I’m Yeva -- said the man. – I’ve been keeping an eye on the Princess ever since she’s been alone.

Why?

Well, I thought you seemed really sad, -- said Yeva -- so far away and alone. I didn’t want anything to happen to you.

The Princess thought for a moment.

Invite him in for a cup of coffee -- whispered Prudence.

We can’t trust a man just like that... remember what happened with Prince Charming.

It’s just a cup of coffee, Dragon -- said Prudence.

Alright, alright, but just one cup.

Thank you for looking out for me; can I invite you in for a cup of coffee?

Really? -- asked Yeva, smiling.

Of course! Come on in.

And they both went into her cottage.

They talked for a long time. The Princess told Yeva about everything she had been through, from locking herself up in the tower to the present time. She told him about the Bee, Bonsai, The Canyon, Pia, The Cave of the Past, The Richest Man in the World, Prince Charming and her three children: Bono, Yara and Gotz, and she finished off by telling him about Prudence and her new discovery. Yeva was very interested.

He also told her about his life, his childhood, his fears and his deepest desires. He told her that he had been married a long time ago and had two daughters. His wife had left him for another man, his daughters were married and he was all alone.

They talked all night long. Prudence and the Dragon fell asleep. Before leaving, Yeva said goodnight to the Princess.

I hope we can see each other again -- said Yeva, as the Princess walked him out to the fence.

Of course. I would love the company.

You are very beautiful, Odai.

Thank you. -- Odai smiled.

I don’t mean to interrupt, -- interrupted Prudence from inside the cottage -- but it is my duty.

I’ll see you tomorrow, Yeva.

Yes, until tomorrow. -- Yeva left. The Princess looked happy.

19

The next morning they were all having breakfast. The Princess had prepared eggs and served fresh milk—you could see a calmness about her.

I had a strange dream -- she said.

What was it about?

I dreamt of a woman who was a fortuneteller and, in my dream, she asked me to visit her.

Where does she live? -- asked Prudence.

In fact, I dreamt that she lived nearby, on the other side of the fresh water well.

That’s funny.

I want to go check it out.

Oh, dear!

The dream was so real... I don’t think there’s anything wrong with having a look. What do you think, Prudence?

Well, I don’t see any reason why we shouldn’t -- answered Prudence as she finished up her lettuce.

Alright then, we’ll go after breakfast.