The Chief Commander’s Daughter

By Shalom Tenias

The Chief Commander’s Daughter

Adored and valued by her father, Julliet Sabts is not the type of a girl you would easily find with your name in her heart let alone give you a minute’s respect. She is not only the most spoiled brat ever lived but an irresponsible one too, capable of snaring you into a murder case so as to get what she want friends and family alike let alone strangers. Her rule is enjoying her life to the fullest as she won’t have that second if she loses it. As the chief commander’s daughter everyone is forced to bow at all her flaws with smiles. Thanks to her father Protestantia Kingdom has never been safer. Her father is feared all around the kingdoms yet his only weakness is Julliet. Since childhood she has had many kidnaps attempt which failed yet now an opportunity opens for all enemies as war break out against Prostantia and its Neighbour the Khananians over land.

Now the question remain where will Julliet go and how will she react to each case as both turns will completely change her life as a spoiled Chief commander’s daughter, yet falling truely inlove at the war front with the perfect person may prove to be both a blessing and a curse .

A story of true love, betrayal, sacrifice and regret.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Shalom Tenias
• Release date: Jul 31, 2017
• ISBN: 9781370279531

Book preview

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

To Julia Sibanda, a friend whose desire for more gave me a push to keep writing the next page apart from my love and passion for writing, creating and most importantly being part of the adventure. She was ever like did you write another page? Can’t you write any faster? Tell me what will happen this would be after every break at high school despite our being candidates. ‘Friend’ *Prince Weber Tagwira. A fire fighter who made it his mission to be there and rescue me whenever my hands were full and I needed to meet deadlines. His thoughts and comments were quite inspiring. Special thanks to my family, my mother, father for wishing and cheering me to reach for the stars and beyond. My lovely sister Charlotte whose wish is to see this book as a movie. My co- editor and best friend. Her encouragements, effort and thoughts are a pillar, my brother Charlton who enjoyed creating comprehensions from my novels, only with his own happy endings, very creative and inspiring. Shadrek who not only loves to read but did enjoy my stories for his leisure time. His curiosity gave me a drive. Their support was unwavering in every part of the road and all the sacrifices they made so as to fulfil my wish of publishing are priceless. They believed in me and cheered me on in truth a God sent anchor ‘ family of Grace’. I also extend gratitude to the Sithole Family. Wailer Sithole, Emmanuel, Natasha, Tau, Loreen, Melisa, Mr Chomutiri, Mrs muramani, Reuben, Tatenda, Ruth, Melody,Drew,Brian, Takudzwa Zingwanda, Nothando, uncle Tatenda, Eliot and my brother Paddington they were all very supportive every time they saw me with a counter book and a pen ‘ even in the DH’ lol. My sister Sikhathele with whom I made my first book from bond papers when I was in primary.

My gratitude stretches to all I might have forgotten to mention or all your help really counted and means a lot, am entirely grateful to you, not forgetting all who handled the cash for the publication and obtained the Isbn number. Catherine from reach publishers, her attention, patience, listening skills entire professionalism and will is most admirable.

I would also love to thank God for loving me this much and allowing me such joy, for being the Author and finisher of my own life.

It’s a privilege to also extend my thanks to the Reach publishers a group of professional experts so friendly, patient, professional and true. They are not overrated in the name of marketing but their service, concern and communication is underrated because they are the best.

I must stress that any and all errors of fact or detail fall squarely on my shoulders. This book is a work of fiction, my own imagination from a desire to send lessons to the world of how we are responsible for all in our lives through choices we make. Names, characters, places in this book do not exist. Any resemblance to actual real events is entirely coincidental.

FOREWORD

Living a life of always being guarded knowing every country’s enemy is after you may not be easy yet can it justify how one chooses her path in life?. The house may be heavily guarded and Julliet untouchable but she takes us into her life and thoughts. We meet the people in her life and learn how each person has effect on her, to what extent she let them, the name ‘spoiled brat’ as she would prefer people know and call her may be a cover for all she does in the night’s shadow which people would bet their necks that she couldn’t do, ‘come on! The girl might need someone to carry her to the ladies for all we know. Setting aside her once upon a time first class child hood training with the General himself, can such a girl even know how or where to point the gun if she ever could use it?

…….one thing I was sure of is, this is the twentieth Century and I am not about to let my life be over for something that should have been resolved centuries ago. Come on it’s not my war and I certainly won’t be part of it. I want it far off from my life. How do I say this? Can you picture sweat and perfume, dirty and manicure or say pedicure it just won’t fit there are no malls at the base and I will occasionally need a spa.

.. Unforgettable book by a great writer, especially if you are someone into adventure and mystery….

‘Hope you will bless us with another memorable ride soon.’

PRINCE W TAGWIRA.

A page turner which will activate your imagination and leave you hankering for more...

CHARLOTTE

Contents

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

FOREWORD

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

Chapter 9

Chapter 10

Chapter 11

Chapter 12

Chapter 13

Chapter 14

Chapter 15

Chapter 16

Chapter 17

Chapter 18

Chapter 19

Chapter 20

Chapter 21

Chapter 22

Chapter 23

Chapter 24

EPILOGUE

FAIRY TALE

IN THE MIDDLE OF TWO HEARTS

CHAPTER 1

Such a beautiful morning it was in Anglesea. The sun had momentarily unveiled the beauty of the day in its fullest form as if challenging the night. Julliet having just scrambled out of her bed dashed for the bathroom leaving her bed unmade which is not surprising. Now she was running down the stairs after her hot bath.

