This is a story based off of Fable 3 from Lionhead Studios. I do not own the characters or the game. Of course, I have changed the attributes of the prince who I named Erick. I also go a little more in depth with his thoughts and feelings. I have taken dialogue straight from the game and I tried to copy it word for word. I have also added quite a lot of dialogue for Erick since the prince doesn't talk much.

This is based on the gameplay and starts right after the into in game. (I might put an introduction in later.) I haven't played Fable 2 yet, (getting it in the mail) and I haven't finished Fable 3. I know, I'm pathetic. So i might go back and update some chapters as I get further on or get new story ideas, but I will be sure to let you guys know.

(Just so you know, the sentences that are italicized are Erick's thoughts or if they have quotation marks then they are the words of random people that Erick overhears. it's a new thing I'm trying out and it may be a little bit confusing but that is the style of this book and will come in later in the story.)

Enjoy!

Edit: 5-8-14
Hey there, I'm not dead; just been in the middle of moving. Anywho, I have revised the first few chapters as I have been refreshing myself on my own story. heh heh. So I am going to update the first one and see what you guys think of it. I have an entirely new introduction and hopefully have weeded out some of the unnecessary tidbits for you. I hope to keep updating the chapters as I go until I get to the most recent update so we can re-read it together, yay!

Everything is still pretty hectic around here but I will do my best to update more frequently. Sorry for the unexpected hiatus.

Um... Enjoy!


A powerful hero stood atop the highest mountain, a mighty sword clutched in his muscular and scared hand. His silken hair matched the color of the distant sky and swept over his stern brow. Below him stretched the land of Albion with glistening cites and lush forests. The prosperous land called to him, its many adventures awaiting. Its dangerous foes waiting to be vanquished, and riches just begging to be found. From the shimmering lakes to the crumbling caves, the world was his to conquer.

The languid wind spoke softly in his ears, promising glory and valor beyond imagination. The all-knowing sun blazed across the vivid sky, showing him paths still to be discovered.

This was the hero of legend; the greatest man since the warriors of the Old Kingdom. Nothing could match his wisdom and strength. The earth bent to his will.

This land was his, and nothing could take it away.

A cold wind rose up from the west, making the trees snap and the mountain quake. The ground cleaved in two, sucking the ocean and its surrounding lands into the abyss. An inky cloud spewed from its depths like a serpent, engulfing the sun and plunging the land into darkness.

The hero stood helpless against the onslaught of shadow. He watched in horror as all he knew was destroyed in a heartbeat. His mighty sword fell to the ground like a discarded twig. The sound of the screaming earth was drowned out only by the piercing laughter that came from below.

The ground vanished and the hero was sucked into the eternal night. Even with all his power he was helpless as he tumbled deeper and deeper into the unforgiving chasm.

Erick's eyes snapped open. He was still in his room. There were no bandits to fight or monsters to slay, no forests to wander or caves to explore; just the same thick carpet and looming bookshelves. Just like it had always been.

His eyes scanned the many mahogany furnishings and the silken drapes, half expecting a bandit to be hidden somewhere among them.

The young prince let out a relieved sigh and dropped his head back onto the thick feather pillows. He thought he'd gotten over those childish dreams. It had been years since he fantasized about being a Hero like in the old legends. He'd long since surrendered to his uneventful life of regal tranquility.

He closed his weary eyes again and nestled deeper in his silky sheets. Just as he was starting to drift back into an innocent slumber, the thick red curtains opened and the overcast sky illuminated his spacious room.

"What a dreadfully sorry sight," a voice said in an exasperated tone. "Such a beautiful day to waste in bed, don't you agree?"

"What?" Erick moaned, turning over just enough to see his butler standing by the window. "Oh, go away Jasper," he said indignantly.

"Now that is hardly the response of a prince," Jasper replied undaunted. He was a slender old man, but not enough so to make him frail. His pure white hair was properly groomed and a long curl was pushed back from his wrinkled forehead.

"I'm afraid that it is time to rise. Now with your permission, I shall wake your sleeping companion." Jasper pulled back the covers to reveal a gorgeous, long haired Border Collie. "Ah yes, one's heart soars before such regal bearing."

Erick slothfully turned over and ran his hand through the dog's clean, black and white fur.

"I trust you both slept well. You have a busy day ahead," Jasper said.

"Come on Sam. If I have to get up, so do you." The dog enthusiastically hopped off the luxurious bed and sat at Jasper's feet with pleading brown eyes.

