Kingdom of Bones: Episode One

''It seemed like a fantasy, a dream. First there was only one dragon. It scales were a dark red color, and it wings stretched far across the sky, blocking the sun in the process. The dragon seemed angry, out on a mission as it let out a loud screech from the top of its lungs.''

''Smoke could be seen coming from its nose. The dragon flew across the snowy mountains. The wings swung back and forth with so much force that it begins knocking over trees, killing them instantly. Citizens swarmed the streets, scared and feared their days were being numbered.''

''Then there was a second dragon. A grey one purely identical to the red dragon, except a golden design burned in its back. The red dragon flew high and let out an ear-bursting roar before spitting out fire towards the grey dragon who dodged the attack with ease.''

''The grey dragon let out a steam of hot air from its nostrils before launching a fireball counter attack at the red dragon. The counter-attack failed as the red dragon begin to shed its dark red skin into a lighter pink color. It seemed to be a game of copy-cat as the grey dragon turned into a pure blinding white. The newly pink dragon roared again showing off its large canine like teeth, it fired a bolt of lightning shaped glass towards the white one. The white dragon barely maneuvered its way past the bolt of glass before launching its own shard of glass. It was clear both of the dragons seemed to be getting frustrated with one another. They stared each other down, four eyes with the intent to kill. Mouths thirsty for blood.''

''A voice could be heard from above. A beautiful mesmerizing voice, one only fit for a goddess. It was as soft, and soothing as loving mother. “Wake up.”''

''Franco eyes opened wide. He begins panting and his heart trying to force its way out of his chest. He didn’t know where he was. The grass around him was a dark brown color with specks of black charcoal sat on the tips of them. There were broken, and cracked trees scattered around him. He heard the voice once again. “Prepare for the pain you’re about to feel.”''

''A pain shot up through his right arm. He looked down towards it only to see his birthmark glowing in a bright golden color. His arm felt as if it was caught on fire. The pain lasted for a couple more seconds, but the twitching of his arm after didn’t make the recovery any better.''

''He tries to yell for help but he can barely speak. His throat is as dry as sand paper. From the distance he can see a lake. The voice is heard once again. “Beliemis can not fall.”''

***

It was night time in the country of Veliany. The Velianians cheered as archers aligned in rows shot arrows of different colors into the dark blue sky. The only people not cheering were the guards who were searching the streets like a bunch of hungry orphans. They were all over city hoping to find the city on a mission: find the princess’ crown. The princess was searching with them but with more luck. She had the thief right in her grasp.

Alessia Castro may look the part of a princess, but she was far from acting like one. She had long beautiful red hair that any girl would kill to have, but by choice she wore her hair in a single French braid. Her mother disapproved of the hair style, but her blue eyes were so clear and bright that it took away any attention from her bun. Alessia didn’t care what her mother wanted her to wear and do, she was rebellious which would explain why she was doing her shitty guard’s job for them.

She may have had the thief within her grasp, but she was in an unfortunate situation. The thief had locked himself within a brick shed. She couldn’t call for help with no guards around, and if she left he could leave at any time. So instead she down next to a window where she could hear the boy breath.

She tried desperately to give the thief’s voice a face but she was too tired to imagine. The only reason she couldn’t reach the boy was because the idiot trapped himself within a small shed. She made a deal with herself that she wouldn’t, perhaps the boy will eventually get hungry enough that he’ll have to get out, or guards will appear within the area.

“A man can only last for so long without food and water.” Alessia said. A slight giggle from the other side of the wall could be heard. She didn’t understand why the boy was laughing.

“Trust me, I know.”  The thief said.

“How so?” she said annoyed.

“Well I suppose we’ll be here for a while.” He said before letting out a breath of air and biting his lips, “Let me ask you a question, have you ever just woke up in a field of burned grass, not knowing where the hell you are, or even remember anything from the past year.”

Alessia raised an eyebrow, “No- “

“Well I have.”

Alessia rolled her eyes laughing, “A field of brown grass in the middle of nowhere? Oh please, you can’t be serious?”

The thief smirked, “I remember having to crawl towards a lake because of how dehydrated I was.”

“Is this some story your mother told you when you were younger?” She said sarcastic.

