《Rosalind》


 I Hate My Life!!!

    I slowly pushed the door and dragged my smelly self in. Today was not one of those days! Let''s start from the beginning of the bad events.


    First, my boss yelled at me for spilling coffee on his laptop_It was not my fault¡ªI missed a step and tripped. Then, I had to skip lunch because of an annoying old lady who barely understood the words that I spoke¡ª not only was she slow-witted, even a snail was faster than her. Not to forget, she didn''t speak English, I barely understood the words she said, it was not very productive and I wasted and sacrificed my time for nothing.


    Thirdly and lastly, the one that crowns it all up, was the walk back home. A buffoon removed a warning sign for an opened sewer_ I fell right into it, it took a couple of men to pull stinky me up. The only good thing, I got pulled out with no injuries. I yelled at the construction workers¡ªpouring every single bad thing about my life on them, they promised to pay for the damages but the deed was already done. I had to stick with the stinky, disgusting, nauseating smell and endure the nasty looks I received as I reached my apartment.


    Sighing, I turned to look at the bathroom mirror_my face stained with sewer water, I stared at my reflection. It was the same as always_ my pale green eyes stared back at me tired and hopeless as I was on the inside. My short lashes didn''t add much to my look, they were stunted and hardly visible. My chapped nude lips, bushy eyebrows, messy hair and my glasses enhanced the terrible look I was born with.


    My phone vibrated in my hand, distracting me. I hesitated before reading the text, knowing what it was made my mood darker.


    ¡°Don''t forget to send the money for your brother''s tuition. Love Mom!¡± my croaked voice read out.


    I screamed as loud as I could.


    I am tired! I am tired of everything. I am tired of my parents using me as their personal ATM for their annoying, ridiculous needs. I am tired of my annoying stunted growth boss and his terrible, stressful demands.


    I need a life! For once I just want to be loved and liked by someone, to be pampered and spoiled rotten.


    When last did I go on a date with a guy? When last did a man walk up to me and be like ¡®Hey girl! You are so beautiful, wanna go out sometime?¡¯.


    I groaned! Knowing that it has never happened in this life and probably would not happen. My looks always screamed ¡®Don¡¯t talk to me! I am a weirdo!¡¯.


    I have never been asked out because of how ugly I am and I have accepted that, I just wished that someone will love the me within. Even if it is not in this world but probably a world where I am extremely beautiful and men are dying just to talk to me.


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    ¡°I wish to leave this world and be in a world where I will be beautiful and noticed!¡± I yelled at the top of my croaked voice.


    I let out a sad, deep breath. It was never going to happen¡ª why do I waste my energy wishing for it?.


    A slight creaking noise startled me, I turned_noticing a once closed window suddenly open. It moved with the light rhythm of the night wind.


    I made my way towards it, reaching to close it once more, abruptly my phone beeped in my hand and a notification popped up. I beamed, staring at it. Seeing the notification, I forgot all about the window.


    The latest chapter of the novel ¡®Twisted Fate'' has been uploaded. I have been reading the book for the past few weeks, I read the comments about it online, the characters enthralled me. I got hooked after the first chapter, ever since then I have been an ardent reader.


    The story is based in a flourishing empire, Alderia¡ª where magic and power is everything. It is one thing to possess magic but imagine if the magic is merged with power_One would be unstoppable.


    The female lead, Lady Adeline comes from a middle class family, they didn''t have much but they had each other. Her parents loved her to bits and grants her tiny, little wishes however they could.


    Her beauty was unmatched in the whole empire of Alderia. Her silver hair kissed by the moon''s ethereal glow, shimmered as bright as the stars in the sky. Her innocent blue eyes captivated anyone fortunate to gaze upon it and her voice was as angelic as ever.


    It was no surprise that she captured the hearts of all the four male leads. She had the magical abilities of light which was not quite rare. Lady Adeline could lit up an entire dark room with just a snap of her finger, the power within her was as pure as her heart.


    Prince Cedric, the first male lead fell in love with her the moment his eyes fell on her during the Royal ball thrown for his victory in the war with the Empire of the South. Lady Adeline melted his heart with her warm, enchanting smile sending his heart racing.


    I can vividly remember his thoughts as his eyes fell on her.


    ''. . .to think the woman in front of me could cause this turmoil within me. I have never felt this confused, excited and nervous all at once! Even during battle, none of these emotions troubled me but yet. . . here she is staring in my direction so innocently, smiling warmly at me. Her pure and pristine nature sends my heart racing and igniting something new. Who is she? I must know her!¡¯.


    Prince Cedric was known to be a cold-hearted man with no soul, his crystal blue eyes were dark and horripilating, mirroring into a depth of enigma and solitude. The aura he exuded ignited fear to anyone who gazed upon him. He was feared and ruthless, known to be cruel to his enemies, never giving a second thought before striking them out. A tyrant to many and an upholder of justice to a few.


    I let out a dreamy sigh, letting the memory of the novel flow through me slowly. I loved their chemistry, he was a dark tyrant and she was the light that brightened his world. Together they were a match made in heaven.


    I quickly rushed and took a hot shower, my toes were tingly knowing that the latest chapter of Twisted fate was out, I just couldn''t wait to read it.


    After an hour of scrubbing, rubbing and washing. I was finally done, feeling cleaner than ever. I plopped on my couch with my phone in one hand and a bag of chips in the other, ready to devour the next chapter whole.

 I Transmigrated!!

    ¡°Get away from me!¡± She screamed.


    The tiny white creature only gazed at her and moved closer to her.


    Rosalind ran towards the nearest window, sitting on the frame. Her heart was uneasy as she fought a rising panic. Beads of sweat formed on her forehead as the innocent creature inched closer to the crumbs of bread on the carpet.


    ¡°Don''t come closer!¡± She yelled, gripping harder on the window frame.


    It drew closer to the crumbs nearest to her feet, she felt her soul leave her body as it moved on its tiny legs.


    Rosalind was about to let out another yell but suddenly, her hand slipped! She wobbled, losing her balance and fell backwards. It gradually hit her! She was at the last floor of the building and there was no way that she would survive the fall.


    Her heart drummed faster knowing that the breath she took would be her last. The wind whistled in her ears, their wails was no help to her inevitable tragedy. Her head landed on the tarred floor with a loud bang. A thick red liquid seeped through her. Her eyes fixed on the dark lonely moon as she drew closer to death''s embrace.


    End Of Chapter.


    ¡°What!¡± I yelled furiously ¡°Seriously? Why couldn''t they end the chapter with Prince Cedric and Adeline''s love story. Ugh! I hate it¡±.


    I threw my phone on the table whilst resting on the couch staring at the ceiling.


    ¡®To think that the dummy would die just because of a ¡®mouse¡¯. Her death was an idiotic one. Oh well, at least she will not be used and ridiculed any longer'' I thought.


    I kind of felt pity for her not because I understood her stupidity but. . . it felt like she was all alone in her world, no friends. The only people that showed her kindness and loved her were her father and brothers.


    The villainess insulted her, used her and made fun of her. Other Noble Ladies did the same following in her rotten footsteps. The heroine, on the other hand wasn''t much of a help either, she only kept mute and did nothing to her abuse which pissed me off a little and I understood why, her powers were no match to the villainess and she could not face her one on one. She could only stand and watch Rosalind get humiliated.


    ¡°At least she is free from her misery!¡± I said out loud.


    My eyes grew weary as I stared at the ceiling and slowly, I dozed off to a deep, peaceful sleep.


    * * * *


    I tossed and turned on the bed, it felt like I was sleeping on a pool of clouds.


    I moaned softly.


    ¡°Since when did my bed feel so soft?¡± I mumbled, a smile plastered on my lips.


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    It suddenly hit me. Bed! What bed? I don''t remember sleeping on my bed last night.


    I slowly opened my eyes, feeling a jolt of electricity surge through me.


    Above me a huge bright red bed frame designed with floral curtains on each angle, the upholstery seemed to originate from the Victorian times.


    Abruptly, I sat up and looked around me, the entire room was different. It looked like I went back in time before technology was invented. I quickly got up and walked to the standing adorned mirror in the room.


    I almost passed out when I saw my reflection. My ducky pajamas were gone and I was wearing a plain white gown and that was not the only thing different.


    My dark brown hair suddenly became red hair. My bushy eyebrows were gone and instead they were arched and trimmed, my pale green eyes turned turquoise and my skin was ivory and felt smooth, it glowed like that of a model from a fashion magazine.


    My face grew pale on realization, I transmigrated!!.


    A knock on the door sent shivers down my spine.


    ¡°Lady Rosalind! Lady Rosalind! Have you woken up?¡± A female voice called out from the other side.


    ¡°Rosalind!¡± I said softly.


    A gasp escaped from my lips as it dawned on me.


    I transmigrated into the dummy of ¡®Twisted Fate¡¯ What! Of all people, why her?.


    I let out a sigh, I will bother about that later. Now I had to reply to the lady at the door.


    ¡°Come in!¡± I spoke in my lady voice.


    The door was pushed open and a lady in a maid''s attire walked in.


    ¡°Good morning, My Lady!¡± She greeted.


    I simply nodded to her.


    She walked towards my bed and began dressing it, straightening out the creases.


    I approached her slowly. I needed to know more about this place, especially the year I was in.


    ¡°What year is it?¡± I asked.


    The lady scoffed ¡°What kind of question is that, My Lady? You are really the dummy they said you are!¡± She joked.


    I felt like I was slapped in the face with her comment. How could a mere maid speak to her mistress like that? Is this what Rosalind had to go through everyday of her life?. I need to teach this woman here some proper manners.


    ¡°What did you just say?¡± I asked feeling a surge of anger course through my veins.


    ¡°I said that. . .¡± she paused and looked at me, her face suddenly turned pale as she stared at me.


    ¡°M-My Lady!¡± she stuttered, moving backwards. Her hands trembled as she walked.


    I could feel an overwhelming power flow through me as I approached her, this feeling felt like nothing I have ever experienced, I felt invincible. It felt like a wave of flames emanated from every single pore in my body as I spoke to her.


    ¡°Who do you think you are to speak to Your Mistress like that?¡± My voice resonated the entire room, thundering.


    ¡°I am sorry, M-My Lady!¡± She said quickly.


    ¡°If I killed you this exact moment do you think that anyone would care. You are not even half the class I am and you think that you can talk down to me like that!¡± I yelled.


    She hastily got down on her knees, mumbling words of apology.


    I approached her, looking down at her with disgust, just thinking of the way the real Rosalind felt listening to people calling her a ¡®dummy¡¯ made me sick to my stomach.


    ¡°Better get your act together, if you do not want to leave this room in ashes. Is that understood?¡± I asked in a dark, terrifying tone.


    ¡°Yes, My Lady!¡± She said quickly.


    I let out a breath, the power I felt earlier slowly faded.


    ¡°Prepare my bath!¡± I ordered.


    She gave a quick nod and scurried out of the room.


    I suddenly felt light headed and slumped on the nearby chair.


    What was that power I felt earlier? Could it be Rosalind''s? But she was known to be the weakest, her power could only light up a candle. I have so many unanswered questions.


    ¡°Rosalind, if you are hearing me I need your help here!¡± I called out.

 Rosalind!

    I let out a deep breath, basking myself in the tub filled with warm water. . . rose petals floated above it, surrounding me with their enchantments. The smell of lavender and roses, filled the air in the room.


    Resting my head on the tub, I slowly closed my eyes.


    >>>> It was dark and soundless. I looked around me, there was no sign of light anywhere. I looked up and noticed what seemed like a drop of sunlight cascade down and kiss the earth. It brought with it, life to my surroundings. As the light spread, I found myself standing in the middle of a field of dandelions. At its center stood a majestic crape myrtle tree in full bloom, its pink flowers glowing under the sun. They looked radiant as they basked in the sun''s embrace, absorbing its rays, dancing to the rhythm of the gentle breeze.


    I heard sounds of laughter and followed it, it led me to the tree. Behind it were two little red haired children playing with the dandelions.


    The little girl looked so much like Rosalind while the boy had a resemblance with one of her brothers described in the novel.


    They looked so happy as they chased each other down the field, giggling and laughing in delight.


    ¡°Those were the good old days!¡± A voice said from behind me.


    I turned around to see an older Rosalind watching the children with longing and sadness in her eyes, her long red hair were like flames under the sun as they moved in an undulating motion.


    ¡°You looked really happy!¡± I said, staring at the playful children.


    She turned to me and smiled ¡°I was!¡±.


    ¡°Do you miss it?¡± I asked.


    She approached me, her hands clasped behind her.


    ¡°I suppose. . . the laughter, yes. But not the mockery or the isolation.¡± Rosalind¡¯s lips curved into a bitter smile. I could sense the anger she tried to mask.


    ¡°Precisely. You can miss parts of something without yearning for the whole.¡± I replied,


    Something within me understood how she felt and I felt guilty because I too, looked down on her. Just like everyone, I called her a dummy. I really felt sick to my stomach realizing that I was among the people who ridiculed her even when I knew nothing about her.


    ¡°I don''t miss it!¡± She said with a smile, ¡°I do miss my Father and my brothers though but apart from them. . . I don''t think there is anyone or anything that I miss!¡±.


    ¡°So, why did you choose me to. . .¡±


    ¡°That''s because I didn''t want them to be alone!¡± She said, cutting me off ¡°I needed someone who despised her life more than anyone. That she''d wish to leave her terrible life behind and you fitted everything in my list!¡±


    ¡°Oh!¡± I felt too shock to reply to that. To think that I was qualified because of how miserable I was, seemed a bit hurtful.


    I took a deep breath letting everything sink in. She probably needs me to do something for her, like take revenge on her enemies or something close to that, since that''s what usually occurs in all the transmigration books I''ve read.


    ¡°So, do you want me to take revenge on your haters or. . .¡± she cut me off.


    ¡°No! No!¡± She shook her head ¡°Just be yourself!¡±.


    Her reply stunned me. It was not what I expected at all.


    ¡°So, I just need to live my life?¡± I asked just to be sure.


    She gave a light nod.


    I felt excited, knowing that I did not have any difficult mission from her. This is turning out better than expected.


    I beamed at her, she simply smiled.


    ¡°One more thing, Emilia!¡± The tone in her voice was different than earlier and stern. I looked at her, puzzled on what she wanted to say.


    ¡°Try and survive!¡± She merely said.


    I let out a light gasp as she slowly faded into star dust, floating in the wind ascending to the sky.


    Her last words rang in my ear.


    Try and survive? What did she mean by that?.


    ¡°Wait! Rosalind, I have one more question!¡± I yelled at the dust floating away.


    I sighed. So many questions ran through my head. I needed help with so many things and she was already gone.


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    ¡°What! What is it?¡± A familiar voice yelled.


    I shrieked when I saw her suddenly standing in front of me, looking a bit angry.


    ¡°I thought you. . . weren''t you. . .¡± I pointed at her and then at the sky.


    ¡°You said you had another question!¡± She replied crossly.


    ¡°Oh, so you came back because of that?¡± I asked, still baffled.


    ¡°Do you have a question or not?¡± She asked, infuriated ¡°You need to hasten up, because I am missing something really important at the moment!¡±.


    I blinked at her severally, too confused to speak.


    ¡°You are busy where you are?¡± I asked slowly.


    ¡°Is that the question?¡± She asked in a stoic manner.


    ¡°No! That''s not it!¡± I took a deep breath before approaching the main question ¡°So, earlier today, I felt a surge of power within me because of what your maid said and I know that you are the weakest of the weak, no offense!¡±


    ¡°None taken!¡±


    ¡°I just wanted to know what that power was!¡± I said.


    Rosalind walked closer to me, she stood a few feet from me and snapped her fingers, a tiny flame visualized, floating above them. It looked so weak with no ray of life.


    ¡°This is my power!¡± She said, referring to the flame ¡°What you felt earlier must have been yours!¡±.


    I gasped ¡°I have powers!¡± Out of everything she said that was the only thing I understood.


    She nodded ¡°It seems so, it looks very powerful, your flame is vibrant and full of life!¡± She said, her far-flung gaze landed on my chest. I felt like she could see right through it, deep into my soul.


    ¡°Oh well, if there are no more questions I would like to return!¡± She said, the tone in her voice was higher than usual.


    ¡°Yeah!¡± I replied absentmindedly.


    She nodded and took a deep breath, fading away like She did before.


    ¡°Oh and Emilia!¡± She called out from the stardust.


    ¡°Yeah?¡± I looked up at the sky, frantically.


    ¡°Nurture your flame, it will be of great help to you in the future and make sure that you survive!¡± Her last words echoed in the field.


    The darkness slowly drew forward after the encounter, devouring the light until there was nothing left. I found myself alone in it like I was earlier.


    * * * *


    Faint noises surrounded me, they were like tiny whispers. Whispers that were frenetic and possessed a deep emotion to them. Hearing them piqued my curiosity.


    ¡®Am I still dreaming?¡¯ I wondered.


    I blinked and slowly opened my eyes, looking around me. Three men with a similar red hair to mine stood by my right, the older one clenched my hand whilst weeping while the other two had a grieved look on their face as they stared at me. At the far corner of the room, the maid I threatened earlier looked saddened as she hung her head.


    ¡°What in the world is going on?¡± I asked slowly.


    They beamed in delight as they saw me. The oldest of them all quickly hugged me taking me by surprise.


    ¡°Oh, my darling daughter! I thought I lost you! You nearly drowned in the bath tub. Luckily, your personal maid found you!¡± He said between sobs.


    ¡®He must be Rosalind''s Father!¡¯ I thought. The novel states that his love for his daughter was greater than words could describe¡ªhe loved her more than his own sons. She mirrored his dead wife, bearing features of the woman he once loved. He vowed to protect her from anyone and anything that dared to harm her.


    I hugged him back gently, feeling a bit awkward.


    ¡°It is okay Father, I am alright. Nothing happened to me!¡± I said in an awkward tone.


    He quickly let go of me and suddenly grabbed my face in his hands, examining it for injuries.


    ¡°Are you sure?¡± He asked, frantically. Concern etched his aging features.


    I nodded.


    ¡°You are not hurt, are you?¡± The older of the two boys asked, grabbing my right hand, acting like how his Father was earlier¡ªvetting it for injuries.


    I looked at him. He had features of Rosalind''s eldest brother. Leopold Everhart. The Young Lord of the East, and the heir to their Father¡¯s dukedom. Leopold is known to be indifferent to people and very impassive but not when it comes to his family especially, his little sister, Rosalind. His flame is known to be the most powerful in the House of Everhart, symbolizing the enormous power of the Household. It made him special and more popular than any of his siblings.


    He had a sad look in his turquoise eyes and I felt touched knowing that I had people that cared for me. Back in my world no one did, not even my Parents or brother.


    ¡°I am okay, Leo!¡± I said in a sincere tone.


    A faint flush crept up on Leo¡¯s cheek as he averted his gaze. He seemed to love it whenever Rosalind called him Leo, for some weird reasons it made him flustered. He hid his face away from me but it was a bit late, I had already seen his flushed face.


    ¡°Father, I suggest we should have her maids be with her whenever she is having a bath!¡± The other man suggested.


    ¡°What!¡± I exclaimed ¡°That will not be necessary, Father!¡±.


    It was already too late to protest, it seemed that Duke Everhart was considering the decision.


    ¡°It might be a good idea!¡± He said thoughtfully.


    I glared at my other brother. Edward Everhart, he was a few years older than me but two years younger than Leopold, he is known to possess the blue flame. It was the rarest flame of all being different from others in strength and ability. He is also a known master of archery and the closest friend of Sir Alexander Norwyn, the third male lead of the novel.


    ¡°What?¡± He asked all innocently.


    ¡°Nothing!¡± I replied. I didn''t want to start an argument with him.


    A short man in a white coat approached me and they made way for him. He reminded me of my stunted boss and I hated it.


    ¡°Can you check up on her, Doctor?¡± Duke Everhart asked.


    ¡°Of course, Your Grace!¡± He replied.


    He placed his hands on mine, I felt my body glow as a different flow of power surge through me.


    After a few minutes, he let go of me and the power faded. He shot me a strange look before turning to my anxious Father.


    ¡°She is okay, Your Grace, everything is fine, even her. . .¡± he turned to look at me with that same strange look, before diverting his attention to my Father ¡°. . . soul is normal. Nothing to worry about!¡± He said, turned around and headed towards the door.


    My gaze followed him, I didn''t like the look he gave me and I felt uneasy as he turned back to look at me. Our eyes met and he quickly looked away, leaving the room.


    My Father and brothers kept fawning over me, telling me things like ¡®I shouldn''t leave the bed¡¯ and ¡®I should ring for them if I ever needed their company¡¯ but I paid no heed to them.


    The things that bothered me more were speaking to the doctor one on one and figuring out how to survive this world like Rosalind said.

 The Four Male Leads

    I stared at the paper, tapping my fingers on the table, thoughtfully. I gathered all the necessary information I needed to know about this place and this is what I have found;


    I transmigrated a few months before the novel began which means that at this very moment, Lady Adeline and Prince Cedric has not met yet, since their first meeting was at the Royal ball which has not happened yet.


    Alderia is currently at war with the Southern empire, Eldoria. So, basically any chances of bumping into the Prince or meeting him is highly unlikely because he is probably at the front line of the war. So he is taken care of.


    I ruled out his name from the list of people to have concerns about. I stared at the number two on my list, Duke Alaric Johnson, the Youngest Duke of Alderian. He was the Duke of the West. A tall, sturdy man with black long hair, neatly trimmed to his broad shoulders and deep violet eyes that possess untold secrets. He was known to be a distant character, always kept to himself and said a few words to the people around him. Most people were born with magical powers but¡ª he was among the few that was not.


    He had no power but he had power. Duke Alaric is the secret leader of the top intelligence agency of Alderia. He has the dirt on everyone and the best man to meet when you want some specific information about anything and anyone.


    He was a great help to Lady Adeline and was always the first person to come to her aid whenever she needed help. He loved her secretly and was willing to do anything to keep her safe from the Villainess¡¯s grasp. It hurt him more when he realized that¡ª her heart belonged to another, the Prince. Someone that he despised due to his killing nature.


    I stared at the name and ruled it out without much thought. I don''t think I would bother with him either, he had no problem with Rosalind. I doubt if he knew of her existence.


    So onto the next one, my face cringed as I stared at the name. Sir Alexander Norwyn, the third male lead. A tall, light skinned man with dark sandy blonde hair and silver grey eyes. The ultimate player of high society. He has the power to control and create water at will, shaping it to any form he pleases. He is someone that I wish not to meet.


    Even though, it is said in the novel that he loved Adeline but I felt that he did not. . . most of the time he stayed with her, he did it mostly to annoy his cousin, the Prince and that is a huge turn off for me. I quickly circled his name. I had to be wary of him, Sir Alexander was known to be guile and not honest. I don''t care if he is Edward''s friend, I don''t want to have any encounter with him. I needed to distance myself from him like a plague.


    I moved on to the next person on my list. I beamed at the name. He is the most loyal and most faithful person a girl could ever meet. He had my heart the moment he took a deadly hit for Adeline which was meant to kill her by his master, Lady Eleonora Ravenscroft, a.k.a the villainess. In the novel, he was rescued by Lady Eleonora from the slums. His lightning power was said to be weak but it grew overtime when he became a Knight of Lady Eleonora.


    He was loyal to her and put up with a lot of her shenanigans. It was hard for him to choose between the lady he loves and the one who rescued him from his darkest moments. It was obvious to him that Adeline never loved him but she cherished him more than Lady Eleonora and he swore to be loyal to Adeline even till death. His name is none other than Sir Roderick Porter, a peasant who became the strongest Knight of the entire empire.Stolen content alert: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences.


    A dreamy sigh, escaped my lips as I remembered his features_ tall with prominent features that could send one''s heart race a thousand times over again. His emerald eyes were said to bewitch any lady fortunate to hold his gaze. I sighed once more, drowning myself in my fantasy. I dreamed countless times in my world to meet him just once.


    "Oh! What a dream!" I exclaimed in a dreamy tone.


    I shook my head a bit, exiting my fantasy. Staring at the paper, the names of the main characters, especially the male leads were underlined. My gaze shifted to what I scribbled at the edge.


    Main goal; Do not encounter the main characters and do not partake in the novel!.