"It's not going to work. Don't look at me like that. Oh very well. Good dog." Jasper bent down and gently patted the dog's head, carefully not to let it lick his freshly washed white gloves.

Erick emerged from the comfortable bed and gave a loud groan as he stretched.

"What a pair," Jasper commented, shaking his head. "The kingdom is doomed."

"Now don't be like that Jasper," Erick replied, removing his nightcap to reveal short, wavy blue hair. "I'm not that hopeless am I?"

Jasper gave a light grunt and walked away. "Now sir, If you would follow me, perhaps we can find some appropriate clothes for today's activities."

Erick looked at his dog, which cocked its head. "Fine, whatever you say." He drowsily walked over to where Jasper stood in front of the fireplace.

"Lady Elise is most eager to speak to you this morning, and is waiting for you in the garden. No doubt you will want to look your best for your young friend," Jasper said with a knowing tone. Erick and Elise grew up together and it was no secret to his butler that Erick had some deeper feelings than just friendship for the young maiden.

"I guess I shouldn't keep her waiting then. So, what have you got for me?"

"Lady Elise is a delightful girl, but I don't believe your pajamas will do much to impress her. I have taken the liberty of arranging two suitable outfits, if you would care to choose."

The mannequins stood in front of the roaring fire. The one to the right was an exquisite blue and white suit with gold trim and white gloves; a little fancier then he was used to. The other one looked more practical, but a little too much so. It looked almost like a coal miner's garb. He didn't much care for the pompous look, but he didn't want to look like a peasant either. After a few more seconds of pondering, he took the fancier clothes.

"Ah, splendid choice. I'm sure Lady Elise will approve."

"Thanks," Erick muttered as he slipped them off the mannequin and went behind the screen to change.

"I have a feeling that Lady Elise is concerned about your brother's latest actions," Jasper said as Erick started to get dressed.

"Oh really? What has he done now?"

"I will leave it to her to fill you in on the details," Jasper said, sounding like he wanted to avoid the conversation altogether.

"So, how do I look?" Erick asked, stepping into the light of the fire.

"Ah yes, much less lethargic." Jasper said, coming forward to straighten his collar and tame his ruffled hair. One lock still stuck out and hung over his forehead, but in the end he let be."Perhaps you ought to make your way to her now."

Erick was almost out the door when Jasper spoke again. "I would recommend avoiding your brother today. King Logan is rumored to be in an ill temper."

That seemed to be the only mood that Logan was capable of during the past few weeks, but if Jasper was mentioning it, then it must be worse than usual.

Erick pushed open the doors and inhaled a deep breath of the semi-fresh air. It was nice to be out of his stuffy chamber, but the tinge of industrial fumes detracted from its splendor.

"Have a good day sir," Jasper said as he left.

"Will do. Bye Jasper," he replied with a drowsy wave.

Erick moved though the double doors and began walking across the cobblestone terrace. Two soldiers in red military uniforms saluted and offered a stiff "greetings prince" as he passed. "Good day," he said with a nervous smile. He hated it when they did that, it was rather embarrassing. A nice hello would be preferred. But that was to be expected with him being prince and all, but he certainly didn't act the part. At times he felt like a jester rather than the king's brother.

When Erick got to the bottom of the stairs he and stopped to admire Logan's statue which was situated in such a way that it could be seen from anywhere in the garden. It stood on a large pedestal, leaning on an elegant sword and one arm raised to point at something no one else could see. Its face was set in a stern look, like a general on the battlefield.

When he closed his eyes he could see Logan's chiseled face and sleek black hair. He had the elegant physique that every king should have. The only thing the marked his perfect face was a long scar over the left side his mouth, which was finely carved into the statue's countenance. Erick had once imagined himself as king, but he could never see himself looking as noble as his brother. He was just an awkward young boy that was too afraid to even go outside Bowerstone.

"Ah yes, the king's sibling," a baron said offhandedly to another noble, "I'd forgotten about him."

Erick blushed and turned away, pretending that he hadn't heard. It was a common occurrence to be sure, but that didn't make it hurt any less. Most of his life he had been forgotten in the Logan's shadow. He would be luck to even get mentioned in the history books.

The young prince found himself stopping to admire the garden quite often. He liked being out in the open but the garden, even with its exquisite flowers and finely trimmed hedges, got boring after a while. He paused at the garden's centerpiece; a large cylindrical building, its stone walls a welcoming bronze in the morning sun. He felt particularly drawn to it at that moment, which was unusual considering that he stubbornly ignored it most of the time.

