Silver Skeletons

By J.D. Buchmiller

If prophecies are supposed to come to pass, how was she able to interfere with this one? What does it mean for the future of the kingdom?

The silent battle between land and sea intensifies when Nadia is sent to reside with the Royal Family of Noelle, and Queen Ariana decides she has a much better idea. With the help of her retired White Knight, Sir Rallian, Nadia is enslaved and Ariana initiates her plan to make Noelle an empire again. However, their mutually beneficial relationship is under pressure when Sir Rallian discovers Nadia's value and Queen Ariana begins to question if the she made the right decision letting Nadia live. Will this powerful friendship withstand the test of violence and greed?
Meanwhile, the Royal Advisor, Polaris, looks a fool as what he announced to be a prophecy no longer appears as such. Furthermore, correcting the intended course of events is more complicated with the queen involved, not to mention Nadia is seafolk AND cursed. Poor Rein Bow also finds herself overwhelmed and powerless in helping Nadia, and she hopes that joining forces with Polaris and his resources against this cruel villain will be enough to deliver the princess-turned-slave. Will Polaris be able to save his reputation without being found guilty of treason? Will Nadia have the better life she was promised outside the ocean?

The story of the descendants of King Jorge and Emperor Gerardo continues in this tension-packed Book Three of "The Rose Tree Chronicles." New unique characters are introduced and clash in this fight for a prophecy to be fulfilled. Powerful alliances are strained and personal feelings are mingled in politics. Purchase "Silver Skeletons" now and immerse yourself in a world of war and prophecy.

• Language: English
• Publisher: J.D. Buchmiller
• Release date: May 7, 2020
• ISBN: 9780463065815

J.D. Buchmiller

Janelle was born on January 19 and raised in Southern California. She started writing in the fourth grade, but began writing "Follow" her sophomore year of high school. She considers herself a "writer" rather than an "author" because the word "author" implies that she only writes books. However, she says she tries her hand at every form of writing when she can. She lives in Costa Mesa, California and currently studies Criminal Justice at Southern New Hampshire University. She aspires to someday become a Criminal Prosecutor and part-time Screenwriter for Hollywood.

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Copyright 2020 JD Buchmiller

Smashwords Edition

This ebook is licensed for your personal enjoyment only. This ebook may not be re-sold or given away to other people. If you would like to share this book with another person, please purchase an additional copy for each recipient. If you’re reading this book and did not purchase it, or it was not purchased for your use only, then please return to your favorite ebook retailer and purchase your own copy. Thank you for respecting the hard work of this author.

Dedicated to Mr. Anthony Zeddies,

Thank you for the extra boost of encouragement to pursue a life of writing. I assure you that the recording you left on my parents’ message machine did more than you expected it would

Acknowledgements

A thanks to Keely Bell, Barry Fryslie, and Zachary Johnson for your helpful and effective feedback.

A thanks to Maxwell Green for lending me your home when the coffee houses were closed.

Wendy Walters: Your complex personality, manipulative tendencies, and admittedly successful schemes were exceptional inspiration to one of my finest villains, Queen Ariana of Noelle. Despite this, I hope you find light in your world of darkness and I thank you for everything I got out of the four years I spent working under you.

Sunshine Cunningham: Your encouraging disposition, bright personality, and uplifting attitude were exceptional inspiration for one of my most optimistic characters, Garnet of Mayove. Never let anyone snuff out your light and I wish you the best out of life because you deserve it.

Prologue

"It has been observed that within our beloved Kingdom of Noelle, a problem has arisen concerning the homeless and orphaned multiplying in number… all who are presumed to be homeless and/or orphaned will be immediately taken into custody and sold as Slaves in the next scheduled Slave Auction."

During the past three hundred fifty years, since Gerardo of Liko was last heard of, the Kingdom of Noelle had thrived and gone through a number of extreme changes; some of which included art, food, morale, literature, currency (so that it was less confusing), and especially law. The country now had become very wealthy with markets in gold, silk, and cotton. The fashion was more colorful and the architecture was shapelier with geometric and floral designs. But after roughly three hundred years, an end was arising to this period and a medieval era was slowly underway.

The towns were now built of wood and adobe, with streets of stone and had increased in size and population. Aqueducts ran through each one, so drought was now rare. And as one can expect technology to develop in a different order and speed on a different world, it is understandable how plumbing was invented immediately following the aqueduct. Unfortunately, the plumbing lines were only in the process of being built, so there were still wells in every town and in the backyards of the especially wealthy.

