Rae: The Collection

By Kimberly Vogel

This story begins with Taia's happy life. It soon turns dark though as it is revealed that she isn't the princess. She's adopted, but it was by her kidnapper! Urged on by the advisor reminding the king about a prophecy, he turns on the teen. She barely survives the attack. Now with the king's soldiers on her heels she must find out who she is, escape her pursuers, and find a way home. On her way to discovering her original identity as Rae she meets many people, but perhaps the most difficult experience is reconciling with her estranged family. This collection holds book 1-5 of Rae's Story : Betrayal of Trust, Castles and Kingdoms, Deviation to Kolos Academy, Everyone's Price, and Finally at Leldyna

• Language: English
• Publisher: Lulu.com
• Release date: Jan 5, 2012
• ISBN: 9781105422508

Book preview

Vogel

Copyright

Copyright © 2011 by Kimberly Vogel.

ISBN eBook 978-1-105-42250-8

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by any information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from the copyright owner.

This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places and incidents either are the product of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously, and any resemblance to any actual persons, living or dead, events, or locales is entirely coincidental.

For additional copies refer to:

http://www.lulu.com/shakkathi

Acknowledgements

I want to thank my family and friends for supporting me.

Without you, I don’t know where I would be.

INDEX

Book 1 : Betrayal of Trust

Chapter   1 __ Princess Taiajara

Chapter   2 __ The Library

Chapter   3 __ Daddy Dearest

Chapter   4 __ Accusations

Chapter   5 __ Trial Preparations

Chapter   6 __ Maska

Chapter   7 __ The Trial (or Lack Thereof)

Chapter   8 __ The Maze of Death

Chapter   9 __ One year later...

Chapter 10 __ Dream Sequence

Chapter 11 __– A Way Out?

Chapter 12 __ Discovery

Chapter 13 __ Bittersweet Victory

Book 2 : Castles and Kingdoms

Chapter   1 __ Prologue to Disaster

Chapter   2 __ Beginning the Hunt

Chapter   3 __ Calming Waters

Chapter   4 __ Sympathy

Chapter   5 __ A New Kingdom

Chapter   6 __ Back At the Castle

Chapter   7 __ After One Year’s Cycle Ends

Chapter   8 __ On the Road Again

Book 3 : Deviation to Kolos Academy

Chapter   1 __ Run, Run as Fast as You Can

Chapter   2 __ A New Place of Residence

Chapter   3 __ Departure to Kolos Academy

Chapter   4 __ Accident In The Library

Chapter   5 __ A New Friend In Deed

Chapter   6 __ Ups And Downs

Chapter   7 __ Final Exams

Chapter   8 __ Some Things Are Better Left Forgotten

Chapter   9 __ What Will Happen Now?

Book 4 : Everyone’s Price

Chapter   1 __ Unexpected Visitor

Chapter   2 __ Fond Farewells

Chapter   3 __ The Water Lily

Chapter   4 __ The Blood Pearl

Chapter   5 __ Actions and Consequences

Chapter   6 __ Randilyn

Chapter   7 __ Return to the Water Lily

Chapter   8 __ Landfall at Thandiel

Book 5 : Finally at Leldyna

Chapter   1 __ Reminisce

Chapter   2 __ Dreams

Chapter   3 __ The Council

Chapter   4 __ Night Visitor

Chapter   5 __ Danny’s Return

Chapter   6 __ The Library

Chapter   7 __ Murry

Chapter   8 __ Midnight Journey

Chapter   9 __ Leldyna Territory

Chapter 10 __ Letters

Chapter 11 __ The Final Decision

Chapter 12 __ Regrets

Chapter 13 __ Departure

Betrayal of Trust

Chapter 1

Princess Taiajara

Why do I have to do this? I’d rather be doing anything, even needlepoint!

A gentleman of about twenty years of age turned his head back to look at the one who spoke, trying to stay patient with her. Because if Your Highness were to become separated from her guard; then she must know how to defend herself. Try again.

A girl seated upon a stump behind him gave a groan. She was a teenager, nearing her fifteenth year. Her eyes were a funny color, not just one shade but rather a multitude colliding together in her irises to mimic the rainbow. They rolled as she shook her head, showing her displeasure at having to continue with the lesson. Waves of golden hair shimmered in the sunlight as her head moved side to side. I’d rather not, she protested again while hopping down to continue anyway.

