She pulled back with her arms extended around his neck, "I am glad you asked. This is my last year at mage school in Wildwood. In the fall, I will attend the mage university in Seville. As you know, the king's palace and the university are in the same district. I thought about you coming with me. Would you want to join King Atrius's personal guards?[/quote]<br/><br/><br/>Cedric heard Kate's words, and he dropped under the water and came back up in her arms. He shook his head and water sprayed from his hair as he looked at Kate. He tried to keep his eyes on hers and not be distracted by the water lapping at her chemise. He stuttered as he said,<br/>"Could... could you do that? Would I be worthy of being a Royal Guard of the King? How?..."<br/>He stammered, the thought of not having to go to war unless the King did so himself.... he brought his hand to her cheek, and let it caress down her neck until it disappeared under the water. He took a deep breath. He was sure he was in her mother's garden, and on his healing bed, and with her two years before. Time seemed to merge in his mind, with the silky feel of her in his hands keeping him anchored. He pressed himself to her and kissed her gently.