The palace of the Kingdom of Noelle was gorgeous, especially in the sunny weather the Noellites had on Malla 35, 836 (April 17). The sunlight reflected off the dome towers and the sea breeze blew through the windows into the king and queen's bedchamber. The queen stirred under her satin bed sheets before she finally opened her violet eyes. It was clear by the look on her tanned face that she was disturbed. She glanced over at her husband who was still asleep and she decided not to wake him. Instead, she carefully got out of bed and wrapped herself in a white, silk robe. Then she sat at her silver vanity and brushed her bright pink locks as she watched herself in the mirror. If only she could get that disturbing dream out of her mind.

Up so early, Ariana? asked the king.

Queen Ariana jumped at the sudden sound of her husband’s voice. You startled me, Darren, she said with a smile.

I’m sorry, Dear, replied King Darren. How did you sleep?

Fair, I suppose. Yourself? Ariana went back to messing with her hair.

I slept wonderfully. Darren got out of bed and stretched his bulky body. And I had the most fantastic dream. So realistic and so beautiful.

Really? Ariana asked, interested. What was it about?

Well, the setting was today and we were both in the throne room. Suddenly, the guards escorted in this man with an adorable little girl of about ten years old. The man told us that he bought her from the market and that he thought we'd like to have her work for us, and oh—I could see her so clearly!

The smile on the queen’s face slowly vanished as the king continued to explain his dream to her.

She had beautiful crimson hair, bright blue eyes, and glowing skin as white as a pearl. And her lips were so luscious and bright red. Such a lovely child. She said her name was—

Nadia, the queen finished for him. There was a look of concern on her face. She said her parents had died and we agreed to let her stay with us. In the end, she married the heir to the throne.

King Darren looked at her in astonishment. How did you know?

I had the same dream. So vivid, I remember everything.

There was a moment of silence before the king asked, Do you think there’s something more to this dream?

Ariana hoped not. I’m not sure.

That afternoon, King Darren and Queen Ariana were in a drawing room consulting with their royal advisor about their dream. The queen paced around in a state of anxiety and the king remained seated on the sofa, leaning forward in anticipation.

Well, from what I hear, this is a very special dream, said the advisor.

Clearly, Polaris, said Darren. But can you tell us why we both had this same dream?

I can, Polaris replied as he stood up and walked around. He dressed in a gold shirt with large sleeves and a black vest. There have been many studies on these kinds of occurrences, all leading to the same conclusion. These dreams are meant to happen, eventually. If there’s a particular time set in the dream, it’s said to happen at that exact time.

Oh, this is wonderful! exclaimed the king. Ariana, did you hear? The queen did her best to express equal excitement. This child, this Nadia, is coming to live with us and marry Myrdor! Oh, our son is going to have the most divine queen!

King Darren danced out of the room and Polaris enjoyed watching the spectacle. He then looked to Queen Ariana, who did not share her husband’s enthusiasm.

Is something wrong, Your Majesty? Polaris asked her.

She glanced at him, then looked at the floor. Oh, nothing. I suppose I’m just confused.

Polaris smiled. That’s understandable. You’ll adjust in time.

Queen Ariana nodded. Of course.

Then she, too, left the room. Ariana went to her chamber and paced the carpeted floor, filled with angst. How could this happen? A little slave girl was going to live in her palace, and later even marry her eldest son. On top of that, her husband was excited about it! Such a concept was a disgrace and it was her responsibility as queen and mother to keep this dishonor from falling upon her family. But what could she do? Suddenly, she had a thought and threw herself at her desk to scribble a short letter. She sealed the envelope and summoned her lady in waiting.

Your Majesty, said the lady in waiting with a curtsy.

Lusi, take this letter to Count Rallian immediately. Do not return without his response. Understand? No exceptions.

Yes, Your Majesty. Lusi curtsied and left right away.

On a hilltop just outside of Helvetica (the city of the palace) was another, smaller castle of white and gray, seemingly in constant flurry. Lusi took a coach there and looked in awe upon the estate. It had been a while since she last visited and it looked much bigger now. Just inside the large, curly, silver gate was a grand courtyard, live with exotic vegetation. It was about a three-minute ride from the gate to the front door, but it was an inspiring one as she studied the wide variety of plant-life and artwork which embellished the courtyard. Even though the estate appeared to be under some sort of construction, it was still an absolutely breathtaking sight.

Lusi left the coach for the count's servants to take care of and with her bodyguards right behind her, she lifted the skirt of her royal blue sari and climbed up the marble steps leading to the broad, iron double doors. She used the massive knocker twice and a satyr butler answered in a very timely manner.

What can I do for you, Madam? he asked with a face empty of emotion.

I have a message from Her Majesty to the count, Lusi replied. She expects a response back immediately.

Please, come in.

The satyr led her and her bodyguards to a drawing room a few feet away from the entrance. Their shoes made such a racket on the tiled floors that Lusi was almost embarrassed and fought to make her steps lighter. She was relieved to finally make it to the drawing room where there was a rug to cover most of the area.