    I circled it a lot of times, highlighting its importance. I folded the paper neatly, placing it in an envelope. It was stashed beneath a loose floor board. Hopefully, it would not be seen by another.


    Now, that was over! I had to move on to the main task of the day. Exploration!. It has been a plan of mine for a while now¡ª been cooped up in the estate for days, doing basically nothing was more frustrating than preparing for any company project I have ever been on. I needed a new scenery, I needed to visit new places and I needed to do it soon before I''d go insane from being indoors for a very long time.


    I rushed to my boudoir, in need of a simple yet elegant gown for my standards. Being a Duke''s daughter, I had to be aware of what I wore in the outside world. A knock on the door diverted my attention from the task at hand.


    "Come in!" I yelled and continued my search.


    My personal maid, the one I yelled at, walked in. It seemed that she had a message to relay to me but she didn''t, bearing a strange look in her eyes. She blinked at me, perplexed.


    I smiled nervously at her, it was not my intention for her to know my plans.


    "My Lady, what are you doing?" She asked, making her way to the closet.


    "I am just looking for an outfit that''s all!" I replied without giving her a glance.


    She kept quiet, looking a bit thoughtful as her gaze followed my actions. "Do you plan on leaving the estate, My Lady?".


    I halted, having been caught by her "Yes I am!" I said slowly.


    She had a smile on her face as she approached the nearest rack, picking up a very elegant yellow gown with laces arranged neatly at the bodice and intricately woven butterfly fabrics at the sleeves, it looked very tempting to wear knowing how fitted and sensual it was¡ª but the gown will draw a lot of attention to me and that was not part of my agenda for the day.


    "It does look wonderful!" I said thoughtfully "but I don''t want to attract any unwanted attention to myself, Lenora!".


    She sighed, hanging it back on the rack. "Well, it was worth a try!".


    Lenora looked around the closet, her face lit up as her gaze landed on a black dress. She rushed towards it, grabbed it and shoved it to my face.


    "You cannot say no to this, My Lady!" She said firmly.


    I looked at the gown. It was simple and had a bit of sophistication to it. I smiled at it. It was every thing I needed.


    "Thank you, Lenora!".


    She beamed at the compliment. Her reaction to it, mirrored back to a younger version of me who wished so much for a simple ''Thank you'' from my parents. Hearing them being grateful to me for a job well done, brightened up my entire week but that occasion rarely happened and it felt a bit heartbreaking reminiscing the old days.


    "Is everything okay, My Lady?" Lenora asked, her eyes filled with concern for me.


    I nodded, pushing back those memories "Everything is fine. I need to get dressed!".


    "Then I will get the carriage and Knight ready, My Lady!" She said in a state of a bow.


    My eyes shot up on hearing the word ''Knight''.


    "No, Lenora, the Knight will not be necessary!" I protested.


    "Sorry, My Lady, it is protocol. You can not leave the Estate without a Knight as an escort, it is your Father''s orders!" She said before leaving.


    I ran my hand through my hair in frustration, so much for keeping a low profile, Emilia.

 The Encounter

    I waited patiently on the last stairs of the mansion for my ''called carriage'' to arrive. I have never been in one¡ªI didn''t know what to expect. My emotions were bemingled with surprise and excitement.


    Too many things ran through my mind as I stood there. How should I interact with people. . . Should I be polite or a snob? What if I meet one of the main characters. . .What will I do then? These questions ran through my head like the wheels of a spinning clock that never stopped.


    "Keep calm! Emilia. Nothing of that sort will happen!" I said, affirmatively.


    I heard light footsteps behind me, I turned and was astonished to see Lenora scampering towards me with a medium size wooden chest in her hands.


    "My Lady, I am so glad that I caught up to you!" She said whilst catching her breath, clutching the wooden chest tighter.


    I stared at it, pondering on what treasures laid inside.


    "His Grace wants you to have this." She handed it to me.


    Hesitating a bit, I accepted it. Slowly, I opened it_ my eyes grew as big as saucers. I was shocked at the many leather pouches in it. I stared at her for an explanation.


    She let out a breath and began "Inside each pouch contains two hundred gold coins!" My eyes widened at the amount.


    ''Did she just say Two Hundred Gold coins?'' I thought. I have never dreamed of seeing this amount ever in my life and here it was right in front of me. It was in my hands.


    "There are about twenty pouches in there, so that means the total amount of gold coins are. . ."


    ". . .Four thousand gold coins!" I said still reeling in shock.


    "Yes, that¡¯s the amount. His Grace said it¡¯s for whatever you need in the capital, and if it¡¯s not enough, you can always ask for more.¡± She said,


    I took in the deepest breath that I have ever taken since I arrived in this world. To think that I have the liberty to spend as much as I want, was just too much to take in.


    "Well, I am touched by his kind gesture. But I do not think that it will be necessary, can you please. . ." I paused when I noticed her shocked expression.


    "My Lady, this is just quarter of your weekly allowance!" She said,


    "Weekly?" it felt like a huge bomb landed on my head.


    She nodded, "My Lady, you can use it to purchase the latest items of the season. Like new gowns for instance!" She suggested.


    I stared at her, like she had a screw loosed in her head "I do not need new gowns. I have a boudoir full of beautiful, classy gowns!".


    She let out a laugh, taking me by surprise. "Those gowns are from last season, My Lady. You will need to replace them every once in a while!".


    I sighed. It seems that I had no choice but to use the money and it might come in handy for my goal of the day.


    "Why don''t you come with me, Lenora?" I asked whilst the sound of horses trotting grew nearer.


    I turned to see a white carriage being pulled by majestic looking well groomed studs. They were dressed elegantly, radiating under the sunlight.


    I let out a sigh. This was surely going to gain attention in the capital. I turned to Lenora.


    Her face lit up in delight. "Really, My Lady?".


    I nodded affirmatively, recalling my question to her.


    "Sure, you can buy the latest items of the season!" I mimicked her words earlier, earning a laugh. "While I will deal with other. . . pressing matters!¡±.


    The carriage halted in front of us, the door was pushed open and a Knight stepped out of it looking regal in his polished armor.


    "Your carriage awaits, My Lady!" He said in a state of a bow.


    I felt like a Princess as he extended his hand to help me climb in. Gently, I placed mine in his and he aided me into the carriage. Lenora hopped in with excitement etched all over her, the Knight sat across from us bearing a stoic expression.


    As soon as we were all seated, the horses strutted the Carriage out of the estate.


    * * * *


    The ride to the capital was not as comfortable as I thought it would be. It was difficult to seat contently with every jolt of the carriage. The worse scenario was when there was a bump in the road, I bounced along with the carriage as we rode above it.


    The ride was the most uncomfortable and longest ride that I have ever been on. It was during those moments that I missed the cars and smooth roads of my world. ¡®Nothing like a bump in the road to make you bounce to your future!¡¯ I thought, wryly.


    I was so glad when we finally reached the capital, I happily stepped on the cobblestone road. I haven''t felt so glad to be able to stand again. The hustle and bustle of the Capital was evident around us. The streets were filled with well-dressed Nobles, giggling and chattering among themselves. The shops were elegant and inviting, built with very well polished stones.


    "My Lady, where should we go first?" Lenora asked excitedly. It seemed that it was her first time leaving the estate, she looked so happy and delighted to be in the capital.


    I looked around, pondering on what and where to begin, there was so much to do and see. I just couldn''t make a decision on where to start.If you encounter this story on Amazon, note that it''s taken without permission from the author. Report it.


    "I have no clue, Lenora. What do you. . ."


    "My Lady, we could go to the modiste, for new gowns. Oh! What about the bakery, their snacks are an absolute delight? Or we could visit the theatre, you do love plays. It would sure be wonderful!" She rambled in excitement


    "Here, why don''t you take this money. . ." I took out a pouch from the chest and handed it to her ". . .and buy whatever fancy cloth or snack you desire!".


    She gasped, staring at the pouch in her hands "Are you sure, My Lady?".


    I nodded, "Yes, I am!" I began shoving her towards one of the shops "We will meet in an hour or two! You could visit the theatre and enjoy a play!" I suggested in a mimickery.


    I turned to the other direction, before she could protest, walking closer to the nearest building with the Knight following_ a few paces behind.


    >>>> The bell let out a jingle as I stepped out of the bakery, their snacks were as delicious as they were inviting. I savored every precious moment of it. Their flavor and softness will forever be etched in my mind. Lenora was right, they were indeed a delight.


    "Where do you intend to visit, My Lady?" The Knight inquired.


    I looked around, pondering on the next stop "Well, I. . . "


    The sound of a whip slashing through the air drew my attention, at the far end of the streets was a blabbering fat pot-bellied man in Noble clothing screaming at what seemed to be a young man. His clothes were torn and dirty. His skin was stained with dirt, he looked so frail and friable.


    The sight made my blood boil without much thought I walked towards the screaming Nobleman.


    "Why can''t you do anything right?" The man yelled, using the whip to torture the poor young man who cowered on the road.


    My hands clenched into fists, the flames I felt within me threatened to break free. Each crack of the whip sent another wave of fury through me. The world around me seemed to narrow to just the blubbering Nobleman and his helpless victim


    "Haven''t you heard of the word, ''humanity''?" I yelled.


    The Nobleman turned to look at me with disgust worn in his face.


    "Who do you think you are, little girl?" He asked. His voice was worse than a frog that croaked at night.


    "Well, at least I am sensible enough to know that this is horribly wrong!" I responded.


    He walked towards me, with a strange look in his eyes. I stood my ground and stared him down. His eyes traveled from my head down to my shoes and landed back to my face.


    "You look like someone from a decent family, better leave now little girl before things get ugly!" He reached out to touch my face but my Knight stepped in front of me, standing in between us.


    The man scoffed "You even got a tiny Knight with you, why don''t you two scurry out of here while I am being nice or else!" He turned to look at me, grinning. I shivered with disgust just by staring at the ugly lesser being.


    "Or else what?" I asked.


    "Or else you might end up being my next toy!" He said with a dirty smirk.


    Toy! Did he just say ''Toy''? I felt my temper spark as my fury sprang to life.


    "My Lady, permit me to. . ." My Knight paused when he saw me. His face whitened as he stared at me.


    The power I felt a few days ago re-emerged, but it was stronger than ever. The flame I felt within was more alive than it was before.


    I watched the Noble man quiver as he stared at me. With every step I took, he drew backward.


    "A toy? How dare you?" I yelled, the flame within me grew stronger "Your status is nowhere close to mine. I am Lady Rosalind Everhart. The daughter of Duke Everhart and you had the audacity to speak to me like that!".


    "Everhart?" He asked, shock flashed in his eyes, he knew what real terror was as he looked at me. His face grew paler every second.


    I could feel the stares of everyone around me but I didn''t bother. Putting this dimwit in his place mattered most.


    He fell to the ground as I approached him. I placed my foot on his overweight stomach, increasing the pressure in it, steam could be seen seeping out from beneath it. He yelped for help as he tried to break free from it.


    A dark smile escaped my lips as I watched him become so helpless. Now, he knows how it feels to be humiliated and tortured by a person of higher status.


    "I am so sorry! I will do anything! Anything that you want, Lady Rosalind!" He pleaded, tears rolled down his cheeks.


    I looked at him with an expression Nobles had in the presence of filth. He was definitely not worth wasting my powers on.


    I let go of him, taking a deep breath I felt the power ebb away as I calmed down.


    "Anything?" I asked with a smirk.


    He gulped, slowly nodding his head.


    "I want him!" I pointed at the slave on the ground. I stared at the slave, his gaze was glued to the cobblestones, his skin quivered in fear. I let out a breath as a second round of freshly cultivated rage rushed in.


    The Nobleman gasped. "I-I bought him, Lady Rosalind for a huge price!".


    "What ever the price is? I will double it!" I said, defiantly. Hoping deep down that it did not exceed the money I came with.


    "I bought him for a hundred gold coins, My Lady!" He said slowly.


    I snapped my finger at the Knight, gesturing for him to do the needful. He brought out the chest. I opened it and took out two pouches.


    I threw it at the Noble, who caught it in mid air.


    "One pouch contains Two Hundred gold coins. So, I think I have paid more than double, no?" I stared at him expectantly.


    He nodded his head repeatedly in shock.


    "He is all yours!" He said, turned on his heel and ran away, gleefully.


    I turned to look at the slave I just bought. His head was hung low, the fear within him was palpable, my heart poured out to him.


    Kneeling beside him, my hands reached for his face¡ª tilting it towards me for a better view of him. I let out a gasp when I realized who he was. Sir Roderick Porter. I quickly stood up and took some steps back.


    Shock! Bewilderment! Confusion! All rushed in. I couldn''t spout a single word. My mind was hazy and not a single thought was jumping in.


    What in the damn world was he doing here?


    I stared at him, observing his features¡ªHis brown hair was messy and fell to his shoulders but his emerald eyes captivated me. He was skinny and weak, even a street dog had a better life than him.


    When he looked at me, I could feel the emotions within him.


    I couldn''t leave him even if I badly wanted to. I already bought him off from the Nobleman. Wasn''t the Villainess meant to find him? I let out a groan, saying that I was frustrated was an understatement to what I felt inside.


    ''Maybe, if I leave him on the streets for a few days, the villainess probably might come for a visit!'' I thought.


    The idea didn''t seem like a terrible one.


    "No, Emilia_ that won''t be right!" I scolded myself, pushing away the thought. I sucked in a breath and approached him.


    "Can you stand?" I asked in a concerned tone.


    He nodded, slowly gathering his energy to stand on his feet. I wrapped his hand around my neck and helped him up. My Knight did the same on the other side.


    "We are going back to the estate!" I said.


    "Yes, My Lady!" My Knight replied.


    Now, all that was needed to be done was become strong enough to stand for myself, make Sir Roderick the strongest Knight in the Empire_a new task added to my list and do not take part in the main plot of the novel.


    That will be a piece of cake for me, right?


    * * * *


    As she walked off with her Knight and a new companion, she didn''t only capture the attention of everyone present on the streets but unknown to Lady Rosalind there were six pairs of eyes that followed her every movement, captivated by her.


    "What an interesting young lady don''t you think, Ronald?" His gaze never left the woman with flames in her hair. Her power enthralled him not only that, her aura was something that enticed him. It was fiery and terrifying, something that he doesn''t see in every woman.


    "She is interesting, Your Majesty!" The middle aged man replied, dragging the lifeless body into the darker edges of the street.


    "She is definitely interesting!" Prince Cedric said with a lopsided grin.


    >>>>> "Who would have thought that my dear friend would have such a daring Lady as his sister." He took a sip of his tea, a sly smile smoldered on his lips.


    >>>>> He stared out the window. The power she exuded was definitely something he has not seen before, the way her hair blazed like flames tinged with the fury within her, fascinated him, her eyes glowed as she spoke to the Nobleman. It was extraordinary. She was extraordinary.


    "Lady Rosalind! You seem to have piqued my interest!" He said whilst watching her.

 A Total Makeover

    Lenora gasped as we slowly approached her, her eyes widened when she saw us. I could sense how confused and bewildered she was. Well, I couldn''t blame her, I too would have the same expression when my boss suddenly returns with a total stranger that was beaten up and partially alive.


    Lenora hurried over, her hands gently replacing mine as she took charge.


    "My Lady, what happened? Who is this. . . and are you alright ?" She asked frantically.


    "I am alright. We need to get back to the estate!"


    She had a concerned look as she stared at me.


    "I don''t think it is a good idea for us to bring him like this!" The strange look appeared once more whilst she stared at him "It might raise some strange rumors!" She pointed out.


    "You do have a point!" I thought for a while, an idea popped in my head "Lenora, we need to give him a makeover!" I felt giddy at the idea.


    "I will lead you to one of the best clothing shops in the capital!" She said, leading the way.


    >>>> As soon as I stepped into the building, we got surrounded by the shopkeeper and his fellow employees, taking us by surprise.


    "Lady Rosalind, what a big surprise to see you in our shop!" He said in a confounded tone.


    "I will be quick!¡± I said before he could speak again ¡°I require men''s clothing for him," I instructed, gesturing toward Roderick.


    The shopkeeper''s eyes widened, momentarily frozen as he took in the sight of the disheveled man behind me.


    He looked perturbed.


    "Lenora!" I called out.


    "Yes, My Lady!"


    "I need you to buy the most powerful potions in the capital and use it on him!" I ordered.


    The looks I got from everyone in the building including Roderick was a bit alarming. They stared at me like I was some kind of rich, spoiled brat. Well, I don''t blame them¡ª it was not my fault that I transmigrated into Rosalind''s body and her family was one of the wealthiest in the empire.


    "Show me your latest men''s clothing!" I ordered.


    The shopkeeper gave a light bow and gestured for me to follow him "Right this way, Lady Rosalind!".


    He led me to a furnished room, it was exuding sophistication and looked so regal.


    "This is for our VIP customers, please make yourself comfortable!" He said proudly.


    "I will!" I replied, the decor of the room was excellent, "Do you have any spare room?".


    "Yes we do, may I ask why you need it?" He asked.


    "I need a place to clean him up, can your staff take him there and freshen him up?" I requested, taking a seat on the couch.


    "Yes, Lady Rosalind!" With a snap of his fingers, his staff got the message. They took the befuddle Roderick by the hand and led him away. His face bore a cry for help as he was dragged out of the door.


    I stifled a laugh. I had no idea what he thought they would do to him.


    I was still getting a grasp of my surroundings when I got presented with treats that were too gorgeous to devour.If you discover this narrative on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the violation.


    "I hope you enjoy the desserts we provided for you. They are from the best bakery in the capital!" The shopkeeper said in a proud and airy tone.


    He clapped his hands which took me by surprise. Within minutes, various cloth racks were raked into the room, and each cloth looked so elegant, regal and classy.


    "I will take all of them!" I said without giving it any thought.


    His face grew pale,


    "All of them?" He asked in a shaky tone.


    I raised a brow at him "Is that a problem?".


    "No, it is not!" He replied in a lowly tone.


    "Can you be a dear and deliver one of them to the room where my companion is?" I asked, my attention drew to the trays of desserts before me, I was torn between which treat to devour.


    "Yes, Lady Rosalind!" He replied. He grabbed one of the clothes close to him. Holding it gently in his arms¡ª he left the room.


    Now that it was all settled, I grabbed one of the sublime cupcakes off the tray and prepared to devour it whole.


    Once I was done with my fifth, I was about to lurch on the next when the door was pushed open. I looked up, my gaze landed on the shopkeeper who strutted in with his head held high, he was followed in by Lenora. She had an unreadable expression on her face which was hard for me to decipher.


    It felt like time came to a stop as . . . he walked in. The cloth fitted him perfectly, accentuating his features. His shoulders were broad and chiseled whilst his muscles were so prominent in the shirt. He was different, different from the skinny human I met a few hours ago.


    He slowly raised his head, our eyes locked instantly. I have never dreamed of meeting someone who could make my breath unsteady like he did. To call him handsome was an understatement¡ª if there was a word to describe his good looks, I would definitely use it.


    His once unruly brown locks were now neatly trimmed, falling just above his neck. His skin, now free of bruises, gleamed with a golden hue¡ªlike sunlight after a storm. I have to say, Lenora did a good job with the potions. I stared at his emerald eyes, they sparkled and looked a bit alive than earlier but they still bore their melancholy and loneliness in them. He stood at an impressive height and his aura was different from before. It was calm and stouthearted.


    He began to approach me and my voice hitched in my throat.


    To my utter astonishment, he dropped on one knee¡ªa move that left everyone, including myself¡ªmomentarily speechless.


    ''Is he going to propose? But we hardly knew each other!'' My cheeks flushed at the thought.


    "The name bestowed on me is Roderick Porter¡ªI owe you my life and it belongs to you, Lady Rosalind. I pledge my loyalty to you!" He said in a state of a bow. His voice was deep and stern as he spoke, it was mesmerizing.


    As he said those words, I suddenly recalled the last words he spoke to Adeline when he was about to confess his love to her. The sadness within him as She turned down his love ached me in more ways than one.


    I gasped and stared at him. He looked at me, concern filled his eyes.


    I smiled at him "Your loyalty is all I need Roderick! Your life only belongs to you!" I said with every sincerity within.


    His eyes sparkled at my words, it seemed to have hit him more than it intended. He smiled softly at me and my heart melted.


    It was so hard to keep a straight face when he looked at me like that. I cleared my throat¡ª holding my head high, I signaled Lenora that it was time for us to depart.


    * * * *


    I couldn''t help but chuckle at him, his eyes sparkled and grew as wide as a saucer as the carriage rode into the estate.


    "Is this your first time being here?" I asked, drawing his attention to me.


    "Yes, but I have heard stories of the Everhart estate¡ªit hits differently when seeing it before you!" He replied with a smile.


    A smile which made my toes tingle and my heart skip a beat. I adjusted nervously on my seat, diverting my attention to the window beside me, observing the picturesque view of the glistering ocean. The sight made me smile.


    "I am still getting used to all this!" I said softly in admiration.


    >>> Roderick looked troubled, staring at the array of dishes served on the table. His gaze shifted from me to the table.


    "You are not hungry?" I asked, unfolding my napkin.


    "I am, it is just that I am not used to all these!" He pointed at the dishes "They could feed an entire village for a week!".


    I giggled at his sense of humor, sucking in a breath I stared at him.


    "I need someone strong to stand by my side and one of the ways to build a strong body is by eating healthy food. If you want to be fit for the position you have to look healthy and strong, unless. . ." I stared at him sternly, my expression grew dark, ". . . You don''t want the position!".


    He gulped slowly before lowering his head nervously "I want it, My Lady!".


    My demeanor quickly transposed to a cheerful one "Good, now let''s eat!".


    He smiled nervously. Grabbing the leg of the roasted turkey before him, he tore it off and took a huge bite of it.


    I signaled Lenora to approach me.


    "I feel the cooks went a little overboard with lunch!" I said in a whisper.


    "I will inform them not to do that next time, My Lady!" She said in a state of a bow.


    I waved my hand in dismissal, she returned back to her usual position.


    My gaze landed at Roderick, a soft smile planted on my lips as I watched him eat. He had quite an appetite as he gobbled up the food.


    Now, it was time for the hard part¡ªfinding a good teacher for him.

 Rodericks Teacher

    The sound of swords clashing against each other, punctuated by the grunting of men engaged in a bit of a combat, resounded in the air. We inched closer into the training grounds, it was my first time seeing one and I had to admit it looked exactly like how I imagined it would be.


    The scent of sweat and dirt permeated the training grounds, where the sun beat down mercilessly on the men.


    A group of men fought with each other in order to prove who is stronger, some wielded swords while others depended on their fists and muscles.


    At the far end, archers released arrows¡ªsome hitting their marks, others didn''t even reach their marks.


    I scoured the vast area, looking for the perfect teacher for him.


    ¡°If I may ask . . . what are you looking for, My Lady?¡± Roderick asked.


    ¡°I am looking for the perfect teacher to train you!¡± I replied without giving him a glance ¡°But it is difficult to. . .¡±


    ¡°Who would have thought that our dear Princess of the dukedom would visit the training grounds?¡± A deep hoarse voice echoed behind us.


    We turned to notice¡ª a tall dark, brawny man grinning at us. He held two defenseless men on each arm in a choke hold. I observed as they tried to wriggle themselves free from his grasp.


    Abruptly, a memory flashed in my mind. I saw a little version of Rosalind and Edward running around the training grounds¡ª holding little wooden swords as they were being playfully chased by him.


    I beamed knowing who he was ¡°It is nice to see you again, Sir Richard!¡±.


    ¡°May I know what brings you here?¡± He asked, maintaining his hold on the men which strangely reminded me of little worms wriggling themselves free from predators.


    I held in my laugh at the image. ¡°You are the one that I want to see actually!¡±


    He shot me a strange look before letting go of them. They held their throat whilst coughing profusely, gasping for air.


    ¡°What may I do for you, Young Mistress?¡± He approached me. For a moment, I felt the ground beneath me quiver along with the pebbles, as he marched forward. He looked frightening. . . like a giant.


    I gulped. From the corner of my eye, I noticed Roderick''s reaction, he stood there unfazed by the hulk. I felt proud knowing that he wasn''t intimidated by him.


    ¡°I need you to help me train someone!¡± I said cheerfully, pushing my fears aside.


    He raised his brows at me, utterly confused by my statement.