"The royal mausoleum is closed by the order of King Logan," a solider standing guard announced.

"Even for me?" Erick asked. He didn't want to go in there, in fact he dreaded it, but the fact that Logan thought it necessary to declare it off limits made him feel a little uneasy.

"No one may enter the tomb," the solider stated. "Your brother has decreed it sir."

"Alright, I got it," Erick said, throwing his hands up in defeat. "You don't have to tell me twice."

Lately the castle had seemed so restricting. He wished that he could go see the vast forests to the east that were visible on clear days, but the world outside the castle was terrifying. He had barely even stepped into Bowerstone market and he was high tailing it back to his secluded bedroom. The kind of people there were just so awful and filthy, both in body and mind.

He was wandering aimlessly when his dog Sam suddenly ran off. He turned to see Elise standing by the garden fence. Her long auburn hair was held back by a jeweled headband and ran down her back in large ringlets. Her simple purple and tan dress looked like a blooming flower; so alluring and sweet, but too precious to pick.

Elise got down on one knee and scratched behind the dog's ears as it came running up to her. "Oh, brave knight, have you come to protect me?" she said with a gentle laugh. "You big softie, you'd be rubbish in a fight, wouldn't you?"

"I'll protect you my lady!" Erick announced proudly, coming forward with a broad smile.

"Hmm, I don't know. You don't look so tough either," she teased, standing up and placing a hand on her cocked hip. She gave a light hum as she tapped a finger against her lips. "Perhaps you could give me a demonstration of your abilities?"

She looked at him with dazzling chestnut eyes and a tempting smile. Should he kiss her? Was now a good time? What if she didn't feel the same way about him?

He didn't have to tell her now. He could always wait until later when he felt more comfortable. He figured that he was moving too fast, and decided to play it safe with a friendly hug. He held her tightly and gently laid his face into her soft hair. He breathed in her sweet scent; a light mix of strawberries and roses. He embraced her for a second longer, then gently let go and backed away.

"How's that?" Erick asked with a smirk.

"I suppose you'll have to do."

"Then that's good enough for me."

"I thought you'd never get up," Elise said, smacking him playfully on the shoulder. "Did Jasper tell you I wanted to speak to you?"

"Yes, did something happen?" Elise's tone frightened him. It sounded like something serious. Definitely not what he was hoping for.

"I'm not sure. But everyone in the castle seems to be upset with your brother. More than usual."

Erick looked down and gave a heavy sigh, crossing his hands behind his back.

"And its even worse down in the city," Elise continued, stepping up to the fence railing. Erick reluctantly followed. He hated looking over the wall, even so much that he avoided the outskirts of the castle garden. Huge smokestacks reached up to the sky, spewing dark gray plumes. The houses and factories were dull, and almost the same shade of grey as the smoke. Do nobody bother to clean them? Even commoners must have some sense of propriety. The trees in the distance were hidden by the thick smoke, hiding all beauty that could possibly contrast the horrid sight.

"You hear such terrible stories. Listen," Elise urged as he joined her. "They say a factory worker was executed this morning. I'm sure it's only a rumor, but you can imagine how people are talking." She paused as they both looked out over the city. "The staff in the castle are anxious. I told them you'd speak to them. Will you do that? I'm afraid of what might happen if someone doesn't calm things down."

"And you think I can?" Erick asked, hopping down from the fence.

"You're the prince, they'll listen to you," she said, joining him down on the soft grass.

"Do you think it will help?"

"I do. They may fear the king but they still care for their prince."

Erick nodded, but couldn't bring himself to look her in the eye. She put so much trust in him, but what if he let her down? He wasn't good with words, how was he supposed to do anything to help? He was still just a child, no one would listen to him.

"So, my good prince, will you take my hand and escort me to the castle? Everyone's waiting for you." She was so confident. So stunning. Erick leaned forward without hesitation and gently clasped her hand.

"Good, now let's go."

He gave a playful smirk, and lead her back through the garden.

"I can't believe your brother could have had a worker executed."

"Yeah, me neither," Erick muttered under his breath so Elise couldn't hear.

"But sometimes I think... Well, that there's something wrong with him. He's changed so much, and he looks so tired all the time."

"Do you think I haven't noticed?" There was an edge of bitterness to his voice that he hadn't intended. This was his older brother, the one person he looked up to. He was so great and powerful, but Elise was right; he had changed.

