyed the tomatoes. They

looked ripe and fresh, obviously from this woman’s garden. He was
about to walk toward the stand when three children who were chasing
each other ran past him. The force and the surprise almost knocked
him down. “You three,” called the woman. “Be careful where you’re
running. You almost knocked into this gentleman.”

Tests of Worth

55

They all turned to look at Serywn and said simultaneously,

“Sorry, sir.”

“It’s quite all right,” Serywn said, smiling slightly. While he

usually kept his feelings in check, he had a soft spot for children. He
couldn’t help but notice that the shoes they were wearing were in
terrible condition and probably a size too small for them. “Are these
your children, madame?”

The woman blushed a little and said, “Yes, sir, they are.”
“How much are these fine tomatoes?”
“A brass coin for five, and a bronze coin for ten.”
Serywn took out a dark blue velvet purse filled with gold and

silver coins and placed it on the stand. “I’ll take five, please.”

“Why, sir...I...are you joking?”
“I never joke, madame. Your children need shoes, and I will not

accept that purse back.”

“Why, this is enough to buy shoes for them for the rest of their

lives, and more.” The woman was dumbstruck, but began putting
tomatoes in a small bag for Serywn. When she tried to put in more
than five, Serywn held up his hand and said five would do. The
woman thanked him over and over again, and the children latched
themselves onto his legs.

It was quite a while before he managed to prize the excited

children off him and mount his horse. Amatheon gave a small smile
and said, “I think we can return to the palace now.”

Not knowing quite what he meant by that, Serywn decided to just

follow. It was nearly dinner time before they made it back to the
palace, and Amatheon requested that Serywn have dinner with him.
“Prince Micheil is engaged until sunset. He asked that I keep you
company until he escapes.”

After hearing that, Serywn agreed. The Lightning Prince actually

enjoyed his time with Micheil’s servant. What he found odd, though,
was that Amatheon talked about Micheil as if he were a friend. None
of Serywn’s own servants dared talk to him with such familiarity.

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They dined in the study, well, one of the castle’s studies. It was a very
nice room. Two of the walls were covered in bookcases from ceiling
to floor. The back wall had a tall fireplace, and the fire was lit. As the
light got dimmer, the fire gave the room a very homey feel. Serywn
found Amatheon quite interesting. The young man was obviously
very intelligent and asked him all sorts of questions. Some he was
comfortable with, as they were about what he knew and his personal
education, but when Amatheon brought up questions like, “If your
kingdom was in danger at this very moment, tell me what your actions
would be.”

Those kinds of questions called on his conscience, and he didn’t

like them, but Amatheon didn’t look ready to back down, so he
answered. “Inside I would be tearing up. I am so far away, and by the
time I managed to get there, there might be nothing I could do. But I
am the Prince of the Lightning Country, and if my Kingdom and my
people are in danger, I could no longer stay here, even though for the
sake of Prince Micheil I would desperately want to. Still, I am a
Prince. I have power and influence and riches, and I don’t expect to
get all that without giving something back. My life belongs to my
people, and they rely on me. I can’t afford to be selfish.”

Amatheon looked content after he had answered that. Serywn was

sure the man was just making sure Serywn was worthy of his Prince.
He had asked a wide variety of questions and not just factual ones.
Many of them had asked for Serywn’s honest opinion.

Not long after the servants had taken away the plates, the door

swung open and Micheil stood there grinning openly. Amatheon
stood up and bowed. “Good evening, Sire.”

“Evening, Amatheon. I hope you haven’t been drilling Serywn for

information too much.”

Amatheon just smiled and turned to Serywn. “Thank you, Your

Highness. I have enjoyed today a lot, and I wish you all the luck in the
world for the results of the Tests of Worth tomorrow.”

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57

Amatheon then left, leaving Micheil and Serywn alone. Micheil

smiled in his usual captivating manner and walked to sit across from
Serywn. “So,” he said. “Did you have a good day with Amatheon?”

“He’s obviously a very intelligent man, even if he was too lazy to

even sit up straight on his horse.”

Micheil laughed heartily. “Well, that’s Amatheon for you. If you

want anything physical done, stay clear of him or it will never be
completed, but if you want advice or the answer to something tough,
then he is the first person you should talk to. I plan to make him my
advisor one day.”

“He was telling me about your other servants and those who have

tried for your hand in marriage before me.”

“Oh, yeah. I guess he told you about Jamie, then?”
“Yes, and King Mordred.”
Micheil sighed. “They really weren’t bad people. They just

needed a few good smacks to the head.”