    ¡°You are the best of the best when it comes to training Knights and you also trained my brother, Edward!¡± I added ¡°And he turned out great! It won''t hurt to train one more!¡± I said in my sweetest voice.


    He shifted his gaze from me to Roderick, glaring at him. Roderick''s face was the same as it was¡ª completely composed and undaunted.


    ¡°Fine, I will do it!¡± he said after a few minutes.


    I yelped out in joy, hearing that ¡°Thank you so much!¡±.


    ¡°I am doing it not because you asked. . .¡± he said abruptly, killing whatever joy I felt earlier. ¡°. . . I see something in him that I haven''t seen in a long while and I need someone else to manhandle,¡± he cracked his knuckles. His lips curved to a menacing grin, ¡°These guys are weak!¡± He referred to the men around us.


    ¡°Sure! Whatever makes you happy!¡± I replied, not being terrified at all.


    ¡°Have you told The Duke yet?¡± He questioned suddenly.


    ¡°He may. . .or. . .may not know!¡± My voice croaked nervously whilst avoiding his stern gaze, ¡°But I will make sure to let him know the sooner I meet with him!¡± I quickly said.


    ¡°It¡¯s alright with me!¡± He said with a shrug and left us to bully another set of trainees.


    ¡°He is terrifying!¡± I said, my face grew pale as I watched him flip three guys over all at once.


    ¡°I can handle him!¡± Roderick said boldly, standing beside me.Stolen from its rightful place, this narrative is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.


    A smile spread across my lips at his words, ¡°I like your confidence!¡± He smiled at the compliment ¡°But, don''t let your pride get you hurt!¡± I added.


    ¡°Of course, My Lady!¡± He replied.


    I took a deep breath as I continued to watch Sir Richard break more bones of more men.


    ¡°He is definitely terrifying!¡± I said with a shudder. Turning around, I left the training grounds, pondering on ways to tell my dear Father about Roderick.


    * * * *


    I took a deep breath, trying to ease in on the conversation. We were halfway through dinner and after dinner I fear that I may lose the opportunity I had to tell him.


    ¡°Rosalind!¡± My Father called out.


    I turned to look at him, pondering on the reason he called me. It seemed that I wasn''t the only one who wondered why, Leo and Edward abruptly stopped eating and looked at me.


    I gave them a half shrug letting them know that I knew nothing.


    ¡°Yes, Father!¡±.


    ¡°I heard that you went to the capital today. Did you buy anything interesting?¡± He asked, beaming at me.


    ¡°I_uh_well, I didn''t buy anything per se for me!¡± I said thoughtfully, choosing my words wisely ¡°I found someone that I''d like to be my personal Knight!¡±.


    He shot me a strange look ¡°A personal Knight? What about the Everhart Knights? You can choose the strongest of them!¡± He suggested.


    ¡°I am not comfortable with them, Father!¡± I said slowly.


    ¡°I don''t know, Rosalind. You brought a stranger to the estate and now you want him to be your personal Knight, it''s. . .¡± He paused thinking of the correct word to use.


    ¡°Please, Father!¡± I said, pouting my lips. No one can resist cuteness not even my dear Father, I gave him the puppy dog eyes, blinking slowly. He shook his head trying to resist the temptation. I smiled a bit knowing that it was working.


    ¡°I don''t. . .¡±


    ¡°Pretty please!¡± I pleaded. He sighed, giving in.


    ¡°If that''s what you want then. . . alright!¡± He said finally.


    Joy engulfed me on hearing his decision.


    ¡°Father, are you really going to allow a complete stranger to guard her?¡± Edward asked.


    I shot him a look. I felt the joy within me earlier, slowly withering at the question. I had to prevent him from changing his mind.


    ¡°He is currently under training as we speak. Sir Richard is training him!¡± I said sternly.


    Edward didn''t look convinced one bit.


    ¡°What if he fails to protect you. . . What happens then?¡± He asked.


    ¡°Then I will protect both of us!¡± I seethed.


    Edward chuckled, taking me by surprise. ¡°Um. . . Rosalind I don''t mean to be rude but. . . your power isn''t actually the protecting kind. You know because of it''s. . .¡± Leopold nudge him before he could finish the sentence.


    ¡°. . .Weak!¡± I finished his sentence.


    My fist clenched as my vision blurred. To think he thought that way about his sister enraged me.


    Anger vibrated through my being at his words, taking a deep breath I turned to him. ¡° It is bad enough that I have to hear how weak my flame is from strangers but you know what hurts most?¡± I paused, my breath hitched as I felt an ache in my chest.


    ¡°. . . Hearing it from the people close to me!¡± I threw my napkin on the table angrily and stood up to the surprise of everyone seated. I stalked out of the dining room as anger bubbled within.


    ¡°Now, look at what you have done!¡± Leopold said angrily, as soon as she exited the dining room.


    ¡°I didn''t mean to make her that upset!¡± Edward replied. He turned to see his Father glare at him with a rage that could burn his entire being.


    ¡°You better apologize to your sister, Edward!¡± He said, his voice was low¡ª deep and stern.


    Edward exhaled, staring at her empty seat. Heat creeped to his cheeks as guilt rushed in. It was a tad too late to cry over spilled milk; Now, he had to apologize to her¡ªhopefully, she may accept his sincere apology.


    >>>> I slammed the door of my room, recalling the event earlier. The rage within me grew weak.


    I sighed, knowing that Edward was right about one thing made me feel worse. My flame was weak and if I had to protect myself and Roderick during a dangerous moment I had to be strong.


    Rosalind''s last words rang in my ear; ¡®Nurture your flame, it will be of great help to you in the future and make sure that you survive!¡¯.


    I exhaled, I didn''t know what she meant by that but she had a point, if I want to survive I had to be strong enough to protect myself. I clenched my fist at my determination to become stronger.


    * * * *


    Deep in the dark forest situated between the boundaries of Alderia and Novara, the western empire where sunlight is restricted to the outer parts of the forest. Roars of magical beasts could be heard from every corner of the forest. No one dares to venture into the dark forest due to¡ª the unsteady magical energy it possesses. The only inhabitants were the malicious looking beasts that were ready to devour whatever human they sense.


    Within a swarthy, sinister cave located at the most dense part of the forest, the circle gathered. Each member wore a cloak covering their facial features, they numbered a hundred. A green flame of fire which was the only source of light in the cave was situated at the center. It crackled ominously, casting flickering shadows on the hooded figures¡ªgiving off an eerie, deleterious feeling as they stared at it.


    The silence was palpable, it was only broken by the hiss of the flames.


    Two members stepped forward from their number and approached the flame.


    ¡°Is it time yet?¡± One of them asked.


    The other shook his head slightly ¡°No, the Grandmaster said it is not yet ready and only she knows when the right time comes!¡± He replied, his voice echoed at every inch of the cave.


    The flames increased with a high level of luminous intensity. Its power grew as each member vanished. Immediately the last member was gone, it devoured anything in sight until there was nothing left but ultimate darkness.

 Our First Meeting

    ¡°This is the last batch of magical books we have in the library!¡± Lenora said whilst she placed the books on the table with a light thud.


    ¡°Thank you, Lenora!¡± I replied without giving her a glance. I leafed through the pages of the book I held, highlighting the necessary information that I needed.


    For the past few days, I had been cooped up in my room¡ª reading any magical book I could find. With Lenora''s help it made it a tad easier to find the accurate ones. My isolation does worry the people around me but no one has had the courage to approach me and speak up about it, probably because they arread that I was still angry about what Edward spoke of during our last family dinner.


    I slammed the book shut when I was done, noticing Lenora flinch a bit at the action. It must have taken her by surprise. She seemed a bit uneasy as she fidgeted with her fingers, like she had something to let off her chest.


    ¡°Is something wrong?¡± I asked.


    She shook her head slightly, ¡°No, My Lady. I am still in awe that you have made the decision to learn more about your flame and you intend to nurture it!¡± She explained.


    I nodded my head slowly to the words she said. ¡°Is there a problem with it?¡±.


    She exhaled, hesitating before replying. ¡°No. . . it is just that after you got your power evaluated when you were little by the council of wielders and you were told how weak it was. You lost all hope in learning about it and never practiced!¡± She said in a sullen tone.


    I smiled at her, knowing how concerned she was felt nice. I also realized how concerned Father must have been. He''d sent Lenora to me two days ago.


    ¡°I understand!¡±.


    ¡°. . . But I am glad that you have gotten a desire to study it now!¡± She said quickly, looking more cheerful ¡°Even though it is a belief¡ªthat one''s power cannot grow once they are manifested at birth. . . but I believe yours can!¡± She gave me a thumbs up as she smiled at me blissfully.


    I chuckled at her whim, she had an airy aura which resembled that of a little child. It was comforting having her around.


    I got up from the chair, grabbed the book I read with me and made myself comfortable on the carpet. The book I last read spoke mostly of unlocking the energy within oneself and feeling the energy in one''s surroundings. To do that one needs to be in a state of utmost tranquility. They must free themselves from any thoughts and problems. This was the first phase of nurturing one''s power and as it turned out¡ª Rosalind has not done this technique ever. It seems it may be difficult for me to pull it off without a suitable teacher.


    I discovered that those blessed with the power to harness surrounding energies were known as wielders¡ªa term I¡¯d only vaguely encountered in the novel. It felt strange to finally put a name to something that had always been a shadowy concept. I was glad to at least know that My family and I were fire wielders¡ª a prestigious part of the society.


    I closed my eyes and focused more on my breathing¡ªtrying to feel, to grasp the energy within me. I had to clear my mind from any form of thought and distractions for this to work.


    ¡°My Lady, may I remind you of something!¡± Lenora''s voice altered my concentration.


    ¡°What is it?¡± I asked with gritted teeth.


    ¡°It is about the tea parties you were invited to for the next three weeks!¡± She continued.


    ¡°What!¡±.


    ¡°You see, you were invited to a number of tea parties by other Noble Ladies!¡± I could hear her approach me as she spoke.


    ¡°Lenora, I do not care about silly tea parties!¡± I said firmly.


    She sighed, keeping quiet. I took a deep breath sensing that she had dropped the topic. Focusing on my breathing, I continued my concentration on the energy.


    ¡°. . .I know that you are not interested!¡± My body flinched on hearing her voice once more, ¡°. . .it is just that it has been so long since you attended a social gathering!¡±.


    ¡°Lenora, you are wrecking my concentration!¡± I said as anger and irritation stirred within me.


    ¡°I apologize, My Lady!¡± She said quickly.


    I nodded, accepting it. The room grew quiet. I took the silence as a sign that she had finally given up and continued my meditation.


    ¡°But. . . are you sure that you do not want to go?¡± She asked slowly.You might be reading a stolen copy. Visit Royal Road for the authentic version.


    ¡°Yes, I am sure!¡± I replied, sternly.


    She sighed and grew quiet once more. I was about to drift back to my concentration when she spoke again.


    ¡°What does ¡®wrecking¡¯ mean, My Lady? You used that word earlier!¡± She asked.


    ¡°That''s it!¡± I shot to my feet, my voice rising. Lenora¡¯s eyes widened, her hands freezing mid-air as if she¡¯d been struck.


    ¡°I can not take this anymore!¡± I yelled. Grabbing the book on the floor, I made my way to the door.


    ¡°Where are you going, My Lady?¡± She asked from behind me.


    ¡°Wherever you are not!¡± I replied harshly, pulling the door knob. I thrutched the door open and stormed out of the room.


    * * * *


    ¡°I am sorry, Your Majesty but I cannot endeavor to be part of the war!¡± Leopold said in a genuine manner.


    He stared at him, pondering if he angered him in some way but the man before him said nothing. He only exhaled and took a sip of the tea he was offered.


    ¡°May I ask, why?¡± He questioned.


    Leopold let out a breath¡ª hesitating for a moment. ¡°I am needed here, Your Majesty and I cannot bear to leave everything to my Father¡ª not when I will be succeeding him when he retires!¡± He stated.


    ¡°I understand!¡±.


    Silence settled in the room, Leopold pondered deeply on what he could offer him. It had to be something that could replace his presence in the ongoing war. His eyes glinted at a thought.


    ¡°If I may, would it be alright if I make an addition of a thousand Everhart Knights to the Royal battalion?¡± He asked, feeling hopeful for a positive response.


    Cedric''s gaze shifted a little¡ª amused by the offer. The number would greatly increase his forces and it was too tempting not to refuse it.


    ¡°It is difficult to decline that offer but since you have placed it before me . . . I will accept it!¡± He replied.


    Leopold felt lighthearted hearing his response. His shoulders were no longer tensed up knowing that he didn''t enrage him with it. He took a sip of his tea with gladness in his heart¡ª pleased by his decision.


    The door was pushed open, a man dressed in a black suit walked in. His expression was indifferent as he approached Leopold. As he drew closer, he lowered his pace.


    ¡°Your Majesty!¡± He greeted in a light bow. Cedric simply nodded to his greeting.


    ¡°The Duke requests your presence, young Master!¡± He spoke in a whisper to Leo. Awaiting a reply from him. Leo shot him a dismissive wave. He made a polite bow and exited the room.


    ¡°May I be excused?¡± Leopold asked, awaiting a response.


    With a slight motion of Cedric''s hand, he dismissed him. Leo got up and exited the room.


    Cedric placed the porcelain cup on its saucer, once he was alone. He got on his feet and made his way to the books placed on the shelves at the far end of the room. His hands slowly grazed the books, they had a familiar feeling to them as he read their titles, being almost in the same Leadership role as the Young Lord. The scent of the books brought back memories of endless teachings about leadership.


    He paused as his attention diverted to the arrays of paper placed on the table in the room. He walked towards it, picking them up, he leafed through them but suddenly halted. His eyes lit up as he gazed at the painting of her¡ªit seemed to have been recent seeing that it bore the same resemblance with the lady with flames in her hair.


    Her wavy red hair vibrant as flames, filled with a strong and powerful energy_ full of passion and strength. Her turquoise eyes calms the flames, carrying an air of serenity and transparency. Cedric felt like he could see through it deep into her soul. She smiled warmly in the painting. Her smile was soothing, relieving and placid. It bestowed peace to a troubled being.


    He found himself smiling at the painting, his fingers slowly grazed the hue of colors. Something about her¡ª unsettled his emotions, troubling his stone-hearted heart. . . creating emotions he never knew he could possess. He had been intrigued by her, the moment he first laid his eyes on her¡ªher fiery nature pulled something within him, something he could not describe.


    He took a deep breath and laid the papers on the table, being hesitant to let go of the painting.


    Indistinct voices drew his attention, he walked towards the door and pushed it slightly, creating a space good enough for him to see what was transpiring.


    A gasp escaped his lips when his gaze landed on her, she seemed to be in a haste to leave the maid that scurried after her.


    ¡°My Lady, why don''t you want to attend any of the tea parties?¡± The maid inquired.


    She sighed, halting for a moment and forcefully looked at her. Her eyes glazed with anger as she spoke.


    ¡°I told you! I do not want to attend those fancy tea parties!¡± She replied and continued down the stairs making her way to the doors.


    ¡°But, just think about it for a moment!¡± The maid insisted.


    ¡°There is nothing to think about. Right now I just want to get away from you!¡± She yelled, her voice resonated in the vast lobby.


    ¡°You could build connections when you attend the tea parties!¡± The maid suggested.


    ¡°I don''t need connections!¡± She responded harshly.


    ¡°What about the things they will say about you because of your absence?¡±.


    She scoffed at the question ¡°Oh please! What are they going to say that I have not heard before?¡±.


    The maid looked puzzled for a moment. Her brows furrowed as she pondered on what to say that might trigger her to attend.


    ¡°Where are you going?¡± She asked suddenly.


    ¡°Somewhere far away from you!¡± She yelled whilst the doors were pushed open by the doorkeepers.


    ¡°Thank you!¡± She spoke to them.


    They made a polite bow in response.


    ¡°But. . .¡± She got interrupted.


    ¡°Don''t worry I am not leaving the estate, I will be in the gardens. If and a very big ¡®if¡¯, there is something very important that you have to report. You can come to the gardens and hopefully by then I can accept your presence!¡± She said, stressing the word ¡®very¡¯. She halted for a moment, the maid almost bumped into her.


    Staring at her, she ordered ¡°Do not even think of following me!¡±.


    The maid was about to protest but she held a finger up silencing anything she was about to utter.


    ¡°If you say so, My Lady!¡± She responded in a state of a bow.


    ¡°Good!¡± She responded, smiling forcefully at her. Turning around she left and continued her journey.


    Cedric watched the maid leave, he gazed at the closed doors that led to the outside world. He knew no reason why but he found himself going after her. He needed to see her once more. If the garden is where she desired to be then that''s where he would go.

 The Mysterious Stranger

    I looked around¡ªthe leaves on the trees whistled softly, dancing to the rhythm of the wind. The air was fragrant with the aroma of the beautiful fresh flowers in bloom.


    I let out a sigh, finally I had found the perfect place to concentrate. I made myself comfortable on the soft green grasses and placed the book beside me.


    Closing my eyes I began focusing on my breathing¡ªtrying to grasp and feel the energy around me.


    I needed to feel the energy, I had to. . . but do I really have to attend those annoying tea parties? My attention quickly drifted away from what my main task was. Lenora''s words were ringing in my ear. Damn it! Even when she wasn''t here with me her words were still a distraction to me.


    I squeezed my eyes tightly, desperate to focus but but thoughts kept slipping through like water through a sieve. I wasn''t feeling or grasping anything.


    I let out a sigh, rubbing my temples as I pondered on the next action to take¡ªseeing that concentrating on the energy within and around me proved difficult.


    I let out a breath and closed my eyes once more.


    ¡°If this one doesn''t work, I am done!¡± I said. The tone in my voice was filled with annoyance.


    ¡°If you really want to get it right, you have to clear your mind from every thought!¡± A dark deep voice spoke from behind me. It was oddly calm but had a tinge of mystery to it.


    My body flinched hearing it. It definitely didn''t sound like Lenora or anyone that I knew. I hesitated a bit, preparing myself to turn around¡ªto see who it was.


    ¡°Do not turn around. . . don''t open your eyes either!¡± The voice said rather hastily. I tilted my head, confused and curious by the sudden statement.


    ¡°Why? Are you ugly or are you just trying to be mysterious?¡± I asked wryly.


    I could hear him chortle as his footsteps drew closer to me. ¡°If I said the latter¡ªwill your eyes still be closed!¡± He said slowly.


    I took a deep breath, contemplating on my answer to his question. Something within me was curious to know how this entire scenario would play out.


    I slowly nodded my head.


    ¡°Try clearing your head from every thought. You seem distracted by something, perhaps what your maid told you earlier.¡±


    My shoulders grew tensed hearing him. My brows quirked up¡ªcurious on how he knew about it.


    ¡°How do you. . .¡±


    ¡°Focus more on your breathing, feel the energy around you!¡± He interrupted.


    I pouted, fighting the urge within not to continue with the matter. I took a deep breath, complying to his words. My breathing became even as I slowly began to feel the energy around me¡ªthe wind, the sun, the trees, everything around me felt alive and they flowed together in a soothing rhythm.


    ¡°The energy around us builds up what is within us. People born with power are endowed with the ability to utilize that energy. . . submitting that energy to their will!¡± He said slowly as I listened keenly to him.


    I do not know the reason, but listening to him made everything I have been trying to do a lot more easier. The tone in his voice was commanding, calm and different from anything I have heard before. I felt compelled to listen to it.


    ¡°Now, feel the energy within you, let it flow through you!¡±.


    I took a deep breath, I felt a surge of power course through every fiber within me. It was warm and placating¡ªdifferent from anything I have felt in the past. I suddenly felt it radiate from every pore of my body. I focused more on my breathing, trying to grasp the power and submit it to my will. . . without much warning, a gush of wind blew in my direction_abruptly, my hair covered my face¡ªdestroying my concentration.


    My hand was about to reach for my face when I felt a hand on my cheek. It was hard and a bit calloused but possessed a cool sensation against my skin. It reached out for the locks of hair and combed them neatly behind my ear.


    My heart drummed in my chest as I noticed how close we were. I felt the urge to open my eyes. My lashes fluttered as I struggled within myself to fight the temptation. I needed to see who the mysterious stranger was. My eyelids slightly drew apart and I saw a hazy figure of a man.


    ¡°I thought you said earlier that you will not open your eyes!¡± He said slowly, I could feel his cool breath on my face.


    My cheeks grew crimson with embarrassment as I drew my eyes shut ¡°I-I did say that. I am j-just c-curious that''s all!¡± I stuttered.


    Stolen novel; please report.


    I could sense him smile, he was probably laughing at my embarrassed face. I wanted the ground to open up and swallow me whole.


    ¡°Now is not the right moment for you to see who I am!¡± He said in a whisper.


    ¡°Why?¡± I asked suddenly but he ignored my question.


    ¡°Continue practicing¡ªyou will get to where you need to be!¡± He said, finally.


    The next thing I heard were footsteps. . . they grew distant by the second. I quickly opened my eyes and hastily stood up, hoping to catch a glimpse of the stranger, my hopes withered away when I saw nothing but trees and hedges of flowers.


    I shrugged¡ªprobably I will not see him again, Mr Mysterious. I stooped and picked up the book I came with when a pair of leather boots which stood a few feet from me got my attention. I slowly raised my head, a tiny part of me wished for the man before me to be the stranger.


    My face fell on realizing who he was.


    ¡°What do you want Edward?¡± I asked, crossly.


    He sighed, he wore a troubled expression. His face was very sullen and dull. His expression was something I never thought he could possess.


    ¡°I came to talk to you!¡± He said, approaching me slowly.


    ¡°Great! So you can say more mean words to me!¡±.


    ¡°No! Not at all. I came to apologize!¡± He said quickly.


    I raised my brow at him, stunned by his statement.


    ¡°Apologize?¡±.


    He exhaled, ¡°Yes, the words I spoke to you that night were mean and hurtful. I am your brother I should not have said them knowing what you went through hearing them. It will mean a lot to me, if you would accept my apology!¡± He paused for a moment ¡°. . .Father has been given me the cold shoulder ever since that night. Leo hardly talks to me either and I can''t take the silent treatment any longer!¡± His voice shot up at the last statement. I could tell how pained he was.


    He looked at me expecting a response, I kept mute as I stared at him.


    ¡°So, how long have you been practicing the speech?¡± I asked suddenly.


    ¡°Did it seems too sudden?¡± He asked, a bit nervous.


    I gave a half shrug ¡°A little bit!¡±.


    ¡°I have been practicing it ever since you locked yourself up in your room!¡± He replied ¡°. . . but I am deeply serious about it!¡± He said quickly.


    ¡°I know!¡±.


    ¡°So, do you accept my apology?¡± He asked slowly. He looked expectantly at me.


    ¡°Yes, I accept it. It seems like you are really sorry for what you said!¡± I stated.


    ¡°Yes, I am!¡± He said, smiling weakly at me, ¡°So, is everything okay between us?¡±. He looked lighter than earlier hearing my response.


    I nodded as I gave a response ¡°Yes! We are cool!¡±.


    He shot me a strange, perplexed look. It dawned on me that he didn''t understand the word.


    ¡°I mean we are chill!¡± I corrected,


    ¡°Chill?¡± He was more confused than ever.


    I facepalmed when I realized that the other word was worse than the first one. How did I forget not to use slangs with people of this world?.


    I took a deep breath and spoke slowly, ¡°Everything is okay between us!¡±.


    He nodded slowly at my statement.


    ¡°Thank you, Rosalind!¡± He said with a warm smile.


    ¡°For what?¡±.


    ¡°For accepting my apology!¡± He replied. He looked more cheerful than earlier, I couldn''t help but smile at him. I was glad that he was cheerful once more.


    His gaze shifted from me to the book I held. His eyes squinted a bit as he stared at it.


    ¡°Do you need help with anything concerning controlling your power?¡± He asked, the question took me by surprise.


    I smiled at him, ¡°It is okay, I had help earlier!¡± I noticed his face fall. Quickly, I had to think of something to cheer him up, ¡°. . . but if I am unable to control my powers, you will be the first person I will go to for help!¡± I replied.


    He grinned at me, pleased at my statement. My heart felt light like it would float away at any moment, knowing that I finally had people who cared for me. It felt nice, really nice.


    * * * *


    He had a smile on his face as he walked out of the garden. His heart still raced in his chest as the scenario of their meeting re-played in his mind. A surge of joy slowly engulfed him knowing that he saw her again and not only that he spoke to her.