The man smiled at her as he shifted his body to face her again, dark brown eyes showing amusement. I know. Pick up your weapon and let’s go again. No magic, remember? He was nearly a foot and a half taller than she, towering over as he approached with a sword clasped loosely in his hand.

I know, but I couldn’t help it. It was instinct. Can’t I use instinct? she questioned while ducking down to pick up her own weapon. It was a simple staff, no use against blocking a blade when properly handled. The fight she was referring to was the one she and her trainer had just finished. He had attacked her from behind. She had screamed and turned into a shaft of shimmering light that instantly moved up into the branches. It was purely defense and instinct that made her vanish into the branches.

Instinct will get you killed, he stated.

Or save me! she retorted while shifting the staff in her hands Please can we stop?

No, was the last he said before he jumped at her, while swinging the blade towards her middle.

She gave a soft squeak as she jumped back out of range. She said nothing more while she dodged the sword. The only thing she did was run from him.

The man scowled as he followed after her, taunting, What, that’s your plan, to run?

She said nothing, though in her mind she retorted, I can out run you any day old man. Dodging back still she moved to one of the walls. Now she was trapped, not a good thing.

The trainer stopped advancing and chose to swing down his blade towards her neck, stating flatly, You’re dead now.

She didn’t let him get that far. In a moment she ducked under his arm and turned to stand behind him. She brought up the staff and then swung it down hard so the wood cracked against his skull.

If it wasn’t for the hard helmet he wore he would have been knocked unconscious, or worse. But still the blow was hard enough to cause him to be driven face first into the wall. His nose smacked against it with a soft crunch, causing blood to flow. Still he continued downwards, blade falling as he slumped against the wall.

She had won. The girl stepped forwards, leaning over her trainer. Who’s dead?

A hand shot out and grabbed her leg, fingertips pressing into the back of her knee. Her trainer wasn’t knocked out as she had thought, and replied gruffly, Enemies can fake. You shouldn’t let down your guard until you’re sure he’s defeated.

The girl squeaked as his fingers dug into the soft spot behind her knee, causing her knee to give out. She fell heavily, back smacking into the ground before the back of her head connected. She gave a groan then went still.

The trainer sat up, wiping the blood from his nose as he turned to look back at her. For a moment worry spread over his face as he saw her collapsed. He moved to kneel over her, clean hand moving to touch her cheek. Princess...?

Her eyes snapped open as her hand clasped his wrist. Her legs moved up at the same time to plant into his chest, pushing his bulk up to flip him over her head. Her other hand moved to clasp his shoulder as they went head over heels.

The man blinked several times as he found himself flat on his back with the girl sitting on his chest. Both his arms were pinned down by her hands as she smirked down at him. She had fooled him, he realized with an inward groan.

Do you yield? she asked softly, not moving from her position. Both her legs were straddling his chest, one knee resting on the ground on each side.

For a moment he was glad he had made her wear a dress for this practice session, feeling the heat of her body through his tunic. But soon his mind snapped back to the situation as he thought of how she was his sovereign and he shouldn’t be thinking such dirty thoughts about her. He nodded as he looked up to her, replying reluctantly Aye, Your Majesty, I yield. Better get off me before your father sees.

She blinked down at him, taken by surprise at his mention of her father. Why would her father...? Then she paused as she noticed her position. A bright red flush rose on her cheeks as she moved off his chest to stand, hands moving to pull down her dress. The length was only to her knees, with the top part sleeveless. It was dirty and torn from their exercising, showing parts of her thighs and chest, most unbecoming for the modesty required for a princess. I accept your surrender. Is the session over for now?

He nodded while moving his hand up to wipe away the blood again. Yes, Princess. The lesson is over, so you have no need to stay. He shifted his body to stand, smarting at the blows given.

She nodded back to him with a faint smile. Thank you. I will change now she replied, then turned to run back into the hallways of the castle. Dodging the others in the hallways she ran up to her room to change.

The trainer watched her go, unable to keep a smile from his lips. Yes, she would make a fine princess if given the chance. She wouldn’t be just another trophy wife, but also a fine warrior with the proper motivation. He turned from the practice courtyard to go back to his barrack to clean up the mess he was in.