Serywn grinned slightly. “From what I gather, you were exactly

the right person to give it to them.” Micheil nodded and then got a
rather cunning look on his face. “What?” Serywn asked warily.

Micheil brought up both his hands so Serywn could see what he

was holding. In one hand, he held a deck of cards, and in the other, he
held a pouch full of money. “What was this about me being a coward
when it comes to betting?”

Serywn returned the cunning look. “Well, sometimes it’s better to

be a coward than it is to be stupid.”

Micheil slammed both of the items down on the table and said,

“We’ll see about that.”

Serywn had a pouch with him, as he always took two when he

went out to spend money in case anything happened to the first one.
The two Princes emptied their money onto the table, Micheil shuffled
the cards, and they began playing.

After a few hands, Serywn was feeling less confident than he had

been previously. He thought Micheil’s expressive face would be easy

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to read, but he was wrong. Plus, Micheil did have a lot of luck in the
cards he was drawn. He told Serywn he had always had luck in games
of chance.

Both Princes were so immersed in their game that they didn’t

notice the time go by. It was well past sunset, and it would normally
be nearing the time when they would retire to their chambers.

It was the last hand, and both the players were betting higher and

higher until they were down to their last few coins. Micheil giggled a
little, and Serywn smirked. He was sure he had a winning hand this
time. The Fire Prince picked up his last few coins and threw them into
the large pile. Serywn eyed the pile for a second and then picked up
the last of his own coins and threw them in.

The two men stared at each other for a few seconds, and then

Micheil displayed his cards. Serywn threw his cards down on the
table, but not in an angry way. He had a smile on his face when he did
it. “Lucky bastard,” he said with a small hint of affection.

“That I am,” replied Micheil, as he gathered the money and put it

in his large green velvet pouch. When the money was in there, he
turned to smile at Serywn, putting his elbows on the table and leaning
forward casually. “So,” he said. “Tell me, why do you want to marry
me?” Serywn was struck by the question. “It’s all right, I want you to
answer honestly.”

“All right. Well, first of all, my brother wanted me to get married,

and I wasn’t keen on the idea. In all honesty, when Lady Catherine
told me about the Tests of Worth, I saw it as a way out.”

“But now?”
“Now I feel like you may be exactly what I need, and when I think

about spending the rest of my life with you, I can’t help but smile,
which is something I find hard to do but something I do a lot when
I’m around you.”

Micheil smiled and leaned back in his seat again. “That’s a good

answer. So, tell me, why does your brother want you to marry?”

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59

“Well, as you know, I go on a lot of campaigns, and Cadeyrn is a

peaceful soul. He thinks marriage will make me settle down. I think
his theory is if someone becomes my Lord and Master then I’ll stop
going on so many campaigns, because he’s afraid the day will come
when I won’t come back.”

Micheil laughed heartily. “There is no one on this earth who has

the balls to be your Lord and Master.”

Serywn couldn’t help but chuckle at that. They sat in silence for a

few seconds until Micheil said, “Look how long past sunset it is. I
think it is time for us to retire.” The Fire Prince was about to get up
when Serywn grabbed his knee under the table and looked him
straight in the eye.

“May I come to your bed tonight?” the Lightning Prince

whispered.

Prince Micheil sat silent and stunned for a few seconds and then

got a tiny smile on his lips. He reached across the table and gently
took the back of Serywn’s head, leaning over to whisper, “Go to your
chambers, dismiss the servants, change into your nightwear, and
douse the lamps. Then come to my room. It is in the corridor next to
yours, third door on the left.”

After whispering that, he let go of Serywn and exited the study.

The Lightning Prince sat there quite stunned at Micheil’s naturally
commanding tone. He had never heard the blond give orders before,
and his voice sounded so powerful. Serywn soon found himself
standing up and moving to obey.

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Chapter Five

The battle-hardened Prince’s heart had never beaten so fast. Not

even when he was in the midst of a ferocious battle. But as he headed
to the bedroom of the Fire Prince, a man whose hand in marriage he
was fighting for, it pounded rapidly in his chest. He opened the door
and scanned the room. He couldn’t see Micheil. The room was even
more luxurious than his own. It was decorated with the royal colour of
sunset red, which at times looked slightly orange. The dim lighting of
the fire and a few torches gave the room even more of a fiery feel to
it. There was a door which led to a bathroom and another door which
led to a dressing room. There was a small portrait of a redheaded
woman on the table next to the door. She was beautiful. Her hair was
nearly the same colour of Micheil’s room. One might actually think
she was put there just to set the mood, but as Serywn looked closer,
he started to see familiar features in this woman. She had the same
shape of face as Micheil as well as the same shape of eyes, but most
importantly, she had the same ever-present cheeky expression that
Micheil had. That must be Queen Freda, Micheil’s mother, thought
Serywn.