‘’ mum l just can’t find what to wear this looks like a granny from the first century how on earth will l walk to school like this? l just can’t. ‘’ ‘’ Morning your highness don’t bother to ask about us cause we your servants are fine. ‘’ ‘’ Mum l certainly don’t have time for that lecture right now. ‘’ ‘’ and how in the universe did you expect to find clothing in that dumping place you call a room? ‘’ ‘’ but mother its FAITH’s fault she always changes my room to her own order. So, oh! Mum l will be late again! ‘’

‘’ JAINE just help her please, she is already late for crying out loud she is the chief commander’s daughter. ‘’ ALAN says not looking up from his newspaper which he is holding over breakfast that the maids just set up. ‘’ This has gone too far enough you are still spoiling her at her age? Look at ALEX, ALOUIS AND JUNIOR they - - - ‘’ ‘’ please darling do! ‘’ ‘’ okay , okay l will ‘’ Jaine says banging the book she was reading on the table in anger.

‘’ Thank you dad ‘’ says Julliet as she jovially plants a kiss on his father’s cheek. She takes a toast her father is about to bite from his mouth and she bites into it and smile. ‘’Not bad, I guess I will have breakfast. Girls hurry up I don’t have all day, I want breakfast right now. Daddy do you like my make over see how I tinted my hair? ‘’ She asks ignoring the maids already running around the room to serve her effectively and efficiently praying she won’t complain about anything at all, ‘’I am loving your look my dear. You look like a princess that you are my love. Wait till your mother brings you your outfit I can’t wait to see you then my Angel’’ he says his attention fully on his daughter with a meaningful smile. ‘’ you should see my nails ant they just gorgeous?’’ she asks extending them to his father who examines them and agree with her. ‘’ Good morning Miss Juliet ‘’ Faith says as she enters the room intending to pass by on her way to her chores.

‘’ you are just nothing but my maid yet I don’t understand how you fail to do anything right in all I command you to do? I don’t know if what you want is for me to ask you? Look Faith I want this to be done by the end of the day and let me not repeat myself understood? ‘’, she asks as she hands over a paper of instructions to her which she takes her eyes lowered. Despite her age and profession she bows and replies. ‘’ Yes ma’am thank you. May I please be excused?’’ ‘’ yes leave my sight this instant; hey what kind of coffee is this? Give me a real coffee in the exact temperature I want it. Daddy what is wrong with these people? They want to spoil my beautiful day. I told you to fire them why are you still keeping them? They can’t do what they are paid to do.’’, ‘’ be easy on them honey they are humans too, they make mistakes. ‘’ ‘’ I want perfection no mistakes they know it.’’ ‘’ didn’t you say you were late? Are you not relaxing too much dear? ‘’ ‘’ you! Go check if my car is now in the drive way and come to report to me right away? ‘’ she commands to one of the maids who runs out as if running for her dear life. Yet she bumps into Felix and comes back with him as he is the only one who is allowed to touch Juliet’s rides ‘’ ‘’ good morning General sir ‘’ ‘’ hie Felix how are you today? ‘’ ‘’ am fine thank you sir ‘’ ‘’ good morning Miss Julliet ‘’ ‘’ hey love, how are my babies ‘’she says flittingly ignoring the awkwardness he always show when she does it in front of her parents or brothers ‘’ am doing my best ‘’ ‘’ oh I know you are Felix. Did you see the new ride that just got invented?’’ ‘’ yes I did ma’am ’’ ‘’ well I want it before market. Talk to the inventor and give the price to my father I want to drive it tomorrow to school. Just offer them an offer they can’t refuse and I will be the first to have it, right darling? ‘’ ‘’ Yes ma’am ‘’ ‘’ excuse me this breakfast is not warm enough its cold. Look! Forget it you are all useless. Daddy will you tell mum I want breakfast am going to pack my books and get dressed‘’

It was always like this every morning since as long as l was oh! Since I could communicate with my parents and reach a mutual understanding. With it being so long ago wouldn’t one get used to it? I mean l being Jaine’s only daughter, I always thought it awesome, don’t quote me wrong l hated to see my parents argue over me though l must admit l liked it when l always ended up with what l want, hey l also have to enjoy my every heartbeat, not to mention my youth days. They have to be enjoyed to the fullest.

As for my brothers you can say they are the apple of my mother’s eyes. Louis a graduate is pursuing his dream and being best at it, he doesn’t participate much at church nonetheless is a Christian not by names but actions a true son of God. As we grew up dad always said he was to guide protect and lay a good foundation for us and now it’s in his blood. He cares so much he makes you feel in debt for having a third parent. He tried to make me be better but my mother told him to let go. She being the saint she did it to stop us from hating each other and fighting now we all get along and there my mother stands a hero who foresaw the future and prevented a terrible disaster quite a happy ending isn’t it?

My brothers don’t like my character and try to change it one way or the other with every chance they obtain. Nevertheless every method is with respect and no offense to minimise fights since dad wants us to be united with all our differences love each other and I should say Louis is the best mediator among us not by age on the contrary by heart, perfect first born.

