The Sugilite Prince

Sugi sits by the fire while gazing at the amber liquid in his glass, the mask he usually wears discarded at his side. The stranger walks up and waits at the arched doorway with Jeon, the palace guard and personal guardian to the prince.

“My Lord,” the visitor says clearing his throat.

Sugi is mesmerized by the handsome stranger in fancy dress. If he did not know any better he would think he was a lord from another land. How is it that he can look at him and not be affected by the curse?

“Cover your eyes and come in,” Sugi beckons cautiously. He takes this opportunity to examine him closely.

The young man’s walk is sensual and deliberate as if he is aware of how attractive he is. His gaze is on the floor waiting for the prince to speak, not wanting to displease and perhaps be thrown in a dungeon for his blunder.

“Introduce yourself, sir.”

His eyes slide up the prince’s body slowly taking him in. Sugi wonders if the young man is aware that a moment ago he was looking at him with the same admiration he sees in his eyes. He studies the prince with his grey eyes before speaking. His mouth is slightly ajar as if he is about to speak and his eyes hold back mirth.

“I am just astounded to be your guest, your highness, forgive my manners.”

Sugi giggles at the strangeness of the situation. “You still have not told me your name. Do you have something to hide?”

“No, I’m simply Jimon of Kaythana”

“Nice to meet you, Jimon. You clean up well.”

A servant glides into the room to serve them with downcast eyes as is their custom here. He pours a drink for both as they find their seats. The drink helps them relax as they sit quietly enjoying the warmth of the fire. The liquid courage spurs Sugi to talk finally asking something of his reticent and reluctant guest.

“I hope you like your room. Are you comfortable?”

“Yes, of course, but this is temporary right? I am free to go, right?”

Sugi stays quiet. He really doesn’t want him to go and hopes he can make him feel welcome.

“Already you want to leave us?” Sugi says raising his eyebrows.

“No, I appreciate your hospitality. Actually, I never expected it, but I don’t belong here,”

“Well, I think you do.”

“What do you mean?”

“Because I want you to and I get what I want.” He looks at Jimon that can’t believe what he has just heard. Sugi continues trying to explain himself, “I haven’t been able to look someone in the eye in a very long time. That alone tells me you belong here with me. I am very curious about you and your fate is in my hands.”

“But I don’t belong to you. You don’t even know me.”

“Let’s be friends then.”

Jimon’s pov:

I couldn’t help staring at him. I was completely starstruck from the moment I saw those beautiful violet eyes. Although I was drawn to him, I didn’t like the idea of belonging to someone against my will. I have more questions about him than he can possibly have about me.

After a pause Jimon responded. “Since we are friends now, can I ask you a personal question?”

“Sure.”

“Your hair, your eyes, ... are quite captivating. Are you a supernatural creature?” My eyes bore into him challenging him to answer the question.