The Prince walked toward the bed and was about to turn around to

call for Micheil when he felt strong muscular arms wrap around his
shoulders and waist. Serywn took a second to wonder how someone
as loud as the Fire Prince could be so damn stealthy, but he quickly
disregarded those musings in favour of leaning into the warm body
that was pressed up against him.

Serywn wore black sleeping trousers and a loose white tunic.

Serywn liked to sleep naked, but if he had to wear something to bed,

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61

then he would wear as little as he possibly could. He only put on the
tunic in case he came across someone on his way to Micheil’s room.
Now he wished he had risked it, if only to feel Micheil’s hard abs
pressed against his bare back. The Fire Prince wasted no time. As
soon as Serywn arched into his touch, he moved the neck of the tunic
to the side with his teeth and started nibbling at the sensitive junction
between neck and shoulder. The Lightning Prince knew he had never
felt this way before. He felt his knees turn to water and heard a soft
gasp emit from his lips. He was always the one drawing gasps from
others, always the one making others not able to stand properly. This
was new to him.

Micheil didn’t stop there. He slid a warm hand under Serywn’s

tunic and teased his stomach muscles. When the latter began to
squirm, Micheil slid his hand farther up and teased Serywn’s nipple.
The raven moaned and arched into Micheil’s touch. The blond started
to kiss upward until he reached Serywn’s ear. He ran his tongue
lightly over the shell of the ear, emitting another gasp from the man in
his arms. He nibbled on the lobe for a few minutes before freeing the
sensitive skin from between his teeth and removing his hand from
under Serywn’s tunic, drawing a small noise of protest from the
raven. “Remove your tunic and trousers, and get on your knees.”

The command wasn’t harsh or demanding, but it was firm, and

Serywn found himself hastening to obey. When he was naked, he
finally turned around to look at Micheil. The Fire Prince was naked,
and in the dim, almost romantic, lighting, he looked breathtaking. The
way the reflection of the fire danced on his tanned skin was
bewitching, and Serywn found himself lost staring at the Prince. He
dropped to his knees without taking his eyes away from Micheil’s.

Micheil was hard, and he grew harder as he took a small step

toward Serywn and gently took a chunk of black hair in his grasp.
“God, you look amazing. I’m willing to bet this is the first time
you’ve ever been on your knees for someone in this situation.”

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Serywn almost nodded, but a small element of his pride stopped

him. But compared to his desire, his pride was barely even
background noise anymore. Serywn had sucked plenty of his lovers’
cocks, but they had always been on their backs with him on top of
them. Serywn looked up at Micheil and was surprised to find himself
waiting for instruction. Micheil pulled Serywn’s face closer to his
cock, and Serywn opened his mouth without hesitation and took
Micheil’s large cock in his mouth. This was by far the biggest Serywn
had ever seen. It took all he had not to gag, but he kept his composure
and swirled his tongue around the head and sucked with more effort
than he had ever given before. He found himself startled by the fact
that he wanted to please this man more than he wanted pleasure
himself. That was strange.

“God, you’re amazing,” gasped Micheil, and then he pulled the

raven away and said, “Get on the bed.”

The Lightning Prince was almost as hard as the man he had just

sucked off. He had never gotten this hard from just giving a blow job
before, and as Micheil climbed on top of him and leaned down to bite
and suck at his nipple, Serywn thought he might go out of his mind.
Micheil’s hands traveled, exploring every inch of Serywn’s body. He
pulled back to stare at the raven, who at that moment could barely see
straight. “God, Serywn, you are so fucking beautiful. I just want to
shove my cock into your gorgeous ass right now.” The breathing of
both the men quickened at these words, and Micheil’s hand reached
under Serywn to cup the raven’s ass. “God, your ass is so taut and
firm.” The other hand stroked Serywn’s thigh, and Micheil lowered
his face so that his lips were almost touching Serywn and their
breathing was in sync.

“Do it.” Serywn almost couldn’t get the words out. “Do it. Fuck

me now.” It came out as a choked cry, but it was more than enough.

Micheil removed his right hand from Serywn’s thigh and brought

it to the raven’s mouth. “Suck,” he ordered gently.

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63

Serywn obeyed, taking Micheil’s three fingers into his mouth and

coating them with saliva. Micheil used his free hand to lift Serywn’s
ass off the bed. The latter spread his legs unconsciously. The Fire
Prince removed his fingers from Serywn’s mouth and slowly pushed
one into Serywn’s entrance. “Fuck, Serywn, you’re so tight.”