Junior is still at school my junior though we rarely hang out at school but home. He is continuously programmed to attain high grades and is counting the years, months, weeks and days to his finally achieving his dreams very participant at church. At home when sad only he can make up for everyone’s day he is now more like the family’s little clown, perfect last born.

Alex on the other hand as high as his grades since university he never wanted to pursue anything else but dad’s footsteps. The day he was so excited to tell him I feared the outcome thus went silent. When he ended up gloomy for I just knew it was over. Am close to dad and I should say I knew he would be heartbroken but then again I couldn’t just go ahead and stop him he had to try. Since we were kids he has been trying to join us training but dad did not have the time for him but me at least I thought so till he told me he didn’t want any of us in his line of work he wished a free life for all of us . Well he took Engineering and is good at it yet again all his main toys are for his passion better surveillance cameras, trackers, explosives and there are the best of toys when one seeks perfection. He is a God fearing man currently he is still looking for a job. I don’t understand how he still can’t find one job perfect for him one way or the other every job is not good for him. He spends most of the holidays away from home on unending experimental trips. Pardon me but I don’t buy the trips I smell a rat how come no one notices his body changes every time he comes back even the way he moves around, of all people my father !!, yet he is still the perfect mid brother.

They are the ideal perfect children, not that they are perfect but they respect and obey her unlike me the black sheep of the family. Why bend with all the servants that surround me if I do then why are they paid and if I can afford all I want why deny myself.

Did l say l was the youth representative who said ladies can’t lead? It is a pity it will be only for the remaining three weeks before l part with my friends. Mum being herself a well morally brought up devoted JC believer by JC I mean Jesus Christ. l know it will only take the results to come out for her to kick me out of my comfort zone to look for a job , unless dad comes to my rescue again and give me a better position in one of his businesses being so wealthy independent from his job. Being so well off, wealthy, beautiful why can I not be so prestigious? It is my only wish or should l say l abnormally admire SAMMY M JONES who in his right mind doesn’t in or out of Anglesea. Everyone who can get hold of her pride and jealous do openly admire her. She is all you can ask for a friend an ally, advisor counsellor you can name all the lights of righteousness and beauty that’s Samantha for you.

Naturally beautiful, l can’t stop myself from always wondering on her looks if she lived my life of daily make overs. The Jones family are celebrities in life style more than in talents, rare abilities and appearance. They are just a blessed family. I always tell Sammy that being in her shoes l would make the whole world worship me and her reply is always that you should not worship any created things but him who created all and gave wisdom to all. My mother always sing how much l worship fashion and technology more than God who gives me life and breath, but who cares God created those who invent the fashion and technology he even gives them more knowledge instead of less in a verdict of misusing the wisdom and knowledge he gave them . If he so much hates it he would just make these people die as he says, he has the power over death and life, if he is pissed off why doesn’t he just go ahead and take away their brains and make them dumb? Am not Christ we all are not him and never will be. How can a human being, with enough brains even try to imitate a super human or is it a spirit?

Of course l know when to hold my horses when around Sammy. She would talk to me straight through the word patiently despite my insults except always depending on my mood l have noticed. To be honest though when she will be done lecturing me l will be a true saint. All my points crushed a new light of revelation shining through my path. I guess you can say though I greatly contradict with most of the facts in this faith, l know the truth and the right path. l just however follow my own desires. That voice that just whisper don’t listen you know you want this and its true the truth sets me free that’s what l will be wanting, to enjoy my life.

Though you would think my mother’s song of my being spoiled, would just make me laugh alone in the dark when the dreams won’t come. When l just think of my family l feel so bad for her she tries so hard to make me be what she thinks and know is right, but l don’t want to be right l want to go where ever the wind of my desires blows me to.

Deep down l know that l love her despite how many times she has heard me scream to her face that l hate her and being daddy’s girl she has no choice other than to swallow it and you would hear father assuring her, ‘you know she doesn’t mean it. One day you guys will get along, you will see’ well am waiting for that day, I wanna witness it evolve on the face of earth.

Zoey and Sharry will be there too by Sammy’s side supporting her with scriptures and points not that she needs it but she loves to hear someone acquire new revelations on the word of God her eyes sparkles up like the most beautiful star ever created. She listens so attentively with all her focus. Despite how much the spirit might miraculously hold them and give them revelations or even an emergency prophecy they know never to start on me if l do not ask them to, like Sammy would. She would tell me how God exists and how we misuse the wisdom he gave us to go against him.

It’s a pity l understand Sammy more mostly more than l understand my mother maybe its cause l have built a wall that says she wants to make life hard for me so l have to turn to dad for all she says to me however one topic we never agreed on is love affairs. I have as much man in my life as I want for different reasons I will admit, but never money why would I? Swimming in my parents’ wealthy and sweat

Sammy is the closest to me among my friends and we are ever as a group unless classes separate us yet we keep in touch at all times. The boys volunteer on sports for the school and their rare skills have set them on the wanted list professional and socially alike. As for the girls we are not only rich but then we have the looks and the brains. As for dancing you don’t ask that of a party girl it’s in the blood. We all have had lead dancing videos for different most hitting songs it’s like fame follows us on all we do.