    One thing bothered him still, she was learning the first phase of controlling one''s power. He was taught that technique when he was only seven years old after his power got evaluated. He pondered why she was learning it at that moment when she must have been taught after her power evaluation. Something didn''t sit right with the situation.


    ¡°Your Majesty!¡± A familiar voice called out, drifting him from his line of thoughts.


    He looked up to see Ronald standing a few feet from him.


    ¡°We have been looking all over for you!¡± He said as Cedric approached him.


    ¡°The carriage is ready, Your Majesty!¡± He said, panting.


    ¡°Alright!¡± Was the response he received.


    Cedric wore a smile on his face as he made his way to the carriage that rode towards him. Ronald blinked a few times¡ªhe must have seen it wrong. Was the Crown Prince smiling? No, that can''t be right! The Crown Prince never smiles, unless. . .


    He hastened his steps and caught up to him.


    ¡°Your Majesty, have you seen your next target?¡±.


    Cedric shot him a strange look, bewildered by the question.


    ¡°What?¡±.


    ¡°You are smiling, Your Majesty and you do that when you have someone in mind to destroy or murder or kill!¡± He explained, using different words with the same meaning.


    Cedric had a stupefied look on his face as he stared at his assistant. Pondering on what he would say to him.


    ¡°No, I haven''t seen. . .¡± his voice caught in his throat. His gaze shifted to his hand. The memory of his hand on her soft cheek, flooded back to him. Her cheek was as soft as it was warm, her hair was glossy and flaccid. It ignited under the sun, like tiny tendrils of flames. How could he forget her lips, they looked so lush and intoxicating that he felt drawn to them.


    He felt heat creep to his neck and slowly approach his cheeks as he remembered the innocent look she bore when he drew closer to her. She didn''t flinch at his touch and it surprised him, she was stirring strange emotions within him and he had to admit, he didn''t mind it.


    ¡°Your Majesty, is everything alright?¡± Ronald''s voice called out to him.


    Cedric hid his flushed face, quickened his steps and hastily got into the carriage. Ronald stood for a moment¡ªconfused, bewildered, stunned and baffled at his behavior. Something was wrong with the Crown Prince and it didn''t seem to be a good one.

 The Ghosts!!!

    The days flew by as quickly as they came, they flowed into weeks and weeks to a month. Before I knew it, it had been three months since I transmigrated.


    I spent my days training, I finally could control and use my flame at will. Once a week, I visited Roderick and during those visits he voluntarily showed me the skills he learnt from Sir Richard. Roderick always bore excitement whenever I came to visit. He was better than the first day he came to the estate and was more attractive and gorgeous anytime I visited. His muscles were prominent and seemed to grow stronger each passing day.


    I have to admit it was hard not to fall for him with the looks he possessed. I couldn¡¯t stop my heart from fluttering every time Roderick¡¯s eyes met mine. How could a man be so effortlessly charming?. The sight of him was a danger to my heart. It raced just by a mere smile from his lips.


    If it was back in my world, Roderick would have his own fan base. Girls would be drooling just by the sight of him. . . and I would not blame them he was a drop dead gorgeous man.


    My dear brother, Edward has been a tremendous help to me. He became my tutor, teaching me every move and trick about my flame. It was nice learning from him, he was funny and very understanding when it came to tutoring me and I on the other hand loved learning from him.


    My eldest brother, Leopold and I hardly conversed with each other and I completely understood why. Being the heir to the Dukedom¡ª he had a lot to handle and never had the time to spend with me which was totally alright with me but sometimes. . . I wished we had some time together but we only saw each other during our weekly family dinner and only then could we converse for that period of time.


    ¡°I want to show you a new trick I created!¡± Edward said one faithful afternoon.


    We were at our personal training ground, the garden. We loved staying under the oak tree located at the center of it. I had my back rested against the tree, enjoying the warm afternoon breeze. Hearing the words ¡®new trick'' got my attention.


    I peeled myself from the tree and drew closer to him.


    ¡°I call this trick ¡®The Firework¡¯¡± He said with a high level of enthusiasm.


    ¡°Nice name!¡± I replied, impressed by the name. ¡°So, how does it work?¡±.


    ¡°Like this!¡± He interlocked his fingers and slowly separated them from each other, what seemed to be like tiny particles of blue flame settled between his hands.


    ¡°First, you create small balls of flames!¡± I watched closely as the tiny particles increased to a definite size. ¡°Then, enclose all the balls of flame into a bigger one, the bigger ball acts like a covering of the tiny balls and then you do this!¡± He shot the ball into the sky. I watched in awe as it exploded. The tiny balls of flames detonated into tiny sparks, illuminating the sky above us.


    A gasp escaped my lips as I watched, enthralled by the neat trick.


    ¡°Wow! Edward, it is amazing!¡± I said, still awestruck.


    ¡°I know!¡± He said, smiling proudly.


    ¡°Why do I have the feeling that you use this trick to impress a lot of ladies?¡±.


    He gave a half shrug, not replying the question. I could see the smug look on his face¡ªhis gaze still fixed at the sky.


    ¡°That explains why we receive a lot of love letters from your annoying lady friends!¡± A familiar voice said.


    We both turned to see Leo approach us, his face had an unreadable expression. I could sense the tiredness in his eyes.


    ¡°Just admit that you are jealous because you have never received any letter!¡± Edward said, comically.


    Leo scoffed at his remark, ¡°I do not need to be jealous of your tiny piece of fame with the ladies. Those ladies do not approach me because they know that I do not have time for their cheap tricks!¡± He replied,


    ¡°Oh, now you are just trying to convince yourself!¡± Edward replied.


    Leo was about to say something but I was quick to act.


    ¡°Does anyone want to go for a horse ride?¡± I asked, drawing their attention to me.


    They both exchanged a look, before staring back at me¡ªwearing a shocked expression on their faces.


    ¡°You can ride a horse?¡± Edward asked, bewildered.


    I nodded affirmatively, ¡°Yes I can, Sir Richard taught me!¡±.


    They looked more baffled than earlier, for a moment I felt like I had said something dumb.


    ¡°I can not believe he taught you how to ride!¡± Edward said. My words seemed not to have registered in his brain.


    The next words Leo said left me awestruck.


    ¡°He is a horrible teacher!¡± Leo stated. His demeanor was completely different from earlier.


    ¡°I know right!¡± Edward agreed. They both burst into laughter leaving me more baffled than ever.


    ¡°Do you remember when he taught us how to use the sword and gave us actual swords to train with?¡± Edward asked between laughs.


    ¡°Yes I do recall that! We destroyed every single drape in the ballroom, all in the name of training!¡± Leo added.


    ¡°Father was so enraged when he found out. We were banned from touching a sword ever again!¡± Edward said. They continued with their laughter while I stood there feeling left out.


    A childhood memory flashed in my mind. Younger versions of the three of us were screaming at something at the empty West wing of the main building¡ªLeo fainted at the sight of it. Unknowingly, I giggled at the memory. They looked at me, pondering what made me tickle.


    ¡°What is making you laugh?¡± Edward asked.


    ¡°I just remembered when the three of us went to the dark, uninhabited, lonely West wing in search of the known ghost that Sir Richard told us about!¡± I stated.


    His eyes gleamed and a laugh escaped his lips while Leo''s face reddened with embarrassment as the memory flooded back in.


    ¡°Oh! I remember that!¡± Edward said whilst laughing, he pointed at Leo ¡°I can remember you fainting when we saw that ugly statue in the last room of the hallway!¡±.


    ¡°I did not faint! I just fell that''s all. . .¡± Leo said slowly, probably thinking of a better retort.


    ¡°Yeah right!¡± I replied, ¡°You boys were so scared you hung around me for protection!¡±.If you discover this narrative on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the violation.


    Edward scoffed at my statement ¡°Oh! I wasn''t scared!¡± He retorted.


    I rolled my eyes at him ¡°You were scared, you were so scared that you ran out of the room screaming like a dying rat!¡± I jeered at him.


    ¡°Why are you bringing up a dying rat?¡± Leo asked, bearing a puzzled look.


    Edward was quiet for a minute, I could notice his cheeks flushed, he looked mortified.


    ¡°Maybe I was a bit scared!¡± He admitted slowly ¡°At least I didn''t faint!¡± He said comically, referring to Leo.


    ¡°I told you I fell!¡± Leo retorted.


    ¡°Yeah right!¡± I said with a roll of my eyes.


    ¡°You weren''t any better. Your scream outmatched that of a dying rat, you were scared too!¡± He said, referring to me.


    ¡°Why, the dying rat?¡± Leo asked again but no reply was given to him.


    I blinked a few times, shocked by Edward''s words. ¡°No, I was not!¡±.


    ¡°Yes you were!¡± They said simultaneously.


    ¡°Fine! Let''s settle this!¡± Saying this, they looked at me prepared for what I was about to suggest.


    ¡°We will go to the West wing tonight and search for the so-called ghost!¡± I said the last part with air quotes.


    The boys were mute, not saying a word about it. They looked unsure of my suggestion.


    ¡°What! Are you boys scared?¡± I said in a mocking tone.


    ¡°No!¡± They both yelled.


    ¡°Fine! It is settled then. Tonight we will go to the West wing!¡± I said confidently. An amazing idea creeped into my mind. A plan began to unfold in my head, I couldn''t help but imagine Leo¡¯s terrified expression. This would be a night they¡¯d never forget.


    * * * *


    That evening just after dinner¡ªthey gathered each with different expressions written all over them.


    ¡°Are we ready?¡± Rosalind asked, staring at her brothers.


    They wore a concerned look on their face before nodding in agreement.


    The trio left the main building and began their journey to the infamous West wing. Its history was unknown to them. For as long as they could remember no one dares go near the West wing and due to that ghost stories were created to scare off the unfortunate.


    As they approached the West wing, they each created a flame of their own lighting their path. The hallway loomed before them, shrouded in darkness. Every creak of the old wooden floor echoed like a distant scream, sending chills down their spines.


    Rosalind felt her brothers clung closer to her, she could feel their bodies tremble as they drew nearer to the door. She held in the laughter that was about to seep out.


    The trio halted in front of the dark broad oak door which loomed over them. The door groaned in protest as Leo pushed it open. His heart hammered in his chest as they ventured into the terror of his childhood.


    It was exactly what she thought it would be. The only source of light apart from their flames was the open window where the rays of the moon light seeped in, brightening the room a little¡ªilluminating the dust particles that swirled like specters in the air.


    The drapes and curtains were worn out and outdated. Their shadows danced on the cobwebbed walls, and the air was thick with dust and the scent of decay.


    ¡°Can you boys give me some space?¡± Rosalind said as their grip on her tightened.


    ¡°We are men not boys!¡± Edward said, corrected firmly.


    She scoffed, rolling her eyes at his words.


    ¡°We are trying to protect you!¡± Leo added in a shaky tone, looking around the abandoned room.


    ¡°You gripping my arm is not protecting me in any way!¡± She spoke in an annoying tone.


    Hearing her complaint he loosened his grip on her.


    ¡°You too, Edward!¡± She said,


    He sighed and did the same. Just as quick as a flash, he saw a glint of a white fabric pass them by.


    A gasp escaped his lips, his face whitened.


    ¡°Leo. . . Rosalind. . .I think I saw something!¡± He yelled, his shaky voice resonated throughout the entire room.


    They followed his gaze but saw nothing but an empty room.


    ¡°There is nothing there Edward!¡± Rosalind said in a bored tone. She began to wonder where the so-called ghost was, all she could see was an abandoned room filled with cobwebs and dust-filled furniture and creepy statues .


    ¡°But I saw something!¡± He claimed but no one believed him.


    Leo looked around the room using his flame as a source of light, he vetted the room, passed a couple of whitened figures with long robes. Strange looking statues which frightened him the first time they approached the room, were before him. A shiver ran down his spine as the memory flooded in.


    Leo spotted a door at the far end of the room, it''s presence was unknown to him before that moment. He left the group, reaching for the door curious as to what unknown treasures or terror it held. . . suddenly realization dawned on him.


    He slowly retraced his gaze, it landed on the whitened figures, their hair covered most of their faces, they gave off an eerie feeling and wore a deadly expression.


    His face grew pale as he stared at the figures, it seemed like their gazes were fixed at him as they approached their direction, not breaking eye contact.


    ¡°Rosalind! Edward! I think I have found the ghosts!¡± He said slowly, his voice was shaky and the tone was a terrifying one.


    ¡°What do you mean by ghosts? We are looking for just one. . .!¡± Edward''s voice trailed off, his gaze landed on the figures. They gave off a deadly smile, dragging their feet towards them, looking more like the undead.


    Rosalind''s jaw dropped as she noticed her brother''s face turned beet red, eyes wide like a startled deer.


    A scream left their throats! They felt their skeletons leave their body at the sight of the disgusting beings. They ran off leaving their dear little sister behind, so much for offering her their protection.


    It was at that moment Rosalind wished she had a phone with her to record their reaction. Her brothers would have gone viral on the Internet. The way they ran out of the room and the paleness of their skin made her laugh, this was funnier than she ever imagined.


    ¡°The Ghost! The Ghost is real. . . You will never take me alive!¡± Leo screamed as he ran down the hallway.


    ¡°Leo! Hold on!¡± Edward yelled, running behind him.


    ¡°Edward, the ghosts. They. . .¡± He halted in the middle of the hallway. Edward almost bumped into him.


    ¡°What! Leo we need to run!¡± Edward grabbed his arm, pulling him further towards the other end of the hallway.


    ¡°Wait! Where is Rosalind?¡± He asked, he wore a terrified expression as he stared at his dear brother. It suddenly dawned on him. They left their dear sister behind. Who knew the terrible things the ghosts were doing to her at the moment?.


    They both exchanged a mortified look. Mustering as much courage as possible, they decided to run back in to save their dear sister from the deadly hands of the ghosts.


    They slowly approached the room once more but. . . this time, they were prepared for combat with the undead. Much to their dismay, they heard the sound of laughter resonating from the room. They exchanged a perplexed look and marched in. Leo and Edward stopped in their tracks on witnessing what was before them.


    Rosalind was laughing heartily with the ghosts like they were old friends.


    ¡°What is going on here?¡± Leo asked slowly, he bore a strange look.


    ¡°Just a little trick I made up!¡± She responded heartily.


    ¡°What!¡± They yelled simultaneously. Shocked beyond words as the prank they fell for.


    Rosalind looked at the ghost closest to her, a smile smoldered on her lips.


    The conversation they had earlier that day recalled in her mind.


    >>>> ¡°I am sorry, My Lady but I cannot do it!¡± Lenora said, frantically.


    I couldn''t help but roll my eyes at her. I had just finished explaining my amazing plan to frighten the skin off my brothers and she was already chickening out.


    ¡°Why can''t you?¡± I asked.


    ¡°I might get in big trouble for it!¡± She replied, her hands trembled at the thought of being punished.


    ¡°You will not. I guarantee it! We just need to frighten their socks off a little¡± I said firmly, giving her my word. ¡°So will you do it?¡±.


    She took a deep breath and slowly nodded. Knowing that she didn''t have much of a choice, she gave in.


    I yelped out for joy. ¡°Great! We just need two more people for this to work!¡±.


    ¡°I have some people in mind!¡± She said,


    ¡°That''s nice, tell them about the plan and make sure that everything is ready before sundown!¡± I said, a devious smirk plastered on my lips.


    >>>> ¡°Rosalind, how could you?¡± Leo asked, his voice was filled with annoyance.


    I couldn''t help but giggle at their faces. This night would definitely be a night to remember.


    ¡°You nearly gave us a heart attack!¡± Edward yelled. He looked enraged and was boiling over a hundred degrees.


    ¡°I am so sorry!¡± I said, holding my laughter.


    They looked at each other, probably pondering on something, their gaze shifted to me.


    ¡°Can you at least stop with the scare?¡± Leo asked, he sounded more irritated.


    I stared at him confused, pondering on his question.


    ¡°What?¡±.


    Edward sighed before speaking ¡°Can you tell the fourth ghost that it is over? She should stop this instant!¡±.


    I had a baffled demeanor as I stared at them, I turned to Lenora and her friends probably hoping that they understood them.


    ¡°We are only three, My Lady!¡± Lenora said slowly, staring at me and then her friends.


    Suddenly, I felt something on my shoulder. I slowly turned and saw a skeleton¡¯s hand holding me firmly. Its bony fingers gripped my shoulder as blood drained from my face. As slowly as I could, I turned around¡ª beads of sweat formed on my forehead as a cold shiver ran down my spine. My breathing quickened as I beheld what was before me.


    I was face to face with the hideous being, its face was something that I could not bring myself to describe. The figure seemed to be floating. Its hands were made of bones and a worn out cloak covered the rest of its body. I stumbled backwards as I stared at it, it wore a threatening smile staring back at me. I felt my blood run cold at the sight.


    A scream escaped my throat, as I fell to the ground and blacked out. The image of the figure was floating in my mind.

 My Loving Family

    ¡°My Lady! My Lady! Please wake up!¡± A familiar voice called out, shaking me slightly.


    My lashes fluttered as I slowly opened my eyes¡ªa hideous figure was staring back at me. I yelled as my heart leapt to my throat.


    ¡°It is me Lenora, My Lady!¡± The figure said.


    I nodded slowly, memories flooded back in my head. I had a terrified look on my face as I stared at her¡ªgripping her arms and shaking her violently.


    ¡°There was a ghost, Lenora. I saw a ghost!¡± I said frantically.


    ¡°Can you please let go, My Lady?¡± She pleaded ¡°You are hurting me!¡±.


    I heeded to her plea, releasing my hold on her. I looked around the room¡ªvetting for the terrifying creature. My eyes darted to the far end of the room, where the dark figure stood, watching silently.


    I screamed as loud as my voice could. . .my head suddenly felt lightheaded. It stood close to Edward and Leo. They were oblivious to its presence.


    ¡°Edward. . .Leo! The ghost is beside you!¡± I yelled. Expecting a horrifying reaction from them but to my surprise, they began laughing . . . at me.


    I raised a brow at them, confusion clouded my features.


    ¡°Her reaction was worse than ours, Edward!¡± Leo spoke once the laughter settled.


    ¡°I do not understand!¡± I stared at them. My eyes filled with perplexion.


    Edward nudged the ghost. I watched as it reached for its face and ripped out what seemed to be. . . a mask. I let out a gasp on realizing who it was, The Butler.


    ¡°How could you two do this to me?¡± I yelled, feeling distrust and anger all at once.


    ¡°You pulled the trick on us first. We had to pay you back for it!¡± Edward countered.


    ¡°Mine was funny. Yours is just pure cruelty!¡± I replied in defense.


    One question bothered me more than my situation and I needed an answer.


    ¡°How did you both know about my plan?¡± I asked, glaring at them for a response.


    They exchanged looks before turning to me.


    ¡°I heard your personal maid speak to her friends about it!¡± Edward said. I looked at Lenora, she quickly avoided my gaze.


    ¡°Then I told Leo and together we hatched a plan with the butler to frighten you and I must admit, it was a success!¡± He wore a smug look and I really wished to wipe it off his annoying face.


    ¡°So, you were both acting to be afraid?¡± I questioned.


    Edward glanced at Leo before reply ¡°Yes, it was an act!¡±.


    ¡°Definitely an act!¡± Leo added. His face still bore the frightened look he had earlier.


    ¡°You are marvelous actors, My Lords!¡± One of Lenora''s friends complimented out of the blue.


    I observed how horrified their faces were on hearing her speak.


    If you spot this tale on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation.


    ¡°Do not talk to us with your face looking like that!¡± Edward spoke in a frightening tone. His hand clenched his chest, as he calmed his frightened heart.


    I held my laughter. My brothers were definitely not putting on a show when they saw them. They were beyond mortified!.


    ¡°It seems we need an award. Isn''t that right, Edward?¡± Leo asked, comically.


    ¡°I agree, we do need one!¡±.


    My lips curved into a smirk. . .my eyes gleamed with mischief as my stare intensified.


    ¡°I have your award!¡± I said in a sly tone.


    They looked at me puzzled.


    ¡°Where is it?¡± Edward asked.


    I fumbled around me in search of their unknown award. When I observed they were not paying much attention to me. Acting so quickly, I sent a wave of flames in their direction. It missed them by an inch.


    Horror flashed in their eyes as they stared at me stupefied, stunned by my sudden behavior.


    ¡°Are you insane? Do you want to have us killed?¡± Leo yelled.


    ¡°Yes! This is what you get for frightening your sister!¡± I shot back, getting on my feet.


    ¡°I did not train you for months just to be your first victim!¡± Edward yelled.


    I ignored him, being occupied for my next attack.


    They both got the hint that I wasn''t joking and ran out of the room laughing heartily while I chased them, shooting more flames of fire at them.


    ¡°It is not our fault that you fell for it!¡± Edward yelled as he ran from me, avoiding my attacks.


    I ignored his remark, focusing more on chasing them whilst attacking.


    ¡°Of course, we should not forget how you screamed like a terrified kitten!¡± Leo said in a hilarious tone. They both laughed at his humor and dodged a few more attacks.


    ¡°You both are the worst!¡± I yelled.


    ¡°We are the best brothers you could ever ask for!¡± Edward retorted.


    I rolled my eyes at his huge ego. Even though he wasn''t wrong about it. They were certainly the best brothers a girl could have.


    We ran from the West wing to the first floor of the building, waking up the entire household with our noisy voices. I didn''t give them a breathing space as I chased them down to the garden.


    I laid on the green grasses¡ªtoo worn out from chasing my annoying brothers. I had to catch my breath before I passed out. It seems like they got the message and laid down beside me.


    Our gaze were fixed on the star filled night sky. The stars, glittering surrounded the bright full moon, painting the dark canvas of the sky¡ªgiving off an ethereal, magical glow.


    ¡°I am officially tired. You both win!¡± I said in defeat.


    Silence settled in, the sounds of the cool night breeze rustling the leaves of the trees and the crickets chirping nearby filled the air around us tinged with the smell of the green grasses.


    ¡°I really needed this!¡± Leo said suddenly. The tone in his voice sounded genuine.


    Edward and I exchanged glances before replying.


    ¡°We know!¡±.


    A blanket of silence fell over us as we each stared at the night sky. This was the first time we have been this close, ever since I transmigrated to this world.


    Back in my world, I had a brother I was older than. He had the one thing that I had wished for since I was little, my parents love. He was a star in their eyes¡ªthe one who they were ever so proud of, someone who they could risk anything and everything for. He did no wrong in their eyes while I on the other hand was nothing but a liability, someone that was only useful in their time of need.


    We were not close to each other. Heck, he wasn''t fond of me. He treated me like my parents did¡ªusing me only for his personal gain.


    It hurts just thinking about it. But being here, in this world¡ªI finally had the one thing I craved for, a loving family.


    I felt a certain warm feeling inside me as I stared at the sky, grateful for the brothers that I suddenly have.


    >>>¡°Do you mind if I join you?¡± A voice so familiar startled us. I sat up to witness Father approach us. He smiled warmly as he drew nearer.


    ¡°Sure, Father!¡± I said, patting the grasses beside me.


    With a light groan he laid on the grass whilst I laid beside him.


    ¡°It has been so long since I have seen this view!¡± He said, referring to the sky. I could sense the longing in his voice. It must have indeed being a long time.


    ¡°Yes. It is beautiful!¡± Edward replied in agreement.


    We let out a deep breath while looking at the sky. A feeling of comfort being with people close to me engulfed me in it''s warmth. It was nice.


    ¡°Someone owes me a couple of curtains and drapes!¡± Father said out loud.


    ¡°Rosalind!¡± Leo and Edward replied simultaneously.


    I rolled my eyes at them. It was no surprise to me that they would rat me out the first chance they got.


    ¡°Thank you so much for telling on me!¡± I said in a sarcastic tone.


    ¡°No one told you to launch a surprise attack in the building!¡± Edward responded in a defensive tone.


    ¡°Well, do not blame me for trying to kill my brothers!¡± I quickly retorted.


    As soon as the words left my mouth we began bickering into the night. Father kept mute¡ªnot uttering a single word to tell us off. He laid there and It made me ponder if he actually enjoyed our tiny squabble.


    As the words of new insults left my mouth, I felt overwhelmed with joy at the family I have come to love. We all had our differences but they never stopped us from spending and enjoying precious moments with each other.

