Chapter one is here. Once again, I own NOTHING!!!! This chapter is set to the song "Innocence" by Avril Lavigne.
Chapter One
I remember little of my early years. Vague images flit through my memory, but none of them remain long enough for me to analyze. Perhaps if I could remember those things, then I would be able to understand myself in the present. I try not to remember. It hurts too much. I'm dying inside……… but no one shall ever see.. I give you now this journal, this testament of my life. I finished compiling it all last night. Some of it was written in fine leather-bound books, while other portions were written on tree leaves or scraps of toiletry cloth. This is the story of my life, the life of Arya Drottningu, princess, warrior, lover, and soul.
In the month of Antarla, the first day, year .544
My name is Arya, princess of Ellesmera. I am thirteen years of age and you, my diary, are my father's present to me. Today is my day of birth, also the summer solstice. My mother says that I should write down my thoughts and daily events in this book so that I may become a more proficient writer, though I secretly suspect that all she really wants is to read my thoughts. I shall have to ask Rider Brom to help me guard you with a protective spell so that she will not covertly discover my innermost secrets.
It is late, so I shall quickly recount the day's events for your benefit.
I awoke late this morning. The air smelled strangely of flowers. I discovered later that my father had ordered them to be placed into my room during the night so that when I awoke, I would be greeted by a pleasant aroma. I do so love being specially treated.
I dressed in the new tunic that Aunt Niduen had made for me. It was deep purple with a black sash tied around it, though I rather wish that the entire dress had been black. I do love to wear black. It is my favorite color. Mother hates it when I wear black. I do believe that she thinks me to be disturbed. Father on the other hand says that, since I look beautiful in everything, I am at perfect liberty to wear whatever I choose. That tends to start many arguments with Mother.
I left my room and went across the hall to my parent's room. They sometimes eat breakfast in their chambers. Today I decided to join them instead of eating with Drea, the kitchen maid. I knocked on the door and, after a few moments, my father's firm voice called out, "Enter."
I skipped happily into the room. "Good morning, Father, Mother."
"Good morning, my little princess. Did you enjoy the flowers?" I always enjoyed Father's cheerful tones. He was always such fun. But lately, he had seemed to me to be greatly troubled. This war was taking its toll on him. Mother forbade any talk of battle in my presence. Still, I was able to gather my fair share of news. However, from what I could tell, things weren't going well.
I sat down to a raspberry tart and a cup of blueberry tea. As I chewed, Mother talked to me, though it would be a falsehood if I told you that I really even listened. After breakfast, Father and I went on a walk. We had a serious conversation which began with a simple question.
"Arya, do you care for your mother?"
I was taken off guard by his bluntness, but still I answered, "Yes Father, of course I do"
"Good, because I am going to tell you something that may be hard for you to accept." I said nothing, and he continued. "The enemy moves to strike Ilirea. I believe that the resistance forces will be outnumbered." He paused, seeming hard-pressed to try to gather his emotions. "Arya…..Arya, if I am killed and our armies defeated, promise me that you will look after your mother. Promise that you will care for her and, despite your differences, will try to sincerely get along. I tell you this Arya. Your mother loves you. Even if she is a bit oppressing at times, she loves you with all her heart. As do I. Promise me darling, please."
His words frightened me more than I let on. But I would be a good soldier and pretend that I was fine. Though I was not and I knew it.
"Of course I will care for her, Father, but nothing will befall you. I am sure of it." I tried to sound more certain than I felt.
He smiled at me ruefully. "Certainly, Arya. But all the same, I want you to be aware of the danger."
I nodded. He then said, "Very well then darling, let's see if we can't find some flowers to pick for your mother." With that, he returned to his jovial self. I doubt, however, that I shall ever forget the look in his eyes as he talked with me today.
The rest of the day followed in an orderly manner. I received many more gifts and a large feast was held in my honor. I danced with many important people, and was especially pleased to dance with Tristan. He is a boy about my age whom I think is particularly handsome. Mother says that he is dishonest and mischievous, but I don't care. I really need to ask Rider Brom to instruct me in a spell that would block these words from prying eyes. It would be disastrous if Mother discovered my affection for Tristan. I must get to bed now for it grows late. I hear Mother and Father coming to say goodnight.
How was it? Need feedback. Please! I know you can't see me, but I'm down on my knees!