“Believe whatever you want, you’re the first person I have told this to.” He giggles again, “If it wasn’t for the lake I would have died, from that point on I had to hunt for my own food, get myself back on me feet. Now I like to ask you a question princess, do you know what it’s like not having food and water?” Alessia tried desperately to make a witty remark but couldn’t do so. The thief giggled again, “Exactly, people like yourself have always had food and water by demand.”

Alessia still didn’t want to respond. All her life she tried denying that she was a spoiled noble brat but right in front of her was a stranger making a fool out of her. She calmed herself down realizing this was nothing more than what she presumed a broken man, the only joy he finds in life was stealing stuff, what did he know about her when he was nothing but a lowlife.

“Did I hit your soft spot?” He chuckled, but it didn’t last too long. “I’m sorry, I’m not really in the greatest of moods… Plus I’m sort of being held hostage by this princess turned rogue warrior.”

“You think I enjoy the life I have?”

“I don’t know, do you?”

“No. In fact I hate it. Everything Is such a routine, and everyone expects me to marry some old fat prick who can’t even get it up.” That made the thief laugh, and in an odd way, Alessia felt relieved to tell someone that.

“Sounds like every princess’ fairytale. If you ever interested in a bad boy, you can always let me off the hook princess.”

“I think I rather have the old fat prick.”

“I’m not that bad once you get to know me.”

“You’re no different, just a younger prick.”

“Let me ask you a question princess, why not just live your routine life? Why learn how to wield a sword and not learn how to walk in proper heels?”

There was a beat of silence. “I guess you’ve heard the stories of how I’m training to be an inquisitor, well a princess inquisitor, who just wants her own good ending .”

“Heard? I’ve seen you handle a sword. It’s the reason I won’t open the door.”

“Just open the door and I’ll show you in person?”

“You can come in any time you like princess.” Alessia couldn’t help but be annoyed by the boy’s teasing game. “We’re going to be here for a while, you might as well quit avoiding the question and answer.”

“I prefer to get physical rather than talk. My Father didn’t approve at first, but eventually he learned he had no choice but to let his daughter wield a sword. But of course there were still those that did not approve. They claimed it was a waste of time, and that I needed to be a proper lady…” She stops as she could no longer hear his breaths. He must have fallen asleep, she thought.

Guards had finally arrived, and Alessia immediately assigned them to open up the door. The door opened with ease. The inside of the shed was dark. Alessia searched frantically for the boy, but all she could see was an open floorboard, and a letter.

It was a pleasure talking to you. The door was unlocked the whole time. You mustn’t be upset about your crowd, it’s in good hands. - F
***

12 Hours Before

The streets of Veliany was decorated with colors associated with the gods: gold, red, and purple. It was the Day of Fortuna. In Veliany, Fortuna was one of few recognized Gods. Jemma learned the holiday was celebrated because of how blessed they were to be alive, and many traditions which would lead to good luck for the next year. The story of Fortuna told in simplest form is that he turned all his evil siblings in to piles of riches and thus the city of Veliany perished with riches ever since. Jemma always found Veliany religious history silly. Her Father always reminded her that the Velianys were masters in perception, perhaps that why so many people believed in their religion.

Her carriage was no longer moving and was at a standstill. A guard opens the door, and in a matter of moments the princess is smelling fresh veliany air. It felt good to stand on her own. The veliany fortress itself was more beautiful than she last remembered, but what caught her eyes the most was the garden. Her Father didn’t lie to her when he said the Velianys were the masters of perfection.

Almost immediately she was greeted by a familiar face. A beautiful red head. “It’s a pleasure to finally see you again Jemma.” Alessia said in addition to a smile.

“The feeling is neutral on my end. I must say, my father and I have always enjoyed your people’s customs.” Jemma lied.

Alesia wrapped her arm around Jemma’s and the two begin to walk. Guards follow but both princess’s call them off.

“Now that we’re alone, there’s no way you actually believe in a god turning his siblings into gold.”

Jemma laughs, “I only said what everyone expecting me to say.”

“I’ll pretend to be amazed by your love for our customs then.”

The two girls share a laughed and enter inside the fortress. It would be soon that they would begin the royal traditions.

