Chapter 1
A baby cried on a hot summer night. No one celebrated the child’s birth. For it was to be kept a secret, from the world.
A girl stood in the middle of the darkening woods. She was tall for her age at 6’ ft, and had long wavy red hair, and crystal blue eyes. She heard a twig brake behind her with a snap, and she quickly turned on her heels. A young buck stood behind a bush only 2ft’ away. She slowly took an arrow, from the pouch on her back, and nook her arrow to her tall willow bow. Gracefully she shot at the deer. The arrow wavered then hit, right below the deer’s leg. At first the deer ran about 100 feet, and then fell to the ground on its side. She ran over to the deer, and pulled the bow out of its flank. Blood poured from the wound as she pulled the deer on her shoulder and started through the dense trees. The fall leaves crunched, and the cold wind blew around her small figure. She pulled her light brown cloak closer to her thin body, and the sudden smell of burning wood filled the air. The smell grew stronger as she reached a small opening in the trees, and the even smaller camp. A tall boy sat next to a flaming campfire, his hair as red as the vibrant flames. He wore the same light brown cloak that trialed to their feet.
“Another?” he asked, his face shocked as she sat the buck down in a small pile of two other bucks she had shot earlier that day.
“What?” she asked as she sat down next to him in the warmth.
“Nothing, I just never expected you to be such a good hunter” he said, and threw a stick in the fire. The stick crackled and broke as the flames engulfed it.
“Why, because I’m a girl?” she asked in sudden rage,
“No Veranita, because your always at the healers house” he said calmly. Her temper calmed but her mood didn’t. The choosing was soon, and then she would find out her place in her village, in her kingdom.
“I don’t want to talk about the choosing Jacob,” she said aggravated, and stood up. She walked over to a thin blanket, against a tall old tree covered in moss, and laid down on it. The hard ground came through the thin fabric, but if the night grew cool she would have, at least some warmth. Her eyes grew heavier as she silently fell asleep.
The sun shone through the trees with a gold light that woke Veranita up. She walked over to her horse, and rubbed its long black mane. The horse nudged her shoulder, as she walked over to a pile deer. It smelled dank from the long night in the heat. She lifted the deer one at a time with a loud groan, and placed on the back of a large old mule. The mule groaned from the weight, and gave Veranita a harsh look, as she placed the last two on his back. The bright morning sun was warming the camp, and the fresh dew of the night had made the small fire go out leaving only wet ashes and still glowing red embers. Jacob slept only feet away, but not for long. Veranita pushed him, with her foot and he jumped right up.
“What was that for?” he groaned,
“Good morning, lazy. We need to get going if we want to be home before dark” she said plainly as she rolled up her blanket Jacob started to roll up his own, and put it on the back of his calico horse. Veranita put her bow in a long case on her back, and put her blanket behind her saddle.
“Ready?” she asked, as she jumped on her white horse.
“Yeah” he said, and jumped on his horse. They rode slowly through the woods, with the mule walking behind them. The day was long and the ride seemed to go on and on.
As the sun rose up into the day, birds and the wind sang through the woods. They followed no path, but knew the way by heart. Ever since Jacob could remember, the village had made him go hunting with the woman of the village as their guard. However, he was the more likely to the one who would need the protection from Veranita. She was the old leader’s daughter, and stern. If you went against someone, or broke the code she would be the one you dealt with before the new leader, her uncle, could even find out about it. She wasn’t mean of hateful; on the contrary, she was kind, and always wanted to help. He looked over at her thinking to himself on how gracefully she rode, and how the autumn wind blew back her long, curling, rose hair. She turned and smiled at him. Jacob turned his head away, and tried to think of something to say.
“Veranita I can’t believe we’ll be seventeen years, in a few days” Jacob said to break the silence.
“I know, what do you think you’ll be chosen for?” she asked,
“I don’t know, maybe a hunter,” he said,
“You didn’t kill one deer” she laughed,
“I meant you,” he said. Veranita stopped laughing, and looked away.
“I’m sorry, Veranita” he said, sensing her remorse
“Oh it’s fine,” she said with a fake smile.
“No, I should not have said anything. Your father was a brave hunter, and a strong leader,” Jacob said, and Veranita gave him a small smile. That quickly faded into sadness.
“I don’t think we should talk anymore till we reach the village,” she said, holding back the tears.
“I didn’t mean to upset you,” he said sadly.
“I know...,” she said, and rode a little ways ahead. Jacob stayed behind, and waited for her to cool. Veranita knew that ignoring him would be point less, and fell back again next to him. She looked over at him calmly, and he lowered his head ashamed.
“You didn’t upset me. I was taken off guard. Thank you for the compliment. It meant a lot,” she said with a kind smile. He looked at her and sighed,
“I really meant what I said. You’re basically our leader already, and why not you. You are strong, brave, and can take on anyone in the village. Not to mention you’re smarted that the elders when it comes to making a decision. You actually think before you act, Veranita. You’re a born leader, they would be fouls not to declare you the next in line,” Jacob said, looking ahead.
He turned and saw something he had never seen before. Veranita was crying softly. She was always the strong one around, and to see her in tears he felt ashamed.
“Veranita,” he said suddenly, and jumped off his horse. She stopped and he walked up to her. She watched him in tears, as he knelled on the dusty road.
“Forgive me,” he said calmly, and ashamed of what he had said.
“What are you doing?” she asked calmly,
“I swear to honor you,” he said,
“Why? What are you talking about?” Veranita asked confused,
“When he tells you, when you finally find out, I will serve you and you will understand” Jacob said not yet knowing what he had gotten into. Veranita jumped off her horse, and walked up to him.
“What are you talking about?” she asked sternly, and he backed away.
“Now calm down Veranita, it’s nothing” he said, as Veranita lifted him up in the air by his shirt.
“Tell me Jacob, or else” she threatened, his eyes widened, and he gulped in fear.
“I can’t, you must wait. Please forgive me” he said ashamed, and closed his eyes.
“Why not?” she shouted,
“Do to me what you wish. I am yours,” he said and stopped struggling. Veranita dropped him slowly, and walked away.
“If you will not tell me I will ask my uncle” Veranita said in anger, and leaped on her horse.
“Wait!” he shouted, but she rode off quickly down the road.
Chapter 2
The wind rushing past her face and twirling her long hair into a weaving dance. The ground was a void under her horse that did not exist, and would not as long as she kept riding. She was thinking also, but her mind was more a blur than the road under her seat.
‘What is going on? First, they send me on a hunting trip for only two days, and now Jacob is acting strange. I’ve never seen him act that way. If my uncle wouldn’t tell me what’s going on than I’ll confront Jacob again…’
She ranted through her mind trying to come up with an answer, but none came. She did not know how long she had been riding, or exactly where she was at. Suddenly the horse stopped, and she looked around for a moment dizzy. She sat in the mist of a small village. The houses were, made of clay and wood, sturdy and long lasting. The roofs were the same dense mud and wood mixture, but with straw lying over top of it. Small children played near the trees that surrounded the area. A loud dog barked, and another near by responded. The entire village was quiet, and quaint. With no mysteries had ever existed, until now.
Veranita slid off her horse, and lead it to a large stable. The smell of manure, and hay filled the air with a distinct aroma. Several horses were already in their stalls, and only a few people walked to and fro. Busy at their work they barely noticed, Veranita unsaddle her horse, and guide it to an empty stall. She walked out as unnoticed as she walked in, and made her way across town. There was no one in the streets, but the one person she was looking for. Her uncle stood at only 5’10”, and was a scrawny lazy man, who never wanted to do anything but walk around.
She ran up to him, and he stopped suddenly in shock.
“Veranita, your not suppose to be home yet” he said nervously,
“What do you mean? I was supposed to come back today. Uncle?” she asked in a questioning tone, that let him know she know something was up. He looked at her nervously,
“Where is Jacob?” he asked looking around, and avoiding contact with her eyes.
