Spring, 1392

It was a cloudy, slightly overcast day when Prince Sfelewi entered the darkened tangles of the Borrego Swamp to check for signs of human presence. The dapple white unicorn strode confidently into the rocky lowlands, seemingly dancing over the terrain on his cloven hooves. Closely but slowly following behind him was his powerful roan guardian, warily watching the forest for signs of trouble.

#My prince, I would advise you to refrain from searching the Nanita Woods. Your mother would want you to remain safe.# The guard warned.

The dapple white unicorn sighed. Prince Sfelewi was the son of the Queen of the Mwelian Forest, Eefewei. Having just become an adult, he wanted to explore his future domain, but his mother the queen had saddled him with a dour and colorless protector named Telsaeli, whose only function seemed to be to keep an eye on him and admonish his actions while they searched for information regarding the new Miscabbard raids. Prince Sfelewi tried his best to slip from under his guardian’s grasp, but Telsaeli was evidently experienced and stubborn, tenaciously following the prince’s steps. At one point, Prince Sfelewi turned to find his guard had a horn stained red with blood.

#The good mother earth, Telsaeli! What happened to you?#

The roan seemed surprised at the response, quickly wiping his horn clean upon some leaves.

#Nothing to worry about my prince. Again I advise you to turn back, for these woods are dangerous.#

The prince shrugged off the warning and laughed.

#Oh it’s fine my protector. It looks like there’s nothing here that you can’t handle.# With a flick of his head, Prince Sfelewi bounded up a fallen log and skipped over a small creek.

#But my prince-#

#What’s the worst that could happen?#

Telsaeli sighed and gamely followed the young prince.

---

Lord Huron-Mighty

From  theroguez!