The satyr butler motioned them to take a seat. Please make yourselves comfortable. His Lordship will be right with you.

Thank you, Lusi replied.

The butler left her to study the castle with its marble pillars and silver designs painted on every inch of the building. In the room she sat, she noticed the abundance of color on the furniture and fabric as well as the gold fringe on the pillows, blankets and curtains. Even the royal palace wasn't so overly decorated.

Lusi then brought her attention to the servants and slaves, who surrounded her, and she was able to tell the two apart. The slaves were more sorrow-laden and wore gold cuffs on their right biceps. She took a moment to thank God that she was not one of them.

Finally, the count entered with a young slave girl at his right and the butler at his left. He was a large man, colorfully dressed, and he had a face that was stern but could look rather jolly when he was in the right mood.

Can I help you? he asked.

Lusi stood up and curtsied. You have a letter from Her Royal Majesty, my Lord. She handed the count the letter. She expects an immediate response.

Sounds urgent, the count said as he opened the envelope. Garnet, bring my writing tray.

Yes, Master, the slave replied with a curtsy.

The count took a seat and read the letter to himself:

My Dear Friend,

I have need for your assistance, and it might very well benefit you greatly, depending on how you take advantage of my situation. There is a small girl about to be sold as a slave to a man who intends to bring her to my palace. Her name is Nadia. She is ten years of age, has crimson hair, pearl skin, bright red lips and blue eyes. I want you to see to it that she does not arrive here. I do not care how you do it. Kill her and the buyer, kidnap her from him and send her away, buy her yourself, do it however you will but I never wish to see her. This is not the end to my request but I shall explain more about this to you over tea. Come before noon.

Your Royal Queen,

Ariana of Noelle

Garnet returned with what the count had asked for and he wrote a quick response, simply saying that he was on his way over and he would give her his answer over tea. Then everyone stood up when he did and he handed his reply to Lusi.

Thank you for your service, Madam, he said.

Lusi nodded her head. Good day to you, sir.

Then she and her bodyguards left the castle and returned to the palace.

Makiar, said the count to his butler.

Yes, my Lord, Makiar replied.

Get two men to accompany you into town. Have them read this description and see to it that you buy this girl from the slave market. Even if you have to spend a million crescents on her. Do you understand?

Yes, my Lord.

Good. I have an appointment with the queen that I must attend. Send me word when you have her. I’m leaving as soon as possible with Garnet and Mauro. Have them ready in ten minutes and get the coach out front immediately. You may leave after I do.

At the palace, Queen Ariana and Count Rallian laughed and sipped tea on the balcony of a grand sitting room located on the third floor. Garnet and Mauro stood at the entrance to the balcony, dressed to the nines. They kept their faces covered and their backs turned to the two old friends, as the queen hated slaves to her core.

Ah, Rallian, the queen said after laughing at a previous tale. It’s too bad you don’t come over more often. I certainly miss your presence here.

Yes well, I've been quite busy since I became a count, Rallian replied.

It’s a shame you had to retire. You were my best White Knight and there hasn’t been one like you since.

You flatter me, Your Majesty.

It’s true though. I’m very disappointed with my current knights. You should train them for me.

You already have someone training them, don’t you? Polaris trained me. Did you replace him?

No, but he says so himself that these men are a joke. I was hoping you might have a different strategy. After all, your slaves and servants seem to be well disciplined; you could probably do the same with my knights.

Rallian chuckled but he wasn't enjoying the topic of conversation. Is this what you wanted to talk with me about?

No, we just came to a wrong subject, the queen answered. What I wanted to discuss with you is the reason I need you to keep that girl from my palace, or rather, one of the reasons. It was too much to write, especially in the amount of time I had. I also didn't want to run the risk of anyone reading it.

Well I’m all ears, said Rallian.

I want you to pretend that you’re King Klaris of Saíd, and write a letter to my husband. Here’s what you’re to write. Queen Ariana handed Rallian a piece of paper that had been folded many times. An example of the seal of Saíd is in there. Have it forged and seal the letter with it.

Rallian looked at the seal and read the note. I see. You’re planning a war.

The queen smiled. I told you I’d bring empires back into fashion someday.

Is the king involved?

Oh please. He’s busy adorning the palace right now in preparation for Nadia’s arrival.

Nadia?

She’s the girl I told you to be rid of. How’s that coming along, by the way?

I have three men on it right now. They’re going to alert me when they’ve caught her.

Good. So will you do this for me?

Rallian shrugged. Why not? The queen smiled. However, I want your word that my estate will not be affected by your acts of mischief. I have a lot of construction taking place and no time or money to waste.

Very well. If anything happens to your property, I shall replace it myself with twice as much. Agreed?

I want that in writing.