***

From the distance Franco watched the two princess’s chit chat. He had found himself a comfortable spot on a ledge of a nearby tree. The only reason he was on theledge now was because tonight was the big night that he would be stealing the princess’s crown. The crown was believed to be the most beautiful piece of jewelry in all of veliany. and that means a lot for a city who practically prides themselves on the gold they own.

This plan to steal the crown didn’t come out of the blue. For the past year Franco had been scheming on different ways to steal the crown. It took him forever to decide on an idea to steal the crown. It was obviously no easy task for anybody. The Velianys had a superior guard system, at least that what some people claim. The only flaws were the fact that half of the guards were too busy guarding their bank.

His only job was to memorize every guard’s face and the day and time of their shift changes. Franco didn’t understand the reasoning behind why the Velianys would switch out guards every day and hour. Some days he wouldn’t see a guard for a whole two weeks, while others would switch on and off more than others; but after a few months he caught on to the weird patterns.

The toughest challenge wasn’t remembering the guard’s shift times, but if he wanted to enter the castle he needed an outfit which he got from a local black-market. The outfit was poor quality but at this point he only could prey to whoever was the god of protection your crotch, because he felt as if his was suffocating.

***

The only reason Ondrel was in Veliany was by a request from his Nan. Although it wasn’t much of a request, but rather Ondrel making the decision on his own to go to Veliany. Nan was sick and for weeks she spoke about how delicious royal Veliany’s coco was.

Ondrel felt as if he looked everywhere for the coco. His bad luck started when he learned the royal coco was only called royal because only nobles could afford it. Thus he decided to scale up amongst the rooves of Veliany in hopes he’ll learn of the black market they called the pit.

It took him a few hours but he had found himself at his destination. The pit itself was out of Ondrel’s comfort zone. It wasn’t the ugly environment but the people in it were nothing but sketchy. They bore different gang markings, a hound for some, while others preferred a python, but one tattoo caught his eye.

It was a dragon dancing amongst a man’s arm. Unlike the other tattoo wielding gang members who sorta grouped together like a beehive, he was the only one with this unique symbol. Ondrel continued studying the man’s tattoo until he noticed he had been caught staring by the man. He stopped looking.

It took him ten minutes to try and savage up any information on where he could find the coco but all answers led to the same saying, “You’re out of your payroll.”

Ondrel grew frustrated and left the black market. He always thought black markets were supposed to have everything. Everything except for some damn coco. He found himself walking through an empty alley. He felt like the safest man in all of Veliany.

“Why are you here kid?’ Ondrel heard a raspy voice echo behind him. He turns seeing it was the same man earlier with the dragon tattoo. He was an older guy and by the cuts and bruises decorating his brittle skin, it was clear he was experienced in the art of kicking ass. His Mohawk made him seem even more intimidating.

“I’m not a kid, and if you’re trying to rob me, you’re doing a shitty job.” Ondrel answer the man.

“Relax dumbo, no one is getting robbed. If it makes you feel comfortable, I’m Zig.” He extended a hand.

“The names Ondrel, and you’re here why?” Ondrel shook his hand.

“Aye, so are you going to answer my question or continue acting like a dumbo?”

“I-I’m looking for an expensive taste of coco.”

Zig chuckled. “You’re not going to find that anywhere near here.”

“I already learned that ten mins ago?” Ondrel said furrowing his eyebrows.

“So it you know it means you’re either born with a silver spoon in your mouth or you been using your own cloth to wipe the shit out of your ass.” Zig said laughing. “Besides why would someone like you want it?”

Ondrel was slowly becoming annoyed by the man’s questions. “My old nan. She’s sick and I figured I could do her a good deed and get her some of her favorite drink of choice.”

Zig bit his lips and as if the puppeteer snapped his fingers, he was no longer acting cocky, but seemed more serious. “You want to get close to a noble who happens to have some of this coco you’re looking for? I’ve got an opportunity for you kid. There are rumors circulating that there’s a hit out for the princess’ head.”

Ondrel eyes risen in shock, “You mean Princess Alessia?”

“No, I mean your princess dummy. Princess Jemma, look kid I know who you are and what you have done. I’m not here by peer coincidence, I was sent here to tell you that you need to prevent this from happening. Forget all the dumb shit I said earlier and trust me.”