“I’ve...I’ve never...” Micheil added a second finger, and Serywn

lost his words.

“What, Serywn?” Micheil asked gently.
“No one’s ever fucked me before,” he gasped. “I’ve always...”
As a third finger was added, Serywn found that he couldn’t finish.

All he could focus on was what the Fire Prince was doing. “Fuck,
yes,” grunted Micheil through gritted teeth. “So I’m the only one to
pound into this gorgeous, firm ass of yours?”

“Yes, yes. You...you...only you. Please, please fuck me, my

Lord.”

Serywn would have been shocked at his calling Micheil “my

Lord” like he acknowledged him as his King, but he didn’t have time.
As soon as Serywn said that, Micheil shoved his cock firmly into
Serywn’s ass, and the man on his back called out in ecstasy. Micheil
gave Serywn a few seconds to adjust, then he started fucking him
mercilessly. Serywn called out again and again as Micheil hit his
prostate. Serywn tried to reach for his cock, but Micheil grabbed his
wrists. “Please,” Serywn begged.

“Not yet, my Prince. I want you to come with me. I want to see

you come for me.”

Serywn let his wrists go limp in Micheil’s grasp as a sign of

resignation. Micheil continued to fuck the raven’s ass hard and fast.
He then took ahold of Serywn’s cock and stroked it until Serywn
screamed with pleasure, and a stream of cum jetted out from his cock.
Then Micheil’s own orgasm was released, and he cried out in pleasure
as a hazy Serywn whispered, “I love you.”

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Serywn didn’t have time to deliberate on whether or not he had

actually said it out loud, as Micheil collapsed on top of him and he
drifted off to sleep in seconds.

* * * *

When Serywn awoke the following morning, it was almost past

noon. The sun seemed to be approaching its midpoint. The Lightning
Prince rolled over on the large, luxurious bed and suddenly
remembered that this wasn’t his room. The pain in his backside was
reminder enough of what had happened last night, but Prince Micheil
was not in the bed with him. He must have been called for his royal
duties long ago and decided against waking Serywn.

Serywn looked at the table next to Prince Micheil’s bed and saw a

tray of breakfast foods on it along with a note. Serywn sat up, wincing
as he did, and took the tray, putting it onto his lap. He took the note
and read Micheil’s rather scrawl-like handwriting.

Serywn,
I would have woken you up this morning, but you looked so

content, and I thought, “Who am I to disturb such peace?” My father
has informed me that the results ceremony of the Tests of Worth will
take place an hour before dinner. We are not to see each other today
until then, not that I could. I have got so much work to do I hardly
believe my father has left any time open for this ceremony. There is
breakfast for you, as I know you prefer to be served in bed. I suppose
it is one of the few princely luxuries you allow yourself.

When I first met you, I thought you were a bastard. I have met a

lot of Princes and Princesses who believe their country is there to
serve them rather than the other way around, but I came to realize
very quickly that you were nothing like that. Your country is precious
to you, and your life belongs to your people. The Lightning Country is
lucky to have you as their prince, and I’m not supposed to say this as

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65

it is seen as improper to show favour to any one competitor of the
tests, but I hope with all my heart that my Country of Fire will one
day soon become so lucky as to have you as their Prince.

If you tire of waiting for the evening to come, then Logan trains

my men down in the courtyard most afternoons as I don’t get to be
there with them as much as I’d like. Contrary to him getting knocked
on his ass when we first met, he truly is my best soldier, and I hope
one day he will be the one to assist me in commanding my army.

Always in my heart, Prince Micheil

Serywn held the note in his hands as if it were the most precious

thing he had ever been in possession of. He read it over and over
while he ate breakfast, taking in every word. Micheil wanted him to
pass these tests. Which meant Micheil wanted him by his side. A
happiness filled Serywn like never before.

When he finished his meal, he climbed off the large bed, replaced

the clothes he had worn when venturing to Micheil’s room the night
before, and made his way back to his assigned chambers.

Thoughts of the night before filled his mind, and he found it

difficult to believe that they actually happened. Serywn was loath to
shower because he didn’t wish to wash the scent of Micheil that still
lingered on his skin away, so he decided to leave it until he needed to
get ready for the ceremony.