“I went ahead. Now, what’s going on uncle?” she asked with a smile, that let him know she meant business.
“I don’t know what you’re talking about-”
“Yes, you do. It has something to do with the choosing. Now tell me Uncle,” she commanded sternly. His face became hard and stern, as he looked her in the eye.
“You will go to the house now, and remain in your room. You have been disrespectful, and disobedient,” he ordered,
“But-” she said shocked, and slightly scared by seeing this side of him.
“I don’t want to hear it. Go!” he ordered her. Veranita’s eyes widened, but she reluctantly walked toward a small house at the edge of town. She walked in to the small living room, with a petite woman sitting, in a wooden chair, quilting. Her long red hair was braided down her back, and she wore the same light brown cloak as everyone else in the village. The woman stood up and hugged Veranita,
“Aunt Sonya what’s going on?” Veranita asked, and the woman froze. She sat back down, and continued to quilt without another word.
“Please Aunt Sonya,” Veranita cried, but the woman ignored her. Veranita ran into a side door, and flung herself down on a course bed. She cried ashamed of what she had said to her uncle, and confused about what was going on around her.
“Veranita” Her uncle called, and Veranita jumped out of bed, running into the living room. Her uncle stood with his head low,
“What’s wrong?” she asked.
“Later, we must hurry” he said. Veranita walked toward him,
“Tell me now!” she shouted,
“I can’t, you must trust me once you’re safe all will be explained, I swear,” he said. Her aunt was holding a small bag, Veranita’s bow, and a long box.
“Did you tell her?” she asked,
“You know I can’t, I wish I could” he said,
“Then take this with you, and I will hold them off” she said. Her uncle took the box, and the small bag. Veranita put her bow over her shoulder and ignored them, as they said a final good-bye.
Chapter 3
Her uncle led her into the stable, and quickly put her on a horse, then jumped on his own. They rode off toward the north into the night. The horses raced away from the town and deep into the woods. For two days, and nights they rode without stopping. On the third day, Veranita halted her horse, and jumped down. Her uncle came to a sudden stop, and jumped down,
“What’s wrong?” he asked,
“We have been riding for three days, we rest now,” she said, and tied the horse to a tree, and started to take the saddle off.
“But they will not stop” he said,
“They will not kill their horse’s either, we rest,” she said, and unfolded a bedroll, and laid down. Her uncle unsaddled his horse, and laid down next to a tree. Veranita fell asleep and relaxed. After a few hours, she awoke, but her uncle slept on. Hunger filled her body so she walked into the woods looking for a small deer, or rabbit. A rabbit ran past her, and she shot with grace. The rabbit fell in an instance, and Veranita picked it up. It didn’t have much meat but enough to cook. She carried it back, and took out a small knife off the saddle. She skinned the rabbit, and started a small fire to cook it. The fire was warm, and comforting in the cold air. The smell of the rabbit woke her uncle, and he sat down next to her.
“I’m sorry,” he said plainly,
“Who are they?” she asked,
“I can’t tell you,” he said again in frustration. Veranita started to saddle her horse again.
“What are you doing?” he asked,
“I’m leaving,” she said,
“No, you can not leave I must get you to safety” he said, and stood up.
“I don’t know who you are, or if you really would protect me” she said, and continued to saddle her horse. Her uncle walked up to her, and grabbed her arm; she turned around and gave him a shocked look. He closed his eyes, and let go of her,
“I must ask you to trust me,” he said. Veranita walked pass him, and put her bedroll behind the saddle. She got on her horse, and sighed
“I’ll be back before dark, be ready to leave” she said, and rode into the woods. She rode for only minutes when she reached a large river. She unsaddled the horse, and laid back down. Sleep came over her, and she slept for hours.
She woke up only minutes before dusk, and saddled her horse. She rode quickly through the woods to her uncle. He was already on his horse, and ready to ride. They rode north once again into the night. The horses ran at full speed all night and all the next day. They reached a large river, and stopped.
“We have to go through the river” he said, and started through the water. Veranita followed him, the icy water rushed around her. The horse pushed forward. Veranita held on tight as the water reached her shoulders. Slowly they swam through the water and up to the shore. The shore was sandy, and Veranita got off her horse.
“Come on we’re almost there” he said, and started to ride off away from her. Veranita got back on her horse, and rode after him. He led her through the woods into an open valley. A large city sat in the valley; the buildings were tall and made of stone. They rode up to the city, but the closer Veranita got the sadder the city looked.
“Be silent as we enter the city,” he said, as they rode through the gate. The city was quiet and not a soul stirred. The city was empty of people. Veranita looked up at the windows, and wondered. They rode to the center of the city, and started to see people. The people looked scared and shocked. The closer to the center the more people appeared until at last a crowd swarmed around them. Her uncle got off his horse, and walked up to a tall man with long brown hair. The man wore a long blue cloak, with a silver embellishment on the chest. Her uncle bowed slightly before the man,
“I had to bring her,” he whispered. The man looked at Veranita with shock,
“You should not have brought her she is to young,” he said harshly. Veranita stepped forward,
“What’s going on?” she asked. The man looked at her in shock,
“You didn’t tell her!?” the man screeched.
“Tell me what, you act as if I’m not here” she said, but the man would not answer her. Veranita got back on her horse, and started to leave. Her uncle ran after her,
“Child please you must trust me!” he shouted as he ran after her,
“I did trust you, and still I am in the dark” she said, but didn’t stop.
“I’ll tell you, I swear but you must stay” he said, Veranita turned her horse around, and moved toward him.
“Everything?” she asked,
“It all, please” he said. Veranita got down, and walked pass him back up to the tall man. Her uncle followed behind her, and looked at the man with shame in his eyes.
Chapter 4
“This way” her uncle said and led her into a large building. Furniture, made of soft cushions, filled every corner of the room. He sat down on a large chair, and Veranita sat down across from her.
“You swore,” she said,
“I know” he said and took a deep breath.
“My name is Tosh as you know, I was asked to protect you when you were born. Your father is... my King, and your mother my Queen. You are my princess. The things after you are very evil and want you dead, because of who you are. The leader of this land is mad, and wants you and your family gone at any cost even joining with demons. Your mother died giving birth, and your father is in hiding as you were. I hope you can come to trust me, I only wanted to keep you safe,” he said. Veranita looked at him with shock, and sighed.
“Where am I?” she asked,
“The hidden city of Tawainya” he said,
“So, why here?"
“These are your people, they are loyal to your father, and you”,
“You’re not my uncle?”
“No”,
“And I’m a Princess?”
“Yes, a warrior”. Veranita sighed,
“Where is my father?”
“I’m not sure”,
“Who was the tall man?”
“Your fathers counsel man, lord Julang”,
“Why did you tell me?”
“You would have left”,
“Is my birthday really in two days?”
“No it is the 24th day of the 6th month of the year”
“So it’s not for another 3 months?”
“Yes, princess”
“What is the consequence for telling me this?”
“Death” he said.
“I won’t let them,” she shouted standing ready to fight.
“I knew the consequence, and will die with honor” he said, and stood up.
“Lord Julang, will be in to escort you for now on” he said,
“Tosh!” she shouted, running to him, and wrapping her arms around his waist. Tosh stepped out of her embrace, and knelled
“Thank you” he said, and walked out. Veranita sat back down and sighed the day had been so long and night had finally come. She closed her heavy laddened eyes, and drifted into a well needed peace.
“Your highness” a strong voice said, as Veranita woke up.
“What?” she asked and started to stand, she was in a bed, and was wearing a green gown.
“Where are my clothes?” she asked,
“Where am I?” she continued.
“Your clothes are being washed, and you are in your new room, your highness,” lord Julang said. Veranita stood up,
“Where’s Tosh?” she asked,
“He’s in the prison, awaiting your father,” he said.
“My fathers coming?” she asked surprised,
“Yes, this way” he said, and walked out a large door. Veranita followed him out the door and into a small room. The room was open to a courtyard, and a small table sat in the room. The table was covered with a white table clothe, and lavished with fruits, pastries, and sweet drinks.
