[center][img]https://fontmeme.com/permalink/201215/20568753498ac3b3b49c987d41c9e528.png[/img][/center]
[hr]

[color=4851AA]"You'd think at such a prestigious school, they could afford humane transportation."[/color] Kayden muttered as the carriage leaped yet again over what had to be a rock the size of his head. He nearly bumped into Derec's back with his knee, but caught himself on the side of the opened window, seeing his fellow classmates look as miserable as he felt. He wished the teachers had asked the students if any of them could ride a horse. Kayden would be enjoying a bright day rather than this unending nightmare. He could also do without the smell, though whether it was the horses up front, someone's nighttime sweating, or someone decided to perform biological warfare, he couldn't guess. Perhaps that was the smell of peasant up close, though he would like to think he gave them more credit than that. 

The morning had begun delightfully, with a full breakfast and a sword routine in the courtyard. It always helped to practice the basics, his master-of-arms had iterated to him every day. It was why he didn't mind hearing the same boring thing over and over during his history lessons or Michail's military education. Yes, he knew most of what they taught, but he was reminded of crucial aspects and there were a few kernels of new knowledge he did well to note. Though the announcement of a trip had him ready and willing to leap out into the world, seeing it as a grand way to get to know his classmates and hone his combat skills. Now he just wished that the Goddess would show mercy on a handsome, humble prince such as he. He did have to admit he admired the fortitude and restraint of the other students during this haul. 

Once the cart halted, Kayden awaited as patiently as he could for the others to spill out, giving Derec the right of way because he couldn't imagine sitting ass first on the floor of the carriage. Though he did decidedly step out before Auberon just to be petty, even if he chastised himself silently for such a childish notion as soon as the sun kissed his skin again. At that, his mood and demeanor gradually seeped back into the intelligent, skilled, and intensely good looking man that he was. 

[color=4851AA]"Agreed,"[/color] He said, referring to Lienna's declaration. The debonair prince strode up to stand beside her, placing a hand above his eyes to shield the sun so as to better view what the others were looking at. [color=4851AA]"I think an edict on the construction and distribution of carriages is way overdue, judging by our recent journey."[/color] As he spoke, the riders drew nearer. He didn't think they meant harm, but he didn't entirely blame Auberon and goodman Kellen for being concerned. He noted there were two riders, likely fleeing from somewhere. Not that it dismissed them as a danger, mind. Kayden tried to read their expressions and clothing, for he had sharp eyes, but he was somewhat distracted as the sweet girl Imogen found the inclination to leap ahead of the group in the path of the approaching horsemen. 

Kayden blinked, looking at the others and wondering if anyone had the same sinking feeling he did. He gave a harsh sigh. [color=4851AA]"Ugh, dammit."[/color] He breathed, and suddenly realized he was now running. He hoped no one saw him in the act and thought he was charging headlong into combat, because they'd either join him or think him an idiot. Rather he was using his long legs to make good time to Imogen's position, skidding to a stop in front of her. He could feel the riders bearing down on them, but he couldn't just have her here exposed! 

[color=4851AA]"Imogen, we need to go back. This is business for the professors."[/color] He said breathlessly, looking between her and the riders. She might not be on his team, but she was a fellow student and a damsel in possible distress. Kayden attempted to keep the concern from his face and voice, so he uneasily offered. [color=4851AA]"Um, allow me to escort you back? Preferably immediately to behind the teachers?"[/color]