Ondrel was taken back. “What do you mean you know who I am?” He grabbed Zig by the collar of his black jacket. He didn’t know what made him get so aggressive, but in a way he enjoyed feeling tough.

“You have quite the reputation on the streets of Beliemis, now I suggest you to remove your hand off my clothing, it be very wise of you.” He gave a cocky smirk.

Ondrel let him go and clenched his fist. “So if you’re telling the truth… What is it I am supposed to do?”

“Trust your instincts.” Zig said. “I have to leave for reasons you can’t know just yet. You’ll hear from me in the future, weather you do what I told you to do or not. You don’t want to find out what happens if you don’t do it.” Zig turns and takes a step back into the shadows of the alley leaving Ondrel clueless with many unanswered questions.

***

It was now night time in Veliany and streets were slowly being filled with dancing crowds of people. The castle itself was surrounded by a stone wall. Franco had found a nice hill big enough where he could make the transition of jumping from and onto the wall for a quick and smooth transition. It was night time so he knew it made it difficult for any guard to see him, all but one guard.

“Hey you! Stop there!” Franco heard a guard say. This guard in particular was a newbie and he went by the name Cullen. That was all Franco knew about him; although the lad looked more like a prince than a guard. Dark hair curved to the side, tall with smooth skin, and symmetrical face.

Franco pretends to act like he is pulling up his pants. “Relax you fool! Can’t a man take a piss without being judged?”

The guard known as Cullen paused unknowing what to say next. Cullen’s lack in awareness and rules was what made him the perfect canidate to help him inside get inside the castle.

Cullen had finally found the words to speak. “My apologies… But shouldn’t you be in your sector guarding.”

Franco maintained a straight composure, “Aye, it happens mate, and you didn’t hear? The king said he wants more guards posted for tonight. I guess he is paranoid that with all the distractions tonight that it could be the perfect opportunity for some bad things to happen.”

There was a long pause of silence. Franco could tell by the guard’s puzzle face that he wasn’t completely following. Franco could tell he was losing control of the situation and had to regain it quickly. “Are you deaf? Do I need to explain to the commander that you missed morning duty?”

Cullen’s eyes grew wide. Boom, Franco you’ve saved your ass again, he thought to himself. Cullen spoke up in a terrified voice. “But no one mentioned anything of a meeting!”

Franco pretended to sympathize with him. “Look… You’re new so I’ll let it slip this one time but don’t let it happen again.”

Cullen nods his head in relief and Franco takes a stand next to him. Franco imagines hearing a string of applauses ring throughout his head. He smiles and looks at the lad. “Now I ask you for a favor. It’s been a while since I last been assign to this part of the castle, so I was wondering where a guard could find a good place to get something to eat.”

Cullen gave a nervous laugh. “You must go through those doors, and keep walking until you see Ser Slaimen’s sword. From that point on, look for a clock that hinges over an entryway, and you’ll be bound to find it.”

“Ah, hey mate… That seems complicated, care to show me? We’ll be back in no time…”

A wary look grew upon Cullen’s face. Franco once again had to take charge. “Look, I’m not telling commander anything, this is the least you could do for me, yea?”

“You promise you won’t tell the commander? I can’t afford to lose this job.”

“About what?” Franco said with a peachy grin. “Aye, one thing you should learn about me is that I am a man who stands by his words.” Franco winks with a sly grin and gives the boys back a friendly pat. “Let’s get going shall we. Wouldn’t want to miss the fireworks.”

***

The food was as good as Jemma expected. King Rayen speech after dinner was nothing made Jemma as sleepy as a baby. The king mostly went on and on about how Veliany would remain one of the prosperous countries while at the same time thanking his guest for coming. Tomorrow would be the day Jemma’s Father, King Edward would lead his men in war against the Chems.

Jemma didn’t find the war as amusing as King Rayen made it out to be. Rayen acted as if the war was nothing short of a cock fight. Jemma could tell by the look of her Father’s old ashy eyes, that he was beginning to lose his patience.

Edward smiles, and laughs at the first opportunity he got to shut the prosperous king’s up. The only reason he was here to stay in good relations with the flourishing country. “That’s hilarious Rayen, but I assure you that I’ll come back within a few days with no scratches.”

