Chapter 6: Arrows and Affection
The morning sun filtered through the canopy of the Great Tree, casting dappled light across the training grounds on the outskirts of the village. Birds sang in the branches overhead, and the faint rustle of leaves provided a soothing backdrop to the rhythmic twang of bowstrings. Rayan had come here to clear his mind after the whirlwind of the previous day, but he wasn't alone. Natasha had insisted on joining him, her competitive spirit ignited by the new dynamics in his life.
"Alright, Your Highness," Natasha said, her voice laced with playful mockery as she handed him a finely crafted elven bow. Her silver hair was tied back in a practical braid, but a few strands escaped, framing her sharp features. She wore a fitted tunic and leggings that accentuated her athletic build, a reminder of the countless adventures they'd shared as kids. "Let's see if that princely title has improved your shot. Or are you just a charming prince who still couldn't hit a broadside barn?"
Rayan smirked, taking the bow and feeling its familiar weight. At 400, he was young by elven standards, but his body was honed from years of survival training. "Careful, Nat. I might surprise you." He notched an arrow, drawing the string back with steady hands. The target—a wooden post carved with ancient runes—stood fifty paces away. He released, and the arrow whistled through the air, embedding itself just shy of the center.
Natasha whistled appreciatively, though her grin was teasing. "Not bad, but I've seen better from the village kids." She stepped up beside him, her shoulder brushing his. "Watch and learn." With fluid grace, she drew her own bow, her form perfect as she loosed the arrow. It struck dead center, splitting Rayan's in half. She turned to him, eyes sparkling. "That's how a real archer does it. Your 'princely aim' needs work—maybe you're distracted by all those maids fawning over you?"
Rayan laughed, the sound genuine and freeing. "Don't tell me you are Jealous with all those attention I get ?" But there was a spark in his eyes which had been lost for along time after the tragedy.
She whispered in low voice, "he's still just a dumb brat." He notched another arrow, this time adjusting his stance to mimic hers. As he drew back, Natasha moved closer, her hand guiding his elbow.
"Here," she murmured, her touch light but electric. "Keep your arm steady. Like this." Her body pressed against his side, and Rayan felt the warmth of her, the subtle scent of wildflowers clinging to her skin. His next shot flew true, hitting near the center. Natasha pulled back, her cheeks faintly pink, but her tone remained playful. "See? A little motivation goes a long way. What's next—shall I reward you with a kiss for each bullseye?"
Before Rayan could respond with a witty retort, the bowstring snapped back harder than expected on his next draw, grazing his forearm with a sharp sting. He hissed in pain, dropping the bow as a thin line of blood welled up on his skin. "Damn," he muttered, shaking his arm.
Natasha's teasing vanished in an instant, replaced by concern. "Rayan! Let me see." She guided him to a nearby fallen log, sitting him down and examining the wound. "It's not deep, but we should get Toha. She's better at this than I am."
As if summoned by the mention of her name, Toha emerged from the treeline, carrying a small basket of herbs. Her gentle nature was evident in her soft steps and the way her dark hair fell in waves around her face. She wore a simple healer's robe, embroidered with symbols of restoration. Her voice calm and soothing. "What happened?"
Natasha explained quickly, stepping aside as Toha knelt beside Rayan. Her fingers were cool and steady as she cleaned the wound with a damp cloth from her basket. "It's just a scrape," she assured him, her eyes meeting his with a warmth that made his pulse quicken. As she applied a healing salve, her touch lingered, tracing the lines of his arm with unintended tenderness. A faint glow of magic emanated from her hands, knitting the skin back together seamlessly.
Rayan watched her, mesmerized. "You're amazing at this, Toha. I don't know what I'd do without you." His voice was softer than intended allowing his vulnerability to show.
Toha blushed, her hands pausing. "you are more amazing than I, Rayan," she confessed, her voice barely above a whisper. "Even when we were kids, you were so brave—charging into danger recklessly. " Her eyes held his."Are you praising me or making fun of me?" She replied, "Both" and smiled. Somehow they grew closer than before. Like something was pulling them.
Natasha, watching from a short distance, crossed her arms with a smirk, though there was a hint of jealousy in her expression. "Aw, look at you two. Should I leave and give you a moment or two?" But she stayed, her presence adding a layer of comfortable familiarity to the intimate exchange.
Rayan reached out, gently squeezing Toha's hand. "Thank you, Toha." Then looked at Natasha," Both of you." His confidence was building, brick by brick, fueled by their support and the budding chemistry that crackled in the air.
The moment was shattered by the sound of hurried footsteps. A scout, a young elf named Elara, burst into the clearing, her face etched with urgency. She bowed quickly, catching her breath. "Prince Rayan! Forgive the interruption, but we've found signs of human activity near the western border—fresh tracks, camp remnants. They're closer than we've seen in years, perhaps scouting our defenses. Can you please inform Queen about this."
Rayan's expression hardened, the romantic haze giving way to the weight of his responsibilities. He stood, his forearm already healed, and nodded. "Closer than expected... We can't ignore this." He turned to Natasha and Toha, his voice firm. "Gather a small patrol team. We'll investigate at dusk. Natasha, your archery will be key. Toha, prepare healing supplies—we might need them."
Natasha's eyes lit with excitement, her competitive edge sharpening. "Finally, some real action. Don't worry, my prince—I'll watch your back." She gave him a wink, lightening the mood.
Toha nodded, her supportive nature shining through. "But, Rayan. Didn't he said only to inform the queen" Her hand brushed his arm one last time, a silent promise.
"Queen might have already heard it.Why not we take care of the small matter?"
As the scout departed to spread the word, Rayan gazed toward the western horizon, where the forest thickened into unknown territory. The Great Tree's leaves rustled above, as if whispering secrets of the dangers ahead. The human threat loomed, a mystery that stirred curiosity and resolve in his heart, while the bonds with Natasha and Toha grew stronger, weaving the first threads of his harem's intricate tapestry.