Our university do sports with other volunteer varsities and the sports are so much fun. The boys are five just as we girls are. We have also created our own group of cheer leaders of which I am unquestionably the captain and when our men play we cheer them. The players are all but volunteers. Drew is best in basketball, Bee cricket and Dave beach volley ball. They are well known in all semester groups. Bee being the muscular one and so full of himself and Drew less muscular, funny with a childish face that makes him look so innocently attractive. Unlike Bee who centres at one place he goes around all sports and is best at them too. Rumour has it that they are pure underground players. As for Drew given he wasn’t so close to Sammy and for my respect for the unsaid connection they have only the creator knows what l would do for him. As for Bee l wouldn’t resist being held in those strong arms.

So if you know my group then you know Anglesea University though l differ much from these honest living beings, l say much on the girls side for there is no smoke without fire on the boys’ side except for Dave. With them l feel l belong and l can trust like and be liked back. I can see life in all its realities, though l pretend they have no impact in my life l know deep down they know they do.

Occasionally when l visited Sammy l would find her cooking or cleaning up despite being the Mayor’s daughter, despite being at university a candidate and unbelievably she enjoyed it. Bit by bit l started to help her and enjoyed it too l learnt a lesson then. Chores done with love dedication and joy are as good work as play and you do it once not twice SAMMY would say do all as if doing it for Christ and if you do something right the first time you won’t have to do it twice. I remember when l once asked her ‘‘don’t you get tired of saying those verses applying them into your life don’t you become bored and feel like being deprived of your own wishes and desires. ‘’ ‘’ of course the devil can tempt just like he did to Jesus after the fasting but you just have to have the word ready to attack back with and you won’t believe the joy you will feel when you conquer it’s like you are a vessel so close to God deeply loved and accordingly blessed the revelations you get are just like sparkling stars in your darkness. A dawn to a new understanding of God a new spiritual level, God says my people perish because of lack of knowledge and you will have won a battle l can’t explain the feeling nonetheless l know it is way of better than your desire would have been and the joy you would have had cause here you understand and feel real true freedom of choices in grace. It is not just a surface joy on the contrary it’s a joy from within the deepest part of you and blessings over flow on you too from your proud father. If you make his word your life style then you will find it to be the best life you could ever live cause his plans are ever the best and way off better than ours. As his plans are not to harm us but to make us prosper ‘’ ‘’ how do you know you seem holier than marry Magdalene herself ‘’ ‘’ no Jully no one is perfect no not one and l know the feeling that comes after you follow your desires despite how wrong you know it is, it’s so bitter and the devil enjoy reminding you of it hurting you again and again what makes one righteous is that no matter how many times he falls he always rise and head on in the truth ‘’ she said and this touched too much of what l had locked within so l let the discussion end there, she understood and retreated .

My mother doesn’t have a clue to what extent of the chores am able to do however she has been sparing me some comments after noticing some changes and l have been noticing her smile at me the way she smiles at her perfect kids who are loyal to her but even more so proud.

This morning l had been up late reading for my exams which started last week. I was feeling a little lazy, no l was bored to the extremes by my books and had to bore someone too like the books were boring me. Shift the load or most preferably dispose it on to some unlucky victim. You know that question of wondering if you are getting anything at all, of all you are wasting your time reading if so how much?

I drive to school and reaching the group parking spot l realise I am the only one missing. It is not as much a big deal because l will make a grand entrance with what I am wearing and my today look. Loving the attention, l model to my group, which l guess l should call friends?

We exchange greetings and compliments as usual and as they know they have to put up with me being me, always talking about me, and my price tags.

‘’ well before you start preaching to us on your new look today we were waiting for you because you are leading the prayer a minute more late we were starting without you. ‘’ Drew says smiling yet serious ‘‘ ‘‘ but ‘’ ‘’ no buts gal we have classes to catch we are already behind schedule as it is. TIMY you do the word sharing ‘’ Bee says to Timy who just showed up and he looks at us in turn shocked. ‘’ Don’t l at least deserve a, hie before commands? ‘‘He says in his innocent voice which l find heart twisting by the way. ‘’ Hey sweet heart ‘’ l say as he leans over me ‘’ hey cutey ant you just stunning today ‘‘ ‘‘ do you like it? ‘’ ‘’ like it ? No I love it ‘’ he says kissing me ‘’ oh that’s so very gross. ‘’ Drew comments ‘’ nah grozzy ‘’ Bee joins both pretending disgust not that it’s the first time for us to kiss in front of them they just don’t like the show off. Sammy would say ‘’ a little bit of respect please.

‘’ Timy loves showing me off that l have learnt to accept about him.

‘‘Some respect please? We don’t have all day let’s start moving you love birds ‘’ ‘’ yuh love birds in deed ‘’ Zoey says mockingly.

‘’ Gal did you sleep at a makeover spa last night? l will have all the attention in the world my girl rocks ‘’ Timy says ‘’ at least someone around here have eyes. ‘’ I say sarcastically.

‘’ You two - ‘’ ‘’ reserve it Bee it’s too early for debates don’t you think?’’ Sammy says calmly.

