Chapter 6- Next Day

The warmth from the sun tempted me to stay in bed a little longer but then the thought of all the hunky mysterious men downstairs waiting to meet me for breakfast made me quickly get dressed. Today was the second day of my week-long celebration. Another day I could possibly meet my future best friend and husband.

Sylvia combed through my hair one last time before sending me on my way. All poise out the door as I literally skip-hopped down the stairs in my excitement. Only after Sylvia finally caught up to me did I regain a little bit of my dignity before entering to join the others for breakfast.

As I entered the room the sound of chairs sliding on marble rang in union. Each gentleman stood to greet me and waited for me to take my place at the head of the table before taking their seats once more.

"Good morning honored guests, I hope each of you slept well and have regained some of your strength. For today I have planned a series of games for you to play."

Slight mumbles of disappointment could be heard so I continued.

"However, what is a game without prizes to be won? So, the winner of each round of games will win a special date with me. We will have some one-on-one time to further get acquainted with one another. How does that sound?"

"Cheers!"

"Cheers!"

"Cheers!" The men all yelled together. This seemed to get their spirits up indeed.

"Good, let us finish breakfast then we will all go together to the courtyard." I said raising my glass before taking a sip myself. Today will be fun indeed.

(After breakfast)

The men had all gathered around for the first round of games. I took my seat that had been set up to get the perfect view.

"The first round of games will begin, the man to throw a rounded boulder of each weight class the furthest will win the first round."

This should be interesting, the first boulder started at 200 pounds the last one ending in 1000 pounds.

Each man approached the first 200-pound boulder. Some attempted whole heartedly to move the boulder with no success. Others went to the 300 or 400 boulders first and picked it up with ease. Their throws were quite impressive compared to my own elfin kind. Our slender frames left us lacking in much muscle. I had my doubts that any of the boulders would be moved, let alone thrown, but my father assured me the men were far different in strength than I could imagine.

Time ticked on as the men cheered for each attempt. I smiled at each one and clapped for their success. As the game was concluding a final familiar body walked up to the last boulder of the game, 1000 pounds. He squatted down then yanked up with great force placing the boulder atop his broad shoulders. His muscles rippled as he took one step back before launching the boulder a good hundred yards away.

I stood to my feet in shock. Had I truly just witnessed this in the flesh? Indeed, I never could imagine a man so strong. The crowd went silent then all eyes were on me.

"It looks to me like we have a winner, congratulations Prince Asterion on your clear victory. I look forward to our date later today."

"Thank you, your majesty. I look forward to that moment very much." He said before disappearing back into the crowd.

"Shall we begin the second game?" I asked the rest of the men.

They all shouted their agreement.