Serywn decided to go down to see Micheil’s servant Logan. From

what he had heard from Amatheon, the two were quite alike. He made
his way down to the courtyard where he and Micheil first met. The
men were out and training hard, but with the same contented smiles
they were wearing when he first saw them. Serywn’s eyes searched
for Logan, but he didn’t have to search for long. He saw the smiling
brunet amongst the soldiers giving out training instructions. He didn’t
call out to Logan. He just decided to wait until the man’s attention
was on him.

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The Lightning Prince didn’t have to wait long. The minute the

soldier saw him, he got a huge grin on his face and ambled over to
him. “So, you are Prince Serywn, are you? His Highness Prince
Micheil has talked a lot about you.”

“I am, and you shouldn’t believe everything you hear.”
Logan gave a hearty laugh and looked Serywn straight in the eye,

“So, you’re not the best fuck he ever had?”

Serywn’s eyes snapped up to Logan’s laughing ones. Micheil

hadn’t told Logan about the night they had spent together. He didn’t
think Micheil was the type to talk about his love life. Logan stayed
silent for a few seconds and then burst into laughter. “Well, that
answers my question.”

Serywn became angry and demanded, “And what question is that,

pray tell?”

Logan’s infuriating smile just refused to leave his countenance.

“Micheil never tells me anything about his lovers. I am forced to
guess. I was pretty sure the minute I saw you two fighting that you
would end up in his bed. I just had to find out for sure, and the look
on your face said it all.”

“His Highness certainly has very disrespectful servants.”
Logan laughed again. “Yeah, I guess he does, but hanging around

Prince Micheil, you become too laid back to bother with etiquette.
Listen, Your Highness, you are welcome to join us for sparring,
though from what I’ve seen of you and Prince Micheil, none of us
stand a chance against you.”

Serywn smiled. “Micheil tells me you are a very decent soldier. I

would like to find out for myself if that is true, and remember, I have
spent a great portion of my life among the best soldiers of the world.”

“I’ll try to live up.”
Logan grabbed a sword, and Serywn drew his own from his back.

He had left his mother’s sword in his room, only to be used in true
battle. The two warriors started slowly, as if testing each other, and
then it got heavier. Logan was more than holding his own, but it

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67

became clear that if Serywn kept stepping it up then there was no
chance of Logan winning. However, the cunning young man had his
own methods of getting in hits.

He smiled and turned his head toward the Prince he was at that

moment fighting. “So tell me, what exactly was Prince Micheil like in
bed?”

Serywn forgot himself for half a second as he heard the question,

but that was all the soldier needed, and he hit Serywn’s side with the
flat of his blade. “Like I said, he never tells me anything.”

“That’s not your business, soldier.”
“That good, huh?”
It was in that moment that Serywn became frustrated in very much

the same way he became frustrated with Micheil. These two had
obviously known each other for a very long time. Despite the
impertinent questions, Serywn rather enjoyed himself with Logan. As
it began to approach mid-afternoon, Logan ordered the soldiers to tidy
up and go relax. He took Serywn’s hand and shook it, then stood back
and bowed. “I wish you all the luck in my heart for the results of the
Tests of Worth tonight, Sire.”

Serywn made his way back to his room to shower, all the while

thinking about the Kingdom and its people that would soon be his
were he to pass these tests. As he let the warm water cascade off his
body, he thought of how he would feel were he to be told that he had
not passed. He had no desire to marry anyone before he came there,
but he decided that if he were told he couldn’t marry Micheil, then he
would not want to marry anyone. He had entered these tests
halfheartedly, but now these results meant the world to him.

The warrior prince had never cared very much about his

appearance unless he needed to make a good impression, and even
then he had not been as concerned about his image as he was right
then. He knew without vanity that he looked good in everything, but
he had to look perfect tonight. Then he heard Micheil’s voice telling
him he was perfect. Micheil’s breathy voice in the throes of passion

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telling him he was gorgeous. He had just wished the Fire Prince had
told him he loved him. Perhaps given time, the Fire Prince would
grow to love him. He did hint that he wanted Serywn to pass these
tests.

Eventually, Serywn chose black velvet trousers and a midnight

blue silk tunic and a matching sash. He pulled on his boots and
strapped his mother’s sword to his side.

He didn’t have to wait long before a sentry entered and told him

that it was time, and he should follow him to the great hall. The
Prince’s heart beat a thousand miles an hour and got faster as he
approached the large door. It was opened for him, and the two guards
bowed as he entered. The room was full of court members and
servants as well as people like Catherine and Tsunna. His brother
smiled at him from the bottom of the podium looking rather
confident, and Logan and Amatheon were behind Micheil, who was
standing next to his father’s throne. He looked every inch a Prince. He
was dressed in sky blue trousers and a midnight blue tunic that looked
like it was specially made in Serywn’s family colour. He was also
wearing the sash Serywn had given him as his gift for the first test.
The Lightning Prince was tempted to take this as a good sign, but he
would never get his hopes up.