“Your breakfast sire” he said, and left the room. Veranita sat down at the table, and started to eat. As she took a bite of the sweet berry tart, she looked out into the empty courtyard. Birds flew through the tall pine trees that surrounded her, and landed in the far distance. They were all different colors and sang sweetly of songs unknown to man. Veranita stood up eagerly, and walked into the courtyard. A wonderful smell came down a side trail in the courtyard, and Veranita followed it. The trail winded through the trees, and came to a small building hidden among them. Smoke puffed from the clay chimney of the log house. Veranita walked up to open door and peered inside.
Chapter 5
No one was insight.
“Hello! is any one there?” she asked, but to no reply. She walked in pushing the small frame door slowly. The room was bare of all but a small table, and a little bed that sat next to an iron stove. The smell came from the stove; Veranita looked in side the stove to find a chicken cooking. She closed the stove, and looked around again. A tall boy walked his arms out holding wood. He dropped the wood and drew the sword at his side,
“Who are you?” he demanded,
“Veranita, I didn’t mean to intrude I smelt the chicken and followed the trail. I’ll leave, I’m sorry” she said, and ran out the door. The boy ran after her,
“What did you say your name was?” he asked slightly uneasy,
“Veranita” she said calmly, and turned back to him. The boy closed his eyes, and shafted his sword with regret.
“Forgive me” he said, and kneeled before her. Veranita looked at him strangely,
“I was the one to trespass. You owe me no apology sir,” she said.
“No, you are welcome here. I did not recognize you my lady, ” he said bowing deeply. Veranita sighed,
“Good bye” she said, and started down the trail. The boy looked up, and watched her leave. Knowing that she held his fate. Veranita followed the trail back to the room, and sat down at the table. Julang walked in just as she relaxed,
“Finished, your highness?” he asked suddenly,
“Yes, when will my father arrive?” she asked looking up at him,
“In a few days, your majesty” he said and walked out with nothing more to say. Veranita sighed, and watched the birds. They flew to and fro through the trees. The door opened, and someone walked in.
“Sir Julang, what am I suppose to do all day?” she asked as she watching the birds. No one answered her. She turned around to the silence of the boy she had meet earlier standing by the door.
“What are you doing here?” she asked, and the boy fell to his knee
“I’m here to serve you,” he said nervously. Veranita walked up to him,
“Do you live there?” she asked calmly,
“Yes, my lady”,
“Do you know what I suppose to do all day?” she asked with a laugh,
“What ever you wish to do,” he said. Veranita sighed with remorse,
“I want to go hunting, but I don’t see that happening,” she laughed again. He stood up,
“And why should you not? You’re the Princess we serve you. I don’t think anyone would step in your way,” he said boldly.
Veranita smiled and looked him strait in the eye. He caught her stare and lowered his head. Veranita lifted his head,
“What’s your name?”
“Alexander your highness” he said, and closed his eyes tightly.
“Must you treat me so?” she asked, and turned away. Alexander fell to his knee’s quickly. An Veranita turned back to him.
“Stand up! What do you fear from me?” she asked. Alex got to his feet slowly,
“Your power” he said, and Veranita laughed.
“What power? I’m here against my freewill, and must do as they say or risk dieing,” she said in anger.
“Forgive me, I did not realize your-“
“No one realizes, and I can’t stand it!” she said, and walked out the door. She was back in her room. She ran out another door, into a large hall. Alexander followed behind her, as she ran down the hall.
“Where are you going?” he asked,
“I’m leaving,” she said,
“Not that way, the stable is in the other direction” he said, and stopped. Veranita stopped and turned back to him.
“Take me there,” she said,
“As you wish” he said, and led her back down the hall. They walked down several halls, until they reached a large stable. Veranita found her horse and her gear. She quickly saddled her horse, and put her bow on her back. Alex watched her, as she got on her horse, and trotted up to him.
“Thank you” she said, and rode out of the stable, and down the street.
Chapter 6
People watched her as she raced away from the stable. Horses raced after her,
“Your highness, please!” Julang shouted from behind her. Veranita stopped, turned toward him, and waited for him to approach.
“Your highness, where are you going?” he asked,
“I don’t know, away from here from this,” she said,
“Please, I beg you wait for your fathers return” he said,
“Why?” she asked, and he looked up at her in pure shock. Julang got off his horse, and fell to the ground,
“I swear to do whatever you ever ask of me if you will stay,” he said. Veranita got off her horse,
“Why?” she asked,
“You could be killed if you left, please I swear on my life,” he said. Veranita looked at him with remorse,
“Prove it,” she said. He looked up at her shocked,
“How would you have me prove it?” he asked,
“How ever you think you can,” she said. He lowered his head, and stood up.
“Every thing I have, and am belongs to Princess Veranita, and I swear to do her will on my life!” he shouted so everyone could hear him,
“That is not what I meant” she said, and got on her horse.
“Please any thing!” he shouted and fell to the ground, Veranita turned back to him,
“Why?” she asked,
“Because the King would kill me!” he shouted, and everyone grew silent. Veranita got off her horse and looked down at him,
“What did you say?” she asked,
“Forgive me your majesty,” he said.
“I’m sure you didn’t mean that Julang” a strong voice said from behind Veranita, she turned around to find a large man sitting on a black horse.
“I beg your forgiveness my King,” Julang cried,
“Of course Julang, and who is this girl?” the man asked,
“Your daughter sire” Julang said. Veranita saw the shock on the mans face,
“Veranita?” he asked,
“Yes” she said a little scared. He got down off his horse, and hugged her. Tears rolled down her face, and she started to cry. He looked at her face, and wiped away the tears. Veranita looked at him and pulled away,
“I had a father!” she said, and got on horse an rode away toward the stable. The man followed behind her. Veranita put her horse in the stall and unsaddled her. The man rode in, and walked up to her. She walked pass him putting her saddle up.
“What do you want with me?” she asked turning to him,
“I only want to know you,” he said,
“You hid me from the world from you, and now you expect everything to be O.K. with how I feel. Well you are wrong! Aimual was my father not you!” she shouted at him.
“I didn’t expect this,” he said,
“What did you expect?” she asked,
“I don’t know, I love you I always have that are why I hid you,” he said looking into her eyes. Veranita looked at him with remorse,
“Do you hunt?” she asked, and he looked up surprised,
“What does that have to do with any thing?” he asked,
“Do you?” she asked again.
“Of course” he said, Veranita sat down next to him,
“I killed three bucks on my first hunt last week,” she said.
“Three?” he asked,
“I could barely shot at a deer my first hunt,” he said.
“I know but my first shot was perfect and my second and third as if I was meant to hunt,” she said. He stood up,
“How are you with a sword?” he asked,
“I’ve never picked one up” she said. He drew his sword, and handed it to her. Veranita stood up, and turned the sword around. He walked over to a shelf and took out an old sword.
“Come on try to block me” he said, and fell upon her. Veranita blocked every shot that was given to her.
“Now try to hit me” he said, and got ready to block. Veranita walked around him, and looked for an opening. She fell upon him and tipped his chest. He fell to the ground, and dropped his sword.
“You’re better that I am” he groaned and stood back up.
“Are you alright?” she asked,
“I’m fine, try again” he said, and got ready to block. Veranita looked for an opening again and again tipped him. This went on for awhile until he couldn’t get back up.
“You’re hurt, we shouldn’t have done this” she said, and helped him up,
“Nonsense, your better than I could ever hope to be they’ve trained you well” he said,
“But I’ve never been trained, to fight or to shot I just can” she said.
“That is very hard for me to believe” he said, and led her toward the building. They walked to the courtyard and sat down under a tree.
“You know I love you right?” he asked,
“Yes, I know and I love you Father” she said but the words came out with difficulty,
“This is hard for you after Aimual died I asked Tosh to raise you, not knowing if you where safe” he said.