The queen was offended that her word wasn’t enough. But as long as it would get him to write that letter, she wasn’t about to argue. She got up and exited the balcony. "Move," she snapped at Garnet and Mauro. They both stepped aside and let the queen pass. Rallian followed and watched Ariana write the contract at the desk in the sitting room. After she signed it, she handed it to him and he read it over.

Wonderful. He placed the note in an inside coat pocket. I shall keep this with me for future reference.

The door to the sitting room opened and they both turned their heads to see a werecat servant enter. She curtsied when she said, Your Majesty. A message came for His Lordship.

Bring it here, Ariana replied.

Rallian took the note and read it. He showed it to the queen and they both smiled at its contents: We have her, sir.

Chapter One

The Law maintains the sanction, endowed upon it by God, to classify all citizens as Persons or as Slaves, as well as the authority to define the words in question.

The Southern sun shone its hot rays onto Rein Bow's eyes and rudely awakened her from a shallow sleep. Such a nuisance was why she generally preferred to sleep somewhere that enclosed her in sanctuary, but she didn't have the heart to leave the abandoned Princess Nadia alone in a world in which she had not been prepared to live. After the miracle worker of the Aquamarine Ocean had left the princess in the cave the night before, Rein had decided that she would personally escort Nadia to the palace in Helvetica where she was to live with King Darren and Queen Ariana for the rest of her life; a life which was expected to be more pleasant than the life she was forced to live with her severely unhappy mother in the ocean.

Rein glanced at the once-mermaid princess to find her in a deep sleep beside the warm embers left over from last night's campfire. The pixie couldn't find it in her heart to disturb the child just yet and decided to fly off in search of some breakfast. Hopefully there were some type of berry bushes not too far from the shore.

However, Nadia awoke not long after Rein had left. She slowly sat up in the sand and brushed her messy crimson hair from her pale face. When she finally managed to open her sapphire eyes, she noticed the pixie missing. All the sorrow from the night before quickly returned to fill the empty cave with a melancholy ambience. She had hoped that by some miracle she would awaken in the comfort of her oyster bed in the Obsidian Palace which was her original home. Instead, the misfortunes that the miracle worker had explained to Nadia were confirmed to be true when she found herself still in the cave with two legs replacing her mermaid tail. No more bathing in bubbles, no more shellfish meals, no more tutoring sessions with her octopus governess. None of this was a nightmare; it was all real. She scanned the rocks around her one last time; it seemed that Rein had abandoned her as well.

Nadia's next thoughts were the instructions that the miracle worker had given her before they parted ways. Since the princess could think of nothing else to do and nowhere else to go, she thought she might as well do as she was told. What had she been told again? Her name was Sierna. She was ten years old. She was only allowed to take on her mermaid form every... three weeks, was it? For a total of two weeks? Because she needed to eat more crystals every... four years?

Nadia shook her head in frustration; she would figure out those minute details later. Her name was Sierna, she was ten years old, and she was not a mermaid. Her eyes fell onto the golden ball beside her.

Your mother has cursed you. The miracle worker's strange accent resounded in Nadia’s head. This golden ball is your life. If someone touches it, you lose your strength and you have a month to touch the ball again before you die.

After this recollection, Nadia did not hesitate to frantically bury the golden orb in the back of the cave behind a rock. Sand flew from her fingers as she clawed the ground, tearing it apart to create a hole deep enough to cover the orb completely.

Keep it hidden at all times.

She even placed another rock on top of the spot to make it appear as though nothing had been buried there at all, and she prayed that nobody would find it.

No one can know it exists, echoed the miracle worker's voice. No one.

Nadia stared at where she had hidden the ball to make sure that the area appeared natural and unmolested. She hoped it wasn't obvious that something had been buried there. She sighed, wiped away a stray tear with the back of her hand, and then left the cave in the direction the miracle worker had told her to head. Her new home was another palace, which shouldn't be too difficult to find.

Rein returned a while later with a leaf full of blueberries to feed her and Nadia. There had been a berry bush close by after all! But as soon as she entered the cave, fear hit Rein like a shock of lightning and the berries tumbled into the tide.

Oh no, she murmured.

Rein knew exactly where the princess had gone. She was also aware that the streets of Helvetica were not kind, especially today on Market Day. Not half a second had passed before she shot out of the cave to go find the princess before some unsympathetic citizen found her first.

Weaving around the hordes of townsfolk who infested the streets of Helvetica was an aggravating feat. If it were permitted by law, most people would take their horses, zebras, donkeys, or mules to Market Day. But as Noelle was a wealthy kingdom, such freedom would promise packs of horses and carriages, guaranteeing a countless number of problems involving injury. Therefore, only law enforcement, nobility, and the servants thereof could ride equidae or take wheels to the market on this notably hectic day.

