In training the next day, I search for the princess. I know she is here, learning self-efense in case her guards fail her. Our world can't not afford any weakness. Not even within our royalty. My drill sergeant is making it hard for me to meet her, though. He has not given us a break all morning.

Underneath the brutal sun we sprint laps; one lap human, two laps as a wolf. It's getting hard to keep track, but I think I am on my thirtieth lap. After this, we will run battles against each other as both wolves and humans; learning how to incorporate each's strength to our advantage. Men can use tools. Wolves can use teeth. Learning how to to fight with both on our side, we will become better warriors.

As I am running, I see the princess leave the indoor training cmp. Looking quickly back at my captain, who is not looking my way, I run to her. She recognizes me right away, spins around, and darts into the woods. I tear after her. It is just like my dream in which I chase her and never catch her, but this time, I am gaining ground, and she knows it. She turns around and pounces, pinning me to the ground.

"Leave me alone," she roars, "I do not owe you anything."

"This isn't about that," I manage to spit out. Her claws are digging into my throat. When she hears this, her claws only tighten.

"I saw you with the tiger,"I manage to say. She's so surprised she releases her hold. I get up and shake the dirt off my pelt.

"I don't know what you're talking about,"

"Don't lie. I know it was you."

"You're following me?" She growls, her surprise turning to fury.

"No, I patrol that area."

"I should kill you."

"That's not necessary. I just want to make sure you're safe, and-" I pause, "I want to know why you're meeting with him."

"You know why," she says. "If you saw us, than you know why."

"Than let me raise a deal; I'll keep your secret, if you increase my status. I want to be a member of the royal guard."

She stops to think.

"I want more from you," she finally says.

"What more?" I can not possibly understand what she could want from me.

"Keep that secret, and help me hide another from my father."

"Easy," I say, "it is done."

"It's not so simple," she replies, stepping back. "I'm pregnant."