 The Novel Has Begun

    My arm was wrapped round his as we strolled in the gardens, enjoying the light evening breeze. The sun¡¯s rays faded slowly as it almost leveled with the horizon, indicating its setting.


    Evening walks with my dear Father was one of the things I enjoyed doing. It felt nice spending quality time with him¡ªwe bonded more during our walks.


    ¡°Can you show me your flame once more, dear?¡± He requested.


    I chortled at his request.


    ¡°Father, this is the third time this week!¡±.


    ¡°I know, I just love seeing it!¡± He admitted.


    ¡°Your request is my command!¡¯¡¯ I dipped in a bow slightly.


    He chuckled at my humor.


    I let out a breath, preparing myself. I twirled my forefinger in mid air. In a matter of seconds, sparks of flames hovered a few inches from it. I increased the intensity of the flame¡ªwatching it grow tremendously, following the rotating motion of my finger. I hurled it in the air and we watched it disperse into a million fragments.


    I beamed at myself, feeling complacent at the trick I pulled off. I turned to Father to watch his reaction. He had a huge smile on his face, his gaze still fixed at the sky. His eyes gleamed with tears as he stared at it.


    ¡°It is just like your Mother''s!¡± He said slowly. His voice tinged with sadness, longing and regret.


    The smile on my face faded, I noticed the longing look on his face whenever he spoke of her. He must miss his dead wife terribly.


    ¡°Can you tell me more about her?¡± I requested.


    He smiled at me¡ªplacing his hand on my cheek as he stared deeply into my eyes, ¡°You look just like her when she was your age. She was a vibrant young lady, full of life and adventure. Your flame is just like hers!¡¯¡¯.


    I nodded slowly, his daily request finally made sense to me.


    ¡°She was the one who pulled me out of my boring shell. She brought light to my world and showed me what living felt like. When she died. . .I felt devastated, alone and pulled back to my hollow shell once more but then. . .¡± He smiled warmly at me ¡°. . . I saw you and your brothers, knowing that she left me with the three of you, made me hopeful again!¡±.


    I beamed at him, hearing him talk about her made me tear up. Taking him by surprise, I hugged him.


    ¡°You are not alone Father. I will always be here for you!¡± I said genuinely.


    ¡°I know Rosalind and I am grateful for that!¡± He replied, hugging me back.


    We drew apart after a moment, it was the first time I had hugged him and it felt nice.


    The sound of footsteps approaching us, drew our attention. We turned to find¡ªthe Butler, walking towards us.


    He lowered his pace as he approached us.


    ¡°Is there an issue?¡± Father asked, his brows furrowed as he stared at him.


    ¡°I apologize for disturbing your evening walk, Your Grace!¡± He said, slightly bowing, ¡°. . .but I have news to report!¡±.


    I watched as Father''s demeanor grew grim on hearing him.Did you know this story is from Royal Road? Read the official version for free and support the author.


    ¡°What is it?¡± He inquired.


    ¡°It has to do with the ongoing war with the Southern Empire, Eldoria!¡± He stated. My heart drummed faster in my chest hearing him. ¡°It appears that the Crown Prince has won the war! The unclaimed land belongs to Alderia.¡±


    ¡°That''s delightful news!¡± Father said, his expression softened.


    ¡°We have received an invitation for a Royal ball that will be thrown tonight to celebrate the victory!¡± He reported.


    I gulped nervously, clenching my fists as they trembled. The novel has begun.


    * * * *


    I sat nervously in front of the vanity mirror in my boudoir. Lenora and three other maids scurried about¡ªpreparing me for the Royal ball.


    I recalled the conversation I had with Father after we received the news. I recalled pleading with him, trying to change his mind about my attendance to the ball. Attending the ball, meant that I would take part in the novel and that is against my main objective.


    ¡°I am sorry, Rosalind but I cannot agree to it. The invitation requested for every member of the House of Everhart and you are my daughter so you must go!¡± He explained.


    ¡°Please Father, I really don''t want to attend!¡± I pleaded again.


    He sighed and looked at me. He seemed displeased at my constant begging.


    ¡°No, Rosalind. I will not change my mind. If it was a Nobleman from the high society''s, ball. I would have agreed to your request but this is a ball thrown by the Royal family so, No!¡±


    ¡°But. . .¡±


    ¡°Rosalind, your pleas or protests will not change my decision. You will go to the ball and that is final!¡± He said firmly.


    I sighed deeply, that was a terrible trip down memory lane. I slouched in my chair, hoping to be struck by lightning¡ªmaybe if that actually happened, I will not have to go.


    ¡°My Lady, can you please sit up straight?¡± Lenora pleaded.


    I exhaled, heeding to her. She was probably dancing within that I finally had a social gathering to attend. Well, you won this round Lenora.


    Lenora was in charge of my hair and ball gown while the other three were in charge of my face and jewelry.


    After what seemed to be an eternity of pampering and pettling for the ball. They were finally done.


    ¡°Wow! My Lady. You look just like a Princess!¡± The maids said simultaneously, enthralled by my allure.


    I ignored their compliment, turned around to see my reflection.


    I was left stunned.


    My appearance was completely different from what I was used to.


    My hair, combed neatly was woven with a golden hair vine intricated with a floral accent. The off-shoulder blue gown with a hint of gold in it was stunning. I was proud of Lenora''s choice of clothing. It hugged my upper body, accentuating my curves. The off-shoulder neckline added a touch of sensuality and sophistication to the gown. It cascaded from my waist to the ground, transitioning into the mixture of the two colors, flowing graciously, creating a mesmerizing look.


    My neck was adorned with a golden necklace, a blue diamond stud located at the end of it. It rested neatly on my chest. My face was beautified with a light touch of make-up, enhancing my features


    I exhaled slowly, my appearance was too much to take in. I was beautiful. For the first time ever, I felt beautiful. To think, a day would come that I could ever feel this alluring. My eyes welled up and quickly I sniffed back the tears. The last thing I wanted was to ruin the hard work of the maids.


    ¡°I look beautiful!¡± I said slowly, gaping at my reflection.


    ¡°You are beautiful, My Lady!¡± Lenora said, smiling at me.


    I beamed at her, grateful for her compliment.


    >>>> As I walked down the stairs, I noticed the looks on the faces of My brothers and my dear Father. They were enchanted by my beauty.


    ¡°Rosalind, you are breathlessly alluring!¡± Leo said, softly. His gaze never left mine.


    I felt my cheeks redden by the compliment, it was pleasing to hear.


    ¡°You look just like your mother!¡± Father said, smiling proudly at me.


    I nodded slowly at him.


    ¡°Father, do you think it is a good idea for her to attend the ball?¡± Edward asked, suddenly ¡°. . . Because I think she might end up stealing the spotlight from the Royal family! You know, you may have men fighting over you by the end of the night?¡± He winked at me when he said that last part.


    I rolled my eyes at him. He wasn''t lying about me stealing hearts. I am beautiful. I am so beautiful that I am scared of my beauty.


    I beamed, hearing those compliments made me feel like I was floating in mid air. I didn''t pay much attention to my steps until I tripped on my dress and fell face flat on the ground, shocking everyone.


    ¡°Rosalind!¡± Everyone yelled.


    ¡°Are you okay?¡± Leo asked.


    I raised my hand up, giving them a thumbs up¡ªnotifying that I was indeed alright.


    ¡°I am okay!¡± I mumbled. Gathering the energy within me, I stood up holding my dress firmly. My cheeks were flushed with embarrassment.


    ¡°Let''s go!¡± I said, heading towards the front door with my face held high.

 The Female Lead

    I let out a gloomy sigh as we approached the Palace. My insides were on fire, the thought of being there as the novel unfolds left me in a state of dilemma. On one hand, I was glad to actually be there¡ªto watch the entire scenario play out while on the other hand, I was terrified to be there, which felt kind of odd knowing that there was nothing to be scared of.


    My heart drummed faster as the seconds flew by.


    ¡°Rosalind, is everything okay?¡± Edward''s voice drew my attention.


    I turned to him, his eyes filled with concern. My gaze shifted from him to Leo, he too had a concerned demeanor.


    ¡°I really don''t want to attend the Royal ball!¡± I spoke in my saddest voice, hoping that it could change my Father¡¯s decision at the last minute but his face remained indifferent.


    ¡°Why?¡±.


    ¡°I don''t know!¡± I said with a shrug ¡°I just detest gatherings of the high society!¡±


    Edward drew quiet, probably thinking of a way to cheer me up.


    ¡°If you are that bothered about it, would you like it if Leo and I stood by your side throughout the ball?¡± He asked.


    My eyes gleamed at the question. I stared at Leo checking if he was onboard. He gave a light nod, I smiled. With my two big brothers to protect me, I don''t even need to be bothered about anything.


    ¡°I would really love that!¡± I replied.


    Edward clapped his hands together in agreement, ¡°Then it is settled, consider us your knights in shining armor for the rest of the evening!¡± He said cheerfully.


    I beamed at him, grateful for his decision.


    >>>> A gasp escaped my lips as I stared out the window of the carriage overlooking the majestic Palace. It screamed of royalty, beauty and power. Located at the center was an enormous fountain of a past King, water projected from the sceptre he held into the air.


    Before us were a line of carriages belonging to the different noble families. They trooped out of them, exuding an aura full of elegance and nobility. The carriage halted in front of the entrance. The coachman stepped down and opened the door for us. Father got down first, followed by Edward then Leo. They both extended their hands, offering to help me.


    I wholeheartedly accepted their offer with a smile. We strolled towards the Palace, my hands were wrapped round theirs as they led me into the Palace.


    The ballroom was decked out for the beautiful occasion, an elaborate chandelier adorned the soaring ceiling casting a warm glow over the entire room.


    Chattering of the guests could be heard from every inch of the room. I rolled my eyes at the sight, I was already bored. At least I had my Knights in shining armor with me.Unauthorized duplication: this tale has been taken without consent. Report sightings.


    ¡°Hey Edward! Don''t forget your. . .¡± I paused. He no longer stood by my side instead he was surrounded by a group of stylish Noble Ladies who were fawning over his good looks. My lips slightly parted with shock. I couldn''t believe he ditched me.


    ¡°You look so handsome, Sir Edward!¡± One of the Ladies said, slightly touching his biceps.


    ¡°Did you do something with your hair?¡± Another asked.


    I watched as Edward flushed, completely swooned by their compliments.


    I scoffed angrily ¡°Leo, can you imagine Edward. . .¡± I turned to where Leo stood, he too was gone.


    ¡°Sir Leopold, is it okay if I can take a moment of your time?¡± A Noble Man asked him.


    ¡°Sure! No problem!¡± He replied, walking beside him as they drew further away from me.


    I gaped, stunned at him. Edward I could understand but Leo I don''t think I will.


    ¡°At least, I still have you Father, even though I am still angry at you. . .¡± I sighed ¡°. . . but I will do you a favor by never leaving your side all night, what do you. . .¡± My voice trailed off, looking around I could not find him anywhere.


    I groaned angrily. Great! So much for sticking by me. ¡®You truly are the best family a girl could ask for!¡¯ I thought wryly.


    The best option at the moment was to leave the ballroom, escape into a different room or something.


    I set off to leave, making my way through the dense ballroom avoiding bumping into the guests.


    I was a few feet from the door when a group of noble ladies fawning over something caught my attention. I inched closer to them, curious to know what they were talking about.


    ¡°I cannot believe you got one of the latest designs of Countess Arabella. She is so talented!¡± One of the Ladies said.


    I followed her gaze and it landed on the lady in the middle. Her black hair flowed mindlessly over shoulders. Her face was apathetic as the ladies offered their compliments to her gown.


    ¡°I wanted to purchase the other gown she designed but I was too late. Some noble lady already bought it!¡± Another Lady complained.


    ¡°And to think that there are only two of the gowns in the entire empire!¡± The lady next to her added.


    The lady with black hair didn''t say a word to them. Her aloof aura made me think that she was the leader of the tiny clique of ladies. Something felt off about her, I noticed how identical our gowns were, it seemed that we may have purchased them from the same place.


    Our eyes met! Mine widened as I observed her distinct red eyes which mirrored the same color of eyes of ¡®The Villainess¡¯, Lady Eleonora Ravenscroft. Her hair was darker than ebony and her eyes red as velvet. She was the one many people in the novel feared with a heart that was colder than ice. She was blessed with magical powers that transcended all except the Royal family. She took everything and anything she wanted but she could not have the hearts of the male leads.


    Her eyes trailed down my gown with contempt.


    ¡°I know who bought the other gown!¡± She said crossly, looking displeased at me.


    The ladies around her followed her gaze and stared at me. Astounded by my attire.


    ¡°I can not believe someone like her bought that gown. Such a waste.!¡± One of the ladies said, her tone screamed of disgust.


    ¡°To think she is wearing the gown, what a waste of good fabric!¡± Another one added.


    ¡°It would have fitted me more than it did on the dummy!¡± another added.


    The looks I received filled me with an indescribable rage. I wanted to burn off their annoying, pampered faces but I couldn''t. Unleashing my flame in the ballroom would cause an uproar and I didn''t want that.


    I exhaled, closing my eyes and opening them once more. I walked past them with my head held high being unfazed by them, ignoring their comments, remarks and their annoying laughter that reminded me of a group of constipated hyenas. I couldn¡¯t let them see me falter; not now, not ever.


    Once I was far from them, I let out a breath I didn''t know I held. Their words stung a part of me and I hated it. My fist clenched in fury. Tendrils of flames slowly left my finger tips. I felt like punching a hole in one of their faces at least if I did that the others will back off.


    ¡°Don''t let them get to you Emilia!¡± I said to myself, calming down. Not heeding to my burning anger.


    ¡°Do not listen to the words they say. They are just jealous of you!¡± A soft, sweet, angel-like voice spoke from behind me.


    I slowly turned around, my face grew pale at the lady who stood before me. Her aura was pristine as she smiled warmly at me.


    I didn''t need to ask her who she was. She did not need to introduce herself. She was the female lead, Lady Adeline Ashbourne.

 His Royal Highness

    She has the purest of heart, her silver long, silky hair glows in the moonlight, with twinkling blue eyes that captivates every soul that gazes at it.


    I gaped at her, still reeling in shock. Lady Adeline, the female lead of ¡®Twisted Fate¡¯ stood in front of me. She looked exactly as the author described her. Her long silver hair flowed seamlessly around her waist cascading like a waterfall. Her big twinkling blue eyes were alluring that I finally understood why the Crown Prince fell for her. They were captivating.


    She smiled warmly at me.


    I didn''t know what to tell her, maybe I could go like this; Hey, I am Emilia Jones, a fan whose soul surprisingly transferred into a character from my favorite novel and you are the female lead in it. Yay!!!. She will think I am a freak.


    ¡°Did I startle you?¡± She asked, concern clouded her eyes.


    ¡°No! You didn''t!¡± I managed to say.


    ¡°We haven''t been properly introduced. I am Lady Adeline Ashbourne, daughter of Count Ashbourne!¡± She said with a light curtsey.


    ¡°Lady Rosalind Everhart, daughter of. . .¡±


    ¡°I know who you are,¡± she said, cutting me off, taking me by surprise.


    ¡°You do?¡±


    ¡°Yes, you are Duke Everhart¡¯s daughter!¡± She pointed out.


    ¡°Yes, I am!¡± I replied nervously, it felt so surreal talking to her.


    ¡°As I said earlier, those ladies envy you! The gown looks better on you than it will be on any of them!¡± She said in an approving tone.


    ¡°Thank you for that! It is the first nice thing that anyone has ever said to me since I arrived here!¡± I replied, feeling touched at her words.


    ¡°You are welcome!¡± She said,


    I took a few steps back, her charisma was astounding. Even the way she spoke sounded so pure and full of humility.


    The sound of a blaring horn cut through the air, calling out attention. Our gaze landed on the indomitable herald standing at the top of the stairs as he commanded the silence of the ballroom. His face was as apathetic as ever as he began to announce.


    ¡°Ladies and gentlemen! May I introduce the members of the Alderian Royal Family!¡± He yelled.


    Looking as regal and majestic as ever, The King and Queen stepped down the stairs, smiling warmly at their guests. Behind them were two young men wearing royal suites. Their features had an almost resemblance to the King.


    Their golden hair was combed and neatly trimmed with crystal blue eyes that attracted a lot of attention especially from the Noble ladies in the room. They walked towards their seat reserved on a slightly elevated stage at the far end of the room.This story is posted elsewhere by the author. Help them out by reading the authentic version.


    ¡°Wow, the Princes are so handsome!¡± I heard one lady say.


    ¡°I could stare at them all day!¡± Another added.


    Almost half of the ladies in the room gaped at them, enthralled by their gorgeous looks.


    I rolled my eyes at their remarks. They were handsome but I was not fazed by their looks.


    I turned around to leave, not wanting to be a part of the ball.


    ¡°Where are you going?¡± Lady Adeline asked, suddenly.


    ¡°I need to get a bit of fresh air!¡± I replied.


    ¡°Great! May I join you?¡± She asked all of a sudden.


    ¡°No!¡± I yelled, to the surprise of everyone and Adeline. ¡°You just stay here and enjoy your evening!¡± I said in a normal tone.


    Adeline stared at me, confused.


    ¡°Trust me! You will not regret that decision!¡± I said.


    She nodded slowly and didn''t push her request any further.


    I turned around and walked further away, making my way through the guests.


    ¡°Where is the Crown Prince?¡± A noble man close to me asked his companions.


    It dawned on me. He didn''t arrive at the same time with the rest of the Royal family. My curiosity got the best of me.


    ¡°Maybe, I can leave after a glance at the Prince!¡± I said, standing close to the door that led to a terrace.


    The muttering of the Crown Prince¡¯s absence elevated in the room. It soon died down and so did the soothing, calm music of the orchestra¡ªsomeone stood at the top of the stairs. The aura he exuded was dark and illuminous. He gazed down at the guests like they were insects beneath him, his face filled with disdain. His aura transposed the atmosphere in the ballroom to drop a hundred degrees, casting an oppressive atmosphere over the guests. I could sense the shivers exuding from them.


    As he drew closer to the guests, I let out a gasp, the novel didn''t do good to his features. He looked better than the author''s description of him. What those noble ladies said about the Princes felt like an understatement when it came to him. His brothers were no match for his undescribable gorgeousness. He was the one I could stare at all day.


    He stood tall as he approached the guests¡ªcommanding authority with every step he took. His golden hair was messy and fell to his shoulders, some locks fell to his face¡ªframing his chiseled features.


    His crystal blue eyes mirrored oceans¡ªdrawing one into their depths of enigma and arcane. Most of the guests shivered at the sight of him, terrified of his presence. His shoulders were broad and his Royal suit fitted him perfectly. The Crown Prince''s brawny features were protuberant in his attire. He was beyond handsome and the most attractive man my eyes had ever laid on all night.


    He was alluring.


    Our eyes met and I swallowed hard. It was so hard to tear away from his frightening gaze. I watched him approach me, making his way through the guests. He walked past Adeline. Wait! What?. That was not meant to happen. What is going on here?.


    He is meant to be awestruck with her looks¡ªfalling hard for her but instead he was walking towards me_ it was more than strange.


    He wore an odd smile, as he stood a few feet from me. I stared at him, too shocked to speak.


    ¡°It seems like we meet again, Lady Rosalind!¡± He spoke in a dark deep tone, his voice was enticing to the ear.


    I blinked a few times, puzzled by his words. ¡®How did he know Rosalind''s name? When was our first meeting?¡¯. I pondered hard on these questions.


    ¡°I am so sorry, Your Highness but I don''t think we have met before!¡± I said, a bit nervous. The stares I received from everyone in the room were endearing.


    He chuckled and leaned closer to me. I found myself moving backwards, surprised by his sudden closeness.


    ¡°Are you certain about that?¡± He asked, in a mischievous tone. His eyes rested on me.


    My face went pale with shock as realization dawned on me. The familiarity of his voice with the mysterious stranger from months back shook me.


    ¡°You. . . you''re the. . .¡± I couldn''t bring myself to complete the statement.


    His smile grew wider as he stared at me, probably enjoying the moment.


    ¡°It seems that you have recalled!¡± He said, his eyes gleamed at me.


    I nodded my head slowly. The whispers in the room were palpable. The guests were probably wondering and talking about us which was far beyond what I wanted.


    ¡°Can I have your first dance, Lady Rosalind?¡± He asked suddenly, as the strains of a soft moderato reverberated the ballroom.

 She Is Different!!

    He beamed at her, patiently waiting for a reply. To think that his night would have turned out this way with him finally meeting her once more¡ªafter months of being in battle, he gets to see her. Happiness spread through him like a comet¡ªbeing close to her, he felt something that he could not explain. Was it joy, perhaps?.


    Cedric would have arrived at the same time with the rest of his family but he didn''t due to a certain mess he had to take care of. Luckily, he had dealt with the sent assassin and left the clean up to Ronald. Here he was, thinking that his dear mother would let her enormous goal of killing him slide for that night. It seemed that he was dead wrong.


    He almost didn''t want to attend but. . . a tiny convincing did the trick.


    ¡°Your Majesty perhaps, you should attend the Royal ball. It is in your honor after all!¡± Ronald stated.


    Cedric ran a hand through his hair, ruffling it''s perfectly combed nature. A few locks fell, framing his chiseled features.


    ¡°I do not feel like it!¡± He replied grimly.


    ¡°. . . But not attending, would make one of Her Majesty''s wishes come true. You wouldn''t want that, would you?¡±.


    He sighed. The annoying chipmunk had a point. The last thing he wants is¡ªhis dear Mother winning tonight.


    At present¡ªhe is more than glad that he did, because finally he gets to see her and dance with her, if she''d let him.


    Can I have your first dance, Lady Rosalind? That question swirled in her head for a moment. It didn''t seem right to her. Dancing with him? No, that''s not logical. It is not meant to be her. It had to be with Adeline, the female lead not her.


    She sighed! Knowing the right reply to give him, wishing deep down that she would not hurt his ego.


    ¡°I am sorry, Your Majesty but I cannot!¡± She said slowly, staring at him. Her voice though steady bore the weight of discomfort.


    His smile faltered, slowly ebbing away at her reply.


    The music abruptly stopped! She turned to the orchestra. The musicians bore an eager look as they stared at her direction adding to her newfound predicament_ the mumbling from the guest began once more, making her situation much worse.


    Rosalind wished for the ground to open so that she could fall in and never come out. If that was what would get her out of this situation, she would happily accept it.


    He let out a chortle, surprising her. The Lady before him fascinated him in more ways than one. This was the first rejection he had ever received in his entire lifetime but the funny thing was¡ªhe was not enraged, Not one bit, however the amusement inside of him grew because of her.


    ¡°And may I ask, why?¡± He asked suddenly.


    Rosalind blew out her cheeks¡ªpondering on a reasonable excuse to give him. She could not tell him the actual reason, it would make her look insane.


    ¡°Well. . .um. . .it is because. . .¡± She paused thinking of what to say.


    ¡°. . .Because she agreed that her first dance will be with me!¡± Edward said from a distance, coming to her rescue. He drew closer to them with confidence that was a stark contrast to the drama unfolding in the room.


    Rosalind beamed at him, grateful for his quick save. Relief washed over her as she met his gaze.


    Cedric squinted his eyes at him, he was not convinced by his words.


    If you stumble upon this narrative on Amazon, it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it.


    ¡°Is that so?¡± He asked, his brows furrowed as he stared at him with a thoughtful mien.


    ¡°Yes, Your Majesty!¡± Edward replied.


    ¡°I want to hear it from the Lady herself!¡± Cedric stated, staring at her.


    Rosalind felt like he could see through her, deep into her soul.


    ¡°Yes, that is the truth!¡± She managed to say, almost in a whisper¡ªavoiding his piercing gaze.


    ¡°I am sure you would not mind me stealing her first dance, would you?¡± He asked Edward, emitting an intimidating glare.


    Edward gulped nervously, ¡°Well, I. . .uh. . .¡±


    ¡°Is it okay if I dance with my sister first, Your Majesty?¡± Leopold¡¯s voice drew their attention. Edward let out a breath glad that Leo arrived right on time.


    Cedric let out a chortle. It seemed that he was outnumbered by them. He felt like the odd one among them and indeed he was.


    The guests including the Royal family watched the scenario, enthralled by the drama that was unfolding before them.