Today in particular, there were a smaller number of Helvetica's nobility present in the market. Among them was a satyr butler with long black hair, which matched his hairy legs and hooves in shade. He kept his disgusted sneer ahead of him as he rode his silver stallion through the crowd with two footmen behind him; Alik and Nazar. Both servants glanced around at the crowd with expressions on their faces similar to that of their superior. One could only imagine how much more upset the three of them would be if they were on foot rather than riding into market: Nazar on a zebra and Alik on a dark gray mustang.

It was almost amazing how the frantic and impatient customers would still endeavor to move aside for these three servants, simply because of the family crest they wore on their rides to display that they worked for Sir Rallian, Count of Helvetica. Despite the fact that the townsfolk made way for them, these noble servants failed to arrive at the center of town as quickly as they would have preferred.

Rein experienced much duress while she searched for Nadia among the mass of Helveticans. Everything was so colorful that her gaze darted in all directions. The people here dressed in light blues, rosy pinks, and bright greens, with silver, bronze, and gold sashes, saris, and turbans. The women weren't the only ones to decorate their bodies with shining jewels that shot painful glares into Rein's eyes; the men seemed to enjoy adorning themselves as well. In addition to the colorful people, the surrounding adobe buildings had been painted in aqua, magenta, turquoise, and lavender. Flowering vines climbed up the walls and framed the doors and windows, which only added to the rainbow-likeness of the town.

Rein didn’t move from the security of the hot copper rooftops, as it was the ideal place to see and not be seen while she adjusted her eyes to the painter's pallet beneath her. But Nadia was so small that it was nearly impossible to spot her among the hoard of townsfolk with their yellow carts, blinding coaches, giant baskets, and whatever else the people possessed to obscure Rein's vision. She quickly grew frustrated. There had to be an easier way to search for a child among a bedazzled crowd.

Nadia endeavored to remain in the cobblestone alleyways, edging around fragrant flower bushes and pale pink trees. The large number of townsfolk frightened her. She was not used to being alone, nor being around so many odd creatures in a strange world that she’d never seen before. To make matters worse, everyone's clothes were clean and fitted, whereas not only were hers filthy after having been at the bottom of the ocean for countless years, but they were loose on her tiny body. Perhaps this meant little for her harem pants, but it was quite obvious that her pink choli shirt was not her size. Of course, there finally came the moment where she had no choice but to emerge onto Helvetica's main road which led directly to the palace. Nadia stood at the edge of the alleyway behind a neatly heart-shaped shrub. There she hesitated. She turned away from the terrifying swarm of people to give herself time to build up some courage. After having steadied her heartbeat, she faced the street again and found herself nose-to-nose with a white thoroughbred. Riding it was a royal officer who peered down at her with a mischievous grin.

What are you up to, my dear? the officer asked.

I-I'm trying to get home. Nadia hugged herself in an attempt to ease her trembling and avoided eye contact with the officer.

And where might that be? the officer questioned further.

That way, Nadia pointed.

Only the palace is that way. The officer dismounted his horse. You can’t tell me that you live at the palace.

My… my mother’s a servant there.

I’m sure she is. Let’s tell the truth now. Where are your parents?

It was no wonder the officer didn't believe her, considering the ragged condition of her appearance. Having figured that out, Nadia bolted to the other end of the alleyway, where another officer emerged from around the corner. Nadia managed to dodge him almost too easily and both officers chased after her on horseback. Nadia wisely chose to turn a tight corner and dart into the crowd where the officers were forced to slow down to avoid trampling over the townsfolk. She continued to weave around the people in the streets and dodged their coaches and cattle. It wasn’t easy of course, since legs were new to her and she had yet to master them. Soon, she grew weary.

Grab that girl! the first officer demanded.

Rein heard the officer's cry from where she was perched on a grocer's sign and shot in his direction without a moment’s hesitation.

Only a few of the townsfolk heard the officer however, and merely one of them went through the trouble of grabbing Nadia to hand her off to the officer and his partner. Rein watched helplessly and bit her hand to keep herself from screaming.

I’m under the impression that your parents are nowhere to be found, said the second officer.

Or that you don’t have any at all, added the first. He set Nadia on his horse. And as I'm sure you're aware, Their Majesties have zero-tolerance for any homeless folk roaming the streets. It's unsanitary.

Off to the auction with you.

Aren’t you a fortunate one? You made it just before the auction begins.

The officers rode off with Nadia to the center of town where a snowwood platform had been built to last for years, though it lacked in color and stood out from the surrounding buildings. Behind it was a matching pen which held a handful of shackled people, all of a variety of ethnicities and ages. There, the officers handed Nadia to a round-bellied auctioneer. Rein watched in horror from afar and tried desperately to devise some scheme to get Nadia safely to the palace.