* * * *

Micheil’s father smiled as Serywn ascended the stairs in a

majestic fashion and knelt in front of Micheil waiting for the verdict.
The King was suddenly reminded of his own spouse.

The refugees from the Whirlpool Country came to his land

seeking shelter. There weren’t many of them. Twenty at the most, but
a woman among them claimed she was the Princess of the Whirlpool
Country and asked for an audience to plead her cause for her people.
Lear was made King when he was very young. He didn’t even
remember his parents. He was raised by a councilman known as

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69

Jiraiya and assumed supreme command before he hit twenty. At this
time, he hadn’t even been looking for a spouse, but when the
charismatic redhead made her way into his court, he was spellbound.
He knew by the law of the land she would have to pass the Tests of
Worth before he could marry her, but after inviting her to dinner and
talking to her on equal terms, he decided he would do whatever he
could to make her his wife.

Unfortunately for the young King, she wasn’t very impressed with

him when they first met. If he was going to catch her eye, he was
going to have to step up his game. He offered her the chance to take
the Tests of Worth saying that, if she became his wife, it would secure
a place in this country for the Whirlpool refugees and they wouldn’t
be discriminated against while they lived here. To Lear’s despair,
Freda didn’t seem very happy with that, but she accepted for the sake
of her people.

The wild-hearted Princess was not easily impressed, but the Tests

of Worth were designed to show the skills of the heir as well as the
worthiness of the spouse. The first thing she was tested on was
intelligence. Lear’s friend, Shikaku, who possessed a brain
unparalleled, conveyed to him that she certainly possessed the mind
of a powerful Princess.

Even though it wasn’t needed, Lear decided to talk to her himself

and convey some of his intelligence and morals. When he saw her
smile at him and his love for his country, his heart soared, and when
she laughed at his quick wit, he felt for the first time that he actually
stood a chance of gaining her love.

The next tests she was to take were those of strength, speed, and

power. Freda became more and more entranced by the young King
and his many talents as well as his kindness. The gift she gave to him
was a locket that was blessed by the sacred pool of her country and
had been in the possession of heirs of the Whirlpool since the
country’s founding. She said, by all rights, it now belonged to him as
did her heart. It was in that moment that Lear truly believed Freda

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loved him back. She had placed a lock of her hair inside after hearing
him say how much he admired it. The Fire King still kept the locket
around his neck at all times, and as he saw Serywn take his place in
front of the throne, Lear knew history was ready to repeat itself.

* * * *

“Lords, ladies, and gentlemen, we are here to witness the verdict

of the Tests of Worth. Prince Serywn of the Lightning Country has
come a long way to take part in this ancient tradition we have. Many
of you will remember the day when Queen Freda first walked into this
court and the happiness she brought to our country as a result. Yes,
our Queen gave us many gifts during her reign, but the greatest gift of
all was that of our Prince, who is now in the same position I was all
those years ago.” He turned to look at Serywn. “My young Prince,
you have shown great virtues during your stay in our country. You
showed great wealth when asked to present my son with a gift, as
only a truly virtuous person would know that wealth extends far
beyond material riches. The most important wealth is the riches of the
heart, and the gift of your mother’s sash proved to us all that you
understand that. You showed great speed, as no one has ever even
come close to beating our Prince in a foot or boat race. You showed
power and strength during your fight, which I hardly need to remind
anyone of as it has spread far and wide through the lands in under a
week.”

Serywn was starting to piece together the things that had

happened during his stay there. The test where he had to present the
prince with a gift was a test of wealth. The race was obviously a test
of speed, and the fight was to test both strength and power. According
to the King’s speech, he had passed them, but what about generosity,
intelligence, and love? When had he been tested on them?

“Our own Amatheon, whose mind like his father’s before him

outdoes all others, has deemed you worthy of his Prince’s hand. He

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71

has reported to me that your intelligence is truly that of a Prince, but
that is not all we look for when he seek intelligence. If that were true,
then we could have just judged your worthiness by the number of
conquests you have made at such a tender age. We also look for
wisdom, and you are wise enough to know that if your country needed
you, you should be there. In my opinion, drawn from Amatheon’s
repetition of your words, you have wisdom that is rare in someone so
young.”