“It’s hard for me to call you father but I love you” she said,
“I know,” he said, and they watched to birds fly by.
Chapter 7
For hours, they sat in silence, until Julang walked out to them.
“Your highness” he said, and fell to Veranita’s feet,
“Stand up” her father ordered,
“Forgive me but I have given my life to Princess Veranita, and pray you will understand” Julang said,
“You owe me no allegiance,” Veranita said,
“I swore,” he said,
“But I did not accept, my father is King pledge your allegiance to him” she said. Her father looked at her with shock and impression. Julang turned to the King,
“What is your will my Lord?” he asked,
“Leave Julang” he said. Julang stood up, and walked away from them. Her father looked her strait in the eye,
“Why did you do that?” he asked,
“He doesn’t deserve to be a slave even if I don’t like him,” she said.
“He swore to serve you though?” he said,
“But I didn’t accept him, or any other. I can do for my self I don’t need others to serve my every need,” she said. He starred at her and smiled,
“I wish I could say I raised you,” he said,
“I am not an adult,” she said,
“No you’re wiser,” he said. This time she looked at him shocked,
“Don’t give me that look, you are. You chose your words with care, and think of what to do before you do it. Most would have just sent Julang to clean something, but you freed him and asked him to pledge to a King” he said. Veranita lowered her head and smiled slightly. Then looked up at him,
“Why do they want us dead?” she asked changing the subject.
“They think I killed his brother, but I didn’t. He had your mother killed the night you where born, she named you with her last breath” he said.
“But lets go in its growing cold” he said, and led her into a large room with a fire place, and a large table. The room was open in one section and two thrones sat at the back of the opened area. They sat down, and started to eat a small dinner. They ate in silence,
“Will you kill Tosh?” she finally asked,
“No” he said and continued to eat.
“He said you would kill him because he told me,” she said,
“He has done much for this kingdom one crime will not cause his death,” the King said. Veranita stood up, and walked over to the fire. She sat down on the floor and watched the wood burn. Her father stood up, and sat down next to her.
“Why did the people look scared when I first arrived?” she asked,
“We are in trouble times, and the people are losing hope,” he said sadly,
“How many are with out warmth, and without food?” she asked,
“Many unfortunately” he sighed.
“Why us?” she asked,
“We are of noble blood, we have the privilege and honor of ruling, but the honor comes with sacrifice,” he said.
“I want to know our people,” she said,
“How?” he asked,
“I want to go live with them learn how to help them to encourage them” she said. He looked at her shocked, then sighed,
“You will take a sword, and bow, an some one will be watching you,” he said,
“No, I need to do this alone. No guards” she said. He gave her a stern look,
“You will check in once a week am I understood?” he asked. Veranita hugged him,
“Thank you, father, I understand,” she said with joy.
“You may go for three weeks, then we will discuss everything” he said,
“As you wish” she said with joy.
“When will you leave?’ he asked,
“Tonight” she said.
Chapter 8
She changed into her old cloak, and shoes, an walked toward the edge of the city. She had a small bag, a sword, and her bow. She walked slowly unnoticed until she reached the farthest part of the city. People laid on the ground in the streets. She looked at them with sadness. She found a house with people in side, and knocked on the door. A tall red haired man opened the door,
“What?” he asked,
“May I stay here tonight?” she asked,
“We don’t have anything to give you,” he said,
“I don’t want anything but to sleep inside” she said. He opened the door and let her in the house was small but had a fire. Blankets pilled the floor; two children laid nearness to the fire asleep. The man shut the door,
“You can sleep over here” he said, and showed her a place on the floor.
“Thank you, may I ask your name?” she asked him, and sat her bag down.
“Samuel, my children you will meet in the morning and my wife died in battle,” he said.
“I’m sorry for your loss, how can I repay you?” she asked,
“You owe me nothing,”
“I insist, what does your family need?” she asked.
“Who are you?” he asked,
“Someone who wants to help” she said.
“We have more than others, but could use a key to the other rooms. Most have nowhere to sleep, because all the buildings are locked. If we could get keys to the buildings less people would get sick,” he said,
“Do you have plenty to eat?” she asked. He gave her a strange look,
“We have enough, but people are starving in the streets,” he said.
“Thank you for letting me stay here,” she said,
“I am loyal to the King, and his daughter what I have I will share” he said, and winked.
“Only the daughter of the King would understand humility,” he said, Veranita sighed,
“Yes, I do” she laughed. He bowed slightly,
“If there is anything you-”,
“You have done plenty thank you” she asked,
“You may stay here as long as you like,” he said.
“Thank you, good night” she said, and lay down. He walked over to a small pile of blankets, and lay down. Veranita sighed and fell asleep.
“Who is she Papa?” a small frail voice asked early the next morning.
“She’s a guest, and is here to help. You will treat her with respect and honor, now go get dressed, Lord Guan will be mad if we are late” Jacob said, and the sound of small feet left the room. Veranita stood up, and looked around. The house was small it had a table, and a small pile of blankets sat stacked up in a corner. Jacob stood over the small fire stirring a pot of porridge.
“Good morning Jacob” she said,
“Good morning your highness” he said, and turned around. He walked up to the table,
“Would you like to sit down?” he asked, and offered her a chair. Veranita sat down, and Jacob went back to the pot. Three little girls walked in dressed in gray dresses. They were all the same height, and had the same curly brown hair and blue eyes. One of the girls walked up to Veranita,
“Will you stop the lord from beating Papa?” she asked. Veranita looked up at Jacob, and he turned around quickly.
“Girls be silent, and sit down” he snapped, and pored them all a bowl of porridge. He sat down with them as they ate, and didn’t look at Veranita. After they were done, the girls washed their faces.
“Go, go, and don’t be late” he said, and ushered them out the door.
“Your daughters are sweet girls,” Veranita said,
“It took me a long time to find them. They were sold, and I have paid dearly to raise them” he sighed, and watched them run down the street. Veranita stood up, and looked at him sternly.
“What did your daughter mean?” she asked,
“Nothing Princess” he said, and stepped back inside.
“Stop, and let me see your back” Veranita ordered, and he turned pulling the back of his shirt up. Blood stained his back in deep scars.
“I am lucky Princess please don’t worry,” he said, but she did. She walked up behind him, and lightly touched a scar. He flinched and tensed in pain.
“What lord?” she asked,
“Please Princess, I can not ask you to confront him. He will only sell my children,” he begged,
“I will free your children” she said, and walked over to her bag. She put her weapons on, and her bag on her back.
“What lord?” she asked as she turned back to him. He was on the floor at her feet.
“Please I will do anything; I beg you do not do this. He will only sell them, and imprison me. Please I beg of you your majesty,” he cried. Veranita thought for a moment,
“What lord?” she asked again.
“Lord Guan, your majesty” he cried, and Veranita walked out. Jacob ran after her, and blocked her way. He fell to her feet in the street.
“I beg of you, please, my life is yours,” he cried,
“I will do this” she said, and started around him. He backed up staying in front of her. Finally she stopped,
“Don’t you want them free?” she asked,
“Not at the price of their life’s” he cried,
“I will free them” she said. He grabbed her ankles,
“Please I give you my life, and beg you don’t do this,” he cried,
“Then you will do well to move” Veranita said sternly. He started to cry worse, as he let her go, and backed out of her way. Veranita walked pass him down the street. He sat on the ground completely still.
Chapter 9 Veranita stopped,
“JACOB, COME ON!” she shouted, and he ran after her.
“Which way?” she asked, and he led her down the streets to a small house.
“He owns them Princess, and will only sell them if you ask about them,” he cried.
“Go home Jacob, and do not leave your house till I return” she ordered, and he ran down the road. Veranita walked up to the gate, and knocked. A guard came forward,
“Can we help you miss?” he asked,
“Yes, three little girls have been disturbing me, I wish to speak to their master, and I followed them here” she said. He opened the gate, and she walked in.