Rayen raises an eyebrow, “Perhaps you’re right. I’ll be honest, I don’t know much of war other than the fact it’s avoidable. I assume by your knowledge and experience, you’ll come back alive and stronger than ever.” He finishes saying before taking a sip of his wine.

“That’s where you’re wrong. It takes the smartest of wits to win a war, but you wouldn’t know that sitting on that high throne of yours.” Edward shot back.

Rayen smiles, and the two share a laugh. Since Jemma was a little girl she could tell there was always a little friendly competition between the two kings. Whether it be in a battle of wits, or a battle of strategic wisdom.

Jemma took the first bite out of her salad which fueled her mouth with a nice taste of refreshing moisture, but that wasn’t the only thing that refreshed her. She noticed a guard walking through the halls. The guard’s red outfit didn’t fit his age. Red outfits meant a symbol of some importance, and such a young guard was nothing that could be ignored. She thought about initiating a conversation with the guard but her Father would be quick to stop her. So instead she shifted her attention to Alessia who happened to be looking at the guard in the red outfit.

Alessia was growing impatient and was ready to watch the fireworks light up outside. The fireworks were one of the traditions which was supposed to give citizens good luck and good fortune for years to come. Even though she had her own doubts whether it was true or not she still enjoyed watching them dance throughout the sky.

Alessia opened her mouth to speak. “Father, will the fireworks be starting soon?”

“I suppose so.” He answers her and stares towards Jemma. “Would you two girls like to head up on to the balcony to get a better view?”

Both girls smile in agreement and it was not long before Jemma found herself staring over the city of Viliany. It was night time and the moon was shining a bright crescent yellow. The streets were lit up with lanterns and the citizens celebrated with smiles on their faces.

Jemma was in awe at all the happy faces. She figured a holiday dedicated to a god who was wealthy as hell would make the poor folk reluctant to celebrating but it was the opposite. Warmth filled her cheeks.

“It’s pretty isn’t it?” Alessia says, “Everyone usually thinks our country is nothing but crazy people who believe in crazy religion but for people like me… and them.” She says pointing at the people who dance on the streets. “It’s a time to let go of the past and start new.”

“If my Father heard you say such things then he would probably be dying from laughter.” Jemma says and both girls laugh.

“Why is that? I understand he’s supposed to be some powerful war general but he must have a soft spot.”

“I don’t know really. I guess it’s just the sorta became a Beliemis tradition that all of our kings be the hard heads, but my Father… I know he cares about me. I think ever since my brother died in his arms he has become as tough as a rock to everyone except for me.”

Alessia frowns, “Daddy has to keep his little girl happy, but I’m sorry to hear about your brother.”

“Don’t be. I never knew him anyways… It all happened before I was born.”

“At least now you’ll get the chance to rule a kingdom, I believe more women should be in power, like Queen Abba of Wiverly. I’m sorry but my mother is forcing me to attend a small meeting. I’ll be back in no time.” She smiles.

***

“Sir Slaimen sure wielded such a beautiful sword.” Franco said looking into a glass case which contains the sword. The sword itself is broad, long and pure grey steel.

“Aye, Slaimen is perhaps the greatest knight and fighter this city has ever seen.” Cullen spoke.

“Greatest? Perhaps lucky is the word you’re looking for.”

Cullen laughs. “Shouldn’t we hurry up sir?”

“My apologies, let’s keep moving, yea?” Franco says staring at the sword. He imagines swinging it against a couple of mountain tribesman, slaying each and every one of them who vies to kill him. I’ll be back for you one day, or later… He thinks to himself.

Cullen takes him through the steps he mentioned earlier, and truth is if he wasn’t here Franco probably would have gotten lost. The inside of the castle was filled with so much riches and valuable possessions he often found himself losing thought on his main goal. The crown.

It wasn’t long after until they came to what seemed to be the guard’s area. It was nothing less than shit compared to everything he had just saw. The tables were old, seats were rippled with cracks, and the food didn’t look as appetizing as he thought.

“This is your guys lounge, aye?” Franco says with look of disgust. Perhaps he could use the opportunity to his advantage.

“Is there a problem sir?” Cullen asks.

“No.” He lies, “It seems I’ve lost my appetite; tell you what, follow me.”

