“From what I hear,” he continues, “Gaumond is the same as those cities but to a greater extent. The people there are welcoming to all types of debauchery, and I’ve been told that His Highness holds his court with copious amounts of drink, smoke and sex. The Warriors of the capitol are also extremely forward and unabashed in their physical affections.”
“I can deal with forward,” I nod, “there’s been plenty of men at our Court who never take the hint.”
Cal grimaces at the comment and shakes his head. “The men and women of Warrior are nothing like what you’ve seen in Bardot. Their forward is different than ours. They pursue their desires out in the open.”
“Then they won’t be too different from Dardar,” I murmur, “much more sensual than I’m used to, but-”
“-When you think of Dardar, multiply it by ten. If the rumors are true, thenthat’swhat we’ll be expecting when we reach Gaumond.”
“Can you explain more?” I turn and hold his gaze earnestly, “because the vision I have in my mind right now can’t be worse than anything you tell me.”
My friend remains silent and gives me a curious look.
“Don’t give me that look,” I roll my eyes, “I’ve seen you with theforwardwomen of southern Warrior, so how much worse can Gaumond be?”
My big friend chuckles and shakes his head, running his hand over his mouth to keep his lips sealed.
“I need to know, Cal,” I push my shoulder into his with a huff, “because right now I’m half expecting to walk into court and be greeted with a night of orgies.”
Cal’s eyes widen in surprise before a deep, booming laugh fills our campsite. I blush and duck my head to my knees, ignoring the curious eyes that turn in our direction.
“Ancients,Alex. Where do you come up with this stuff?”
“Are you telling me it doesn’t happen?” I hiss.
“It does,” Cal nods, still laughing.
“And are we expected to engage?”
“Ancients,no,” he slaps his knee, clearly finding all of this amusing.
I sigh in frustration and shift on the ground, noticing the Prince watching to the two of us over the fire.
“Unless that’s something you want to engage in…” Cal adds, his voice turning softer.
“It’s not,” I shake my head, “I really just wanted to ask if it was expected of us, to watch or participate.”
He nods in understanding. “It may not be something you want, but even if you did, it wouldn’t be anything to be ashamed of. Warriors value honesty in every aspect of life, most importantly, honesty with themselves. Engaging in those activities… its somewhat of an honoring between the people involved. A general understanding that you find them appealing and trust them in all things physical. They’re not shy on how they touch one another, but that engagement always comes with mutual agreement first.”
I draw my legs tighter to my chest and remain quiet, still feeling the Prince’s gaze lingering on us.
“Though I truly don’t think it’s all like that,” Cal adds in thought, “Warriors are also known to be excellent drinkers and gamblers. Fighters, too. Obviously. I expect we’ll see a lot of that at court as well.”
“Do you think you’ll be sought out?” I ask quietly.
“Oh, most definitely,” he flexes his muscles with a smile, “and I’ll welcome it.”
“I think Mana is going to be approached for the same,” I reply, remembering Desmond’s comment about challenging our Discerni friend.
“The use of the kedge is an old weapon that dates back to the time of the Ancients,” Cal nods, “it’s used now as an honor to their names. Not many in the Old World still have the skill to wield it, so yes, I expect Mana will accept a few duels.”
“Orgies, gambling, fighting and drinking,” I sigh and stand up, brushing off my pants as I look down at my friend, “I’m not saying I’m a prude, Cal, but I expect to be the most modest person in Gaumond during our stay.”
Cal stands with me and places a hand on my shoulder.
“As is your right, Alex. No one will force you into anything. Their customs may be different than ours and more out in the open, but that doesn’t mean you have to participate.”
“And for the record,” he squeezes with a smile, “I love the sexy restraint of our people. Not everything has to be shared… or seen.”