This is how we start our every day at school ‘weird you would say’, nevertheless it all started through Sammy before class, when she got early to school and someone joined her for a chat. She always said ‘’ you know l saw this verse this morning, girl last night you wouldn’t believe what God revealed to me! ‘’ And by the time we were all meeting up early just so as to discuss all we came across and some questions we have. I myself did not like to be seen as quite a fan to this, so l always came in last. Sharry suggested we find a place to meet before classes and discuss however when we did Sammy said only God can make us understand the word so we need his presence and what do you know we had to say an opening prayer. One morning Zoey was sick and did not come for lectures, we prayed for her the next thing someone’s parents were sick and we prayed so it became a routine prayer and word then class. We have different classes although some do link thus we help each other and we study in the morning when we don’t have classes till in the afternoon so after bible study some go to the library, some classes depending on time. Sometimes we meet up for dinner to discuss our long planned and saved for trip. This is in just a few days considering when we started.

I have never looked forward to anything so much in my life. It was my idea so I’m the one to conduct the plans for the trip everything has to just be perfect I will make sure of it. We will be leaving with the WORLD TOURS tour guards. They have branches in all countries in the world and they can take you wherever your money permits. We wish to see the seven wonders of the world see God’s great works not that we haven’t seen any of them but we haven’t as friends it is such a great experience an unforgettable fare well to being youth that are depended cause we all know once the results are out we all go separate ways . Last week we had our dead line of paying up and I banked up the money now we have nothing stopping us to leave all was a success. Since this is done they will be less discussions and more partying. At least l thought so till l got home.

I notice all the cameras around the house are probed on so is the increases of soldiers, of course not in uniform nevertheless l know hidden under those fancy pants are dynamites weapons. Walking inside l realise the door scans are also probed on. They scan bugs of any kind and I am wondering what this is all about? If we are receiving most honoured guests again, who need maximum protection? If the president himself is on his way? Cause on a normal day you just don’t enter the main gate of our mansion.

I am called for dinner while am still into my study and am glad for l greatly needed a reason for a break. Walking down the stairs to the family dining room I find everyone at the table, they already said grace. ‘’ We thought you weren’t joining us your highness ‘’ mum says as usually expected when am late. ‘’ Nah am here now isn’t it? ‘’ l say sitting. ‘’ well ‘’ l say and all exchange glances in a knowing look as l begin to sing about my day how a genius l am, how l stopped traffic with my look, how Timy loved it, how all my day was, when l am done l realise mum is giving me her look the one she always gives me before saying you are not the only one with a life your highness. Spare some credit to others who deserve it like God but she has a concerned look on her face. ‘’ Julliet my daughter ‘’ ‘’ yes mother ‘’ l say in alarm thanks to her coolness and calmness. ‘’ Did you notice your father is not at the table dear? ‘’ ‘’ he isn’t? Yuh he isn’t l noticed ‘’ ‘’ you mean you just noticed, well he has gone to the camp again. ‘’ ‘’ wasn’t he to go after a month or was it two? ‘’ ‘’ that issue if you have been following the news and listening to your father at dinner you would know it has gone serious like l trust you do know my dear. ‘’ ‘’ but he has been home for how long is it two days? ‘’ Confidently I say and hear giggling at the table save for mum does not change her expression or tone. ‘’ No dear it’s just been two weeks you were just too busy to accommodate him in your plans ‘’ ‘’ oh l see, well tomorrow l have to go to the mall with the girls. Can you believe that there will be new designer fashion on auction? Let me go call them and tell them of the news so they don’t make plans for after school. ‘’ ‘’ Jully are you paying attention? ‘’ ‘’ yes dad is gone and will be back don’t know when. ‘’ ‘’ they might be war Julliet Sabts ‘’ ‘’ war so when will it end let’s hope they know better to keep the noise away from the mall girls have to go shopping they have to have enough sense to understand that. l will be in my room , hey you! This food has too much spice what recipe is this? I let this lie for now except if this repeats someone will die. Cookies and milk in my room now!! ‘’ l say and race up the stairs leaving mum with a shocked face. Given a better mood l know she would call me back, given today’s mood she just let me go.

You would think when dad is not around mum would make me bend but she gave that up when l was a child l hated her so much especially when she tried to make me bend. She was like girls do this, no they don’t do that they do that. My friends said otherwise when I visited I could see it with my own eyes it was their own personal assistants who did all for them. I tried to explain it to her but no! She was and still is the mother and I have to obey and respect her word. She would be like, ‘’ this is for you am doing this for your own good’’ how can straining myself and going against my will be for my own good? I hated her all I could see was her hate. Many times I would ask myself if she was even my biological mother or just a step mother. I then grew closer to my father. At first it was taken lightly and they believed I would grow up and change my perception but no instead I squeezed every lie against her. He would witness her grounding me and spanking me to such an extent that dad ended up confused of what the truth was as mum was still trying to make me live the right way. When dad was gone l turned so silent, reserved and just but a sad zombie despite all she did to make me understand and be happy l turned a deaf ear cried for my dad all night.