The princess slowed her running as she came closer to the royal apartments. It wouldn’t be good if her father caught her in a fluster. She lifted one hand to rub her cheeks, trying to get the blush to fade. Why had her cheeks heated up like that? Why was she feeling so embarrassed? There hadn’t been anything wrong, not really. She shook off her thoughts with a shake of her head as she reached her doors then slipped inside.

Watching her was an elderly gentleman, appearing to be at least fifty years old. No one knew his exact age but he seemed to have been there forever. He was the king’s advisor. Haunting red eyes and long red hair accompanied his strange hunched-over figure. His eyes narrowed as he watched her go into her room. Nosy and suspicious as always, he shifted to move to a hallway near her room. His hands went up, pushing aside a decoration to reveal a peephole that looked directly through the wall into the princess’ private quarters. While leaning against the wall he appeared to be meditating on something.

A pair of guards passed by him; they didn’t even bother to ask him what he was doing. They knew not to disturb him when he was acting like that. The last pair of guards who did were executed in the most horrible of ways. Far below the castle was a giant maze, designed and created by the king and his advisor. The king was a sorcerer, creating the thing out of magic. It was a place of death that all feared. One went in and never came out. All that was known was what was reported of the screams of terror. No one wanted to be sent in there.

The advisor ignored the guards as well. He continued to peer through the hole as he watched every move the princess made. His heart twisted with hatred and lust as she undressed to wash, washed, and then dressed again. She should have been destroyed when she first arrived, he scowled, Just another of several obstacles keeping me from becoming ruler over all the land.

Inside the room the princess shivered faintly while pulling on her gown. There was that old strange feeling of being watched. At times she could swear that someone was staring at her long and hard, and not for a good reason either. She smoothed the fabric down then turned to watch herself in the mirror to adjust the last of the strings that laced up her back. Now she was dressed in a soft blue dress which showed off her growing womanly curves quite nicely without being gaudy. She smiled a bit then turned to go out of the door.

The advisor pulled back from the wall as she moved to the door. He knew being caught by her in that position would make her suspicious. He turned and began walking so it would look like he was just passing by.

The princess stepped out of the door, glancing up and down the hallway as she did. Her eyes caught sight of the advisor, causing her to pause. A shiver went down her spine as she saw he was coming towards her. Nevertheless she smiled politely to him. Hello, Maska.

The advisor paused in his walk, smiling at the princess. Why, Princess Taiajara, what an unexpected pleasure to meet you at this time.

Unexpected nothing, this is my room after all, she replied with the smile twisting her lips slightly. What are you doing here?

Just looking for your father.

The princess nodded faintly, watching him with smile fading. Oh I see. I am sure you have business to discuss with him. I shall not keep you from it. She curtsied to him then turned to go down the hall. She didn’t know where to go, so long as it was away from him.

RaeC_Illustration1-1.png

Chapter 2

The Library

The princess continued walking down the hallways of the castle. A soft shiver went down her spine as she remembered how her father’s advisor had been staring at her. It was so awful, like he wanted to devour her. She shook her head to clear her thoughts while she walked from the hallways of the royal apartments to those leading to the lower levels where the servants worked. Only a privileged few of the servants could come up to the level she lived on. She always thought it odd that she herself was only allowed to visit certain parts of the castle, whether attended or not. Still, it probably was for her safety, so she did as she was told. As the princess was moving down the hallway, she pondered what to do. Glancing around she noticed the doors of the library open. 

Inside the library there was a young man on the ladder halfway up the large shelves looking through the books. He was a thin wiry man in his early thirties with red hair that curled around his chin and green eyes that always sparkled in curiosity. It was his job to take care of the vast number of volumes contained within the tall shelves that filled the entire room top to bottom. He leaned over, plucking out a book and reading the name along the spine. Once satisfied it was the book he wanted he let it fall from his grasp to the floor. It fell with a thud, the sound echoing around the inside of the room but not extending past the doors.

She came to the door, one hand moving to clasp the handle on it. She tugged softly on it and it moved slowly to open. Just as she went inside her foot touched the book on the floor. Puzzled she looked down at it then glanced up to see where it had fallen from.

The man hadn’t even noticed she had entered. His hand went out again, plucking a second volume then dropping it in the same way as the first.

