The Infernal : The Rise Of A King (K.TH)

Ch 8: The Steam Of A Rose Bath

Taehyung

''We will depart now.'' I didn't even notice how quickly the sun was starting to set.

I nodded wishing Dawran, Yoongi, Jungkook, and Minjae a farewell. They left us to spread out the town and inform the debated groups about the battle plan we formed. 

Tomorrow. 

Thinking about the moon that will appear, only for the sun to retake its place again starting a new day made my guts twist. I have never once engaged in a battle like this. The fight we had at the palace courtyard still hunted me to this day. The terror and fear that swirled inside my stomach, but I was different then.....and I am different now. 

I'm stronger....confident and as Jimin described it grown with muscle. This time it will be different. 

''She is waiting in your chamber.'' Sheria her words hunted me for the day.

I didn't rush back to my room that instant, no as a matter of fact I stayed up on the main deck avoiding my room at every cost. 

Surely she won't still be there...

''My lord, care for a sparring match?''

It was a blade tapping against my waist snapping me out of my thoughts. A smile crept on my face locking with Yvar his eyes. He was one of Dawran his men...an Infernal. The youngest of the team, but by far one of the most skilled fighters. 

Never once did I win a sparring battle with him, but it was definitely something that topped my list of things I want to achieve. 

I gladly took the sword from him as we both joined the others who rounded up their own teammates to spar. 

I remember how I hated my combat lessons back at the castle. At a certain point the weapon became too heavy for me to lift, I hated getting bruises and especially dirty. Sweating was not something I was really fond of, especially not after an oil-scented bath and some good scrubs of cleaning. As a matter of fact, I was the type of prince to avoid combat lessons, instead, I sneaked out to the garden, to read or head into the kitchens eager to try out some new dishes. 

Whenever I had lessons I would make sure to be early accused, coughing up a lame excuse of a stomach ache, or lack of sleep. Master Ludin would be flabbergasted to see me now, so eager and driven to enhance my combat skills.

''I'll go easy on you, my lord.''

''You might regret doing that.'' We both laughed knowing damn well my cockiness wasn't going to earn me a victory.

-------------------------------------------

Sweat trickled down my hair running down my nose and neck. I was out of breath and came to a halt noticing the moon shining brightly tonight. 

I looked back at the land no horses in sight. 

They still aren't back. 

It wasn't a matter that would be easily displayed in mere hours. Besides now that the people have warmed up to us I suspect that they will be staying for a night of talks and warm meals before getting back. 

My body was burning, aching, and in the need of a bath. 

''Perhaps next time.'' Yvan chuckled as he gave me a rewarding tap against my lower back. 

I lost again. More than once. 

With lazy dragging feet, I guided myself to my chamber. One of the kitchen staff kindly told me they had already prepared a hot bath in advance. I couldn't wait to be soaking into that.