"I'm sorry," Elise said quietly.

Erick paused and turned to face her. "No, I'm sorry. That came out wrong."

"You don't have to apologize. I understand. It must be very hard on you. I told Sir Walter about the speech. He'll be there to support you."

A shiver raked down Erick's spine. Sir Walter was going to be there? What if he screwed up? What if he said something wrong? Walter would think that he was a blubbering idiot. The last thing he'd ever want to do would be to disappoint him.

"I don't know what this place would like be without him."

"He's really something isn't he?" Erick said in admiration.

"Undoubtedly. I'm sure he'll want you to continue with your instruction today. He seems obsessed with combat training lately."

They came around the corner and started up the steps to the castle. "You're so unlucky," Elise said, "having that statue of your brother right outside your window. I think it'd give me nightmares."

Erick paused and watched for a few seconds as a servant was dusting the stone plaque. His eyes were drawn back up to its stern face. "Yeah, it does." He did have nightmares occasionally, but they weren't of his brother. They were of him trying to be his brother. He was the one on the pedestal, with the people mocking and scorning him from below. Trapped on a dazzling white pillar with everyone laughing at him.

"Come on, lets go," Elise beckoned, pulling his arm.

Erick tore his eyes away from the statue and continued up the stairs. He noticed yet another solider standing guard in front of a set of doors. He couldn't even remember what that room was, but it was rare for a common door to be inaccessible.

"Hey, what's going on here?" Erick asked the guard.

"Apologies Prince, but the library has been decreed off-limits."

"Off limits? What for?" he asked.

"King Logan is conducting official business," the solider answered promptly.

"Understood," Erick muttered, leading Elise back towards the kitchen where the staff was waiting.

"Every time I hear that I get nervous," Elise said.

"You, nervous? I don't think I believe that," Erick laughed.

"Of course! Who knows what he's going to do next."

"Hmm, I guess you're right." Elise always was more concerned about politics than he was. He'd probably be more concerned if he payed attention to those sort of things, but it didn't effect him, so why should he care?

"Well, come on," Elise urged him. They walked through the corridor and Erick let go of her hand as they entered the kitchen. He waited for a moment as he heard one of the chefs talking.

"...Well, I heard all he did was stand up for one of the kids working in the factory."

"Who knows where it ends. Next you know it's one of us thats–"

"Quit your gossiping now!" the steward interjected, noticing Erick and Elise waiting at the door. "And straighten those clothes," he added quieter.

"Welcome your majesty," he greeted Erick with a bow. "Such an honor to have you here today." Erick thought he should respond but his throat suddenly closed up in dread. "The staff have convened to hear your words. Whenever you're ready."

Erick was so nervous, he hadn't even thought about what to say. What could he say? These people were just as scared as he was. Everyone was looking at him. He did a quick look around the room but Walter wasn't there. He took a deep breath, and slowly let it out. He hadn't rehearsed anything, so he'd just have to speak his mind. Tell the truth about what he was thinking.

"You have all been through some difficult times, and the king has been too… uh, preoccupied to treat you as he should. But I ask you to ignore any wild rumors you hear. I promise to speak to my brother about improving conditions for both you and your families outside the castle. Thank you."

As he spoke, Walter came down the carpeted stairs, his huge sword clinking with each sturdy step. Or was that the beer mug on his belt? His red clothes looked a deep crimson in the shade of the stairway, the gold trim worn from use. He folded his burly arms against his chest as his thick eyebrows furrowed.

"You call that a royal speech?" Walter asked gruffly. As the great man stepped forward, the kitchen staff drew back and continued their work. "You didn't shout, you didn't threaten, and you were far too reasonable." Erick recoiled at his harsh words, but instantly relaxed as Walter gave a deep chuckle. "It was bloody marvelous."

Erick beamed and strode forward. "It's good to see you Walter."

"Same to you." Walter's bushy grey mustache lifted as he smirked, creating wrinkles around his warm brown eyes. "Right then, ready for today's training?"

"As ready as I'll ever be."

"Take good care of him Walter," Elise said as he turned and went back up the stairs.

"I suppose you've heard the rumors then," Walter said solemnly once they got to the top.

"Yes, I did."

"Well, I'm afraid they're quite true. Who knows what your brother will do next."

Erick's heart sank. He was hoping that Walter would tell him that it was just idle talk, and there was nothing to worry about. The way Walter spoke made it sound even worse then he had originally thought.