This one should sell fast, said the first officer.

And hopefully for a heavy purse, added the second with a nudge to his partner.

Oh, certainly, the auctioneer replied. I’ve seen her kind sell well. I expect you both will make a contented crescent today.

The auctioneer and his assistants shackled Nadia and put her in the pen with the many other filthy homeless people who waited to be sold as slaves. She scrunched her nose against their stale odor before she realized that she probably didn't smell much better. Her eyes moved up to the platform where five people were chained to posts; they would be the first to be auctioned off. Nadia, who hardly understood how she ended up in this situation, furtively made her way to the very back of the pen with the hope of hopping over the fence to dash off into another alley. When she heard a set of hooves approach from behind her, she glanced over her shoulder to find that the first officer had trotted to this side of the stage, possibly to keep an eye on her should she try this very stunt. He narrowed his eyes at her. Nadia quickly forgot about escaping the pen after she caught the officer's silent yet nasty warning.

Rein darted to a nearby blacksmith's shop and hid behind his sign to ensure she remained unseen. The last time she remembered it necessary to hide behind buildings and signs, she was in Arcor looking for this child's mother. Now here she was trying to save that woman's daughter. Would there ever be a time when things went the way they should with this bloodline?

When everyone's attention seemed to be on the stage, Rein dove toward the pen and hid behind a post so to avoid the officer’s line of sight. She had to admit that sneaking around was much easier now that she had wings again. Running about on foot was obnoxiously time-consuming and made her vulnerable to more than just people with bad intentions.

When Rein was certain that the officer’s attention was fixed to the stage, she flew to Nadia and landed on her shackled wrists.

Rein! Nadia whimpered.

Shhh! Rein replied. I’m going to try and get you out of here.

Nadia didn't know how Rein was going to accomplish that with the officer still mounted on his horse right beside her. But she didn’t argue as Rein stretched her thin little arm into the lock and fumbled with the mechanism. Nadia cupped Rein in her hands to hide her light and glanced up at the officer who only shot her the same angry glare in return. The look sent a bout of hopelessness through Nadia's soul and she never wished to lock eyes with him again.

Finally, the auction began and though Nadia couldn't follow what happened exactly, she knew enough to understand the end-result. Not two minutes after the bidding began, Rein noticed that the slaves were selling a bit faster than she cared for.

Sold for five dawns! Ten thousand dollars.

The crowd grew wild, and not entirely with joy. Some buyers didn’t feel the auction was being run fairly, in addition to other more personal matters among the buyers themselves being interjected into the situation. Fights broke out and law enforcement was forced to get involved, though the officer beside Nadia refused to move from his spot. Hopefully, the ruckus would provide Rein with more time to spare. She could hardly remember the last moment when time was so scarce and if that moment was just as critical as this one. There was the one day when she helped a forest sprite named Pryce and a rat, Lusitania, steal money from the infamous Emperor Mentir. That could've gone better than it had, but luckily the three of them had made it out alive. Hopefully, this situation would have an equally happy ending.

Sold for two dawns! Four thousand dollars.

Rein had to focus. This was no time to dwell on the past. She had to save Nadia to make up for failing to save Empress Renée, Nadia's unhappy mother. Although, Rein had saved the empress from being a ceremonial sacrifice for a brainwashed cult. She felt lucky in her success on that day. However, she couldn't help the guilty feeling which resulted from her failure to show Renée what the miracle worker had really wanted her to accomplish: to become humble with her life. Rein had known that simply telling her to her face wouldn't have done the trick. Altogether, she felt that she had failed Nadia by not trying it anyway. That was all the more motivation to get these blasted shackles off the princess's wrists!

Sold for three dawns! Six thousand dollars.

At this point, there were two people left on stage before five more would be brought up to auction off and Rein was getting nowhere with unlocking Nadia's shackles. Why was the lock on these shackles so different from what she was used to?

Sold! For a dawn! Two thousand dollars.

One more person to sell.

I don’t think I’ll get it in time! Rein painfully admitted.

I hope I’m not next, said Nadia.

Sold! For five dawns! Ten thousand dollars.

They’re coming! Nadia warned.

I’ll always be around! Rein whispered. No matter what happens, don’t worry.

Rein wanted more than anything to comfort Nadia and keep her from worrying too much while she waited on stage to be sold, but there wasn't time. There was never enough time! Rein flew away and the auctioneer’s assistants approached the pen to drag more homeless people onto the platform.

Where's the redhead? one called. The little girl we just brought in before the auction started.

Over here! called the officer. Right beside me!

Get over here you! the assistant demanded.

The officer shoved Nadia forward with his booted foot and she slowly made her way to the front of the pen. The assistant snatched her shackles and yanked her onto the platform where he hooked her chains to a post. She would be the first to be sold.