She blinked once as the book came falling towards her, then sidestepped it while trying to catch it. It’s raining knowledge, she quipped while holding out her arms for the volume. She caught it, but it soon fell through her arms because of the weight. It was a volume of the encyclopedia, almost three inches thick and very heavy.

The man looked down as he blinked at the voice. He wasn’t expecting anyone and no one had been in the room before. His eyes alighted on the girl, widening then brightening a bit. Ah, princess! I didn’t notice you come in. He smiled to her as he moved down the ladder.

I just did...good thing, a moment later and I would have been clobbered by that thing, she smiled, head shaking some as one of her feet poked at the book in front of her. What are you doing anyway?

Ah, a bit of spring cleaning you could say. These are old and going to be disposed of, he replied as he stepped to the floor.

She laughed softly as she turned to look up the ladder to the shelves. I was just thinking about coming by and reading some of the books. Do you mind?

Why no, it’s always a pleasure to see you, he said, continuing to smile, It is your birthday soon isn’t it?

The princess nodded as her eyes scanned the shelves. Yes, it’s in less than a week now. Just three more days and I shall be fifteen.

I thought so, he said while he turned to walk to one of the chairs that were situated in the corners of the room. I have a present for you.

You do? She asked with eyes brightening as she skipped over to beside him. What is it?

He glanced at her, smile widening as his eyes showed merriment. What do you think?

Let me guess. She grinned at him, head tilted as she placed one finger to her chin. Is it a book?

He laughed as he leaned over to pluck a small volume from between the cushions. You guessed correctly. How did you know?

You always give the same thing silly, she laughed softly as she leaned in close, trying to read the title. May I have it?

Of course, it is for you after all. He stood up again as he held the small book out to her. I know you love to read about the fanciful things. I came across this book and somehow knew it should be given to you.

The princess nodded faintly as she took the book in both her hands gently. Oh, thank you so much, Nombeko. She lifted her eyes to his, smiling brightly. I shall enjoy it, I know I will. After that she turned and ran to another of the couches. She plopped down on the cushion with the book held in her lap to read.

The bookkeeper smiled widely as he watched her go. She was such a treasure, much like the books he looked after. Ever since they had first met nearly ten years ago he had given her a new book all her own for her birthday. He then turned to return to the ladder and continue his sorting out of the old books same as before, except he would do it silently now.

While this was happening the young girl was staring down at the cover of the book she had been given. It wasn’t a very big book, just big enough to fit in her palm. Her eyes scanned slowly over the title, reading it and the wording underneath. Blood in the Cherry Tree by Timorous Al Vampine. She frowned softly as she moved her fingers up to trace over the letters. The script was old it seemed, but the book itself looked as though it had just been published. The text itself was odd as well, with the ink a dark red color rather like blood. The princess shook her head softly to dispel her thoughts and read.

But before she could a loud crash interrupted. Her head jerked up as her eyes moved up to look in the direction of the noise. Her hands holding the book jolted and the book closed.

It was Nombeko who had caused the disturbance. His cheeks went red as he looked down at her sheepishly. Sorry, princess, I slipped... A rather large pile of books was on the floor now where there had been only two before.

Princess Taiajara shook her head softly as she moved to slip the book into one of her dress pockets. Oh no, it’s all right. Do you need help? She moved to stand up from the couch where she had been seated.

Nombeko shook his head with a small smile. Ah I think I will be fine, thank you though. Isn’t it about time for your father to visit you?

She nodded faintly as she walked over to the haphazard pile of books and tried to straighten them a bit. Oh yes, he will be going to check on me in my room at seven. What time is it now?

It’s six thirty, he replied as he glanced at a clock situated in a niche over the main door. You’d better hurry.

She glanced up with widened eyes. Is it already? Oh my, I have to go and hide the book and change. Thanks Bako, I’ll see you tomorrow. She tilted her head back to smile at him as she stood quickly to her feet. It wouldn’t be good if she were late. Her father wouldn’t hurt her, but the look on his face would be enough to curdle her blood.

He watched her go, nodding and waving before he had to grasp tightly onto the rungs of the ladder to keep from falling. Goodnight princess.