The day he called l said all the lies l could squeeze to back up her actions towards me turned her to a monster. Dad was so angry he had to come back and had a serious fight with mum l wouldn’t talk when she said l should tell the truth l just kept quiet and dad said l was scared to go against her cause of what she would do after he left of course I was so little how could such a baby a sweet child make such lies especially about her own mother ‘impossible’. Mum did not beat me up she just let me be from then l have been Daddy’s baby what l say goes. That was when he made his first mistake. He took me to the camp with him. I was so young and I needed a maid to take care of me during my stay. I was given this soldier ‘a lady’ she was so nice. She feared my father therefore whatever I said she sprinted up to do it. I was also careful to praise her to my father to assure him he had made the right decision so he wouldn’t send me back home. I would watch dad train in his training room in the basement and would playfully train along yet with years it became serious. I fell in love with all the equipment I could get hold of and became best at it. My father was so proud of me we shared the best of moments together till senior high school happened to me. I had new principles a new life and a new road to walk on, a future to look forward to.

Since high school graduation I have been trying to convince dad to let me have my own apartment and it has not worked out yet. Considering that Louis is the first born working and he won’t be let to have his own apartment I can as well forget about it but no I will try till he gives in I know he will. Though I know it won’t be as easy, Louis bought his house and we all thought now he will be set free but no dad refused. I am not sure why? Currently it is being leased. Maybe he is too worried about us so much he needs a doctor. For the following days l just find everyone around the phone talking to dad and am too busy to wait on the line sometimes even when l walk in to find my own turn l will be running behind schedule so l just tell them to tell him l will call back which is impossible and we all know it of course dad understands am busy and will support me too unlike mum who gives me that spoiled brat look. The day l finished my exams l got home early not that it was normal but so l could call dad had to tell him about the exams and my trip.

‘’ Mrs Sabts l want to talk to my dad when is he calling? ‘’ ‘’ good afternoon to you too ‘’ ‘ ‘ it was-- ‘‘, ‘‘am fine thank you although could had been better ‘’ ‘’ mum l need to talk to dad ‘’ ‘’ and l need to talk to you ‘’ ‘’ when is dad calling ‘’ ‘’ l am not sure but maybe eight its uncertain Jully ‘’ ‘’ okay l have five minutes to spare what do you want? ‘’ ‘’ am your mother young lady despite how you treat me ‘’ she yells and l sit down realising its serious.

‘’ We are going to the camp this holiday this week on Friday your father will send us a chopper and we will go there ‘’ ‘’ wow you are going almost the same day as us. Well hope you have fun l have grown out of that place used to love it as a kid but now I am a lady, glad am not joining you this time. Can l go upstairs now? I mean to my own room. ‘’ ‘’ there is no trip you are going to Yolanda!!. We are talking about a war here which involves your own flesh and blood being the leader and am saying we all go spend holiday with him since he can’t continue his holiday with us ‘’ ‘’ you want to, not me l have planned this trip like all my university and l won’t let some nation misunderstanding get between me and my desire no, never! l won’t let it happen. I did not hear it and won’t ever hear it again. ‘’ Standing up to leave ‘’ he is your father ‘’ she shouts in anger ‘’ and l change route from going up the stairs to going out.

I am achingly aware that am under surveillance but l need to be alone. I understand how risky it is for me to go on this trip at this time the enemy can capture me and use me to make my father lose focus then make demands since dad is the main leader on the crisis he knows much about the WOOD LAND and its ownership. He is so good in his work many Kingdoms and countries are terrified of him. He has escaped death many times and many died trying to kidnap me so as to bring him down this started when l was a kid and that’s how l learnt about the surveillance. He let me because he felt his work is what affected my free life other than my disputes with my mother, except honestly he gave me too much rope for my share.

I told my friends what had happened and complained cursed shed tears when Sammy heard it she said she thought going was important than the trip but only God has the final say on what is better since all he does is good. But how can they stop my trip for what we all know can be a false alarm it is just in human.

The following day’s l made sure l did not cross my path with my mother’s or talk to her concerning the trip cancellation and did a great job of it till Friday afternoon. They were leaving that night and l had not packed a thing to make it clear l was not going anywhere. l came back during dinner, from my friends where l now have all the fun in the world. Home is now so like am going into a place l am no longer welcome and don’t belong anymore. Every night l walk in stuffed, and only take milk to bed.

Just as l take the second step on the stairs she stops me and am thinking she wants me to greet her but no.

‘’ Honey dear have you gave it a thought? are you now decided we are going tonight you know ‘’ she says and my two brothers shifts their attention and looks at me with faces seemingly begging that I should for once in my life understand and give way bend to this?

‘’ There is nothing to think about nothing in the world will make me go not even if it was world war and dad could not come home for twenty years okay? ‘‘l say and storm to my room feeling her stare on me. I was planning on spending tonight with Alouis and Junior. I feel bad they have to be caught in between this madness and I have not been able to see them a lot these past few days now we are leaving to different safe houses. Alex on the other end called to say he is safe and that was it, he is out of reach. Alouis maybe here but am more secure when they are all here and they tell me that,’ honey everything will be fine we are here. Mother is going to the camp later at night. The transport for the boys will come first then mother and I will have the house to myself. Instead of that time with my brothers’ l just drifted off to sleep. Though I had not planned the timing one thing I was sure of is, this is the twentieth Century and I am not about to let my life be over for something that should have been resolved centuries ago. Come on it’s not my war and I certainly won’t be part of it. I want it far off from my life. How do I say this can you picture sweat and perfume? Dirty and pedicures? It just won’t fit they are no malls at the base and I will occasionally need a spa.