Out in the audience were Alik, Nazar, and Makiar the satyr butler, still seated on their extravagant rides with the count's family crest displayed for all to see. They perked up when Nadia was brought on stage. It was about time that the auction became interesting.

That must be her, said Makiar as he tugged at the collar of his gold and dark purple sari jama.

May I see the note again? Nazar reached for the paper in the butler's hands and Makiar handed it over. She does fit the description, Nazar commented after he read the words. I can't imagine there's another girl in there with these same qualities.

How far up do we bid? Alik asked.

His Lordship says his limit is one million, Makiar replied. But based on his tone I'm certain he has no limit. I'll let you do the bidding, Nazar.

Very well, Nazar replied. Let me know if you wish for me to stop.

Here’s a young and pretty one, folks! announced the auctioneer. She’s certain to grow up strong and glamorous! You can tell by her crimson mane alone; who in this kingdom has such lovely hair besides the queen herself? If only you could feel her soft skin, it’s as if she bathes in saltwater every night! Just imagine these arms around you when she becomes of age. Surely you can see her sapphire eyes from where you stand. They shine bright as the Northern and Southern suns put together! So, can I get a worthy starting bid from the audience?

Two dawns! Nazar called out.

The starting bid was about four thousand dollars. Makiar glanced tenuously at Nazar. Had he made a mistake in permitting this footman to play bidder? If Nazar noticed he had set Makiar on edge, he didn't show it. He felt confident that this excessive starting bid would scare off any unworthy opponents.

"Great griffins! It seems as though the Count of Helvetica is very interested in this one, folks! said the auctioneer. Does anyone dare to challenge him?"

Five twilights! a random gentleman called out. He, too, was dressed nobly with his own family crest draped over the horse on which he was mounted.

Six! shouted Nazar. His face crinkled at the fact that his scare tactic had failed.

Eight!

Ten twilights! Nazar made sure his words were clear and the crowd around him fell silent.

Nadia turned her gaze to the sky, and she trembled as her very first tears flowed from her eyes. She wasn’t certain about how currency worked here in Noelle, but the urgency in the bidders’ voices and the silence from the rest of the crowd made the amount sound frighteningly high.

Twelve twilights!

Fifteen!

Twenty thousand crescents! called the gentleman.

"Fifty thousand crescents! Nazar locked eyes with the man bidding against him. He was sick of fighting. So, who among us is the serious buyer?"

Your superior, it would seem, said the gentleman. Is he aware of how much he's spending on this child?

"I don't believe that is your concern. Cast your bid or let it be!"

The man paused and then waved his hand in surrender.

Sold! cried the auctioneer with a grin that almost claimed his entire face. For fifty twilights! Give the man his slave!

Makiar, Nazar, and Alik rode out of the crowd and approached the pen to claim their employer’s prize. Makiar and the assistant took care of some paperwork while another assistant handed Nadia to Alik and Nazar along with the keys to her shackles. The three men intimidated Nadia and she didn't dare look them in the eyes, much less put up a fight. She felt these were the last people she wished to anger. Makiar set her on his horse when he was finished with the paperwork and they all rode off to the count’s estate without a word said among them.

Rein couldn’t believe how much Nadia had sold for. She had to take a seat where she stood on the blacksmith's sign to let her brain process that number. No doubt this meant that it would be a lot more difficult to get Nadia to the palace since the Count of Helvetica would feel more protective over her. Rein would need help, but who would possibly help her? She knew good and well that Count Rallian and Queen Ariana were close friends and she would defend his actions… but the miracle worker had mentioned that Their Majesties were expecting Nadia to arrive, so the queen shouldn't be happy about the count taking Nadia from her. Something wasn't adding up. None of this should have happened.

Rein decided that she would head over to the palace to see how the king and queen would react when Nadia failed to show. However, she first wanted to visit the count’s estate to verify that Nadia would be safe while she sought help. Rein arrived at Count Rallian's property before the servants. The castle sat on a hilltop a couple miles from the Lucierna Forest. While she waited for the others to catch up, she took the time to study the castle and the manor surrounding it. As much as she loathed the thought, she felt the need to prepare in case Nadia would have to live here for an extended period of time.

Slaves and servants seemed to be the dominant residents of Aimonbay Estate. There were dozens upon dozens of them, all dressed as colorfully as the townsfolk and all of different origin. Some were fawns, some were satyrs, some were dryads, humans, elves, dwarves, gnomes, but most were mixed-breeds. Many of the slaves were golems, which was expected. Golems were known to be nothing but slaves all over the world, and the count had all three types: stone, clay, and wood.

