Merrium’s home grew smaller and smaller as Arstel rode away, and every now and then he would steal another glance back, wishing to turn back to be in her presence again. It was so strange, he had only just met her, yet the air around her felt clear and refreshing to him. He smiled to himself, remembering her expression when he kissed her fingers, hearing her heart skip a beat. Such silly creatures, humans were. So interesting, so...quaint. Not at all how he was taught they would be.

He slowed his borrowed horse as he re-entered town. Father will be expecting him back soon, so his encounter with Merrium was a lucky coincidence. It timed out his trip perfectly, as it would be too easy for him to have lost track in the countryside. It was so interesting, how similar it was to his own home despite their different realities.

Arstel left his horse with the stable boys and walked into the king’s estate, where he was greeted by the servants that were staffed there. He dismissed them and made his way to his room, where his mother happened to be waiting.

“Did you enjoy your ride, little one?” she greeted, giving him a warm but stern hug.

“I did, mother,” he hugged back.

“I saw you met with that young lady again today,” she said, and he stiffened. “Be careful not to favor them too much, young Arstel. It can be harmful to them if we grow too close.”

“I understand, mother.”

“Your father has more to discuss with you--don’t protest,” she said when he groaned. “It’s very important you understand the procedures here, you will have to remember and follow them yourself someday.”

“But that’s ages away,” he complained. “And don't their social climates change quickly? Things might even be completely different when it's my time.”

“It’s still important we keep tradition,” she said severely. "Without tradition, chaos will rule. Now go find your father. He should be in the study.”

“Yes mother,” he obliged, and left to find his father. As he did his thoughts flitted back to Merrium. It was such a pity she was taken...a pity more that she was human. Social standings mean nothing when it comes to relationships to his kind. But she was very kind, and didn’t seemed to vie for his favor in her responses. He hoped at least to have a friendship with her, and isn’t that what their visit was for anyway?

Arstel descended the stairs, humming a soft tune as the lightness of her settled within his heart.