“Lord Guan will see you, and he is confident his servants have not been bothering you,” a man said walking up to Veranita. Veranita followed the man inside the house, and into a small side room. A short fat man sat looking at the three girls.
“Hello ma’am, are these the girls?” he asked,
“Yes, they are. Don’t let them lie to you” Veranita said,
“You three will be sold, I don’t care what your father has done to find you three,” the lord snapped and the girls were dragged out of the room crying. Veranita turned to the man,
“How much will you sell them for?” she asked,
“I will send them to the action block, and let the trader sell them,” he said.
“Thank you for seeing me” Veranita said, and walked out of the house into the street. She moved quickly around the house, and followed the girls being taken down to the action block. After she saw where they were, she ran to the palace. The guards at the gate didn’t recognize her, and blocked the gate.
“Leave” one of the guards commanded,
“I’m the Princess, move aside” she ordered and they looked at her closely.
“Go find Sir Lunang” one of them said, and the other ran off. Lungun ran out off the gate,
“Princess, I thought you wouldn’t be back for a week,” he said shocked, and the two guards backed quickly away.
“Is slavery legal?” she asked, “Yes, as long as the slave is not claimed by a parent or freed by royalty. As Princess you have the power to free anyone from slavery,” he said. She ran inside, and changed quickly.
“Princess what are you doing?” Lungun asked following out the door.
“I want an escort,” she said, and instantly four guards followed her out the gate. She ran to Jacob’s house,
“Jacob, come!” she shouted banging on the door. He walked out, and lowered his head. “Come on” she said, and ran with her guards and Jacob to the action block. Everyone moved out of her way as she walked up to the slaves in a cage. She looked quickly then saw them.
“Call your daughters” Veranita ordered,
“Children, Kristy, Lima, Andie” he shouted, and the girls ran to the front of the cage. The auctioneer walked up to Veranita,
“Can I help you?” he asked,
“I command you to free these three girls, they were kidnapped from their father,” Veranita said sternly,
“Who are you?” he asked,
“She is my daughter,” the King said riding up on his horse. The auctioneer opened the cage and released the girls quickly. He bowed deeply, and backed away.
“Father” Veranita said happily, and walked up to him. A page walked forward with Veranita’s horse. She jumped on her horse, and they rode back to the palace.
“I must ask you to go back into hiding, we have reports that an army is heading for the city. There are spies among us Veranita, and I can not protect you here,” he said as they rode into the stable.
“I won’t leave unless we are attacked” Veranita said, as they walked into the kitchen. “For now go rest,” he said, and led her to her room. She walked into the small room, and crawled into bed. She rapped up in the covers, and fell asleep exosted from all the running.
She woke up at dawn the next day, and sat up. Jacob and his daughters stood in the room.
“Jacob, what are you doing here?” she asked,
“I am your servant master, as are my daughters. We owe you our lives,” he said,
“You owe me nothing and are all free. Go home, and be happy. Raise your daughters and take care of them,” Veranita ordered.
“Thank you Princess” he said, and backed out with his daughters. Veranita smiled, and got up. I walked into a side bathroom, and washed clean. I changed into a simple dress. I walked out to the patio, and ate breakfast. The sky was gloomy, and crows flew by in the air.
“Your highness, your highness!” someone shouted, and ran toward Veranita from the woods. The boy ran toward her, and took her hand.
“They’re attacking, hurry” he said, and dragged her down the trail toward his house. A horse was fully saddled waiting for her,
“RIDE, PRINCESS, RIDE” he said, and hit the back of the horse. Veranita rode down the trail in fear, and into the city. People ran, arrows flew, and houses burned. She rode faster, and faster away from the city. In the field she did not stop, but kept going and going. Her heart pounded, and her mind was blank. Days went by at a constant run through the woods. Finally, she reached a town. She jumped down, and fell to the ground asleep. Right in the middle of town.
Chapter 10
“Please wake up” a soft familiar voice said kindly, and Veranita looked up at Tosh. She hugged him tightly, and started to cry.
“Child” he said, and let go of me. I sat up on a small bedroll in a cold room. I looked around, and noticed four other men in the room. I stood up, and Tosh got up.
“May introduce Sir Wrain, Sir Liend, General Huen, and General Dadain,” Tosh said, and they all bowed deeply looking out the windows and doors.
“What happened?” she asked,
“They attacked, and your father was ambushed. We barley got them out of the city. I’m just glad you got out quickly, and are safe,” Tosh said,
“We need to hurry, they’re waiting for us,” Dadain said quietly,
“Alright, come your majesty we must get you to the city quickly. As new King you must be…” Tosh said, and Veranita fainted in shock.
“Not again, not again” she whispered in her sleep, and Tosh carried her through the woods on foot. They rushed through the woods as quickly as possible, and she slept the whole three days. Finally on the third night they stopped.
“We must get her awake. She can not survive like this, she has not eaten or even stirred” Wrain said nervously. They sat her down on the cold ground, and rapped her in a blanket.
“We’re lucky we found her, but her people can not see her like this,” Dadain said,
“I know we all do, but what can we do?” Tosh said. They made a small fire near her, and all but Liend fell asleep. He sat watching Veranita and the bright sunrise up. He nudged Veranita slightly, and her eyes sprung open. She looked slowly around. Everyone was on the ground, and looked dead. She shut her eyes, and pretended to be the same. Everyone got up. Wrain and Tosh walked up to Veranita.
“Please your highness wake up” Tosh said, and placed a hand on her fore head. Wrain slapped Toshs’ hand away.
“How dare you touch the King?” Wrain said sternly, and Tosh backed away.
“You’re safe, we would never let them take you,” Wrain whispered to Veranita. She opened her eyes, and looked up at Wrain.
“Who are you?” she asked scared,
“One of many who serve you my King” Wrain said, and knelled. Veranita sat up, and looked around at the men. They all turned and bowed when they saw her.
“Get up, they could be watching” Veranita said, and they all jumped to their feet. Veranita started to get up, and a large hand offered her help. She looked up at a ruff man not too old, but older than her. She took his firm hand, and he pulled her up.
“We must hurry my King,” Wrain said, and Veranita nodded. She turned back to her covers, and knelled down to fold the blanket. Wrain quickly knelled, and reached for the blanket. Veranita picked it up, and folded it.
“I’m not unable to fold a blanket,” she said standing up. He lowered his head and backed away. Veranita carried the blanket, and walked up to Tosh.
“What’s going on?” she asked,
“We have to get you to the city, so you can be crowned” Tosh said,
“For what?” she asked. He stopped what he was doing, and turned to her. He took a ring out of his pocket, and looked around quickly. Then knelled and placed it on her finger. “His majesty claimed you King with his last breath,” he said, and Veranita looked at the solid gold band with horror.
“Stand up, this is not the place” she cried, and he stood up quickly.
“I’m sorry your highness, we tried everything. He said that he would fight to the death for his people, and none would stop him. He threatened to kill us if we did not let him fight. Forgive me my King” Tosh said as tears started to roll down his face. He lowered his head deeply, and got back to work. He took the blanket, and loaded a large bag on his back. It was heavy, and bulky. All the man carried one.
“How long have I been asleep?” she asked,
“Three days, your highness. Here, I’m sorry there’s not more” Tosh said, and handed her a slice of dried salt pork. Veranita ate it slowly as they walked through the woods. Tosh walked near the back, Wrain in front, and three others around her on the sides. They walked quickly, diving, and hiding under bushes. They rushed into a creek, and Veranita slipped on a loose stone. One of the men nearest to her dived in after her. She felt odd floating downward, went suddenly he rapped his arm around her waist. He pulled her up to the surface. Air filled her lung as he pulled her to the bank. Everyone ran over to them. He let go of her, and lay back on the soft sand. Veranita took ruff-ragged breaths, and sat up. The man next to her did the same, and looked at her. He had light brown eyes, black shoulder length hair. He was taller than Veranita, and had a very muscular fit body. He stood up, and offered a hand to Veranita. She took his hand, and he pulled her up.
