Janessa was carrying a basket of medical supplies through the building when the first morning patrol got back. She recognized many of the men as former palace guards, though for some reason they didn't seem to recognize her. A couple even pinched her butt as they passed by her. Janessa blushed. War brought out the worst in everyone, she supposed.
At the tail end of the group was Gareth, speaking with a blond man that looked a lot like Anya. The men noticed her standing in the hall. Gareth smiled that handsome smile of his. The other man bowed once they were close.
"Crown Princess Janessa, it is an honor to have you here," he said. Janessa giggled.
"Oh, be careful using my title," she said. "Only a select few know who I really am. Anya says it is for my safety."
"My sister is wise," said the man. He smiled at her. "My name is Dmitri Copperstone. Anya's older brother."
"It is so nice to finally meet you." Janessa set down the basket she was holding and wrapped her arms around Gareth. She stood on her tiptoes and kissed him. He was soooo good at kissing! Part of her was disappointed their makeout the night before didn't turn into something more, but it was probably for the best. They had both been very tired, mentally and physically. But tonight...
Janessa's hands snuck underneath Gareth's shirt to rub his muscular chest. To her delight, Gareth ran his hands from her waist up to her breasts, which he gently squeezed.
Dmitri cleared his throat.
"Oh!" Janessa pulled away, flustered. So was Gareth, judging by his face. It was as red as her hair. "Um, I should get back to work. I will see you at lunch, love," she said. She picked up the basket and went back to the medical area.
"You seemed a bit into that," Dmitri remarked to Gareth. Gareth coughed.
"I have to keep up appearances."
"Even still."
"She is a handsome woman- I refuse to continue this conversation. Was that long enough for you to scan us both?"
"Yes. I can sense lingering magic on you from the spells that have since been removed from you. But nothing on Janessa." Gareth had requested a magical scan from Dmitri, unaware that Anya had done so already. "This is troubling."
"What does it mean?" Gareth asked.
"Well, her body and brain are convinced that she has always been a woman. Turning her into Jasper will require casting a spell on her, not removing one. And that is just on her body. Her mind... That is more difficult." Dmitri shook his head. "I will talk to Anya."
"I will come with."
"No, you will not, Princess lover," Dmitri teased. "Go act the lovesick man you were channeling earlier when you had your hands all over the Princess."
Disgruntled, but determined to obey orders, Gareth nodded and went to find Janessa.