    ¡°What do you think is wrong with Cedric?¡± The older of the two Princes asked no one in particular.


    ¡°I have no idea but it seems that he has an attraction for the Everhart Princess!¡± The other replied, watching the drama with great enthusiasm.


    The Queen narrowed her eyes at Rosalind. She looked like an interesting young lady. Perhaps, she was the missing piece she needed to end Cedric once and for all. A dark smile plastered on her lips at the thought.


    ¡°Leopold, I am surprised to see you here!¡± Cedric said, his brows twitched_irritated by the situation.


    ¡°Well, I can not just leave my sister here all alone, can I?¡± He asked, ignoring Edward''s presence. The two men glared at each other, not backing off.


    ¡°This is what you both get for abandoning me!¡± Rosalind spoke with gritted teeth to Edward.


    He rubbed the back of his neck nervously as guilt rushed in.


    ¡°Sorry! It was not my intention!¡± He said.


    Rosalind rolled her eyes at him. What mattered to her was getting out of this sticky situation.


    ¡°You know what!¡± She said, grabbing their attention. ¡°I do not want to be a part of this!¡± She yelled, fed up with the drama.


    She turned on her heel and left the trio. They stared at her, shocked at her outburst. Cedric smiled, his admiration for her elevated to a level that was immeasurable. The way she spoke with not an atom of fear in her eyes, enticed him.


    Rosalind was halfway across the room¡ªa few feet from the door. She walked swiftly whilst ignoring the looks she got from the muttering guests. Without much warning, he grabbed her hand¡ªtwirling her around to the surprise of everyone present as the orchestra began to play.


    Before she could realize what was unfolding, Rosalind found herself in the arms of the least person she expected.


    ¡°Great! What I just needed!¡± She uttered in a sarcastic tone ¡°More drama!¡±.


    The corner of his lips quirked up, wearing a mischievous smile. She stared at his silver gray eyes and sighed.


    ¡°What are you doing?¡± She asked, glaring at him.


    He winked flirtatiously at her ¡°Dancing with you. What do you think?¡± He asked casually.


    He held her waist firmly as they danced around the ballroom.


    ¡°Can you let go of me?¡± Her eyes blazed with fury.


    The stares she got from everyone made her uncomfortable. But what gave her more of a fright was the sinister stare of the Crown Prince, it frightened her to her bones.


    ¡°I can''t do that, you see. . .¡± He paused, she stared at him demanding an explanation. He inched closer to her¡ªtheir faces were inches apart, ¡°. . .If I do that they will kill me!¡± He admitted in a whisper, referring to the Crown Prince and her brothers.


    Rosalind stared at him like he was dumb ¡°Then why did you do it in the first place?¡± He could sense the anger emanating from her.


    ¡°I didn''t think much of it when I did it!¡± He said slowly.


    She inhaled and exhaled, trying to prevent herself from exploding. ¡°Just let go of me, now that I am asking nicely!¡± She seethed.


    He took a deep breath and did as she demanded.


    ¡°Good!¡± She said with a steely edge and stormed off from the room. Her blood boiled with rage. So much for her first social gathering in this world.


    Alexander stared at her silhouette in the hallway, a light smile decorated his lips. She was feisty, very feisty and he was allured by her.


    ¡°Stay away from my sister, Alex!¡± Edward said standing beside him; he did not look pleased, angered by his friend¡¯s action.


    Alexander sighed. Of course, Edward will be enraged by his recent action but he couldn''t help himself. His sister was different from any woman he has met before and he was attracted to her more than any lady he encountered.


    ¡°You don''t need to worry, Edward! I will not hurt her!¡± He said with a pat on his shoulder.


    Alexander walked towards a group of Noble Ladies. They giggled at his antics.


    Edward stared at him, his face twisted with rage. When it comes to Rosalind, he doesn''t take chances.

 Duke Alaric Johnson

    I let out a scream once I was farther away from the Palace. It echoed into the night. My blood simmered within as the recent images of what transpired earlier replayed in my mind.


    ¡°Stupid Crown Prince! Was it so hard to ignore me and dance with her! Gosh I hate him so much!¡± I yelled.


    The quiet night answered back, mocking my outburst. A gentle breeze stirred the trees, and for a moment, I was alone with my frustration. But then, the soft crunch of footsteps, startled me.


    ¡°Be careful of what you say!¡± A voice resonated the air around me ¡°You are still in the Palace after all!¡± It warned.


    Hearing the warning made my heart skip a beat, I looked around me in search of the owner. Soon, my search was over as an indistinct figure approached me. I squinted my eyes a bit as it drew nearer. Its shadow was towered by that of the trees but as it walked towards me, I noticed its distinct violet eyes, glowing in the dark.


    I let out a gasp when I realized who he was. Duke Alaric Johnson!


    ¡°I-I didn''t realize that someone was here!¡± I stuttered.


    ¡°Me neither! Well, that was until I heard someone scream!¡± He said.


    His dark hair tied neatly to a ponytail, his demeanor was calm and warm. He looked cheerful which was kind of strange knowing that he was an apathetic character in the novel.


    ¡°It wasn''t my intention to disturb you, I am sorry!¡± I apologized quickly.


    ¡°. . .and here I was thinking that I would have a nice and quiet evening!¡± He said almost in a whisper. There was amusement in the tone of his voice.


    ¡°If I may ask, what are you doing outside, instead of attending the ball like everyone else?¡± The question flew out of my mouth before I could take it back.


    His eyes glinted with shock, for a moment I thought he would not reply but was surprised when he actually did.


    ¡°The King requested my presence and I had to come. Normally, I would not have attended the ball but since I was already here I decided to stay for a while but then I got bored and left for some peace and quiet!¡± He explained.


    ¡°Oh!¡±


    ¡°What about you?¡± He asked, taking me by surprise ¡°It seems that you must have had quite an eventful night!¡±.


    I sighed, pondering how I would begin my story.


    ¡°Well it was eventful alright!¡± I replied ¡°. . .because I may have caused a tiny bit of a commotion inside.¡± He squinted his eyes at me, lost at my words ¡°Well it began with the Crown Prince. . .¡± I began my story ¡°. . .requesting for a dance from me but then I turned him down and then my brothers came to my rescue or so I thought but it didn''t seem like their presence actually helped. So, I decided to leave them in case things got worse. I was just about to leave the ballroom but I ended up dancing with Sir Alexander Norwyn which was kind of strange seeing that a dance caused everything!¡± I said finally, laying everything to the ground.


    He stared at me, a small smile tugged at the corners of his lips as he listened to my story, his violet eyes sparkling in the dim light.


    ¡°Now, that''s not what I expected!¡± He said thoughtfully, ¡°Can you start from the beginning but explain everything in detail?¡±.


    Before I knew it, I relayed the whirlwind events of the night to him¡ªfrom my brothers vanishing act to the Crown Prince unwanted attention and of course my grand exit.


    He kept quiet for some time, probably letting the story sink in.


    ¡°I am guessing that you are not going back there again!¡± He said.


    I scoffed ¡°If I ever go back there, I will look like a soldier returning to the war he was fleeing from. So, no I am not!¡± I replied.


    ¡°Well, I. . .¡± He paused, listening keenly as indistinct voices resonated in the air. For a moment I thought he could hear spirits until I heard them too.


    ¡°Rosalind! Rosalind!¡± The voices called out, drawing closer to us


    ¡°It seems like our little rendezvous will be called short. Lady Rosalind!¡± He said.


    ¡°It seems so!¡± I said, a bit sad about it but shocked that he knew my name, I was about to inquire how he knew but what he did next flew the question out of my mind.


    He took my hand in his and planted a soft kiss on the back of my hand whilst smiling at me. I blinked slowly, stunned by his action.


    ¡°I suspect we will meet again!¡± He said, letting go of me. I watched him, his shadow tangled with that of the trees¡ªdisappearing into the night, he was different nothing that I anticipated, it piqued my curiosity.The genuine version of this novel can be found on another site. Support the author by reading it there.


    ¡°Rosalind! Rosalind!¡± The voices drew nearer.


    I turned around and noticed Leo and Edward approaching me. Our eyes met, relief washed their faces when they spotted me. They increased their pace and ran to me.


    ¡°We have been looking everywhere for you!¡± Edward said, trying to catch his breath. He looked like he ran a mile.


    ¡°We were so worried about you!¡± Leo added.


    I rolled my eyes at them, not believing their words for a bit.


    ¡°Oh please! The two of you abandoned me the moment we arrived!¡± I pointed out.


    Their faces went pale with guilt. I looked around and realized that he was gone. He must have left when he saw them. I felt down a bit, I really enjoyed his company.


    ¡°We are really sorry for leaving you!¡± Edward said, the tone in his voice sounded sincere.


    ¡°I am not ready to forgive you two just yet!¡± I said. He sighed, dropping the subject. Leo had a thoughtful expression like he was pondering about something.


    ¡°How did you and the Crown Prince know each other?¡± Leo asked suddenly.


    The question took me aback. They looked at me awaiting my reply.


    ¡°I don''t know!¡± I said abruptly, ¡°Maybe I remind him of someone. I do have a familiar face, you know?¡± I said, chuckling nervously.


    ¡°Your face isn''t all that fam. . .¡± I interrupted Edward before he could finish the statement.


    ¡°Why don''t we just leave!¡± I said quickly, walking away from them, avoiding any more questions.


    I could feel their questioning stares as I walked towards the Palace.


    * * * *


    ¡°My Lady, how was the ball last night? Lenora asked the next day ¡°I noticed you arrived back late last night!¡±.


    I groaned, I didn''t want to remember that awful night. ¡°I don''t want to talk about it!¡± I said simply.


    ¡°Oh! It must have been very terrible for you!¡± She said, dressing the bed.


    ¡°The worst!¡± I added ¡°I mean_ what was so hard about asking someone else to dance!¡± I yelled.


    ¡°Did someone ask you to dance?¡± Lenora asked, she left the bed and began dusting the furniture.


    ¡°Yes and I happily turned him down!¡± I said proudly.


    ¡°Really? May I ask who he was, My Lady?¡±


    ¡°The Crown Prince!¡± I said in an irritated tone, I heard Lenora drop something and I ignored it.


    ¡°T-The C-Crown Prince!¡± She stuttered ¡°Oh dear!¡±.


    ¡°I know right!¡± I said, relaxing on the couch, ¡°I mean what was so hard in asking someone else to dance, why me? He should have asked Lady Adeline which would have made total sense, because they would have made a perfect power couple but no, he asked me which is more than strange. . .¡± I went on and on, being a tattletale about the events of last night.


    ¡°My Lady,¡± Lenora¡¯s voice wavered. ¡°Do you think. . . he might be angry? The Crown Prince isn¡¯t known for his kindness.¡±


    ¡°I don''t think so!¡± I replied quickly. My mind wandered a bit, troubled at her words. Quickly, I pushed the thoughts aside¡ªnot wanting to dwell on them.


    I heard Lenora scurry up and about in the room, she walked back and forth from the boudoir to the room, carrying some of my dresses with her which caught my attention.


    ¡°Lenora, what are you doing?¡± I asked, shooting her a questionable gaze.


    She looked nervous, hesitating to reply ¡°I_uh_I am packing dresses for your vacation to the countryside!¡±.


    ¡°What!¡± I got up from the couch and approached her.


    She sighed and placed the dresses on the bed. ¡°You need to leave quickly!¡±


    ¡°Why?¡± I asked, feeling more perplexed.


    ¡°You turned down the Crown Prince, who knows when he will come for your head?¡± She asked, trembling with fear.


    I scoffed at her ¡°Oh please! You worry too much, Lenora!¡±.


    ¡°No! My Lady, I am not!¡± She grabbed my hand which startled me, her voice shook with fright ¡°The Crown Prince is said to be a very dangerous man. He kills people without giving a second thought, especially those that disagree with him and you turned him down last night in front of the families of the high society! Who knows when and where he is planning to murder you?¡±.


    I rolled my eyes at her, her words didn''t affect me one bit or so I thought. I released my hand from her grip and placed my hands on her shoulders, staring at her directly.


    ¡°Nothing of that sort is going to happen, Lenora!¡± I assured her ¡°He is probably calm and may have forgotten about last night!¡± I added. Trying to convince both her and myself that he would.


    A knock on the door made her jump, I sighed, she needed to relax.


    ¡°Come in!¡± I yelled.


    The door was pushed open and the butler walked in carrying a golden tray with him, his face was as indifferent as ever.


    ¡°I have an invitation from the Royal Palace for you, Young Miss!¡± He reported.


    Lenora''s face grew white with terror upon hearing him.


    ¡°The Crown Prince. . . he¡¯s already made his move. You¡¯ll be walking straight into his trap, My Lady. A royal invitation¡ªhow could it be anything but a death sentence?¡± Her hands shook as she clutched the dresses tighter, the words tumbling out in panicked whispers.


    I let out a breath, she really needed to calm down. ¡°Lenora, I think you are. . .¡± I paused, her words rang in my ear. ¡®What if he really did want to kill me for turning him down? I haven''t even stayed in this world for a year and I am already going to die!¡¯ I thought.


    My breathing quickened and became uneven, Lenora''s fears were getting to me, the thoughts I ignored tinged with it¡ªterrifying me.


    ¡°You are right! Lenora. What if he actually wants to kill me?¡± I asked, she stared at me, too scared to speak.


    I swallowed. I need to survive. I need to stay alive and I will not take any chances.


    I shot her a firm look ¡°I will talk to my Father and convince him to send me to the countryside while you pack the necessary things I need and I mean¡ª more dresses!¡± I ordered.


    ¡°Yes, My Lady!¡± She replied with a stern look.


    I turned around, making my way towards the door to talk to Father when the butler stopped me.


    ¡°If I may, Young Miss!¡± The butler said, standing in my way ¡°The invitation came from the Queen herself!¡±.


    ¡°The Queen?¡± Lenora and I asked simultaneously.


    ¡°She is hosting a tea party in the Royal Palace and insists that Lady Rosalind Everhart attends the tea party!¡± He said, stressing the word ¡®insists¡¯.


    ¡°It could still be a trap!¡± Lenora pointed out.


    ¡°I don''t think so,


    Young Miss!¡± The butler said, dryly.


    ¡°So I cannot refuse the invite even if I wanted to?¡± I asked slowly.


    ¡°No!¡± He replied simply.


    ¡°Oh!¡± I said, nodding my head.

 Crown Prince, Cedric Montellio

    I stood close to the fountain, my trembling gloved hands clenched my matching floral purse tightly. My breathing quickened as the seconds drew near. The sound of horses strutting caught my attention. I turned to my side, a carriage was approaching me¡ªthe horses halted before me with a light nicker.


    The carriage door was pushed open and the butler walked down. His hand was extended to me¡ªI hesitated and solemnly accepted it, climbing in awaiting my fears to come to reality.


    ¡°The portal is ready for your departure, Young Miss!¡± He informed me.


    I shot him a confused look ¡°Portal? What portal?¡±.


    He looked more confused than I was as he replied slowly, ¡°The Portal that led you to the Royal Palace for last night''s ball!¡±.


    My eyes widened as the memory hit me. I must have been so occupied with attending the ball that I didn''t notice the portal that we used.


    ¡°Oh! Of course I know about the Portal!¡± I said, nervously.


    He only nodded and looked at me. His expression softened different from usual.


    ¡°Do not worry about the Crown Prince, Young Miss! You may not meet him in the Palace. It is a very vast place. I doubt he may hold a grudge against you¡ªdon''t let the words of Lenora frighten you!¡± He said slowly, his words assured me.


    Hearing those words placated me a little. ¡°Thank you!¡± I said sincerely ¡°. . .and you are right I may not even see the Crown Prince!¡± I said in an assuring tone.


    He smiled warmly at me, closing the door shut. I took deep breaths as the carriage rode¡ªleaving the estate. The path to the portal grew thinner. It was surrounded by trees on each side. The chirping sound of different birds resounded in the air as rays of sunlight seeped through the leaves of the trees, resting on the soft grasses.


    The carriage rode slowly as it approached a nearby stop. I looked out the window curious of what was before us. A gasp escaped my lips as we approached what seemed to be like a gate.


    My eyes widened at the two silver long rods with strange markings ¡ªstanding apart from each other, between them a spiral-like portal with hues of different colors emanated a surge of energy.


    I stared in awe as the carriage rode through it, enthralled by its wonder. It seemed¡ªpeople''s mails were delivered faster and easier with the portal system. This world always seemed to excite me with every new discovery.


    The other end of the portal led to a different path. The trees weren''t as dense like the ones in the duchy and the path seemed wider. It only took a few minutes but we soon arrived at the Royal Palace.


    The grand Palace golden gates were pulled open and the carriage rode in. The Palace looked different during the day, more magnificent than ever. The sun stood atop the Alderian flag situated on the rooftop¡ªits rays spread across the land, adding more regality to the Royal Palace.


    I took a deep breath as the carriage halted at the front entrance. Last time I was here, things didn''t go too well for me but this time I was certain that things would be totally different.


    I pulled the door open and stepped down, holding my head high as I walked the fleet of stairs¡ªapproaching the front doors which were drawn open by the Palace Knights as I drew closer to them.


    I walked in slowly, staring at the silent lobby. I heard footsteps approach me and I turned to see a man dressed as the Royal family butler, sauntering towards me.


    ¡°Glad to see you made it, Lady Rosalind!¡± He stated. ¡°Welcome to the Royal Palace!¡±.


    I nodded slowly, acknowledging him. ¡°I shall lead you to the Royal gardens where the party is being held!¡± He said.


    ¡°Lead the way!¡± I responded.


    He gave a light nod and turned around_heading towards a bright, vast and lengthy hallway with different numerous doors on each side, the rays of the sun seeped through the windows¡ªlighting the hallway. I followed him quietly, taking in my surroundings.


    He led me further into the hallway which left me pondering where the so-called garden was. From afar, I could perceive the sound of scampering footsteps approaching us. The figure became distinct as it drew nearer. A woman in a maid dress ran towards us. She halted and whispered something to him. I noticed the worried look on his face as he listened keenly to her.The narrative has been taken without authorization; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident.


    ¡°I am sorry, My Lady but could you walk to the garden alone? I have to attend to an emergency!¡± He said quickly, looking a bit terrified.


    ¡°But I. . .¡± before I could finish the sentence he ran off with the maid, abandoning me in the lonely hallway.


    ¡°. . . I have no idea which door leads to it!¡± I yelled, hoping that he heard me.


    He was already out of sight to reply. I looked around the hallway, the only things besides the numerous doors that I could notice were the different Knight''s armors situated at both sides of it looking very life-like.


    I took a few steps forward and turned to the door beside me. My hand reached out to touch the door knob but I hesitated. What if the door didn''t lead to the garden but led to a room that I am not allowed to see? The question made me ponder a lot.


    ¡°But, I will not know until I try!¡± I said, taking my chances with it.


    I placed my hand on the knob and was about to pull it but I felt someone from the other side jiggle it and I quickly let go of it.


    The door was forcefully pushed open and the last person I dreaded seeing, stood before me.


    My eyes grew wide as I stared at him with slightly parted lips. His golden hair was slightly ruffled with crystal blue eyes that were taken aback by my presence.


    I didn''t know why but my gaze slowly drifted to the sword he held in his hands. A gasp escaped my lips as I noticed the red, viscous liquid dripping from it¡ªstaining the marbled floor. I suddenly felt lightheaded and my face grew pale with fright as I clenched my purse with trembling hands.


    ¡°I didn''t mean to!¡± I said quickly, my voice wavered as I spoke, ¡°I came for a tea party hosted by the Queen but I have no clue where the garden is. So, I thought that this door led to it!¡± I found myself explaining things that didn''t matter to him.


    He was about to say something but I beat him to it.


    ¡°I didn''t see anything!¡± I said frantically, looking away.


    My hands trembled more as I stood there transfixed. I could feel my heart hammer in my chest as he stood there not saying a word.


    The word ¡®murder¡¯ rang in my ears. Lenora''s terrifying words of him tinged with it.


    ¡°You came for a tea party?¡± He asked. I noticed how cold and dark his eyes were. It seemed that he was furious about my visit. I suddenly felt a cold sensation around me¡ªthe air was chilly, I shivered. His presence was really horripilating.


    I nodded frantically, too frightened to speak.


    He kept quiet for a while, probably wondering on how to murder me as his next victim for the day. I swallowed, the thought of death frightened me more.


    ¡°I can take you to the garden!¡± He suggested out of the blue.


    ¡°No!¡± I yelled, my reaction stunned him. ¡°You are probably busy with killing. . . I mean doing some very important things and I do not want to bother you with my predicament!¡± I said nervously.


    He stared at me, the corner of his lips quirked up a little.


    ¡°Wait here!¡± He ordered.


    I found myself nodding to his command.


    He walked back into the room, his voice echoed resonated the walls. I could vividly hear him.


    ¡°Ronald! Take care of things here and do well to get rid of the pest properly!¡±,


    My body flinched on hearing the word ¡®pest!¡¯.


    ¡°And also have someone clean my sword! Make sure that there will be no stains this time!¡± He ordered.


    ¡°Yes! Your Majesty!¡± I heard someone respond.


    I noticed his shadow approach the door, cold sweat ran down my face whilst my trembling hands clenched my purse tighter than ever. The door was pushed open and he walked out of it.


    ¡°You really don''t have to, Your Majesty!¡± I pleaded, hoping he would heed to it.


    ¡°I should as a member of the Royal family, unless you would like to explore alone and open a different door this time¡ªit could lead to your doom!¡± He said slowly, his eyes were darker than earlier as he bore into mine.


    My heart skipped a beat at his words, I felt blood drain from my face.


    ¡°You may lead the way!¡± I said, giving in to him.


    We walked further into the hallway, not saying anything to each other. The hovering silence didn''t help my situation at all.


    ¡°So, do you kill people often?¡± The question flew out of my lips before I could take it back.


    He stopped and stared at me, I felt faint by my sudden question. This is one of the reasons why I should be killed, asking random questions like this to a complete murderer will lead to my death.


    ¡°I. . . uh. . .that''s not what I meant!¡± I said, wishing to rectify my question. ¡°It is just that I have been thinking about death since yesterday all thanks to someone!¡± I muttered. Lenora''s face popped up in my head.


    ¡°Don''t think much of it! I don''t want to die¡ªI mean I am too young to die. Please don''t kill me!¡± I pleaded, lowering my head. I squeezed my eyes shut awaiting a reply or something.


    A light hearty chuckle echoed in the silence. I slowly looked up, astonished to see him look so cheerful.


    ¡°Why would I want to kill you?¡± He asked, his face was radiant like the sun. It was fascinating.


    ¡°Because, I. . . uh. . .!¡± I thought of what to say_ my eyes wandered about and landed on a familiar figure walking towards us. ¡°Lady Adeline!¡± I said, being ever so happy to see her.


    She looked perplexed and shocked to see me too. She quickened her steps and approached us.


    ¡°Lady Rosalind, it is nice to see you again. . .¡± her voice trailed off when she noticed the figure towering over me.


    ¡°Your Majesty!¡± She greeted, quickly¡ªdipping into a curtsey.


    I suddenly felt an urge to be a matchmaker at the moment. Since they didn''t meet properly during the ball due to someone''s fault which is totally not mine. I will make sure that they get together like they are originally supposed to.


    ¡°Why don''t you stay here and talk to His Majesty?¡± I asked, grabbing her hand and pulling her closer to us. Confusion etched her features as she stared at me, ¡°. . .while I will go to the garden!¡± I said cheerfully.


    I quickly left them ignoring their confused looks and headed towards the door in front of me hoping that it led to the garden. My heart lightened, glad it actually led to it. It seems that the story will be right on track seeing that the male and female lead have finally met and it was all thanks to me.

 I Dont Need Luck!!

    He watched her leave. She walked into the garden, gracefully_a cheerful smile decorated her lips. He was beyond surprised to see her in the Palace. A rush of regret flooded within him, the frightened look on her face when they met earlier, painted a clear image in his mind.


    He groaned!.


    It was indeed the wrong time and place to run into her. He hated the fright look she bore. It ached a part of him and he pondered why! But strangely, she reminded him of a frightened adorable kitten. He wasn''t a fanatic for adorable things but the look on her face made it difficult for him not to be enthralled by her.