“Thank you, I can’t swim” Veranita said still shocked,
“You’re safe your majesty, and that is all that matters” he said in a thick rich voice. Wrain took his cloak off, and wrapped it around Veranita’s small figure.
“It’s not much my King, but it is dry,” Wrain said, and Veranita nodded her thanks.
Chapter 11
They started on down along the creek, but Veranita stayed the farthest away from the water. She walked next to two of the strange men, then Tosh and Wrain joking with the man who saved her. She walked slowly, and took weary breathes.
“Are you feeling well my King?” the man closet to her asked,
“Oh, just a bit shocked. How long till we reach the city?” she asked him,
“Just over that hill is the valley” he said, and pointed to a far away hill. Veranita looked at the soft green grass ahead, and saw the sun shinning on the hill. The thought of bathing in the sun light made her feet run. She ran as fast as a panther after prey. Her feet swift, and agile. All the men ran after her. Their hearts beating in fear, as hers in joy. Wrain came up to her, and pulled her to the ground. He fell on top of her, and looked around quickly.
“Get off me” she said, and squirmed her way away from him.
“What were you thinking, you could have broken my leg?” she asked sitting on the ground.
“Get down, and I’d rather your leg than your life” he said, and pushed her to the ground. The others came up crawling along the ground on their stomachs.
“They could have spotted you my King” Wrain said, and started up the hill on his stomach. Veranita looked at their disappointed faces, and followed them up the hill. At the top, Wrain disappeared below the horizon. The man who saved her waited at the top for her. As she reached the top she noticed a large hole in the ground.
“We must go down my King,” he said, and she put her legs in first. She pushed off, and flew down into the darkness. She closed her eyes, until she hit solid ground. A strong hand helped her up,
“Are you alright?” one of them asked her. She jerked away from his hand, and they continued. Torches lit the way down the long corridors, and cassoms as they made their way. Soon they reached a small stone cave in the man made tunnels. Everyone started to put his or her bags down, and Veranita retreated to a far away corner as fast she could. She lay down against the stone floor, and cried softly. Footsteps came toward her, and she heard someone kneel. His blade was unsheathed, and she heard the tip scrap the floor slightly as he put pressure on it.
“Forgive me my King, I had no right” Wrain said sadly,
“What’s does it matter?” Veranita asked and turned away. She could hear the pressure on his sword lift, and the sharp ‘ding’ of the sword falling to the floor. He fell before her, pressing his face to the stone floor.
“You matter my King, and I will die for you. To protect, and honor you,” he said sadly,
“My father is dead, I knew him for two days and he’s gone,” she said in tears. He started to speak, but only backed away from her as she cried.
“Wrain what’s wrong?” one of them asked,
“I don’t deserve to speak” Wrain said. Footsteps started toward her, and stopped suddenly.
“You disrespect her, and I will kill you General Liend,” someone said sternly,
“We saved her life, and she treats us like traitors. We have done nothing to deserve this,” Liend said,
“You will do well to hold your tongue General. We could not save his majesty, and owe are lives to her highness” he said. Liend walked away from her toward the fire Wrain was building.
“No” Veranita said plainly. She stood up, and walked up to them. The man who saved her stood sword drawn. She lowered his blade, and he fell to his knees with it.
“Not one of you owes me anything. I am grateful for all you have done, and not one of you is forced to help me. An not would be considered a traitor to leave. I am not yet King” she said, and turned back to where she was laying. She sighed, and walked back to her corner. She sat down on the floor, and laid her back to them. She heard several men start to cry softly. One started toward her, and fell to the floor.
“I owe you everything my King forgive me,” Liend cried,
“No, you owed my father. I am not him, and you owe me no allegiance,” Veranita said softly weary of talking. He drew his sword, and laid it on the ground.
“Then I give it, and all I am” he said, and backed away from his sword. Veranita sat up, and looked at the sword. Then him. He had backed away to the other end of the cave, and sat turned away in shame. Veranita picked up his sword, and walked up to him. She dropped his sword in front of him.
“Take your sword,” she said sternly, and he quickly knelled taking his sword.
“I am not King. You do not make allegiance to a Princess, and therefore owe me nothing” she said, and walked off.
“Please your highness” the man who saved her said as she passed. She stopped, and turned back to him. He laid his sword at her feet, and bowed.
“I pledge my allegiance to you as my future King, and pray you will accept my sword as an offering to your future crown,” he said with honor.
“Why?” she asked plainly,
“Why me?” she asked him.
“You are my King, with or without a crown. I will always honor and serve you till my death” he said,
“but why me?” she asked,
“Because you are, nothing less than my King” he said. Veranita bent over, and picked up his sword. She walked away, and sat down. She laid the sword on the floor, and turned toward the wall. Curling on the floor into a ball and falling asleep.
Chapter 12
Something touched her lightly, and she jumped up. Liend was laying a blanket over her. He gasped as she looked up at him, and quickly backed away. Sitting up she looked at not one but five swords at her feet. She sighed and looked at all of them asleep but Liend. He sat looking into the fire, and briskly rubbing his hands. A small pot hung over the fire, and Liend sat next to it. He stirred the pot, and poured something into a smaller wood bowl. He stood up with it, and carried it toward her. Knelling, he handed her the warm bowl.
“I am sorry it is not much” he said, and started to stand.
“It is a feast” she and took a spoon full of pourage. He stopped, and knelled back before her, and then bowed to her feet ashamed.
“Tell me what troubles you?” she asked,
“No man your majesty has ever made me cry” he said in tears,
“I am no man, sir” Veranita said, and took another gulp.
“I do not deserve to beg from you my King” he said, and quickly backed away. He sat down at the fire, and put his head on his knees. Veranita looked over at him, and could see him crying. She finished her porridge, and stood up quietly. She walked over to the warm fire, and sat down next to him.
“I was once told that a butterfly does not count days, but minutes and lives for each one. I did not understand it until the man died. I cannot begin to understand you, General Liend. You shout about how horrible I am, and then offer me allegiance. I owe you my life and every man here for saving me. Yet you say you don’t deserve to beg from me, but I don’t deserved for someone to beg from me” she said, and sat down the bowl. She stood up, and looked at him then turned away. His hand grabbed hers, and she turned back to him. He fell to his knees, still holding to her hand.
“You owe me nothing my King, ever. Or to any other in this cave. I was angry, and meant nothing of what I said earlier. I owe my life to you weather you think it or not, and I will serve you as long as there is air in my lungs” he said, and kissed her hand lightly. He dropped her hand, bowing to her feet.
“My King” he said proudly to say it, and lightly kissed her feet. Veranita pulled him to his feet,
“Rest” she said and he nodded slightly. She walked back to her corner, and fell asleep under the blanket.
She awoke up, and looked around in the dark. Liend was asleep like everyone else. One of them shook in the dark, without a blanket. She stood up, and carried her blanket up to the man who saved her life. He shook in the cold, and she laid her blanket over him. He jumped up, and reached for his sword. That wasn’t there, but instead an empty shaft. Veranita ignored him, and walked over to the slowly dimming fire. The cave was cold, and she had to add several logs to get a good flame. Finally, she warmed her hands over the fire. Her bones slowly warmed, and brought life back into her. She looked around at her men. All of them slept, but one. He sat, the blanket next to him on the floor, looking at her. He noticed her gaze, and fell to the floor. She turned back to the fire, and shivered from turning away. He stood up, and walked up to her carrying the blanket. He draped it over her shoulders, and sat down next to the fire. She pulled the cover closer looking over at him.
“I didn’t want you sick” she said plainly staring into the flames,
“I would rather it be me than you my King” he said with a yawn.
“What’s your name?” she asked,
“Dadain, my King. I was a knight for your father, and hope to work my way up to the position in your court my King” he said calmly,
“You have it” she said still looking at the flames.