“I’m sorry what?”

“Just follow me.”

“Shouldn’t we get back sir?”

“I don’t know if you noticed, but my outfit is red, is it not? If we’re caught you will have immunity.” Franco turns and exits out of the lounge where he comes forth on a stairway.

***

It was time for the fireworks to begin. The citizens of Veliany slowly gather to watch the fireworks on the sides of the street.

The first firework launches and spectacles of colors began to paint the sky. The combinations of colors seemed unreal to Jemma. Her eyes were widened like a little girl as she watched. It was a reminder to Jemma why she always had taken a liking to visit Veliany when she was much younger.

It was then she felt a hand grab her wrist. She turned her head expecting to find Alessia but instead it was a masked figure wearing white mask on its face. The masked figure pushed her with ease to the ground. Jemma tried quickly to catch her balance but the masked figure was too quick for her. The figured was clearly built like a man, and his sword was inches above her head.

The masked figure lifted the sword above his head and for a moment Jemma thought the white face had a change of heart when paused. Instead his sword was now plunging for her the princess’s heart. Jemma watches the sword glide but instead another mysterious figure arrived from what seemed to be the roof. He tackled the fugitive.

The boy from the shadow knocks the fugitive’s sword from his hand. The sword flew in the air and clanged onto the ground. Jemma watches as what she assumes to be her hero wrestle with the white face. The two took turns trading blows back and forth with each other. She watches as the masked man pulls a knife from his pocket and swings it toward the shadow boy who is quick to dodge the knife.

Jemma eyes darted towards the opening door. A surprise Alessia enters and by instincts she pulls her sword from the sheath of her belt and aims it towards the wrestling strangers. The masked man lifted his hands up and in a split second he was gunning for the balcony. Alessia didn’t have much of a chance to catch him.

Instead her attention was now focused on the dark hair boy who lied on the ground.

“Speak!” Alessia demanded, putting the steel blade on his neck.

He didn’t answer her. Instead Jemma spoke, “Alessia stop! He is the only reason I’m alive.”

Alessia sighs and forces herself to calm down. Her tone softens, “How did you get in?”

The man let out a hot steam of air. “Don’t you have a killer to catch?” He could hardly spit out, holding his abdomen.

Alessia digs the sword a few centimeters into the boy’s neck, just enough not to draw blood. She didn’t plan to use it but she watched her father’s man do it before and it seemed to be the best way get people to speak. “I am the only one who gets to ask the questions here.”

A voice enters the room. “Princess- the crown is missing.” A guard speaks.

“The what is missing?” She raised her voice again.

“The crown…” The guard said nervously.

Alessia pulls the sword back from the boy’s throat and stares at Jemma. “Don’t let my father find out he is here.” Least to say, she was on the boy’s side even if he had a pretty face worth punching but for now her main priority was on her apparent missing crown.

The boy grabs at his throat and found the princess gradually helping him off his feet. “Are you fine?” She asks anxiously.

The least of his worries was him being fine. “Princess you must leave the city now. I didn’t believe it at first, but I think there are people who want to hurt you.” He gets up and struggles towards the balcony.

“You aren’t seriously leaving are you? You’re hurt, you need nurturing.” Jemma says as she staring at the boy clutching the left side of his body.

“I need to get back to Beliemis.” With that, he gradually made his way back towards the balcony but felt a small hand grasp on his shoulder. His body turns and he sees Jemma clutching the side of abdomen, pulling him towards a wall. “You need to rest.” She exclaims.

“No… I need to back to nan.” Ondrel says before Jemma helps him sit up straight against the wall.

“We’ll get you back to Beliemis, I promise.” Jemma grasps his hands.

Ondrel was no longer looking at the floor but instead he had finally matched his brown eyes with hers. He couldn’t help but feel mesmerized by her beauty. He knew he wouldn’t be mesmerized for much longer. He was slowly becoming more light-headed and felt a compulsion to go to sleep.

“What’s your name?” Jemma said tapping the side of the boy’s red cheeks.

“On- Ondrel!” And then everything went black.

***

Franco knew his chance to steal the crown was coming. The fireworks had just begin and the guards were not doing a good job at their jobs. Instead they were watching the skies sprinkle with charades of colors. They stared long enough for Franco to devise a quick plan.