"In the meantime, the mood in the castle is getting more uneasy by the day. I think you have a knack for reaching out to people."

"Really? You do?"

"Yes," Walter stated. "They all looked up to you back there. The way they look up to a leader."

They continued in silence for a few moments and Erick watched Walter's bulky brown boots trump across the carpet as he followed behind. They passed a few more guards who of course stood at attention and saluted them. They passed through the open doors to the entryway where a large group of peasants had gathered. The royal guards stood on all sides of them, keeping them just inside the door.

The Elite Soldiers were Logan's personal guards, and answered to no one else but him. They were dressed in silver armor and adorned with violet cloth. They didn't even glance Erick's way as he entered, but he knew they were watching.

In contrast, the peasants' clothes were brown and ragged, not a single swath of clean fabric on them. As they approached, Erick could hear their complaints and accusations. He could hear their fear but under it was anger. They were furious, and terrified. The worst combination.

"A lot of people to see your brother today. Poor sods," Walter said with a shake of his head.

A gawky man stood in front, a clipboard in his grimy hands. He waved enthusiastically as they approached and addressed Erick's mentor. "Sir Walter. What a stroke of luck! Would you be so kind as to sign my petition?" the man asked, extending the paper and quill to him. Erick recognized him as a man named Laszlo, a regular at the castle gates. A fairly annoying regular to be precise. He cleared his throat and continued in a formal tone, rephrasing lines he must have practiced beforehand. "We must fight to eradicate poverty in Albion. Too many suffer on our streets, and the king does nothing. He must be made to care."

"Oh, very well, but I'm just an old solider," Walter told him humbly. "I doubt my name would mean anything." Laszlo retracted the clipboard, a look of disappointment on his round face. "But perhaps the Prince here would care to help you out." Walter extended a hand towards Erick, and he stepped forward.

"Oh," Laszlo said in surprise. "T-that would be wonderful. Y-your majesty. It would be t-the greatest honor." With trembling hands, he then extended it to Erick. "It's an important cause, I'm sure you agree."

Erick stared at it for a moment, thinking of what to say. He didn't think it would help any, and he didn't particularly want to throw his opinion in his brother's face like that. In the end, he succumbed, and took the quill. "I'd be happy to sign," he said kindly.

"Thank you, my good prince," Laszlo said in humble gratitude and relief. "Your support will make all the difference, I'm certain of it."

So confident. So hopeful. There didn't seem to be a trace of doubt in his voice.

"That was a courageous move," Walter complimented him as they continued on. "I don't think it will make much of a difference, but perhaps your brother will finally realize that you have a mind of your own."

"I sure hope so," Erick said to himself.

"Let's see you put it to use in the combat room. Come on," Walter said enthusiastically, his cheerful demeanor returning. "You've made good progress these past few weeks, but today isn't about practice. I want you to fight me as if your life depended on it."

"Fight you, Sir Walter?" Erick asked, pausing just inside the room.

"Yes, of course. One day the people of Albion are going to need you. I have to find out just how ready you are."

"I hope I don't disappoint you."

Walter gave a rumbling laugh. "I don't think that's possible." He ruffled Erick's hair vigorously then pushed him towards the sword rack. "Alright, grab a sword."

Erick scowled as he tried to tame his wild hair, then grabbed a sword and returned to the center of the room. Walter unsheathed his sword and held it to the side.

"Fight!"

Erick quickly assumed the offensive stance that Walter taught him; his feet wide and sword drawn back. They circled each other for a moment, then drew closer. Walter stroke first, forcing him to switch his stance. The sheer power behind his attack was unbelievable, and with only one hand.

"You're stronger than you think you are," Walter assured him. "You just have to believe." Erick quickly sliced at him twice, once on each side. Walter blocked them both easily. "Ha! Well done!" Walter congratulated him. In return, he gave a single blow that knocked the young prince to his knees.

"Do you remember the stories I'd tell you when you were a child? Of your father, the great Hero King?" Walter asked as their fight dragged on. "You'd never get tired of hearing those stories."

"Only because you were the one telling them." Erick got in three quick strikes against Walter's sword before he knocked him back again.

"And after every one do you remember what you'd say?"

For Erick it seemed like it was only yesterday when Walter last told him the tale. "Teach me how to be a Hero!"

"Every single time," Walter chuckled. They exchanged a few more blows as they circled each other. No matter what, he could never get past Walter's guard. It was like he knew exactly where he would strike. "I wish that was something an old soldier like me could teach you, but I've done my best. Now I need you to do your best. Strike me!"