“Thank you your highness, but in all due respect. I wish to start at the bottom. If one day I am good enough for the responsibility then I will take the responsibility my King” he said,
“Did you rehearse that?” she asked,
“No sire” he said quickly,
“Don’t lie to me Sir Knight” she said, and looked at him closely. He lowered his head ashamed,
“I have my liege” he sighed.
“It’s nothing to be ashamed of, I rehearse everything I say in my head first” she said,
“I am ashamed for felling ashamed to tell you my liege” he said,
“Don’t be you don’t know me very well as it is. When will we leave?” she asked changing topics,
“As soon as everyone has slept in full. We have not slept this well since we found you my lady” he said, and yawned again. She took the blanket, and threw it at him.
“Go, take the blanket, and sleep. That’s an order not a request” she said, and he walked away quietly. She stayed by the fire, and stared at the flames, unsure of what to do next. Slowly the fire died, as the others all woke up. Not one came up to her. They sat where they were, and didn’t speak. She looked around at them all and stood up. She walked back to her corner, and lay down. In moments, she was fast asleep.
Chapter 13
“And if the city is taken?” Liend asked,
“We head for Latsyrk, and hope she will go” Tosh’s familiar voice said,
“No she has not been crowned, we must take her to the city, and retrieve the crown” Wrain said, and walked off. Veranita had a blanket on top of her again, and turned over looking at the men. They sat around the fire, well all but Dadain who laid a little ways away. Veranita sat up, against the wall, and listened. She looked around for Wrain, and saw him talking to Dadain.
“What do mean an order?” Wrain asked,
“She made it clear that I was to obey. I don’t want to anger her. I have already made a foul of myself before her,” Dadain said,
“You make a foul of yourself not having the common since to get up. Her majesty wants men with brains. Now come eat” Wrain said, and pulled Dadain up. He led Dadain to the fire, and sat him down firmly.
“But sir” Dadain started,
“Do you question your commanding officer?” Wrain asked sternly,
“No, sir” Dadain said, and started to eat. Veranita watched them argue over what to do. She waited till all of them had finished, and stopped talking. One of the men looked over and saw her awake. He stood up, and the others looked over at her. They all stood up quickly, and she got up. She looked around curiously,
“Why are we all standing up?” she asked, and they looked at each other confused. Liend walked up to her, and knelled.
“I’m sorry my King” he said sadly,
“Yesterday is forgiven, and forgotten. Stand up” she said, and offered him her hand. He took her hand, and she pulled him up.
“Why are all these swords on the floor?” she asked,
“They are yours my King,” Tosh said,
“What would I ever do with five swords?” she asked,
“I don’t know your majesty,” Tosh said honestly.
“Come everyone pick up your swords, and keep it. I can not take a man’s sword” she said, and they all walked forward. Took their swords, and shafted them. One sword was left. It was Dadain’s. He stood unmoving to take it.
“Who did not take their sword?” she asked already knowing who it was. Dadain steeped forward, and knelled.
“I my King” he said,
“Why did you not take the sword?” she asked,
“It is not mine to take your majesty,” he said. Wrain cursed under his breath.
“Take the sword Dadain” Wrain said softly,
“It is not mine to take. Her majesty took the sword, and it is hers” Dadain said. Veranita picked up the sword, and walked up to Dadain.
“Stand” she ordered,
“I don’t deserve-”
“Did I ask?” she said interrupting him. He jumped to his feet quickly.
“Here, a knight is no good without his sword” she said, and pushed the sword toward him. He looked at the sword, and took it slowly.
“I will not stop till you’re on your throne my King” he said, and bowed deeply. She touched his head, and walked pass him to Wrain. Wrain looked at the floor.
“Look up at me Sir Wrain,” she ordered, and he looked up.
“It wasn’t your fault. I should not have run off, and my father died as he would have wanted. You’re not to blame, and I thank you for stopping me” she said. Tears started to roll down his face slowly, and his mouth shook slightly. He closed his mouth, and gulped. He wanted to thank her, to hug her, to tell her it wasn’t her mistake to run off. However he calmly lowered his head, and she walked back to her blanket.
“How long are we staying?” she asked,
“We wish you to stay here sire, till we retrieve the crown, and supplies from the city. If it is taken we can steal, but can not risk your life doing so” the man who she didn’t yet know his name said. She walked up to him, and looked him in his clear blue eyes.
“I will not sit while men risk their lives for me,” she said,
“I’m sorry my King, but we can not risk it. If the city is safe we will come back for you,” he said,
“What’s your name?” she asked,
“General Huen” he said,
“Swear to me that all of you will return,” she said, and he knelled.
“I swear on my life that all of us will return, my King,” he said,
“Rise” she said. He stood up, and she sighed.
“Well don’t wait for me, go!” she shouted, and walked over to the fire. She sat down, and heard them packing to leave. Tosh walked up to her, and sat down.
“Aren’t you going?” she asked,
“No, I have to make sure you don’t follow them, my King” he said.
“Fine” she said, and poked at the flames. Soon they all started off, deep into the tunnel.
Chapter 13
Tosh sat with her in silence.
“So how does it feel to be King?” he asked,
“I hate it, my father’s dead, how would you feel?” she asked,
“Sorry” he said bored. They sat bored for hours, and finally she got up. She went to bed, and fell into a deep, deep sleep.
She woke up to the smell of cooking pork. She sat up, and walked over to Tosh sitting by the fire. She sat down with him, and noticed the pork roasting over the fire.
“Where did you get it?” she asked,
“I caught it, and cleaned it in the woods. I hope you like it done” he said then slapped his head,
“Of course you always have. What am I thinking?” he laughed to himself.
“You could have put me at risk. A spy could have followed you, and someone walking through the woods will find what you left behind, and follow your trail. We need to leave” she said, and stood up. She folded the blanket, and walked up to him. He was still cooking the pork like nothing had happened.
“I said we’re leaving, you could have shown them the entrance” she said,
“Who said I didn’t?” he asked, and she backed up. Two men walked in from the valley. She ran down into the tunnel. Faster, and faster. Through the shadowed caves. She held the blanket close to her as she ran. She came to a two way turn, and stopped. She ran left, and dropped the blanket. Then ran as fast as she could to the right. She came to a turn, and ran into a thick blanket of water. She slipped on the wet stones, and started sliding down a natural slide. She turned corners, and slops in the darkness. It seemed like an eternity sliding down the wet cold water. Finally she saw light at the end of the tunnel. She flew weightless off the slide into the air. Before she could realize how she got there she was in a deep, gushing river. She swam as hard as she knew how which wasn’t much. Kicking, and splashing, she just couldn’t stay up. Soon she could fight no more, and slowly drifted down into the cold dark water. When suddenly. Someone came underneath her, and pulled her to shore. She lay on the cold stone beach, and panted for breath. Soon reality set in, and she jumped to her feet. A strange man sat on the stone ground breathing heavily. He stood up, and was only and inch taller than her. He wore a rich blue tonic, and black pants. His black hair was tied back into a long braid, and his rich deep blue eyes scanned her closely. She noticed a sword belt, helmet, and armor on the ground, all bright silver.
“What were you doing?” he asked,
“Running” she said,
“Can’t you swim?” he asked,
“No, who are you?” she asked.
“Wow! Jeez sorry I saved your life. Name if you must know is Terim, and yours?” he asked with a slight bow.
“I better not say, I don’t know who you are” she said, and looked down at his armor.
“Fine” he said, and started to put his armor back on. He took a gold circlet out from under the armor, and put it on his head. She looked at him in fear.
“I don’t usually take it off, but I didn’t want to lose it in the water. I see you don’t know who I am, I mean you really don’t know do you?” he asked,
“No” she said. He bowed softly,
“Prince Terim of Latsyrk at your serves” he said.
“Wrain said something about Latsyrk” she said under her breath.