    He couldn''t stop the smile that etched his features anytime he sees or thinks of her. She was strange and different but that allured him more.


    Suddenly, he remembered the reason for her visit. His demeanor grew sinister. The Queen was hosting a tea party!.


    What was she planning? The thought of his mother enraged him. He looked towards the garden_his gaze rested on her. Her happy mein faded fleetingly, it was apparent that she didn''t want to be there, to be a part of the chattering hyenas.


    She mirrored a red rose in the field of sunflowers, its beauty couldn''t be concealed in the field even with the thousands that enclosed it. It was unfaded and radiated more than the rest. He fought within himself not to carry her out of there.


    He exhaled. if the Queen''s intentions were on Rosalind, he will do anything within his power to keep her safe.


    ¡°Your Majesty, I. . .¡± Lady Adeline paused.


    The Crown Prince walked past her, ignoring her presence. She felt as invisible as air as he walked further away.


    She turned around, her eyes were fixed on him. This was not the first time he ignored her. It was annoying to think that he didn''t seem to notice her and it was all because he was already infatuated with someone else. It angered her.


    She was always liked and admired by everyone. Not a day goes by that she doesn''t capture the hearts of everyone that gazed at her. Her beauty was magnetic drawing people to her but here he was, unfazed by her and it made her blood boil.


    He should be madly infatuated with her but he wasn''t. Her hands clenched her dress as she watched him. Her face twisted with anger. He will be hers and she will make sure of it.


    * * * *


    ¡°Oh look! The dummy has finally arrived!¡± An irritating voice said to the hearing of everyone. The ladies around her giggled in delight.


    I exhaled, tired of her dirty antics. I quickened my steps and approached her. It was bad enough that I had to be in the Palace but the worse thing was to endure her annoying screeching, high-pitched mosquito-like voice.


    ¡°Don''t you ever get tired of using the same antics over and over again?¡± I asked, the shocked looks I received brightened my day. ¡° Here I was, thinking that you would finally act mature but I have to admit I am disappointed that you are still the same, Eleonora!¡± I said, my eyes gleamed as I watched the horrified look on her face.


    ¡°How dare you?¡± She seethed. The ladies beside her drew back, afraid that she would explode.


    ¡°What! I am right, aren''t I? Your coming of age is in a few months isn''t it, Eleonora? And here you are still displaying your sickening childish ways!¡± I said, surging with a new found confidence.


    The murmurs and chatters became louder. I could sense the distraught look on her face as she looked around. She probably wasn''t expecting me to clap back at her but to her dismay I am not the original Rosalind that would cower at her presence. I am Emilia Jones and I will not be trampled upon by an over spoiled brat!.


    ¡°What do you think that you are doing?¡± She asked, her veins popped in her head as she stared at me, enraged.


    ¡°I am just saying¡ªinstead of wasting your time on gorgeous me!¡± I said, smiling wickedly at her, ¡°You should invest it in something more important like_ perhaps. . .¡± I paused, thinking for the right sentence to use for her ¡°. . .fixing your terrible, disgusting behavior!¡±.Unauthorized duplication: this tale has been taken without consent. Report sightings.


    Some of the ladies giggled at my words while others murmured among themselves.


    ¡°You feel high and mighty now because the Crown Prince noticed you during the ball!¡± She said in a mocking tone, perhaps thinking that I would be fazed by her words.


    I chuckled loudly to her dismay, ¡°At least someone powerful noticed me but what about you Eleonora, did you catch anyone''s attention during the ball? Last time I checked no sane Nobleman would want to be associated with the likes of you¡± I said, deriding her. ¡°Perhaps you caught rats and insects instead!¡± I taunted.


    Her eyes twitched, irritated by my retorts whilst the laughter around us grew louder.


    I inched closer to her, surprisingly she walked backwards. In a split second, I observed the fear in her eyes.


    ¡°Now you know how it feels to be at the receiving end of insults.¡± I whispered ¡°This is just the beginning!¡± I said, my tone was dark and eery.


    She looked terrified for a moment as I backed off.


    ¡°Her Majesty has arrived!¡± Someone announced.


    Hearing that, I turned around to see the Queen approaching us¡ªsmiling warmly at her guests.


    Our eyes met for a split second, she began making her way towards me which bewildered everyone present.


    ¡°Lady Rosalind, I am so glad that you honored my invitation!¡± She said, amicably.


    ¡°The honor is mine, Your Highness!¡± I said with a curtsey.


    ¡°How are you enjoying the tea party?¡± She asked.


    I kept quiet for a moment, thinking of a nice thing to say, ¡°it is amazing, nothing like I have ever experienced!¡± I replied, slowly.


    ¡°I am glad that you are enjoying yourself!¡± She said, staring awkwardly at me. I suddenly felt subconscious.


    ¡°I heard that the Crown Prince led you to the gardens, You two are awfully close!¡±.


    The moment she said those words, I noticed everyone stares directed at me. They mumbled and whispered to themselves.


    ¡°The Crown Prince and Lady Rosalind!¡±


    ¡°Is he courting her?¡±


    ¡°I find it strange to believe!.¡±


    Hearing their whispers, I flinched. Their words had an effect on me and I hated it.


    ¡°There is nothing going on with me and the Crown Prince!¡± I said, frantically. Hoping that she and the Ladies around us would believe me.


    ¡°So, you are not attracted to him?¡± She inquired.


    The mumbling grew louder and the stares were intense.


    ¡°I. . .uh. . . I am not. Your Majesty. What happened at the ball was just a misunderstanding!¡± I stated.


    She shot me a strange look, not saying a word. I felt like a criminal being interrogated for her crimes.


    ¡°What if he is attracted to you?¡± She asked suddenly.


    My face whitened at the question as blood drained from my face. She was making my situation worse.


    ¡°That is not possible, Your Highness. He can never be attracted to me¡ªnot even in a million years!¡± I said, the pitch in my voice was louder than intended. The chattering around me grew with great intensity.


    ¡°Hmm! I will take your word for it!¡± Saying that she left, attending to her other guests.


    I let out a breath that I was holding. It felt strange to be asked questions about him especially when there can never be any romantic tension between us.


    ¡°Are you alright?¡± Someone asked.


    I turned to see Adeline, she bore a concerned demeanor as she approached me.


    ¡°Yes I am. I am just shocked by her questions that''s all!¡± I explained.


    ¡°It is okay!¡± She said with a half shrug ¡°As long as you spoke the truth!¡±.


    I was baffled by her last statement. Even she didn''t believe me.


    ¡°I spoke the truth!¡± I said firmly.


    ¡°I know and I believe you!¡± She replied casually, I was grateful that at least someone finally did ¡°And I think The Queen believes you too!¡± She added.


    I sighed ¡°I hope she does!¡±.


    * * * * *


    ¡°Did you finally talk to her?¡± He asked, walking out of the terrace into the room. Rays of the moonlight seeped through the curtains, adding a touch of light to the dark room.


    She placed the tea cup on the saucer, memories of her tea party rushed in.


    ¡°I don''t like her!¡± She said simply.


    ¡°Why?¡± He inquired, sitting on the couch across from her.


    ¡°She has no feelings for him. She is not even attracted to him and she looks like someone that cannot easily be manipulated!¡± She replied in an infuriating tone.


    ¡°So, you are giving up?¡± He frained.


    ¡°No! To control Cedric, I need to manipulate the woman he loves and in this case¡ªthe lady he is attracted to doesn''t fit the most important thing in my list!¡± She explained.


    ¡°What are you going to do now?¡± He inquired.


    ¡°We need to find someone else, someone more beautiful. A Lady that I can control and make her do our bidding. She needs to have the same goal as ours and she most importantly¡ªmust be able to seduce the Crown Prince!¡± She explained, her face brightened with the guile thought.


    ¡°You know, it will not be easy!¡± He pointed out ¡°The Crown Prince is already wary of you!¡±.


    ¡°I know, but this is the greatest chance we have since our other plans keep on flopping!¡±


    She said, her nails dug her palm as anger bubbled inside her.


    ¡°I wish you good luck!¡± He said simply.


    ¡°I don''t need luck!¡±.

 Sir Douglas

    I sighed, staring at the pages of my book, my mind wandered about. I felt bothered about something, the image of Roderick''s former master popped in my head. Suddenly, I felt a surge of rage course through me at the memory of his ugly being.


    ¡°Is everything alright, My Lady?¡± Lenora''s voice caught my attention.


    ¡°I just recalled something irritating and it enrages me that I let it roam free with a lot of money!¡± I replied, my voice tinct with ire.


    ¡°Oh dear!¡± She said. her voice was in a tad frenetic. ¡°What do you propose to do, My Lady?¡±.


    I thought for a while, an idea visualized in my head. A smile formed on my lips, I couldn''t wait to make it a reality.


    ¡°Do you remember the Knight that escorted us to the Capital the day that we brought back Roderick with us?¡± I asked.


    ¡°Yes! My Lady!¡± She replied.


    ¡°Good, I need you to set a meeting with him. I will need his help executing my plan!¡± I said.


    ¡°Of course, My Lady!¡± She dipped into a bow and exited the room.


    >>>> ¡°You require my presence, My Lady?¡± He asked, kneeling on one knee with his head lowered.


    ¡°Yes, I require your help!¡± I said simply, standing up and approached him, ¡°do you recall the annoying noble that we bought Roderick from?¡±.


    ¡°Yes, My Lady!¡±,


    ¡°Good! I need you to find a very good informant that will do an excellent job in revealing his dirty secrets. I have to know everything about him. A man like him must have a lot of skeletons in his closet and I can''t wait to let them out!¡± I stated, coldly.


    ¡°I will, My Lady!¡± He simply replied. He stood up and turned to leave.


    ¡°Make sure this assignment doesn''t reach the hearing of my Father and brothers. The last thing I want is to have them hovering about in my business!¡±.


    He gave a light affirmative nod, with a wave of my hand I dismissed him.


    * * * *


    ¡°Do you know any guild that deals with gathering information about someone?¡± He asked the bookkeeper.


    The old man turned around, the familiarity in his voice was certain. A smile formed on his lips on seeing an old friend.


    ¡°Aah! Douglas, what brings you to this part of the town?¡± He asked with much cheer.


    ¡°I need to find someone, a good informant!¡± He spoke in a whisper.


    Looking for an informant in the empire was not noted to be a good thing, people refer to an informant as a fox; they were too sly that they could not be trusted.


    Information guilds were known to be the cunniest organizations. They were referred to as ¡®Swords to the high society¡¯. The best way to ruin a Nobleman was with the use of an information guild. They bore the power to ruin or make a man with whatever data they had of him.


    ¡°There are a few information guilds, Douglas!¡¯ The old man said thoughtfully, ¡°but the one that may help you in your situation¡ªseeing that you didn''t come all this way for a visit!¡± He pointed out. Douglas avoided his hurtful gaze.Support the creativity of authors by visiting Royal Road for this novel and more.


    ¡°Which guild is it?¡± Douglas asked, he looked impatient. The sooner he was done with the task the more relaxed he will be. A part of him was glad that the terrible Nobleman would finally be ruined with whatever information the informant found but the other was anxious with the fear of being caught.


    ¡°It is called ¡®The Truth¡¯, the biggest information guild in the Empire. It has branches in every town and every city. There are probably two or three in the duchy!¡± He stated.


    ¡°Where can I find them?¡± His voice was firm at his inquiry.


    >>>>Douglas stared at the shabby building in front of him. The paint was worn out and old¡ªpeeling off from the bricks whilst the roof created a creaky noise as a light breeze whistled by. Half of the windows were broken and the sign ¡®Tavern¡¯ was worn out with a few missing letters. He could hear the laughter and chatter resonating from the building. He held his sword firmly, if worse came to worst he may have to use it.


    He recollected the remaining conversation he had with the old man as he approached the door.


    ¡°Why is it located there?¡± He asked.


    ¡°Don''t you know the familiar saying, ¡®the best place to get information is always in a tavern¡¯? And it is also the last place anyone with brains will search for!¡± He said simply.


    ¡°How do I find the informant?¡± He inquired.


    Douglas opened the door and walked in. The customers in the tavern abruptly became mute as they stared at him like he was a foreigner.


    He walked past a couple of tables and reached for the bar. As soon as he sat down, the noise began and was a bit louder than before. It felt like they were controlled by a spell which commanded them for ridiculous things like_ ¡®when to be quiet and when not to¡¯.


    As he waited, the final conversation they had replayed in his mind.


    ¡°You slip this to the bartender!¡± The old man replied, taking out an orange card and handing it to him.


    Douglas looked it over. There was no inscription, no word and not even a letter. The entire card was blank, both front and back.


    ¡°There is nothing on it!¡± He pointed out his confusion.


    ¡°Oh There is, but only the bartender can see it!¡± The old man said in a covertly tone.


    Douglas stared at him more confused than ever ¡°How?¡±.


    ¡°Let''s just say that it''s his talent. He can read words inscribed with a strange rare element, I have forgotten what it is called, actually!¡± He said thoughtfully, trying to recall the name ¡°People with that power are best for this kind of job. Just give it to him and he will do the rest!¡± He spoke in an assuring tone.


    ¡°How do you know all of this?¡± He asked the burning question.


    The old man simply shrugged, ¡°Well, when you live long enough¡ªyou will pick up a thing or two from those around you!¡±.


    ¡°What can I get you?¡± A voice asked, retrieving him back.


    Douglas turned to see an average man with brawny features, wearing an apron over his clothes approach him.


    ¡°A cup of brandy and this!¡± Douglas looked around him. When no one was looking he slipped him the card.


    The bartender gave a light nod and walked away to get his order, reading the card along the way. It read ¡®I need an informant¡¯.


    From the top terrace¡ªhe watched him. The moment he entered, his eyes were fixed on him. Seeing the same Knight from that day slip a card to one of his employees meant two things. He was sent by the Duke or he came here by his own free will.


    ¡°I still wonder why you came here to the Everhart duchy instead of staying in yours!¡± A female voice spoke from behind him. She walked closer to him, resting her back on the terrace whilst staring at him.


    ¡°I came to see how things were doing!¡± He responded simply, not peeling his gaze off the Knight.


    ¡°You know I can handle things here, right?¡± She pointed out.


    ¡°I know!¡±.


    ¡°What are you staring at anyway?¡± She asked in a curious tone, following his gaze. It landed on the strange man wearing a black attire, seated at the bar.


    ¡°Can you tell Bob to send him up?¡± He asked, walking towards the room opposite them.


    Shock flickered in her eyes at the question. ¡°Do you know him?¡±.


    He rarely requested for someone to be sent up unless he was a VIP and the man at the bar was not even close to being one.


    ¡°I have a guess about who he works for!¡± He said. Walking into the room he closed the door behind him.


    She chuckled, his behavior never stops to amaze her. She turned around and stared at the bar. Her eyes locked with the bartender''s momentarily.


    Nudging her head a little to her right. He gave a light nod, understanding her signal.


    The bartender returned to Douglas with the cup of brandy in his possession.


    ¡°Here is your order!¡± He said, setting the cup on the table.


    ¡°What about the other thing I asked for?¡± Douglas inquired, accepting the cup.


    ¡°Head upstairs, what you requested for is waiting for you!¡± He said in a whisper and left.

 Out Of Character

    His brows knitted, perplexion etched his features by the bartender''s words. He should head upstairs! What did he mean by that?. He got up and followed him to the other end of the bar.


    ¡°I was told the informant will be brought to me!¡± He said in a whisper, disappointment was written all over him.


    ¡°Yes! But your case seems different¡ªapparently!¡± He replied whilst wiping the table. ¡°You should be glad that you were sent upstairs. It means that someone of a higher class with more experience will be assigned to you!¡±.


    Douglas stared at him, everything about this place seemed wrong and dubious. His grip tightened on his sword, holding it firmly. From the corner of his eye, the bartender observed him.


    ¡°I would not do that if I were you!¡± He warned.


    Douglas let go of his sword and stared at him, bewildered by his warning.


    The bartender sighed and kept the cloth he used to clean the table, staring at him like a hopeless wanderer.


    ¡°Ninety percent of everyone here works for the guild. The other ten percent are ordinary men. So, if you pull your sword, you will be asking for a death wish and they will happily give it to you. I''d advise you, do not be stupid and do as you are told!¡± His voice held a steely edge. He left him to ponder on his words and continued with his tasks.


    Douglas looked around the tavern, seeing the men and few women in a whole different light. He could not believe that this amount of people were killers and informants. He exhaled, he had to finish this job as soon as possible.


    >>>>He stood in front of the wooden door, hesitating a little to walk in. Taking a deep breath, he pushed the door open and walked in. He was taken aback by the room''s interior decor. It looked more like an office which was odd in the establishment.


    At the far end of the room, he noticed the chair had its back at him. He walked closer as he approached it, cautiously. She heard the footsteps draw nearer.


    Tapping her nails slightly on the arm, she swiveled around on the chair and faced him.


    He drew backwards when he saw her sitted on the other side of it. The shock in his eyes was not missed by her.


    She scoffed, he was probably one of those men who thought little of women.


    She exhaled, inching closer to the table¡ªheading straight to business.


    ¡°Let''s get this over with, shall we?¡± She said in an irritating tone.


    She gestured for him to take a seat, he slowly complied with her request.


    Douglas stared at her, giving her a once-over. She looked like a woman in her mid-twenties. Her blonde hair with streaks of violet was pulled back and tied to a ponytail.


    Her deep brown eyes had seriousness etched all over it. She was pretty but he felt she was one of those women who didn''t have time for men in their lives. Well, considering the business she did, it wasn''t much of a surprise. He could tell, she wanted to be done with this business as much as he did which made him feel a little lighter.


    ¡°Who do you want to get information about?¡± She asked.


    He shook his head a bit, gathering his composure.


    ¡°I need information about this man!¡± He pulled out a sketch of the nobleman and handed it over to her.The story has been illicitly taken; should you find it on Amazon, report the infringement.


    She stared at it and smirked a bit. Of course, it would be him. Hearing rumors about him, She gathered a little data on him but never really had time to dig more about him. However, handling this job she would get every bit of information she wanted.


    ¡°Fine! I will get someone right on it!¡± She said, placing the sketch on the table.


    ¡°Great!¡± He clapped his hands together, glad that it will finally be over. ¡°How long will it take?¡±.


    She thought for a bit, pondering for an accurate answer.


    ¡°About a week or two but it usually doesn''t exceed a month!¡± She replied.


    He nodded, pulled out two pouches of coins and settled them on the table.


    ¡°That will be enough for everything, won''t it?¡± He asked, getting up.


    Using a tiny stick, she opened one of the pouches slightly, she gasped at the glittering amount of gold it held.


    As much as she hated it, she had to comply with his wishes.


    >>>> ¡°Do not accept any money from him!¡± He ordered.


    ¡°Why can''t I?¡± She asked, shocked at the sudden order.


    ¡°I can''t tell you why!¡± He replied, dropping the topic.


    ¡°Then what shall I tell him if he asks why I rejected his money?¡± She inquired with folded arms, infuriated at him.


    ¡°I am sure you will think of something!¡± He replied casually, relaxing on the couch whilst closing his eyes.


    She bit her inner cheek in annoyance, this was the first time she had to reject this amount of money. It was going to be exceedingly difficult to do it.


    ¡°I am sorry but I cannot accept your gold!¡± She said slowly, restraining herself from grabbing the pouches and running away with them.


    He furrowed his brows at her, baffled at the words she spewed.


    ¡°Why can''t you?¡± He questioned.


    She sighed. Her blood boiled hotter than larva at the words she was about to say ¡°This is your first time being here. So it is free, no money has to be paid!¡± She said with a forceful smile.


    He didn''t look convinced at her words, not wanting to pull the situation even further he agreed to let go of it. At least Lady Rosalind will be pleased that her money was returned to her, the exact amount.


    He reached out for the pouches, out of reflexes she placed her hands on them¡ªstunning him. They had a bit of a squabble with the pouches, finally she let go of them. For someone who didn''t want the money he offered, she really didn''t want to let go of it. He shot her a questioning look, she smiled forcefully at him till her cheeks hurt.


    ¡°Alright!¡± He turned around to leave, feeling ever grateful to be done with his task.


    ¡°Wait!¡± He halted and turned to her.


    She stood up and made her way towards him, Douglas eyes were fixed on her as she approached him. She was curvaceous, her clothing hugged her in all the nice places especially her leather pants. She would definitely turn heads in the streets if she walked around in those.


    ¡°I have something for you!¡± He waited patiently as she took out a crystal like object from the bag she carried.


    ¡°What is this for?¡± He inquired, pointing at it.


    ¡°For communication!¡± She said simply ¡°Give this to whoever sent you!¡±.


    His eyes flashed with astonishment. Was it so obvious that he was sent by someone?. Here he was thinking that he would pull everything off without raising suspicions.


    She noticed the shocked look on his face and found herself smiling ¡°Don''t worry I will not ask who!¡± She assured him, extending the crystal at him.


    ¡°We will keep in touch with your master!¡± She said. He accepted it subconsciously and walked out of the room, his thoughts ran wild as he tried to grasp what made him stand out.


    * * * *


    ¡°Has he finally gone?¡± He asked, walking out of the door that connected the rooms together.


    She rolled her eyes at him, the fact that she had to reject that huge amount of money¡ªenraged her.


    He ignored her childish act and headed towards the table. The sketch of the nobleman drew his attention. He picked it up and gazed at it. A smile formed in his lips. His theory was right. It was really her.


    ¡°What is putting a smile on that annoying face of yours?¡± She inquired, drawing close to him.


    ¡°I will handle this one!¡± He said, folding the paper and placing it in one of his pockets.


    She stared at him bewildered by his action.


    ¡°Okay! That''s it. First, you tell me to send him upstairs which is very absurd and then you tell me not to accept the money he offered and now you want to take over his request?¡± She asked in a high-pitched tone, staring at him like he had nuts loose in that head of his.


    He chuckled, amused at her outburst.


    ¡°You will not understand, if I told you!¡± He replied and exited the room.


    She blinked twice, staring at the closed door. He was acting out of character and that never happens. Something was off with him and she will figure out what.

 What Is Wrong Wth Me

    I gave the stone a once-over, confusion shadowing my features. I threw it and caught it in mid-air. I still couldn''t believe the use of it.


    ¡°So, you can use it to communicate with spirits or something?¡± I asked, staring at it probably hoping for it to perform a trick.


    Lenora stifled a laugh amused by my words ¡°No, My Lady. It is a communication mana stone. People use it to communicate with each other!¡±.


    ¡°Oh!¡± I said, finally grasping its use¡ªbearing the same function as a mobile phone back in my world.


    ¡°It can be used by both magic and non-magic users. These mana stones are gotten from special ore deposits. It is said that if you happen to discover an ore deposit of mana stones, you will become instantly wealthy!¡± She explained.


    ¡°How do you know so much about all this, Lenora?¡± I inquired.


    She sat down on the stool closest to me. Her face etched with longing and a bit of sadness, ¡°I grew up in a mining village. So, I know all these things by heart!¡± She replied smiling, a soft smile planted on her lips.


    ¡°Do you miss it¡ªthe village?¡± I asked, reaching out to her.


    She gave a half shrug, the saddened smile she wore was not subtle, ¡°A bit, it was joyful. . .¡± She paused ¡°. . .but I am glad to be here in the duchy and also grateful serving you, My Lady, working here gives me a sense of belonging¡±.


    I smiled warmly at her, touched by her words. I never knew much about her but I am glad that at this very moment I know a bit about her. She is the closest person to me and someone I considered a friend. I am beyond joyful that I have her by my side.


    ¡°So, how does it work?¡± I asked, drawing my attention back to the stone in my possession.


    She thought for a while before replying, ¡°Well, since it was given to you, you would have to wait for whoever sent it to reach out to you. You cannot reach out to the person since you know no information about the person.¡±


    ¡°But how will the person know that it was I who sent the Knight?¡± I inquired, ¡°I don''t think he was stupid enough to tell them I was the one who sent him!¡± I stated.


    ¡°Well, My Lady, they are informants, it will not take them that much time to figure it out and also. . .¡± She paused, staring at the stone ¡°. . . Mana stones especially communication stones can be traced, they can easily track where their stones or stone in this situation is!¡± She explained.