CHAPTER 2

A long time ago when only Kingdoms stood in the face of earth and only the strongest stood with pride of no slavery King MINTZBERG of Khana’s son married a princess from the PROTESTANTIA Kingdom the daughter of King GOLDBER. This marriage then made the two kingdoms to be allies. These Kingdoms where not only neighbours, there were great kingdoms, they dominated and were feared among the rest although Protestantia was the most feared even by the Khananians King Goldber kept his peace with his neighbour out of respect with no boasting. He respected the boundaries they had and was content with his riches. Of all his treasures the treasure he valued the most was his daughter. He had loved her from birth and was so selfish about her to an extent that he ruled with her on his side. She even handled most of the Kingdom affairs as a teenager. All the papers the King had to sign had to pass through her hands and she would approve them or disapprove.

Nevertheless King Minzberg being so greed and also very much knowing like everyone how much King Goldber loved his daughter and would do all in his power for her with no question he came up with an evil scheme .

The Princess had fallen in love with King Mintzberg’s son as had his son. After their wedding she moved to her in laws. Occasionally she would visit her parents however on this current occasion she was delayed to go till, during the time the Kingdoms exchanged supplies. They had an agreement of barter trade. The Khananian King then trusted her with the scrolls of the supplies and renewal of the barter trade contract. The Princess took the scrolls to her father to sign without even looking at the contents, thinking she was no longer in the position to. When her father received the scrolls from his daughter he blindly signed them. Assuming she read and approved them. Little did both know that they had fallen helplessly into an enemy’s trap? King Mintzberg knowing the father and daughter bond had purposely sent the princess to make his father sign the boundary of the lands to be miles way into the Protestantia Kingdom. By so doing giving Wood land to the Khananians. This land was many miles after the river and far into Protestantia. Khana land started just after a large hectors of the woods which spread from the river.

The Princess was devastated when she found out how well used and played she had been. King Minzt on this occasion had delayed the scrolls of supplies intentionally and pretended his servants were busy so as to ask the princess to take the scrolls with her when she went to visit her parents after keeping her busy with seemingly Kingdom affairs, since he knew the King will just sign trusting her daughter.

She only found out when she got back and was going through all the files to see if her father had did sign all the scrolls since during the trip she was too excited to follow up on his signing. The King had sent his man for them as if eager to have them back and she had been afraid to disappoint him with giving him unsigned scrolls. The King’s man looked unease when he noticed her shocked face he grabbed the scrolls from her when she tried to refuse with them. She pulled as he pulled and it was torn the very one they both wanted to possess, forcing her to hand over the other half; she stuffed in her dress crying, calling the Prince for help. The guards could not take the other piece from the princess without being executed for undressing her let alone touch her body above all forcefully.

The prince miraculously heard her and stormed to where the voice came from sword already drown. She could not speak but just cry she let him hold her and take her to their quarters. He was so worried he had never seen her cry before but that did not hurt more than the pain that registered in her eyes he was so terrified. Instead of speaking despite how much he begged her she took only her bible from the room turned to her husband and asked ‘’ are you aware of this ‘’ she questioned taking out the other piece which contained a part of the signature and the contract but realised the main part had gone with the guard . It only took surprise and confusion from the prince for her to grab it back and walk out. ‘’ Stop my love where are you going? With your bible crying? Why did you scream for me? Why are you crying? What is that scroll all about? What in the heavens is going on? ‘’ He demands staring also at the maid she had brought from Protestantia, who looked so scared. Clearly she had never seen her so. ‘’ Won’t you go and ask your father? ‘’ ‘’ My father? ‘’ ‘’ Yes!! Your dear Father he sent me with his scrolls and l did what he asked tell him for me that his servant did quite a good job ‘’ ‘’ stay in here l will go have a word with him ‘’ he said realising the flashing anger. She was losing it and trying so hard not to and he knew she would not tell him a thing. He raced to his father.

The princess with only her bible a gift from her father took the secret passage with her maid after telling her that they were going back. It took them to the garden and they took another which took them out of the kingdom. When she was out she played a pipe her father gave her when she was a child it could go miles and she had it around her neck never to be taken off attached to a gold medallion. By the moment she got to the river from entering the woods her father instead of guards welcomed her. He took his daughter home and she could not say a word. She handed him the torn piece and he entrusted her to her mother while he called an urgent meeting after she finally managed to get him from her sight.

The prince had took a horse and raced to the sound of the pipe when he heard it while waiting for the princess to open the locked door not sure what he would say to her after the fight he just had with his father. He got to her Kingdom but would not be let in he stayed at the city gate that night in the morning his own guards came and he fought them refusing to leave being well experienced he won and the King came himself, but he would not talk to him he said he would only talk to him when he brought his wife to him. He did not believe him, he thought his son was bluffing and left him there by the gate and another day passed. He disowned him hoping he would come beg him but he didn’t budge. His father finally asked for permission to speak to King Goldber realising his people were beginning to turn against him as they had loved the princess and did not like how ugly things looked especially what their King had done and he now had no successor. If he lost his son the Kingdom would be lost he could be over throne at any time. He begged for forgiveness. Time was not on his side the people who supported what he did were too few than those who would kill him for it if they got the chance, in his Kingdom let alone others. Some Kingdoms were already withdrawing trade in fear that seeming friendship with the Khananians would make them enemies with Protestantia.