“Cullen, why would someone like yourself be doing a job that requires so much loyalty.” Franco asks. He could tell the question startled the him as his eyebrows had risen to the tip of his foreheads.

“I rather not say sir…” Cullen responded tilting his head downwards. Franco was familiar with the barrier Cullen was surrounding himself with.

“If it’s going to damn the mood then I rather you not say anything at all. Onwards, you see those two guards?” Cullen nods, “Those are a couple of buddies of mine who happen to be hard workers and I think they deserve the break.”

“What do you mean sir? Guards are supposed to guard the princess’ chambers at all times.”

“Which is why we’ll be the ones guarding the doors instead. Now come on follow.”

Cullen was hesitant to follow Franco but did so anyways. Franco and Cullen came within view of the two guards who immediately cut their attention from the fireworks and onto the two men instead.

“Holt!” One of the guards says. The guard was chubby and short while the other was taller with a beard made for catching the droppings of alcohol.

Franco raises both of his hands, “Relax, it’s only me. I only thought it be polite if I offered you gentlemen the chance to celebrate this great holiday with your family and friends.”

“Aye, you best get moving then. I am not moving nowhere.” The chubby one speaks.

“Don’t mind Gerald. He generally takes a liking to having a foot up his ass.” The bearded guard counters.

“Oh fuck you Rubert…” Gerald said in a hazily tone. Gerald chuckles and returnes his attention to the two young gentlemen. “I’ll be willing to take you up on that offer but first I need know who sent you.”

Slowly Franco was beginning to panic. He wasn’t expecting such a question and he knew these guys were no dummies like Cullen was. He had only one option. He reached into the pocket of his outfit and gradually slipped his brass knuckles on. Things were about to get violent.

In a quick turn of events, Franco manages to stun Rubert with a swift punch to jaw -- causing the big man to fall down on his back. He quickly turns to Gerald who makes a loud grunt. “You little shit!” He says before Franco delivers a blow to the man’s cheeks, knocking him cold almost instantly.

Cullen stares wildly, his eyes bloodshot red. “What have you done!” Cullen pulls at the strings of his hair panicking.

Franco slowly starts to open the door of the princess’ chambers. He begins to feel like shit for what the position he was going to put Cullen in. “I was wrong to bring you along in the first place. I don’t have much time to explain but I can only apologize to you in advance.”

“They’ll think I did this… -This! All of this is wrong!” Cullen places a hand on his sword and points it at Franco with an angry expression.

Franco removes his hands off the chamber’s doors and faces Cullen instead with his hands in the air. “Cullen… Don’t do anything that you’ll regret later.”

“I think you’ve told me enough lies.”

Franco gradually takes small steps until the sword is nothing but a few inches in front of his face. “Look I’m on your side buddy. All you have to do is just work with me, and no one has to get hurt.”

Cullen’s grip on the sword slowly loosens. Franco grabs the tip of the sword sword and all Cullen could see was Franco delivering a punch to his face, and then blackness.

***

4 Hours Later

Alessia finally arrives back at the castle disappointed. The thief had outsmarted her and she no longer had a crown. Her Father arrived, “Oh for goodness by the Gods! Where have you been!” he hugs her.

Alessia begins to remove her armor, “I had the thief who took my crown. He played me!”

Her Father starts to comfort her. “I don’t know who this thief is but he if was good enough to get past our defenses, who knows what else he could have done. He has acted against us thus he has attacked Veliany directly and I’ll be sure to have as many men watching and checking the docs thoroughly, and scouting the lands for this fool who has done such a savage act!”

Alessia nods her head in approval, it always comforted her knowing her father was willing to do that for her. “Where’s Jemma?” she asks.

Rayen stares towards the ground, a sadden face. “Oh that poor girl… She must be traumatized. Due to what has happened her father elected for her to go back to Beliemis immediately. It’s more fitting since he leaves on a ship of his own to take on the chems.”

***

Alessia arrives in her chambers and notices Gerald and Rubert are nowhere to be seen. It seems her thief was much more skilled in combat than she was led to believe. She opens her chamber’s doors, and lying upon her bed sat her crown, and another letter.

You wanted a good ending? Well here is your good ending, princess. - F
THE END