“Do you mean Sir Wrain, the knight of the banished King?” he asked,
“Why?” she asked,
“If so I know him. I’m his godson after all. Wait who are you?” he asked. She looked around and back up.
“What is the banished King’s name?” she asked,
“King William of course, everyone knows that” he said puzzled,
“If you know Wrain, who are King William’s Generals?” she asked,
“Liend, and Huen” he said confused. “Do you like King William?” she asked,
“I’ve fought along side him in battle. Of course I like him” he said shocked. He put his sword belt on, and looked up at her. She swigged the water out of her hair.
“So, are you going to tell me?” he asked,
“I’m Veranita. King Veranita, the late King William’s daughter. He died about a week ago” she said in tears. He knelled quickly, and took his helmet off.
“Forgive me my liege” he said strangely,
“You owe me no allegiance, but will you help me. Tosh has men after me. I tried to throw them off course, but I don’t know if they followed me down the slide” she asked ashamed of doing so.
“Of course, come my horse is over the hill” he said, and stood up. He took her hand, and led her up the hill. They ran quickly, and Veranita looked at his face. He was so hansom. She wanted to laugh, and run in joy. Not in fear. She smiled slightly, and blushed. Then shook her head, and focused on getting safe. Sure enough a large solid black horse sat just below the hill top. He led her down the hill, and they ran to the horse. He slowed, and stopped her.
“Wait here” he said, and walked slowly up to the horse.
“Come on Flame, easy girl” he said, and the horse knead at Veranita.
“Now Flame,” he said, and touched the horse’s nose.
“You are to be kind to King Veranita, she’s really nice” he said, and the horse eyed her closely.
“Come on over, walk normally” he instructed, and gestured for Veranita. Veranita looked at the lovely creature, no not lovely…..enchanting. She walked slowly up to the horse, and touched the horse’s mane. The horse nudged her arm, and wanted her to pet her nose. Veranita did, and petted the horse’s back. The horse looked back at her, and nodded its head.
“She really likes you, that’s new. Sometimes she doesn’t even like me” Terim said, and the horse stomped at him. He backed away,
“Alright, I’m sorry” he said, and walked back to Veranita. He got on Flame bare back.
“Can you get up?” he asked, and in a blink of and eye she was on the horse’s back. He leaned forward, and held on to the horse’s neck.
Chapter 14
“Home girl” he said, and the horse took off. They rode over lush green hills, to a large salty sea. A small manor sat on the shore line. They rode up to it. A tall gate surrounded the manor. The guards cheered in joy.
“Prince Terim is here!!” they shouted, as Terim led the horse into the court yard. He jumped down, and took Veranita by the waist. He lifted her off the horse to the ground.
“Where are we?” she asked, as the doors busted open. A tall very skinny, very pretty woman ran out of the manor. She wore a long red dress, and a silver crown.
“Son!” she shouted, and ran to him hugging him tightly.
“I thought the trip was for a week, your back after a day, and with a girl. Son who is this charming creature?” she asked and hugged Veranita.
“King Veranita, the late King William’s daughter” he said, and the woman curtsied.
“Your majesty” she said softly, and Veranita curtsied the same.
“Your majesty” she said in return unsure of what else to say. Terim looked at Veranita like a school boy looks at a pretty school girl.
“Please come into the manor, you’re probably tired King Veranita” she said, and took Veranita by the shoulder, and led her into the manor. The inside was plain, ordinary, and not extravagant in any way shape or form. She led Veranita to a room in the east side of the manor. The room faced the sea. Salt filled the air around the entire place. Terim followed them to Veranita’s room. It wasn’t large, but rather small and homey. The Queen walked into the hall, and Terim walked in.
“I hope you like the room King Veranita. I will send word to Sir Wrain that you are at the manor. Unless you wish to travel to the capitol” he said.
“Am I safe here?” she asked him still nervously,
“Yes, you are safe here” he said,
“Then I would like to just stay here. I’ve lived in the woods and in a cave for a week now, and I long for a soft bed” she said with a smile.
“Your servants will be in any minute. They will do anything you wish them to” he said, and started out the door.
“Wait” she said, and ran up to him. She curtsied deeply,
“Thank you for saving my life” she said. He knelled as low as he could.
“Please your highness, my brother is the King not I” he said, and she rose from the curtsy.
“Is that your way of saying, your welcome?” she asked with a laugh, and he stood up.
“That is my way of saying, I would risk my life for you any day your majesty” he said, and walked out of the room. She felt something deep down inside, a kind of comfort around her. She walked over to the couch, and sat down. Two maids came in and curtsied deeply. Veranita stood up, and they ushered her into a side room. A large tub of warm water awaited her. She bathed, and they brushed her long hair out, and braided it around her head. She changed into a long light green gown, and walked bare foot. She waited till the girls were gone, and took the braid off the top of her head and let it hang. She lay down on the soft bed, and relaxed. They brought her a large bowl of fresh sliced fruit, and sat it on the table. Veranita sprang off the bed, and ran to the food. She sat down, and started instantly to eat. Her hunger had only grown since she had arrived, and was now paining her. She ate every morsel of food on the plate. An drank a whole pitcher of fresh water. Her door opened, and Terim walked in.
Chapter 15
“Your highness” he said, and bowed before walking up to her. He stood next to the table.
“Please sit Prince Terim” she said, and he sat down. He sat down, and stared at her. She looked so elegant. Her long red hair braided back, and her bright blue eyes stared at him in curiosity. She was like a dream, in the pale sunlight of the day.
“Yes, Prince Terim?” she asked following his eyes. He blotted strait up,
“Sorry, I just came to see what you were doing in the river?” he asked.
“I was running. You see, well I’ll tell you from the start. The city was attacked. I ran. I passed out from running too long. Tosh, Wrain, Dadain, Liend, and Hien found me. I fell into the river, Dadain rescued me. I ran off, Wrain stopped me. We went into the cave. We argued. All of them left, but Tosh to see if the city was safe. I fell asleep. Tosh lead men into the cave. When I woke up they came at me. I ran through the tunnels, and dropped a blanket at the wrong turn. I ran the other way, and fell into a large hole. I landed in the river. You saved me” she said. He looked at her shocked, stunned, and mortified. ‘A lady should not have to run through woods and caves in fear. She should be in a palace being honored’ he thought,
“I sent word to Sir Wrain; he will almost certainly be here in a week. If not sooner if he knows of the way you came. You see a mountain separates our kingdoms, and the only way I know is to go around. You would have had to gone through the mountain” he said,
“I did, I was under ground the whole time. We were in a cave for days before they left me” she said.
“I still don’t understand one thing is Tosh a rebel?” he asked,
“Yes, he tried to kill me” she said annoyed by the question.
“Flame likes you, if you want you can ride her” he said standing up. Veranita thought for a moment, and he offered his hand to her. She took his soft smooth hand, and he pulled her up. She took his arm, and he led her out into the hall. Veranita felt strange around him. He was so strong, and perfect. He took her out to the courtyard, and Flame stood with another stead. The other was solid white, and had a saddle.
“Why doesn’t Flame have a saddle?” she asked,
“I never could get one on her. We tried but she would kick and stomp on the men. Can you ride bare back?” he asked,
“Of course, I was only wondering” she said, and walked up to Flame. The horse nudged her arm as she walked by. Veranita jumped on the horse’s back, and Flame was calm. Terim watched in shock. He walked up to the white horse, and got on. He steered the horse toward the gate. Veranita leaded against Flame’s neck, and whispered in her ear.
“Lets play” she whispered, and Flame took off. Terim followed after them quickly as they ran over rolling hills down to the beach. On the beach, they raced along the coast. The sun was starting to set, and made a brilliant display of colors on the rippling water. Veranita and Flame stopped, and looked out at the water.
“Lets watch the sun” she said, and they road up onto a hill. She sat on Flame watching the sun set, and the wind blew around them. Terim followed after, and suddenly fell in love. He stared at her as the wind blew around her, and she closed her enchanting eyes lightly.