Erick quickly sliced at him again, their swords clashing with a harsh sound.

"I'm not made of straw, strike harder! What are you afraid of? Hit me!" Walter called out again. He spun around and smashed his sword into Erick's, almost knocking him to the ground. "You're not trying hard enough. Again! Show me your true strength."

"I'm trying!" Erick yelled in frustration. Walter was a war hero, how could he expect him to be able to defeat him in battle?

"Don't think of me as Walter, think of me as an enemy. Strike!"

No matter how hard he tried, he couldn't imagine Walter ever wanting to hurt him.

WHACK!

Okay, that last blow spurred his imagination a little.

"Come on, is that all you've got? I know you have it in you, do it!" Walter continued taunting him. Erick sporadically attacked again, his arms already beginning to tire. "You can do better than that, concentrate! You're holding back, I want you to mean it!"

Erick drew back and took a deep breath. He crouched down low and focused only on Walter who had provoked him by moving his sword to the side, exposing his rib cage. He grabbed the sword in both hands and twisted around, using the momentum from his whole body to send it arcing down.

Walter raised his sword at the last moment and staggered back as the blade snapped. He watched in astonishment as it flew to the ground with a sharp clatter. "Ha ha! You only went ahead and broke it!" he exclaimed, pointing at his blade. Erick stayed hunched over. He twisted his neck pretty badly that last strike.

"Look at that!" Walter said in amazement.

Erick looked up as Walter raised the remains of his sword, the blade severed only inches above the hilt. It was a clean cut. Right through the thickest part of the blade.

"Am I a great teacher or what?" Walter snickered. He lowered the handle and looked down at Erick, pride shinning in his eyes. He had that familiar look on his face. That look that Erick couldn't even begin to understand. It was like he was looking into heaven. That was the only way he could explain it, and even that seemed to fall short.

"But listen," Walter said, all playfulness suddenly vanishing from his eyes. "There's something–"

"Walter!" The doors burst open and Elise entered the room. "You have to come quickly, both of you!"

"What's happened?" Walter asked.

"Outside the castle. It looks like a demonstration."

Erick looked up at Walter, waiting for him to tell him what to do. "This is not good," Walter muttered to himself.

Elise turned back to the corridor and they quickly ran to the front room. "They're right inside the castle grounds," Elise said, leading them to the front windows. "I've never seen so many people out there."

"Balls. I should have known this would happen," Walter said, rubbing his short grey hair. "I don't think they realize what your brother is capable of. This isn't going to end well."

They looked out the window where a large rabble of people stood right under the balcony, angrily shaking their fists and spitting curses.

"Let Albion free!"

"Give us freedom!"

"We have rights!"

"It's been a long time since Logan's listened to me, but I should find him," Walter said. "Stay here. There's still something we need to talk about," he added, laying a hand on Erick's shoulder. He continued up the stairs, leaving them to look out the window at the vile mob.

"We can't just stand here," Elise whispered, grabbing Erick's arm.

"Well I'm not going out there," Erick said, pointing out the window.

"I have a horrible feeling about this."

"Yeah, it's called being scared," Erick said sarcastically.

"Quit joking around! We need to do something!"

"Okay then, what?"

"Look, the guards have moved away from the stairs. We should follow Walter, find out what Logan's going to do."

"That's your plan? That's insane!"

"You have a better one?" Elise asked harshly, jabbing him in the ribs.

"Yeah, do what Walter said: stay here, and keep out of it."

"Grow a backbone Erick! These are your people! Logan is going to kill them if we don't do something! Now let's go while we can."

Erick was forced to follow as Elise dragged him by his forearm. He was fine with the protesting, the petitions and even the shouting, but would it be too much to ask for his people to have a little better hygiene?

"They must be in the war room," Erick said as they reached the top of the stairs.

"Then let's get there before anyone sees us." They ran through the hallway, and Erick hesitated as Elise ran up to the door and looked through the keyhole. "Quick, you can see them." She beckoned him over and laid a finger against her lips. She moved over and they both looked through a keyhole.

"Think about what you're doing Logan," Walter pleaded.

Erick's skin went pale as he heard his brother's silken voice on the other side. "I'm protecting the interests of the people. Do not question me again!" he demanded. His hand cut through the air like the blade of a guillotine, making his black cape wave like a pirate's flag. He turned to face a guard out of Erick's view, revealing sunken cheeks and hollow black eyes. "You will shoot to kill. Start with the ringleaders, and if necessary, continue with the crowd."