Serywn let out a large breath. When the King said, “But,” Serywn

thought he might have screwed up in some fashion, but apparently,
his love for his country had proved him wise enough to be worthy of a
Prince. Serywn just wished the King would hurry up and tell him if he
had passed or failed already.

“Our country, despite its reputation, does struggle to make ends

meet sometimes, and our people, like many others, work from dawn
until dusk to secure as much as they can for their families. People
who possess money and power have a responsibility to use their gifts
to help others, and you, Prince Serywn, have proven to our people that
you are more than willing to use what you possess to help them.”

Serywn remembered his day in the market with Amatheon and his

talk with Micheil when he confessed to the Prince that he realised that
he had power and wealth for a reason, to help those who didn’t. The
Lightning Prince almost smiled, as he thought he had passed all the
tests, but then he noticed there was one missing, and the King didn’t
look ready to say any more.

“Sire, is there not one more test that has yet to be judged?”
Lear smiled and turned to his son. “That is for Prince Micheil to

judge.”

Micheil tilted Serywn’s chin so that the other man was looking

him in the eye. “My Prince, I must first say that Lady Catherine’s
prediction of our first meeting was nothing more than a prophecy. We
did knock heads, and we strived through these tests to outdo each
other, and I have a feeling that there will never be a true winner

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because we are perfect for each other. Whatever one of us doesn’t
possess, the other does. I don’t know when in this strange journey I
started loving you, but all I know is I do, and I know with all my heart
that I will never cease to love you.” Micheil gestured to Amatheon,
and the servant opened the box he was holding. It contained a silver
crown much like Micheil’s, only there was a black onyx in the centre.
The Fire Prince bent down and placed it on Serywn’s head, then
grabbed the Lightning Prince’s shoulders, pulling him to his feet. He
leaned in and whispered, “It is too late to back out now. You have my
heart, and I will not let you leave. Not that I believe you will. I heard
the words come from your mouth last night telling me you loved me. I
knew it was true, and I know now I’ll never let you go.” Micheil then
pulled back and turned Serywn around to face the people of the court.
The King then took the sacred sash and tied it around Micheil and
Serywn’s joined hands. This sash was a symbol of marriage. Once
two people had been tied together with it, they were by the law of
heaven partners in love and in life.

“I present to you, my people, Serywn. Now Prince of our great

Fire Country.” Micheil’s proud shout caused a chaotic applause in the
great hall that lasted over twenty minutes.

Serywn looked at Cadeyrn and saw a tear make its way down his

older brother’s face. Catherine openly wept with sheer joy. Tsunna
stood next to her student, looking proudly at the blond prince in front
of her. Logan and Amatheon beamed. Lear just looked at his son with
happiness. All Serywn could do was look at Micheil. He knew that
the sash, placed around their hands by someone who was authorised
to perform marriage, meant that they were now bound together
forever. Serywn’s heart sang the moment it finally hit him that
Micheil loved him and that he hadn’t imagined what he had called out
while he was in the throes of passion with him. He truly loved him
back, and when the Fire Prince leaned in and whispered all the things
he would do to Serywn when they finally escaped the courtroom, the

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73

Lightning Prince shivered all over and silently prayed that the
applause would stop soon as his trousers were not exactly loose.

Serywn felt the urgency of his lover as soon as Prince Micheil

closed the door to his bedchamber behind him. The larger man had
grabbed him by the arms and lifted him clean off the ground. Their
ceremonial robes were removed with such haste that Serywn started
to look at them as nothing more than an annoyance.

All he wanted to feel against his skin was his husband’s warm

body.

As Micheil pressed his lips to Serywn’s own, the latter realised

that this was the first time the Fire Country’s prince had ever kissed
him, and he melted into the sensation and surrendered to Micheil’s
eager tongue. Serywn had been kissed before, but for him kissing was
nothing more than a prelude to sex. But right now, all Serywn could
think of was what was happening now and how it was making him
feel. Kissing had never been this good, never.

Micheil’s chapped lips were making bruises on Serywn’s skin and

the latter didn’t even care. If he was going to be marked, then let the
world know he belonged to this man. As Micheil’s strong arms pulled
him closer and his tongue tangled with Serywn’s own, the Lightning
Prince completely forgot how to breathe.

Micheil finally pulled away from his lover and looked him in the

eye. “Tell me you’re mine,” he said with only the slightest hint of
desperation.

The absurdity of the request nearly made Serywn burst into

laughter. Of course he was Micheil’s. Why else would he have
married him? But he just smiled and said, “I am yours,” in nothing
more than a whisper. “I am yours and you are mine.”

