Part One - The Lovers

After hiking four leagues from her village, Adalina could sense his closeness. She rushed up the hill before her and as she crested the rise in the meadow, there he was. Her heart leapt, the object of all her dreams was less than a hundred-fifty cubits away. She became elated when Mitheas waved at her. She waved back and he threw her a kiss. Her pulse rose as her heart raced. She could barely wait for his strong arms to enfold her once more as his large hands to roamed her body.

She was deeply, hopelessly in love with one it was forbidden for her to be with.

They were meeting, as they often had, in a green meadow beside Caspia Sea, the great inland body of water, located less than a half league from the roadway that meanders between his city and her village. It was a safe meeting place, a location where few traveled, where they could be together, alone, unseen. It was a hideaway where they could make love freely, without fear of discovery.

Recalling how happy he made her and how wonderful he made her feel when she was in his arms, Adalina picked up her pace. She moved faster and faster. Soon, she began to sprint across the meadow, her garments flying off as she discarded her clothing while she ran.

* * * *

Seeing her dashing across the meadow, undressing as she drew closer, Mitheas had to laugh. She was so alive, so vibrant, and so utterly beautiful. She exuded vitality and gaiety. Just watching her rush to him made him feel giddy. He felt a tingly feeling of excitement in his chest and marveled at how happy he'd been since they first met. She made him feel, right now, like the king he was destined to be. It was heartbreaking that he couldn't declare his love for her-that they had to hide their illicit lovemaking.

By the time she reached Mitheas, she was out of breath and naked. Laughing, she playfully jumped into his arms, wrapping her limbs around his neck and waist. Holding her tight, he closed his eyes and kissed her as they spun in a circle. Round and round, they turned until they were almost sick with dizziness, laughing as they fell; each sprawled out on the grass soaking up the warmth, staring into the sky. It was a warm summer day and both suns were high in the heavens.

After their heads had cleared and they stopped laughing, Mitheas rolled onto his side. He reached out and placed his hand over her breast. She closed her eyes and shivered before turning her head toward him, gazing at him with obvious love.