Walter's eyebrows lowered further in unbelief at every word. "This is wrong," he stepped forward but the royal guards crossed their rifles in front of him, halting his approach. He shoved the guns away and continued forward. "You can't do this!" One of the guards slammed the butt of his rifle into the back of his knee and he collapsed to the ground, down on all fours like a struck dog.

Elise clasped her hand over her mouth as she let out a small gasp. Erick ground his teeth and clenched his fist against the wooden door.

"Never tell me what I can't do," Logan growled, glaring down at the larger man.

Elise backed away from the door, and Erick followed. "We can't let him kill all those people," she whispered. "You're his brother, maybe he'll listen to you."

The dominant thought running through Erick's head at the moment was; I shouldn't have gotten out of bed this morning. Things were just going from bad to worse. He still just wanted to stay out of it. What did he care about those people? They didn't mean anything to him. If they were stupid enough to oppose Logan, then maybe they deserved to die.

"We have to do something," Elise said, grabbing his shoulders.

"I can't. What can I do? Logan won't listen to me, he won't listen to anybody. What's the point in even trying?"

"Because that's what heroes do. They try when no one else will. Please, you can save them."

Erick wanted to run. He wanted to get away from all of it. But he found himself opening the door and standing before Logan as everyone turned to face him.

"What are you doing here?" Logan immediately asked, not waiting for an answer. Good thing too, because Erick probably would have just blurted out some ridiculous compliment on how good his goatee looked that morning. "The war room is no place for a child. Leave now."

Erick would have liked to willingly comply, but one look at Walter crouched on the ground made his blood boil. No one could do that to his mentor and get away with it. Not even Logan. "I'm here to stop you," he said with renewed vigor. "You can't kill those people."

"No, wait..." Walter began to protest.

"Enough!" Logan snapped, silencing Walter. "How dare you turn against me?" Logan asked Erick, forcing him to take his eyes off Walter. "Perhaps you believe you should be the one making these decisions." Logan's eyes bore into him. Erick tried to look away, but those black eyes drew him back in.

"You really wish to defend those traitors? Then so be it." He raised his hand, and the two guards grabbed Erick and Elise roughly. "Let us see how you do. Take my brother and his friend to the throne room. We shall settle this matter officially."

They were shouldered through the doors by the Elite Soldiers, their faces hid by silver masks. They were taken through the hallway while Logan went through the door in the war room.

"Move!" a guard demanded, guiding them into the large room.

"I'm going!" Elise said stubbornly. When she didn't move fast enough, the guard shoved her forward, knocking her to the ground.

"Leave her alone!" Erick shouted. He tried to push back the guard that hit Elise, but another one stepped in front and forced him back with a rifle. He quickly turned and knelt down beside Elise.

"I'm all right," she insisted. "I'm all right."

"Don't worry," he said softly as he lifted her to her feet. "Whatever happens, we'll get through this together."

"Keep walking," another guard demanded.

Logan was sitting on the throne with a look that only royalty could achieve. Walter stood at his right hand, as was his place as the king's advisor, but he didn't look to happy about it. "Here come the saviors of the people," Logan said sarcastically as they entered. "Come closer, brother."

Erick glanced back at Elise as he stepped forward, his hand slipped from hers as he approached the steps.

"Today you have disappointed me beyond measure. I have been betrayed by my own blood, and a filthy spy." Logan shifted in his seat as he looked down at Elise.

"We did nothing wrong," Elise tried to interject, but Logan continued.

"Punishment must be apportioned where it belongs," Logan said, rising from his seat.

"Punish me then!" Erick volunteered, stepping forward.

"You are no longer a child and it is time I stopped treating you as one." Logan walked down the stairs, one solid step at a time. "You wished to save the traitors who had gathered outside the castle this morning. Very well. You shall have your chance to save them. Here stand the leaders of the violent mob," he said, directing a hand towards three villagers that stood to the side, one of them a young woman.

"I will give you a choice. Who will be punished; These strangers, or this girl?" Logan said as he directed a hand toward Elise.

"The sentence will be death."

"What?" Walter sputtered in disbelief.

"No, this can't be," Elise said, grabbing Erick's arm.

The villagers gasped, and the woman looked close to tears. As usual, Erick just stood there like a dumb ox.

"You are the prince. Decide."