She waved as she moved to the door and opened it up to slip into the hallway again. Tucked away in her pocket was her present. She had to put it away before her father came or he would be cross. It never failed to confuse her how he could get angry over her receiving personal presents from the servants. They were her friends as well as the ones who took care of his castle. Her steps were quick as she tried to keep from running down the hallway.

Finally she reached her room and slipped through the doors. After she closed the doors she paused to gaze around the familiar setting. It was a large room with her bed against the farthest wall. A canopy was spread over it to keep out the spying eyes of any who peeked into her bedroom. Beside it to the right was a small dresser and to the left was a small bookshelf. On the far right wall there was a sliding door that led out onto a balcony that was far above the palace grounds. If she tried hard enough she could see the men training by their quarters. Beside the door to the balcony there was a small couch that she could sit at. On the left wall were many paintings of her as she grew up. She never knew why the pictures only started after she was already about five years old. There were never any pictures of her mother either. When she asked she was told that they had been lost.

After she looked around, the princess walked to her bookshelf. She knelt and leaned over to open a secret drawer at the base. In there were many other books and trinkets the servants had given her over the years. She took from her dress pocket the book she had been given and placed it with the others then closed the drawer. Just as she did a knock came to the door. Her father had come for his visit.

Chapter 3

Daddy Dearest

As the knock on the door came to her ears Princess Taiajara lifted her head to look towards it. Her hands moved hurriedly to hide the book in the secret drawer within her bookcase. She had to hurry before her father came in. She stood quickly as she turned to face the door. Her hands moved down the front of her dress, trying to smooth it and make it look presentable. She hadn’t gotten the chance to change into a clean one, but hopefully he wouldn’t notice.

A tall man stood in the shadows just behind the door as it swung open slowly. He leaned in slightly, ducking his head down to enter through the door. His stature was a good two feet taller than the tallest of the soldiers, as he stood taller than eight feet in height. His blood red eyes glowed in the dim light as he took a step forwards to cross the threshold. Taia? Are you decent?

Princess Taiajara smiled at him as she stood with hands clasped before her, head tilting softly to the side while she replied, If I wasn’t you couldn’t have entered.. You may come in, father.

The man laughed as he stepped into the room then strode over to her. Ah yes, I had forgotten about the spells... but still I wanted to be sure, as always. How are you, dear? He stopped to stand in front of her, head bowed to look down into her face. It was her father standing there before her. His features were dark unlike her pale face. His hair was black and fell around his face to make a veil over his eyes. Still they could be seen, a bloody red beneath the bangs. He towered over her, a full three feet taller than she.

She tilted her head back to look up at her father, King Mitra Shakti. Her smile grew as she reached out her hand to take one of his softly. Her hand clasped his and she began to lead him to the couch. Thank you for your concern, father. I am well, I hope you are too.

The king clasped his hand around hers gently as she led him to the couch. He sat then tilted his head up a slight bit to look into her face. I am very well, thank you, dear. I have been busy with running the kingdom and keeping things going smoothly in the castle. What have you been doing today?

The princess smiled as she nodded her head faintly. She continued to stand as she spoke, I am glad... Oh I have had a busy day as well. I had training in the morning then in the afternoon I practiced and in the evening I went and read in the library.

He nodded while shifting his hand in hers to pull her gently down to sit beside him. Ah I see. How did your training go? No hurts?

She continued to smile as a soft giggle emerged. Her body settled into the cushions of the couch near his as her head tilted back to look up at him. No, I’m just fine. Though I’m afraid the trainer got a few nasty knocks. I still don’t know why I have to train; you never let me go out of the rooms.

He laughed while hearing about the training, head tilted back. His arm shifted to lay across the back of the couch behind her. When she made the comment about her sheltered life his face changed from merriment to sadness. He looked to her with a frown on his lips. Now, Taia, you know that it is dangerous for you to go out. You have to stay inside and be safe.

She frowned as she lowered her head, locks of golden blonde hair hiding her eyes. But father, I am nearly fifteen. Soon I won’t be a child anymore. I will be a woman. I know nothing about the world...that could be more dangerous to me in my naivety.

He blinked at her words, confusion filling his eyes a moment before an accusation came from his lips. You’ve been reading my war manuals, haven’t you?