The simple phrase seemed to undo Micheil and he plunged into

Serywn’s mouth again and moved toward the bed until Serywn’s back
hit the sheets. Micheil’s hand found his husband’s cock and
immediately started stroking it hard and fast. That was when Serywn
knew the urgency of this act. They just needed to feel each other.

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They had their entire lives to learn every arch, every freckle, and
every scar on each other’s bodies, but right now they would just
consummate their union and become one.

Micheil’s mouth left Serywn’s to travel downwards until it found

a nipple. Serywn gasped and sucked in as much air as he could when
he felt lips and tongue and teeth make contact with the sensitive skin.

“I love you, my prince,” said Micheil, as he suckled and tasted his

husband like he never would again. “I know I will always love you.”

Serywn didn’t know what to say, he couldn’t speak, could barely

breathe, and when Micheil’s mouth made contact with his cock he
nearly blacked out.

The dark-haired prince gasped and moaned and writhed, and this

seemed to encourage his husband very much. He licked up and down
with his tongue, encircling the head and kissing the tip. He then
sealed his lips around the head and started moving his head up and
down.

“Oh, heavens above,” cried Serywn, and he instinctively grabbed

his husband’s golden hair, pulling hard.

Serywn then heard a chuckle. “You are certainly eager,” said

Micheil, who had removed his mouth from Serywn’s aching cock.
“Are you ready for me to make you mine?”

“I am already yours,” cried Serywn wantonly, desperate for

Micheil to start paying attention to his body again.

“Very well, my prince,” and with those words he grabbed one of

Serywn’s legs and placed it on his shoulder, kissed the ankle, and then
slid his cock into Serywn’s waiting hole.

It was a struggle, seeing as Serywn was not prepared, and the

dark-haired prince let out a cry of pain. Micheil halted and stared
down at his lover worriedly. “Please don’t stop. Don’t stop,” Serywn
gasped.

Micheil obliged, saying, “As you wish, my prince,” and leaned

down to gently kiss Serywn’s forehead as he thrust in and out of him.

Tests of Worth

75

Serywn felt pain and pleasure mixed into one and it was undoing

him. That fact that the only man he had ever managed to see himself
loving was the one fucking him only made it better. Serywn felt like
he was in heaven. He had never felt this wonderful in his life.

“Serywn,” gasped Micheil in an earnest voice.
“Please have mercy, my lord,” screamed Serywn in desperation.

“I can’t take it anymore.”

Micheil didn’t say a word, just grabbed Serywn’s cock and

stroked in time with his thrusts.

“My lord, I’m going to come.” Tears started to escape from

Serywn’s eyes as he squeezed them tightly.

“Say my name, Serywn. I want to hear you say my name when

you come.”

“MICHEIL!” Serywn screamed as he climaxed into his husband’s

hand.

The dark-haired prince could honestly say that he had never had

such an intense orgasm in his life. In fact, it was so intense it bordered
on unbearable, so unbearable that Serywn felt blackness cloud his
vision and consciousness slip through his grasp.

Serywn didn’t know how long he had been unconscious, but when

he came to, he was in his husband’s arms, where he would remain
forever.

He looked at Micheil, who had drifted into sleep, and he fell a

little bit more in love with the man. He was utterly content to lie there
with him for eternity, but he knew that now that he was a consort of
the Fire Country they both had responsibilities to attend to. Serywn
looked out of the window and saw that the beautiful Fire Country sun
was setting. The dark-haired prince smiled and looked down at his
husband again. Responsibilities would come soon, but right now he
would have this moment with Micheil.

After all the wonderful things Serywn had heard about this prince

and how he affected everyone’s lives, the dark-haired prince
wondered if he was worthy of him. Yes, the Tests of Worth had

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Holly Meadowes

proven that he was worthy of his hand, but was he worthy of his love?
Serywn was determined that he was going to spend the rest of his life
proving he was worthy of Micheil’s kind and wise heart.

THE END

HOLLYMEADOWES.UCOZ.COM

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Holly Meadowes is writer living in Scotland. She is a journalist

and a novelist with an HNC qualification in Professional Writing. At
the age of twelve, Meadowes started writing stories as a way to enter
weird and wonderful fictional worlds, and since then she has
continued feeding her passion for writing by creating as many new
and exciting worlds and characters as she can. Her first book is Tests
of Worth, and she is currently working on two others.

Passionate about many things including writing and her Scottish

heritage, Meadowes travels the length and breadth of the country,
writing and taking in everything she can.

For all titles by Holly Meadowes, please visit

http://www.bookstrand.com/holly-meadowes

Siren Publishing, Inc.

www.SirenPublishing.com