Erick looked frantically between Logan and Elise, his mind unable to grasp what was happening.

"Your majesty, Logan, please..." Walter said, limping to the stairs.

"I am giving you power over life and death," Logan stated, coming to a stop directly in front of his younger brother.

"No, I won't do this," Erick said, grasping Elise's hand.

"If you can't choose, I will," Logan said sinisterly, glancing back at Walter in defiance. "They will all be executed. So tell me, what are you willing to sacrifice to do the right thing?"

"This is madness, we can't. We just can't," Elise said. "Choose me. You can't let them die." She kept saying that, but why not? Shouldn't they be allowed to die if it meant saving her? Let them die. It wasn't worth it. "Choose me," Elise repeated softly, turning his head to face her with a soft hand. The guards stepped forward and grabbed Elise as Logan returned to stand by the throne, leaving Erick alone in the center of the room.

"Logan please, don't do this!" Erick pleaded. "Just let her go, you've made your point."

"My point will not be made until you choose, and I suggest you do so quickly."

Erick was at the center of the thick purple carpet, Elise on one side, the traitors on the other. The woman was sobbing now, trying to hide her tears. Walter breathed heavily as he looked down at him from beside the throne.

Make it stop. Please Walter, do something, Erick silently pleaded. The old solder looked back at him in sorrow, but made no move against Logan. They were all waiting for him now.

"There's only one decision you can make, it has to be me," Elise told him.

Blood was pounding through his ears, his heartbeat rattling his eardrums. It was all happening to fast. It couldn't be real.

"Are you listening to me? Pick me."

He couldn't do this, he just couldn't. There had to be another way. He didn't want to make the choice, it was too hard.

"I don't want to die. I don't want to die!"

"Please."

"This can't be happening, it can't be!"

Why? Why did he have to do this? No one had to die. He would lay down his life for Elise, but he couldn't make her do the same for him.

"Those people can't die because of me. I don't want to leave you, but what choice do we have? Erick, I'm telling you, pick me."

"Still having trouble deciding?" Logan asked. "Let me help you. I will give you until the count of five."

"Choose me," Elise begged. "They didn't do anything. It should be me."

"Five."

Erick stood paralyzed as the woman wept pitifully. He wanted to choose the villagers. They were traitors. Scum.

"Four."

Elise was perfect. She was beautiful and brave and smart. He couldn't kill her.

"Three."

But, those people. They were leading the rebellion. They had a chance to stop Logan.

"Two."

But Elise could too. She could help them more than anyone, but more importantly, she could help him.

"One!"

"You have to choose me! It's the only way, you know it is!" Elise shouted. Even so, Erick couldn't speak. She was right. She was always right, but he didn't want her to die.

"I'm disappointed in you," Logan stated. "Take them all away."

"No!" Erick suddenly broke out of his daze and lurched forward. "I choose Elise!" Logan stopped and glanced back at him. Tears instantly began to form in Erick's eyes, but he blinked them away. "I'm sorry. Take her. Please, don't kill them all. Take her." Erick's voice cracked and he bit his lip, focusing on that pain.

Logan looked down on him incredulously. He looked like he was going to refuse, his cold eyes bearing down on Erick. "Fine," he submitted.

"Thank you," the woman whispered through a veil of tears. "Thank you."

"It's all right," Elise told him. "You did what you had to do. Never forget what he's done. And that I love you."

"Elise, I'm sorry," Erick murmured, leaning close to her. "I–"

"Take the girl away. Kill her now," Logan decreed.

Erick grabbed for her hand, but the guard pulled her away. Her hand remained outstretched as she looked back sorrowfully. There was no fear in her eyes. She knew what she had to do, and she would do it with dignity.

"I will never forgive you for this!" Erick snapped, turning on his brother.

"Good, then you'll never forget it. Escort my brother to his chambers, now."

He watched as the doors closed, his dear friend gone forever. The world already felt a little emptier. A little darker.

"This isn't your fault," Walter's voice echoed through the room. "Erick, listen to me!"

Erick blatantly ignored him. The guards grabbed his arms tightly, expecting some sort of struggle, but Erick merely slumped and let them lead him away.

Elise, I promise, I'll never forget.


Yes, it is very long, I'm sorry. So I hoped you liked it, please rate and review. I would like some hard critiques since this is my first posted book, but some encouragement would also be appreciated. :)

Edit: 5-8-14

So how was the new intro? Did I do better? Worse? Leave me a review and let me know!