Her cheeks flushed slightly as her head jerked up No! I’ve simply been reading stories. The character’s lives are much different from my own. Please, daddy, may I go out? She slipped from the couch to the floor, kneeling at his feet with her hands on his knee in supplication. Please?

He looked down at her, frown softening slightly on his face. Then he shook his head while moving up to stand, with hands moving to clasp around her shoulders and pick her up off the floor. No, I don’t think so. His hands remained upon her shoulders until she stood then moved into his pockets. But let me show you something.

Her head remained fallen as he pulled her up from the floor. She let her hands fall to her sides with shoulders slumping to show her sadness at the decision. It seemed rather hopeless with her father’s unflinching decision to keep her separated from the rest of the castle. She frowned softly as tears filled her eyes. Her voice did not sound as she remained quiet, not showing any sign she heard the last of her father’s talk.

He watched her with his eyes as he rummaged around in his pockets, pretending to search through them. Now I brought you something for your birthday... Where was it?

She tilted her head further down while whispering, Right pocket? It looks bulgy...

He smiled at her observation and pulled his right hand out of his pocket. Good job... Yes here it is. He held his hand up in the air with something in it then turned his hand slightly so the object fell. A string of gold tumbled down, with the loop catching on his index finger. At the end of the string was a locket.

As the sound of metal moving reaches her ears, the girl lifted her eyes to look. Her eyes widened and her hand moved automatically to catch it as it fell. The locket had a gold backing and a silver front. Her hand lifted up the locket slightly to move it closer to her. The soft sound of ooh was all that came from her lips.

He held the chain a moment longer then lowered it to drape around her neck. I had this made for you. It has magic in it so no matter where you are I can find you.

She looked up from the locket to her father, mouth fallen open. Her eyes blinked a few times as she looked at her father. Oh daddy... Her voice came finally as it was soft and quiet. Thank you... Her arms moved quickly to wrap around his waist and hold him tightly. Her head buried into his chest as she muffled, Sorry for seeming ungrateful.

He wrapped his arms around her shoulders gently as she hugged him. A gentle smile stretched across his face as he leaned down to kiss her forehead. It’s all right... You have every reason to be angry. I am too protective of you. I would like to wait another year before you go. I know that once you go out and meet all those new people you won’t want to come back. He was joking a little bit, but mostly he was serious. There was something else eating at his thoughts as well, though he didn’t speak of it.

She lifted her head slightly, looking up at him fully with small tears streaming down her cheeks. Oh no, daddy, I wouldn’t leave you, certainly not forever. I’m your little girl.

He continued to smile as he moved his hand to brush away her tears. I know, dear. Now it’s bedtime, so I’ll leave you to sleep. Sweet dreams, Taia.

Princess Taiajara nodded a little as she moved from beside the couch to her dresser. Alright, daddy. Thank you for the present. You sleep well. She smiled at him, then waited for him to go before preparing for bed.

King Mitra Shakti nodded as well while backing away from her to walk to the door. I will, night. He turned and walked to the door then opened it to slip out.

Standing beside the door was his advisor, Maska. He was looking quite angry with face set in a deep frown. We need to talk, Your Majesty.

The king looked to him as he stepped through the doorway. What is it, Maska? He replied with a frown of his own, as he closed the door after him.

You cannot keep her. Remember the bargain you made? Remember the prophecy? You have to kill her and soon, he spoke in a hiss.

The king moved his hand out to grasp his advisor’s arm and pull him away from the princess’s room. Do not speak of that here. His voice was dark in tone with a faint growl. In the secret room is the only place to talk.

The advisor’s face showed slight surprise as his eyes widened. He did not expect to be handled that way. But then the growing affection of the king towards his ‘daughter’ was messing with his mind. I had to make sure you would speak to me. He tugged his arm away and strode down the hallway.

The king nodded without speaking any further. A dark look was on his face as he frowned deeply. In his mind he knew what his advisor hinted of. When he came to power a prophecy was given that one of the children would kill him. And so in exchange for more power he was sacrificing children. The princess Taiajara was supposed to be sacrificed when she first arrived in the castle. The sorcerer king had not killed her, but rather brought her up in his home. Now his source of power was very angry. Maska would have known that because not only was he his advisor, but also the priest to the demon who gave Mitra Shakti his power. The king paused before the doors to his bedroom and turned to Maska. I will talk to you tomorrow. And I shall do what is needed that same day. She...will die. He nodded then opened the door to his room and went inside.