Though she forgave them the Princess did not return with them till the King died. She forgave the prince for the sins of his father and asked him for time to heal as the contract was over ruled as a fraud that it was. The Prince returned home but she did not return. The prince wouldn’t be crowned without her, the Queen had to beg all she could and the princess came. They had a happy ending it had only been a year of betrayal and no word had come out that she was pregnant when she left.

She returned with a bouncing baby boy but that did not give enough security and bonding. What the king had done even in his grave it would not be forgotten such betrayal was too much a scar to be taken slightly. It was against King Goldber for the princess to go back but she had a husband who needed her whom she dearly loved and for his love her father couldn’t stop her.

Centuries passed things changed. Khana remained a Kingdom at tolerance than at peace with Protestantia till a new King was crowned a King with a heart so wicked like the King Minzt. He claimed the wood land from the Protestantia as still called though now more civilised and democratic. The land is such a main base of employment an economy pillar with its river too.

Jaine as a Historian so into the past who loved adventure jumped for the quest, that is how he met with Alan after their paths crossed in the most dangerous places and he saved her life a couple of times despite how much he begged her to stop going into the places when he fell deep for her, she wouldn’t she had an independent blood stubborn like her daughter. She is the reason to this story’s both side of story’s truth being known and the truth being knitted together. She did not take defeat for an answer where historians had no answers she sought the answer and the truth to every historical story her interest in this saga got Mr Alan involved as it was a matter threatening state security very political. That is how he got to know much about the story from her they needed her help her discoveries but he needed her for himself.

After marriage and a family Mrs Sabts decided to stay home for the safety of her children she could not trust anyone with them. The secret connection with the base was so that they could call Mr Sabts or her when they needed historic information of some sort or any high Intel. The desire for adventure had made it impossible to separate her from danger during those years and she still cherishes them especially the ones with her husband. Almost all of her children grew up at the camp. Mr Sabts did not want them to be completely depended on guards for protection, this could seem a solid reason but in truth Mr Sabts had found a true companion to whom he could confide in on personal as well as formal Intel. She didn’t stand there as just but some ordinary house wife. She was a think tank and took pride in her husband’s work. Everything she touched his heart went at peace. He trusted her with his life but not Juliet’s. Despite her great knowledge and expertise she had this gift of just bringing people together a very effective charisma which eased her husband’s control and she would stand as a mediator on many occasions. They both loved those moments of working together, fighting crimes, solving mysteries, sharing fears, hope and faith it sparkled the memories of the days they met yet still creating new memories with every new second they shared.

Though they had almost been raised at the camp their knowledge was however limited. This was owing to the density of the Intel but mostly because their father didn’t want any of them on his footsteps.

CHAPTER 3

The scent of chocolate tea is the first that catches my nose and l feel my bed is so unusually comfy. The sweet morning breeze filled with compliments of God’s work on nature fills my room l feel the refreshment with the sigh of finally being awake. Shifting lazily I try to pull back my mind off the sweet dreams of the trip but the head ache makes me sit up. I reach for the glass of water next to my bed. Taking the laid breakfast l eat all feeling my stomach so empty. Getting out of bed l step on the carpet that surrounds my bed and l gasp. I feel like am going to throw up and dash for the bath room.

The truth refuses to go down with the food. In there it seems one of the two has to come out. The toilet makes it so clear am not at home am not in Anglesea am at the camp.

The last I remember of last night, if it even is last night, since I don’t know for how long I could have been blacked out? The memory is of my failing to stay up while I drank my milk angry with my mother but now am furious.

I cannot cry l just walk into the shower l think better in there, it’s like am in a state of shock removing my gown l step into the shower and let the hot water just run down my body. Am so unfeeling but all there is, Is a pain so great in my heart deep in my heart. Filling the tub with water I immerse myself and sit there soaking thinking about nothing. I can think of much l know l can but l can’t cause l don’t want to l don’t want to let my mind tell me it’s true this fear is preventing me from thinking. How l got asleep l have no idea. Waking up the water is so cold forcing me to take a real bath in the shower, clean my tub which l rarely do. My closets have clothes l had left and also some new clothes. Mum must have bought them to suit the place. Given her choice l know she would have bought better clothes but because she knows l won’t wear them she had to take my wardrobe as it is. I find sleeping pills next to my monarch obviously forgotten. My book shelf have the books l left there as they were but a new shelf have new books l have been longing to read . My hand traces them all as l walk along the shelves. On the dressing table there is my bible taking it to my hands l sit on the corner of my bed.

The room is just like mine in Anglesea so big and same furniture and colours dad’s idea of making me feel home. A couch stands against the wall facing another classic sofa with a small coffee table in the middle. Half of it filled with latest magazines l follow. The room is tiled in silent blue romantic blue which seem to glitter at night. Or just in the dark beside when the light ray concentrate on a spot. The room is so classy, flipping through am reading and not understanding a thing. I start searching for my phone in vain it’s just not there and l can’t believe it. Someone knock at the door turning to it with rage l ignore it then the person calls my name making me realise l don’t know her. ‘’ Miss Sabts the lunch is now ready ma’am your family is waiting for