Far in the distance Dorian could make out the shape of a few guards. Just how long was he out for? He didn't notice any carriages or guards entering the castle, but he was also far from the castle to even see anyone go in. The prince was curious as to why a few guards were sent to fetch him so early. Usually he would be back in time, so there must be something interesting back inside the castle or he had simply lost track of time. He was prone to do so once in a blue moon. He remembered when he had first returned late as a child and discovered that a troop of guards were sent out to search for him.

With the sound of splashes coming from the shore, Dorian droned out the guards' conversation. Knowing that most of them rambled on about boring topics, such as the wine they smuggled or the whores they bedded. But upon hearing the words "chess" and "win", Dorian suddenly became interested. Just who is at the castle he wondered. Having an entertainer come by isn't likely due to the war, so perhaps a relative? Or maybe it was one of the knights? The last option would be a prisoner, but he would be highly disappointed. Stooping so low to play with an enemy-the thought disgusted him. But, if he really was as good as the guards made him out to be, maybe seeing him in action wouldn't hurt. Knowing the guards were deeply invested in their talk, he figured he’d think to himself on the way back.

It wasn't until he was inside the fort that he felt excitement bubble up. Staying inside his room reading and studying was entertaining to some degree, but only for so long. Then there was his daily training, and day-by-day he was losing his already thin patience. With the small number of people who knew how to play chess, Dorian had already bested their skills and strategy. He was sure to provoke the guards that played with him, making sure no one was letting him win for the sole reason that he was the prince.