Maska watched as the door to the king’s chamber was shut. An evil smirk moved across his face as he turned to continue down the hallway. As he walked he made plans for preparing the ceremony so that the girl would die in the worst way possible. Yes, this would be wonderful to watch tomorrow.

Meanwhile in the castle the other inhabitants carried on with their usual duties. No one except for the king and his advisor knew what was to come in the morning of the next day. It would be a day to remember...or forget.

Chapter 4

Accusations

The sound of pounding on a door filtered through the sleepy mind of a young girl who was resting in her bed. She shifted her head from her pillow while cracking open her eyes. Other voices came to her ears as she woke.

Break it down, called one, as the pounding on the door increased.

...break it down? She repeated in her mind as she blinked.

Soon the doors to the room splintered open with a loud crunch. Standing behind them was a group of soldiers looking in with weapons drawn. One of them seemed to be the leader as he pointed to her. Get her.

A thought hit her as she pulled up the covers to her chest. What is this? A coup? Is my father being overthrown? That thought brought a pain into her chest.

The soldiers nodded at their leader’s command and stormed into the girl’s bedroom. They surrounded the bed, looking down to her with hard faces. Two of the soldiers grabbed her arms and dragged her out of the bed.

The girl’s eyes widened in shock as she was snatched from her resting place and carried across the room to the doors. Her mind was in too much chaos at the moment to protest. What happened to the magic? Why am I not protected? These are my father’s soldiers...Why? As she was carried down the hallway she glanced around at the soldiers. They are going to kill me, she thought as fear froze her body. After a few moments she came out of it and began struggling in the soldier’s grasp.

The soldiers carrying her let her resist, but did not relent in their dragging her down the hallway. As the group traveled out of the princess’ quarters to the places she was not allowed to go, they passed by a window. It was still dark outside, but faint light was starting to show on the horizon indicating that it was almost day break. The soldiers continued carrying the girl down the hallways past the nice places she knew to beyond the servants’ quarters. Finally they came to a place that was dark and dank.

The princess watched the hallways as they went. Her eyes widened further at the scene. This isn’t happening. It must be a dream. Soon she became still and quiet in her captor’s arms while thinking, this is a nightmare.

The soldiers escorted her to one of the cells in the dungeon. One of them opened the door as the other two threw her inside with no regard to her position or femininity. The cell was not very big, only six feet all around.

The princess groaned as she landed hard on the stone floor. It was hard and uneven, unlike the floors of the royal apartments. This would leave a bruise on her delicate skin. At first she curled up on the stones then unfolded herself to stand. Maybe there was something she could do to understand what was happening. She got to her feet slowly while her hands smoothed down her now dirty nightgown.

The other prisoners in the cages around her watched the new arrival. Some were about her age, but most were children. No one she could see was over the age of eighteen however. They all were in separate cages, each no bigger than their own body.

The princess lifted her eyes to look back at them. She blinked as she turned to face the front of the cage then stepped over to the bars. Her hands moved up to wrap around the bars as she leaned against them. Where am I?

A whisper was as good as a shout in the dungeon. One of the older children moved to his bars, eyes narrowed as he looked her over. In a hell hole run by the sorcerer king. Who are you?

The princess stared to him, eyes widening as her hands clenched tightly to the bars. My name is Princess Taiajara...He’s my father...

No he isn’t, came a quick reply as the boy leaned out into the dim light. He has no children. Those he finds he kills. The boy looked to her and smirked. He was much older than she was, perhaps seventeen. His hair was brown and down to his shoulders. His eyes were a darker brown, staring at her with amusement.

The girl shivered under his inspecting gaze. She let go of the bars and stepped back with her arms moving around her chest. She shook her head while shivering again in her thin nightgown. No, it isn’t true.

The boy rolled his eyes while laughing, Believe what you like, princess. His voice was mocking in tone to her. You’ll find out soon enough.

The princess nodded faintly, silent while she shifted on her feet.

The scene was interrupted by the soldiers returning with another. Through the dim light it could not be seen exactly who he was. But the soft voice was enough of a give away to someone who knew him well. Princess?

She knew exactly who it was as she turned her eyes up to look at the man. "I’m here... What’s