    My eyes widened at the knowledge I got from her, I had so much to learn about this world. Mana, Mana stones, my powers, magical creatures that I have never had an encounter with; All these intrigued me, there are a lot of things in the unknown and luckily since I have made it my lifetime goal to avoid the plot of the novel, I could learn more about them. All I had to do was to steer clear of all the main characters, well most of the main characters. I do have Roderick by my side. I tapped my finger on my chin thoughtfully. I am pretty sure that it will not ruin the plot of the novel, right?.


    I can''t send him to the Villainess, I don''t think I would be comfortable hearing that he served her as her personal Knight, I have gotten a bit fond of him. I felt a prickle in my chest at the thought.


    ¡°I am pretty sure that the novel will move on smoothly with one of its male leads missing!¡± I said to no one in particular. I rested back on the couch and threw a grape in my mouth, chewing the juicy fruit with a grin plastered on my lips.Reading on Amazon or a pirate site? This novel is from Royal Road. Support the author by reading it there.


    >>>>A week passed but I received no news or information from the informant, although I was already told that it may take up to a month before anything was brought forth.


    The days were filled with nothing but absolute boredom. My training with Edward became less frequent because of how busy he suddenly became. I had so much free time in my hand that I had nothing to do with.


    I groaned, looking heavenwards, my gaze fixed on the chandelier above me. I would have spent my time with Lenora but she had other duties in the Castle to take care of. I sighed, I can''t remember when last I was this bored.


    The communication stone I placed on the table beside me began to glow. I quickly sat upright and picked it up with much enthusiasm.


    As soon as it was in my palms, an image hovered above it like a hologram. A gasp fell from my lips as I stared at the image, enthralled by it.


    ¡°I have all the information you need for the man you wanted to look into!¡± He spoke. A cloak covered his face, concealing his facial features.


    ¡°Where can we meet?¡± I asked.


    ¡°An address will be delivered to you later but. . . before the day ends we must meet!¡± He said.


    Before I could let out a word, he vanished. I stared at the stone, lost in what actually transpired.


    ¡°We have to meet today!¡± I said still lost in his words, ¡°that means I finally have something to do!¡± I yelped happily.


    I stood up joyfully, heading towards my boudoir for a change of clothing. I paused as I picked up a gown.


    ¡°I can''t go alone, Father will never allow that. . .¡± I pondered deeply for the next course of action to take, ¡°. . . Maybe I could take someone with me, someone I could trust with secrecy, someone like . . .¡± A name popped in my head, I grinned at the thought. It would not be a horrible idea if I went out with him to see the informant.


    >>>>As I drew nearer, clashes of swords against each other and the sounds of screaming men reverberated the air. I was getting closer to the training grounds. Everything was already set, the carriage was ready and I wore the simplest gown I could find, carrying a cloak with me to conceal my appearance when we left the estate.


    ¡°What brings you to the training grounds, Lady Rosalind?¡± A deep hoarse voice spoke from behind me.


    I turned around, my gaze landed on Sir Richard approaching me with his hands clasped behind him.


    Hopefully, this time around he was not strangling or manhandling anyone, yet.


    ¡°I came to see Roderick!¡± I said simply.


    ¡°I see, well he is done with his training for the day!¡± He pointed out, ¡°Oh! Wait, not yet.¡± He added.


    I followed his gaze and it landed on Roderick, fighting against three well built men. His chest rose and fell with heavy breaths, beads of sweat formed on his forehead and ran down his face¡ªglistering his features. I watched him clutch his sword tightly, the muscles in his arms hardened with the veins popping out a bit. I was mesmerized by how much he had grown. He was definitely different from the first time we met. He was stronger and livelier than before. His eyes blazed with fury as he attacked the men, avoiding their attacks and delivering his without much effort.


    He was extremely derf and was very much ardent to win. He struck the man on his left with his sword. His strength pushed him to the ground. The man in the middle lost his sword the moment their swords clashed against each other.


    The last man standing was a bit difficult to handle but Roderick maneuvered the situation and won. I found myself clapping when he did, yelping happily at him. He must have heard the sound of my voice. Our eyes locked instantly. He jogged towards where I stood.


    ¡°Well done, Roderick. You are excelling in your training as the days go by!¡± Sir Richard spoke proudly and patted his shoulders before leaving us.


    ¡°You did exceedingly well, Roderick!¡± I said beaming at him.


    ¡°Thank you, My Lady!¡± He replied, ¡°May I ask what brings you here, My Lady?¡±.


    ¡°You!¡± I said suddenly, shock flashed in his emerald eyes at my word. I blushed slightly, embarrassed at my forwardness.


    ¡°You are the reason why I came to the training grounds!¡± I added nervously, ¡°I came here because I need you to escort me outside the Estate to the capital to meet an abrupt acquaintance!¡± I prattled.


    He nodded slowly to my words, ¡°Alright, My Lady but will it be okay if I change to something a bit more appropriate first?¡± He inquired.


    I stared at him. My eyes trailed to his shirt. It was wet with sweat and stuck to his body. His hardened muscles were visible through the shirt, I could not stop myself from staring at how brawny he was.


    ¡°Why would you want to change?¡± The question escaped from my lips. I was spellbound by his features.


    ¡°What?¡±.


    ¡°I mean, sure you can change!¡± I corrected quickly, gesturing for him to do so. He turned around and ran off.


    I let out a deep breath when he left ¡°What is wrong with me?¡± I asked. My cheeks heated with embarrassment.

 The Informant

    ¡°Where are we going, My Lady?¡± Roderick asked. We walked deeper into the capital, wearing cloaks to conceal our faces. The buildings around us seemed to be scarce the further we moved. It made me ponder, where the so-called building was.


    ¡°I have no idea!¡± I stated. I stared at the piece of paper with me, looking at the sketch of a building which appeared to be a bookstore. The strange piece of paper I held was what the informant sent me.


    I had no idea how it got to my room. When I was done with searching for a simple outfit to wear, I returned to the room and saw the piece of paper lying on my bed. With words inscribed on it which read ¡®Let¡¯s meet in this building!¡¯ and a drawing of a wooden building which looked more like a bookstore.


    I peeled my gaze from it, vetting the buildings around us. A building which bore a resemblance to the sketch in the paper pulled my curiosity the most. I grabbed Roderick''s hand and we walked towards it.


    We halted, standing in front of the building. I retrieved the paper I had and stared at it. I looked at the building once more, It was exactly like the drawing.


    ¡°Let''s go!¡± I said about to head in. Roderick stuck out his arm in front of me¡ªprotectively, taking me by surprise.


    ¡°My Lady, may I lead the way?¡± He asked.


    ¡°Alright!¡± I replied.


    He walked closer, placing his hand on the doorknob he pushed the door open cautiously and walked in.


    I followed him quietly inside the building. Silence hovered around us as we searched the building, nothing but bookshelves surrounded us. From the outdated rusty windows the rays of the sunlight seeped in, radiating the vast room.


    ¡°There is no one here, My Lady!¡± Roderick pointed out.


    ¡°I know, he did say that he will be here, where is. . .!¡± I paused as the front door was pushed open calling my attention. He walked in wearing a cloak over his head.


    He closed the door behind him and approached us.


    ¡°Are you the informant?¡± I asked.


    ¡°I am!¡± Saying that he removed the cloak.


    I gawked at the man before me. His silver gray hair radiating under the sunlight giving off a luminous glow, his hazel eyes stared at me with mixed emotions.


    ¡°I am the one that you spoke to earlier today!¡± I said lowering my cloak, revealing myself ¡° This is my personal Knight, Roderick!¡± I introduced.


    Roderick gave a light wave whilst the informant nodded.


    ¡°What did you find on him?¡± I inquired.


    He took out a leather book and leafed through the pages, placing it on the nearest table. We gathered around the table and he began.


    ¡°He is no nobleman but he is a well known figure in the black market. His name is Bennett Laurent, He. . .¡±


    ¡°Wait! Did you just say Bennett Laurent?¡± Roderick asked, cutting him off. He stared at me confused and astonished all at once.


    I facepalmed, why did I forget about Roderick''s past with him?.


    ¡°Can you excuse us for a moment?¡± I asked, he gazed at us for a while wearing a strange look before walking off.


    ¡°Odd!¡± I said softly. The look he had unsettled me.


    ¡°What are you planning, My Lady?¡± He asked, concern shadowing his eyes.


    I sighed, avoiding his gaze. ¡°Well, I sent a Knight to hire an informant to dig out some information from him!¡±.


    ¡°Why? He is a dangerous man!¡± He pointed out.


    ¡°That is why he has to be stopped. Who knows the terrible things he has done? The more he is left to wander free in this Empire the more dangerous he becomes!¡± I said, leaving the part of me being bored and having nothing to do in my speech.


    He let out a breath, his concern was palpable.


    ¡°So what do you plan to do with the information?¡±.


    I thought for a while before replying. ¡°Ruin him and let the authorities handle the rest!¡± I said a bit unsure.


    ¡°Alright! But I will help you, My Lady!¡±


    I beamed at him, glad that he was onboard.


    I gestured for the informant to return. He approached us and resumed his briefing.


    ¡°He is a well known slave trader and does most of his trading in the basement of an abandoned building in the duchy!¡±.


    ¡°Slave trader? Didn''t my Father dissolve the law of slave trading in his duchy?¡± I asked. There was a glint in my eyes as a plan began to formulate.Unauthorized tale usage: if you spot this story on Amazon, report the violation.


    ¡°He did but people still do it in secret!¡± The informant replied.


    I smirked, ¡°I have found a way to ruin him, what is the penalty for slave trading?¡±


    ¡°Execution!¡± Roderick replied.


    ¡°That''s more than perfect!¡± I replied beaming, I turned to the informant ¡°Where is the abandoned building located?¡±.


    * * * *


    Once the door was closed shut. She quickly got up from the bed and headed towards her boudoir. Quickly, she put on her disguise. She looked at the mirror as she tied her hair to a ponytail and a scarf above her nose, concealing most of her facial features except her eyes.


    She walked quietly to the door which led to the enormous hallway¡ªwaiting patiently until nothing but silence was perceived.


    Pushing the door slightly open enough for her to slip through. She tiptoed into the hallway, closing the door silently behind her. Stealthily, she walked across the hallway, walked down the stairs and headed straight to the door that led to the gardens.


    Once her feet touched the wet grasses, she took in a deep breath__enjoying the cool night breeze. She couldn''t stay out there for long, ¡®cause of fear of being caught by the night guards. Rosalind walked deeper into the gardens, running towards their meeting point.


    She rested her head against the old tree, her heart pounding in her chest. The feeling within her was exhilarating. It has been so long since she felt this way. She panted heavily as she waited for his arrival.


    Abruptly, she heard footsteps approach her direction. Without much thought she hid behind the tree.


    ¡®It was probably a night guard doing his usual patrol!¡¯ she thought. Closing her eyes, she waited patiently for the stranger to walk past the tree but instead it seemed to be drawing closer. Clenching her fist till her knuckles whitened¡ªshe sucked in a breath. There was only one thing she could do, she had to take him out!.


    As the stranger drew nearer she prepared herself to attack.


    ¡°My Lady! My Lady!¡± A familiar voice called out to her in a whisper.


    She let out a breath, realizing who it was. She walked out of her hiding spot and approached him. He was startled seeing her.


    ¡°Roderick, finally you are here!¡± She said with relief. ¡°Did anyone follow you?¡±.


    He shook his head, ¡°No, My Lady!¡±


    ¡°Good!¡± She looked around her surroundings, vetting for something. ¡°So, where is it?¡±.


    ¡°Right here, My Lady!¡± He walked past her, straight to the vines that covered the wall. He slowly pushed the vines away revealing the shortened wall.


    ¡°This is the place the Knights spoke of. The guards on duty rarely monitor this area, that''s what makes it easier for someone to sneak in and sneak out of the Estate without being caught!¡± He explained.


    Her eyes widened, shocked by his revelation. She walked closer to him, placing her hand on the wall. She could tell it was definitely climbable.


    She took some steps back whilst he watched her. Taking powerful leaps, she held on to one of the bricks which stuck out__using it as a boost. Rosalind placed some weight on her other hand which held the surface of the wall and climbed over, grunting a little as she landed with a light thud.


    She smirked, feeling complacent of how agile she was. Roderick climbed over without much effort, landing on his two feet.


    A horse without a rider pulling a wooden cart rode towards them.


    ¡°Right on time!¡± She said as they climbed in the moving cart.


    They lowered their heads as the horse rode out of the estate, avoiding being spotted by anyone.


    Once they arrived at their destination, the horse halted in front of an abandoned building. Roderick jumped down and helped her out of it.


    He watched them closely as they approached the building. They were a few feet from it when suddenly he grabbed her hand and pulled her aside. Roderick acted fast, he grabbed the other arm and pulled her closer to him. His gaze landed at the informant, staring at him, anger clouded his features.


    The informant let go of her after a few minutes but Roderick didn''t.


    Rosalind''s gaze shifted from the informant and then to Roderick who held her arm possessively. Her cheeks flushed a little. This was the first time ever, they held hands. Noticing that his hand still held hers, he quickly let go. A wave of embarrassment surged through him.


    ¡°Have you vetted the area?¡± She asked after an awkward silence.


    ¡°Yes, it is highly guarded. The best way in is through a door at the back which leads to the basement but it is guarded by two men!¡± He explained.


    She walked closer to the building, resting against the concrete wall. She popped her head a bit and spotted the two men armed with swords, guarding a door.


    She turned to him. ¡°Roderick, can you take care of the guards?¡± She asked.


    ¡°Yes, My Lady!¡± He said grimly. His expression grew dark as he pulled out his sword. He walked past them and walked towards the guards.


    ¡°Hey, Who are. . .¡± Prior to finishing the sentence, Roderick struck him. He fell to the ground, his body drew cold as blood drained from him. His partner was about to retaliate but his throat got severed and he too slumped as he struggled to breath. Air left his throat as his vision blurred, drawing him closer to the darkness.


    ¡°Maybe I should have been clear about the no killing part!¡± She said thoughtfully, once the noise died down.


    They walked out of their hiding place and approached him.


    ¡°Good job, Roderick but can you please reduce your killing intent?¡± She pleaded. The sight and smell of blood made her nauseous.


    ¡°Yes, My Lady!¡± he replied solemnly.


    The informant retrieved his bow and arrows preparing to attack. They exchanged looks whilst nodding their heads in agreement. She took a deep breath and kicked the door down. It flew in, calling the attention of the guards.


    The informant released a few arrows hitting the nearest guards whilst Rosalind released a wave of searing flames¡ªclearing out their path. Half-burned unconscious men sprawled on the ground, letting out painful groans. They walked in, venturing deeper into the dark parts of the basement.


    The path led to an enlarged underground area filled with lifesize cages of people. Women and children filled them, bearing frightened looks as they stared at them. They looked so sick and weak¡ªworse than Roderick when she first found him. The slaves had mixed emotions when they saw them, pondering if they were friends or foes.


    Her eyes grew fiery with rage as she stared at them. Anger coursed through her. Bennett Laurent deserved a fate worse than an execution.


    Quickly, she rushed to the nearest cage. Releasing her flame on the metal door, it cascaded down to the ground to a puddle of melted metal. She was careful not to hurt the slaves inside. Rosalind walked in and approached the huddled terrified slaves.


    ¡°You are all free now!¡± She said firmly. ¡°Walk through the hallway and it will lead you outside!¡± She instructed.


    They slowly got up and did as they were told, bearing warm smiles with relief washing their brightened faces. At last, they were free!. She left the empty cage and went to the next, melting down the metal door and repeating the same words to them.


    As she did this Roderick and the informant took care of the guards that trooped in. The informant shot them with his arrows while Roderick tried not to kill them with his sword.


    ¡°Roderick!¡± She yelled as she aided a sick slave to stand.


    ¡°Yes, My Lady!¡± He replied whilst knocking one of the guards unconscious. He ran towards her waiting for her command.


    ¡°You know where he is. Find him and make sure he does not escape!¡± She commanded.


    ¡°I will, My Lady!¡± He said firmly, his demeanor was sinister as he gripped his sword firmly.


    She noticed the look on his face and was not convinced that he would keep to his word like he did earlier.


    ¡°Remember your promise!¡± She said softly, placing her hand on his. His eyes softened as he stared at her. ¡°You promised not to let your anger get the better of you! You have to keep to it!¡±.


    He sighed, ¡°Yes, My Lady!¡±.


    ¡°Now go!¡± She ordered.


    He turned around and left, running towards the exact place he knew his former master would be.

 My Strange Master

    He climbed the stairs drawing closer to his destination, striking every single man along the way. His expression¡ªmore foreboding than ever.


    Horrible memories of the past flooded in, memories he buried over the past few months. They rushed into his mind like an endless flowing river. Rage took over, pushing out the promise he made earlier to her. The anger within him welled up as he drew closer to the door located at the far end of the horrible hallway. A hallway which tormented his childhood. To think that he would return once more to destroy the man who ruined his childhood felt laughable.


    The door flung open and a guard rushed in__taking him by surprise.


    ¡°Sir! We are under attack! You need to leave now. Almost everyone is gone!¡± He yelled.


    His blood drew cold at the words, his arms trembled as he began gathering the leather pouches of money, tucking them into his suit.


    ¡°Sir! You have to. . .!¡± He stopped, looking down he noticed a shadow slowly towering over him. He turned around, quivering in fear.


    With a wave of his sword he slashed at him, tearing his skin as his blood spewed all over. The guard dropped to the floor dead, his eyes still had the horrified look in them.


    Bennett Laurent shivered in fear, staring at his sins which stood in front of him. Quickly, he ran to the door which led outside and dashed out, running towards the thick forest.


    Roderick stared at the running figure impassively, slowly he made his way towards the door and followed him. Walking with light steps as death led the way.


    At the other side of the building, Rosalind and the informant helped the slaves escape through the door, waiting patiently for every single one of them to leave.


    The informant looked around the building, his eyes landed on the running blob of a man and what seemed to be like Roderick walking towards him. He didn''t seem to be himself.


    ¡°Oh no!¡± He said.


    ¡°What?¡± Rosalind asked. She walked closer to him, following his gaze, it landed at Roderick.


    She cursed under her breath, ¡°Can you handle things, here?¡± She asked.


    Before he could reply she ran off, leaving him and the slaves. She had to prevent him from killing the blob.


    Bennett Laurent looked back as he ran, the man approached him. His eyes were portentous as he walked towards him¡ªwith every step he took, it felt like death drew closer to him.


    He didn''t pay much attention to what was in front of him and tripped on a twig. His legs felt heavy as he tried to stand. Roderick drew closer to him, apathetic. Indifferent. Cold. Dark. He looked heartless as he slashed his sword in mid air sending blood to the ground¡ªstaining the grasses. He pointed his sword at the sweating man, preparing himself to kill.


    She ran as fast as she could¡ªhoping to stop him before he strikes. The training with Edward from a few days ago recalled in her head.


    >>>>¡°Materializing one''s what?¡± She asked, bewildered by his words.


    ¡°Materializing one''s flame, Rosalind!¡± He repeated the words he said earlier. He turned to face the tree farther from them and stretched out his hands.


    ¡°It is not an easy move. For you to do that you must be a master at controlling your flame. If you can''t control it, you could risk burning yourself with it if you try this move!¡± A gasp fell from her lips at the words.


    He smiled at her, ¡°Don''t worry, I will make sure that it will not happen to you!¡± He assured her.


    She nodded, encouraging him to continue.


    ¡°First, you must grasp your flame!¡± He said firmly, concentration clouded his features. Rosalind noticed a wisp of blue flame materialize in his hand. The wisps grew longer__forming a strange shape. As she stared longer, it began to shape into a bow. He chuckled as he stared at the bow made of his blue flame, it radiated under the sunlight, beaming with power¡ªhis power. Ensure your favorite authors get the support they deserve. Read this novel on the original website.


    Rosalind was dumbfounded at what he created. He held the bow in one hand with the other hand he created an arrow and settled it comfortably on the bow.


    Taking an archery stance, He shot the arrow at the tree. The arrow hit the tree, igniting into flames it incinerated it.


    They took a step back, stunned at the burning tree.


    ¡°Maybe I should have reduced the power of the arrow!¡± He said, staring at his hand.


    ¡°That was amazing, Edward!¡± She yelled, enthralled by the move.


    He gave a light shrug. ¡°It took me a few years to learn that move!¡± He stated.


    ¡°What?¡±.


    ¡°Leo learned it after a year!¡± He pointed out.


    ¡°An entire year!¡± She yelled, astounded by the duration.


    ¡°Yes!¡± He said simply, ¡°So, I understand if you don''t get it right away!¡±. He patted her shoulder.


    >>>>Rosalind ran as fast as her legs could carry her. She had to stop him before he could strike.


    Roderick raised his sword in the air. It felt like time slowed down as he lowered the sword to strike him.


    Without much thinking, she ran in front of him. It happened quickly that it was difficult to grasp what occured. Wisps of flames appear in her fingertips! They grew larger merging with themselves___materializing into a blazing sword. Their swords clashed against each other, sending a wave of energy to their surroundings.


    Grunting, she held her ground. Her strength was no match for his.


    ¡°Roderick!¡± She struggled to say.


    His lashes fluttered hearing his name¡ªhe stared at her.


    Realization dawned on him. Shock etched his features. Suddenly, he dropped his sword, his hands trembled with fear.


    He almost killed her!


    She took a deep breath, her sword ebbed away as she stared at the petrified blob on the ground. His entire being quivered with fear!.


    Rosalind turned around and noticed the informant approach them with some Knights surrounding him.


    She watched as they pulled Bennett up and dragged him along with them. He was still reeling in shock to struggle with them.


    >>>> ¡°Thank you for everything!¡± She told him once everything got settled. ¡°You were really a great help to us!¡±.


    ¡°I just did what was right!¡± He replied. He looked at Roderick who had been quiet all night. His gaze was glued to the ground, melancholy etched his features.


    ¡°Will he be okay?¡± He asked.


    ¡°He will be fine!¡± She assured him.


    He bid her farewell and left them, walking the opposite way into the night.


    Rosalind turned to the silent Roderick. He hasn''t spoken a word since the Knights took Bennett Laurent away.


    She was about to speak when suddenly, he got down on one knee¡ªshocking her. He lowered his head¡ªavoiding her gaze.


    ¡°I am sorry, My Lady, I broke my promise to you. . . I almost killed him and could have hurt you. I don''t deserve to be by your side!¡± He said firmly. His voice was tinged with hurt and anger.


    ¡°It is okay, Roderick!¡± She said.


    He raised his head and looked at her, surprisingly she smiled at him. Quickly, he averted his eyes from her.


    ¡°I am not mad!¡± She admitted. ¡°Actually, I am grateful that you did!¡±


    ¡°What!¡±


    ¡°If you didn''t almost break your promise, I would not have done the almost impossible!¡± She said happily, excitement flowed within her.


    He stared at her, too shocked to speak.


    ¡°All is forgiven, Roderick!¡± She said warmly, gesturing for him to stand. ¡°We have to head back before anyone finds out that we are missing!¡±.


    She walked past him, skipping in delight at her new breakthrough.


    He stared at her, watching her hum happily to a tune. She was a very strange Lady and was full of surprises. A smile played at the corner of his lips as he watched her, his strange master.


    * * * *


    He looked around him__not a single creature was in sight, nothing but an empty alley and darkness surrounded him. Once the coast was clear. He reached out for the luminous necklace he wore and slowly removed it.


    The glow and magic faded as the stone left his neck. His silver gray hair transposed to black and fell to his shoulders, his hazel eyes turned to deep violet. He ran his hand through his hair, tousling it.


    ¡°What an eventful night!¡± He said, memories of the night flooded in. She was really peculiar and he was oddly drawn to her.


    ¡°Did you have fun?¡± He turned around, astounded to see her standing behind him. A strange smile smoldered on her lips.


    ¡°Have you been following me?¡± He asked, annoyed that he had been caught.


    ¡°In a way, I have!¡± She replied, walking closer to him. ¡°I have to say, I am surprised to see you act out of character. . .¡± She paused, staring at her fingers, ¡°. . .for her!¡±.


    He studied her, not saying a word ¡°What are you trying to say?¡±.


    She merely shrugged. ¡°Nothing! Just be careful. I hope she doesn''t find out who you truly are, Duke Alaric!¡± She said in a whisper, her eyes held a strange look. A faint smile plastered on her lips.


    She turned on her heel and walked off while he watched her shadow grow indistinct.