Rein kept hidden in trees and hedges as she made her way around the courtyard with its museum of statues and sculpted bushes. She landed atop a flambeau behind the castle and took note of how it appeared to be undergoing vast extensions. Then Rein turned her attention to the large garden which was also under construction, a lengthy cotton field, a plantation of fruits and vegetables, a pasture of sheep and cattle, and finally a spacious stable where she assumed the count also kept a multitude of equidae, coaches, and carriages.

Rein could easily tell the servants from the slaves. For one, the servants did not wear gold cuffs on their arms and they simply stood around to monitor the slaves who tended to the gardens behind the castle and in front, harvested the produce and cotton, cared for the sheep and cattle, fetched water from the large well, and whatever else was required to keep the estate in routine. For two, the servants also dressed in finer materials and some even wore jewelry. It disgusted Rein to see how disinterested they appeared, as if they were painfully bored and wished to be elsewhere.

Rein took a deep breath to give her overwhelmed brain a moment to rest and accept this abundance of new information. Count Rallian's riches were ridiculous. How could one man alone be so wealthy? Queen Ariana must have had a lot to do with it. The two of them were best friends after all. What had Rallian done to deserve such a leisurely life?

Eventually, Rein dove down to a tall, stained glass window and peered inside the castle, only to find more servants and more slaves cleaning, cooking, and rehearsing to entertain on stage. Here, even the slaves dressed gloriously in silk, satin, and jewels. Besides the maltreatment of people, the castle itself was beautiful. Rein observed what she assumed to be the drawing room, lavishly designed and eternally tidy. The silver and white tiled floors were spotless, but someone still mopped them. The ivory pillars and pale yellow and blue walls hadn’t a smudge on them, but someone still polished the painted copper vines which curled up from the floor and down from the ceiling. The turquoise and rosy curtains along with the multi-colored furniture appeared freshly laundered and upholstered, but someone still dusted and fluffed them. It was a place in which anyone would be honored to live, if they weren’t obligated to work aimlessly without pay, of course. Rein would go so far as to claim that the vast number of slaves sucked the beauty from the walls of the structure and made the estate more grotesque than glamorous. Nevertheless, she prayed that Nadia would find some morsel of comfort here.

At last, Rein heard the recognizable sound of hooves in the distance and her ears pricked.

Open the gates, she heard someone call out. They've returned.

Rein took off and hovered over Aimonbay to witness the three servants enter the courtyard with Nadia. After the long ride down the road that extended from the gates, Makiar helped Nadia off his horse and directed her up the marble steps to the iron double doors. He had Alik take the zebra and two horses to the stables while he and Nazar led Nadia through the entrance into the castle. Rein flew back to the large window, hoping to see where the servants would take Nadia. To her relief, she was led to the drawing room, where Lusi had been shown previously. Here, Rein had the perfect visual of what may happen next.

Wait here. Makiar's words were muffled through the stained glass. The count is currently away, but he’ll return soon to speak with you.

Nadia obeyed without a hint of resistance in her demeanor. Where was the count? Rein glanced around the area for a moment as if the count could be behind her. Then she shot straight up above the castle to peer down the single road which led from Aimonbay to Helvetica. Far off in the distance she could see a white and gray coach ever so slowly making its way down the road. That had to be no other than the count himself.

Rein was relieved to know that she wouldn't have to wait much longer before she got her answer about Nadia's safety. She sighed and landed back on the window sill where she turned to look at Nadia, who had laid herself out on the settee. She hadn't moved at all from the spot she was told to stay, but if Nadia had obtained any of her mother’s traits after the ceremony which made her family by blood, this obedience was only temporary. Count Rallian had better not get used to this behavior from his new slave.

Hang in there, Rein said softly. This won’t be permanent.

Chapter Two

"The Sovereign and his Parliament of the Kingdom of Noelle hereby hold that a ‘Person’ is defined as a citizen who possesses a free will and individual voice unobstructed by another absent of Royal Blood, Noble Classification, or Royally Appointed Authority… Therefore, a Person cannot be controlled or spoken for by another Person."

Makiar opened one of the large iron doors to welcome home Sir Rallian, who trudged into his castle with a heavy sigh. Slowly the seventy-two-year-old count, who appeared to be in his late forties due to being of a slowly-aging race, removed his mustard yellow coat and handed it to his butler along with his ivory dress cane.

How was your meeting with the queen, my Lord? Makiar asked.

It was quite a bore at first, but it grew interesting rather quickly, the count replied. Thank you, Makiar.

He peeked into his drawing room where he found Nadia asleep on the magenta settee. He gestured toward her as he spoke to Makiar. Send her and Nazar into my study, please.

Yes, my Lord, Makiar replied with an obedient nod of his head.

Then the count turned to the two slaves he had brought with him, Garnet and Mauro, who stood